A standard format with 11 sections has been used for each country. These sections are listed below with a brief description of the content of each. The size and content of each section for any given country will vary depending on the available knowledge about the country at the time of writing.

Throughout the whole website, the African Bird Club checklist has been used as the primary source of both English and Scientific names of species. The policy used in the development of this checklist and the checklist itself can be found at ABC checklist. On the few occasions where there is a difference of view between the country author and the content of the checklist, this has been documented in section 4 – Species for that country.

1. Introduction
A short introduction about the ornithology of the country and a request for our readers to submit relevant contributions.

2. Geography
A brief overview of the geography of the country including map, size, adjacent countries, altitude range, climate and languages spoken.

3. Important and Endemic Bird Areas
An overview of the ornithological importance of the country for endemic, near endemic, migrant and endangered species. A list of the Important and Endemic Bird Areas as identified by BirdLife International, a brief description of each and some of the birds that may be found there.

4. Species
The number of species recorded in the country and a reference to a checklist if known. The endemic, near-endemic and threatened species are listed.

5. Hotspots
Some of the more popular birding sites within the country with a sample of the birds that can be found at each.

6. News
Information about recent sightings in the country especially those of ornithological significance such as a new species or range extension.

7. Visiting
Useful information when visiting the country including organised birding tours, bird guides, trip reports, brief notes on travel and logistics and comments on safety and where to find the relevant safety information.

8. Books & Sounds
A complete list of books and sound guides for the country including other taxa as well as birds. Links to our partner, Wildsounds, which allow the item to be purchased and generate a donation to the African Bird Club conservation fund.

9. Conservation
A brief comment on the environmental issues within the country and any international agreements which have been ratified. Specific ornithological conservation initiatives which have been undertaken including those supported by the African Bird Club conservation fund.

10. Contacts
Ornithological contacts within the country including the ABC representative, BirdLife International affiliate and Bird Clubs.

11. References
References which have been used in the development of the text and other useful information. Links are included to ornithological websites which focus on the country.

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