Top 15 Types Of Birds In South Africa (With Pictures)

Peer into the skies of South Africa to discover the top 15 bird species, each with unique traits and stunning visuals—see them all inside!

birds of south africa

South Africa is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly in its avian population. Among the top birds, the Blue Crane stands out with its elegant courtship dances and is revered as the national bird. The Secretary Bird, notable for its height and hunting prowess, dominates the skies by targeting terrestrial prey. For those interested in unique plumage, the Shaft-Tailed Whydah displays remarkably long tail feathers during breeding seasons. The Bateleur eagle, known for its vibrant colors and aerial acrobatics, and the visually striking Violet-Eared Waxbill, with its vivid ear patches, also mark their presence strongly. Each species contributes uniquely to the ecological tapestry of the region, offering more insights into their behaviors and roles in the ecosystem.

Blue Crane

reflective blue crane feathers

The Blue Crane, South Africa's national bird, is distinguished by its striking pale blue-grey plumage and is critically endangered due to habitat loss and frequent collisions with power lines.

Endemic to South Africa's grasslands, these monogamous birds perform intricate courtship dances, leaping and bowing to strengthen pair bonds, and laying 1-2 eggs, showcasing their commitment to continuity despite their dwindling numbers.

Secretary Bird

tall bird with long legs

Renowned for its striking appearance and impressive stature, the Secretary Bird stands over four feet tall and is a distinctive figure in South Africa's avian landscape.

This large raptor is identifiable by its long pink legs and distinctive crest of feathers. Known for ground hunting, it skillfully targets snakes and other small prey, embodying an iconic presence within the region.

Shaft-Tailed Whydah

elegant bird with tail

Shaft-Tailed Whydahs, known for their elongated tail feathers, are a mesmerizing sight in South Africa's dry scrublands. During the breeding season, males showcase these spectacular tail feathers to attract mates, adding a dramatic flair to their appearance.

Commonly found throughout South Africa, these birds are particularly fascinating when males, after mating, shed their distinctive tail feathers, embodying a cycle of renewal and display.

Bateleur

african bird of prey

Soaring effortlessly above the open savannahs and grasslands, the Bateleur eagle captivates onlookers with its striking red, black, and white plumage and impressive aerial acrobatics. Named after the French word for 'acrobat', this colorful eagle showcases acrobatic flying displays across Africa.

With a wingspan of around 2 meters, the Bateleur is a majestic sight in the African skies.

Violet-Eared Waxbill

colorful african bird species

The Violet-Eared Waxbill is a diminutive yet brilliantly colored finch. It is distinguished by its unique violet ear patches. Native to South Africa, this tiny, vivid finch bird thrives in dry scrubland habitats. Its colorful plumage and striking violet ear patch make it a favorite among pet enthusiasts.

Males display an especially vibrant violet color, enhancing their visual appeal in both wild and domestic settings.

Crested Barbet

colorful bird with mohawk

Renowned for its vibrant and speckled plumage, the Crested Barbet is a standout species among South Africa's avian population. This beautiful bird displays fiery plumage, including a bright red face and a prominent black collar.

Known for its woodpecker-like call and as a fruit eater, the Crested Barbet also consumes insects and bird eggs, contributing to its unique presence in South Africa's biodiverse habitats.

Southern Carmine Bee-Eater

colorful bird in africa

Southern Carmine Bee-Eaters, distinguished by their vivid red plumage, gather in spectacular flocks during South Africa's summer months. These migratory birds exhibit acrobatic precision while catching insects in flight.

Known for their synchronized breeding displays and riverbanks nesting, these birds' vibrant plumage and curved bills are iconic. Their social behavior and breeding practices make them a fascinating study in avian adaptation and beauty.

Knysna Turaco

colorful bird from africa

Often found in the dense forests along South Africa's Garden Route, the Knysna Turaco captivates with its vivid green and red plumage. Known locally as the Knysna Lourie, this unique bird features a curved beak and vibrant plumage that blends seamlessly into the Knysna area.

Its loud calls resonate through the forest, playing an important role in seed dispersal and ecosystem biodiversity.

Pied Kingfisher

fishing bird with crest

Shifting our focus to aquatic hunters, the Pied Kingfisher stands out with its striking black and white plumage and expert fishing skills.

Renowned for its hovering hunting technique above water bodies, this bird employs rapid wing beats and a dagger-like bill to catch fish.

Often spotted perched near rivers and lakes, the Pied Kingfisher is a masterful predator and a mesmerizing sight.

Bush Shrike

colorful african bird species

Bush shrikes, with their vibrant olive-green underparts and melodious calls, captivate birdwatchers across South Africa. Members of the Malaconotidae family, these colorful birds exhibit olive-green plumage that blends beautifully with the local foliage.

As skilled hunters, bush shrikes adeptly prey on insects, small birds, and reptiles, making them fascinating subjects for those interested in the diverse avian life of South Africa.

Cape Sugarbird

iconic bird of africa

The Cape Sugarbird, distinguished by its elongated tail feathers and curved bill, is a native species primarily found in the fynbos regions of South Africa.

Endemic to this area, these birds specialize in nectar feeding and play an essential role in the pollination of flowering plants.

Their unique adaptations facilitate their survival and ecological contributions within these biodiverse habitats.

African Jackass Penguin

adorable black and white

Endemic to South Africa's coastlines, the African Jackass Penguin is renowned for its distinctive, donkey-like braying call. This vocal species nests in colonies on coastal areas and offshore islands.

Conservation efforts are vital for this penguin, as it faces threats from habitat destruction and overfishing. Protecting these unique birds is essential to preserving the biodiversity of South Africa's marine ecosystems.

Ostrich

fast running bird with long neck

Ostriches, the largest living bird species, are remarkable for their size, speed, and unique adaptations to life in various South African habitats.

These flightless birds boast the largest eyes of any land animal, enhancing their vision.

Their powerful legs not only support fast running—up to 70 km/h—but also deliver lethal kicks.

Truly, ostriches are one of South Africa's most unique and impressive birds.

Pel's Fishing Owl

nocturnal owl with fishing skills

Among the notable avian species in South Africa, the Pel's Fishing Owl stands out for its elusive nature and specialized hunting abilities.

This large owl species thrives in riverine forests, showcasing excellent fishing skills with its powerful talons.

Despite its beauty, the Pel's Fishing Owl is a threatened species, facing challenges due to habitat loss.

Birdwatchers highly prize sightings of this secretive creature.

What Birds Can Be Found in South Africa That Are Also Found in Ghana?

South Africa and Ghana share some common types of birds in Ghana, such as the African Fish Eagle, Hadada Ibis, and Lilac-breasted Roller. These beautiful birds can be found in both countries, adding to the rich and diverse birdlife of the African continent.

Lilac-Breasted Roller

vibrant bird with lilac

Renowned for its dazzling plumage, the Lilac-Breasted Roller captivates observers with its dynamic aerial displays over the savannas and woodlands of South Africa.

This stocky bird, notable for its vibrant plumage and colorful aerial acrobatics, spans 36-38 cm in length and weighs about 140 grams.

A spectacle in flight, it is particularly beloved by birdwatchers for its striking appearance and distinctive call.