Introduction

São Tomé Speirops Speirops lugubris

one of the many endemics of São Tomé and Príncipe

Photo: John Caddick

These islands straddling the equator in the Gulf of Guinea are home to a similar number of endemic species as the Galapagos Islands which should satisfy the requirements of the most discerning birdwatchers. These range from the incredible Giant Sunbird Dreptes thomensis, São Tomé Short-tail Amaurocichla bocagei, a bird unlike any other with its own genus, as well as the rare and little seen São Tomé Grosbeak Neospiza concolor and São Tomé Fiscal Lanius newtoni. The islands also offer some of Africa’s most spectacular scenery, many beaches and friendly people.

The purpose of this document is to provide a summary of São Tomé and Príncipe and its birds for birders interested in the country and potentially planning a visit. The information has been put together from a number of sources and it is intended to add new information as it becomes available. As such, readers are welcome to submit contributions by e-mail to info@africanbirdclub.org. You should note that the names of birds used in this document are those of the African Bird Club checklist.