Going to Africa makes it possible to see a good number of Bee-eaters. In Kenya there are 12 different types of Bee-eaters although some are migrants passing through Kenya. On our two trips, Doreen and myself recorded a total of ten species of Bee-eaters, and several were on our list of must-see-birds.
The following are a selection of the Bee-eaters photographed by myself.
Carmine Bee-eater
Merops nubicus
The Carmine Bee-eater breeds somewhat erratically in northern areas. On coastal areas its mainly as a non-breeding migrant from the northern tropics, where it can be common locally.
During our coastal week on our first trip, an arrival of this most elegant Bee-eater occurred on the 31st when 30 suddenly appeared late morning. Not to approachable, and on the 2nd a party of 25 were seen flying over Sokoe Forest. Odd birds were also seen on two other dates.
We did not expect to see this species during our week on the coast and therefore a useful tick!!
Adult Cinnamon-Chested Bee-eater
Merops oreobates
A highland species of more wooded habitats than the smaller Little Bee-eater. Its locally common resident of open forest and even in suburban gardens. I found it rather frustrating as it would fly out and then always back into cover. On our first trip, we first identified it in the Outspan Hotel Grounds in the Aberdares when 6 birds were present. and on the second trip up to 6 were seen on eight dates.
Another must-see bird of the trip.
Madagascar Bee-eater
Merops superciliosus
A fairly common non-breeding migrant chiefly May to September. although it has been known to breed in some coastal locations. We only saw them on our second trip with 2 at Lake Baringo. To photograph them, I had to go through a fence situated around the lake. On our way back, 2 Crocodiles had taken up residence in front of the hole in the fence. I now know why the fence was there. Both Crocodiles appeared to be sleeping, so we made a quick dash through the hole in the fence to safety.
Even so I was delighted with seeing this must-see specie, and have the photograph to prove it.
Blue-Headed Bee-eater
Merops muelleri
One of the many highlights was seeing this superb forest Bee-Eater high up in the Kakamega Forest with 3 on the 28th and 1 on the 29th. Very much a must-see species with good scope views but difficult to photograph in the poor light. Usually perches on high twigs in the forest where it hawks small butterflies and other insects. Its an uncommon local resident of the Kakamega and South Nandi Forests.
Adult Somali Bee-eater
Merops revoilii
One of the advantages in going to Northern Kenya, is that you stand a good chance of seeing a number of excellent birds which are not present further South. We only saw this Bee-eater on our second trip with three at Samburu, and 5 in the Dida-Galgalla Desert. They were very tame and gave excellent views. They are considered to be locally common in N and E Kenya.
White-throated Bee-Eater
Merops albicollis
In Kenya this is a widespread non-breeding migrant from the northern tropics. We had reasonable numbers on both of our trips. It hawks insects from tree branches or wires.
White-Fronted Bee-eater
Merops bullockoides
Locally common resident of bush and woodland in the Kenyan Rift Valley. We recorded it on both trips in the Lale Naivasha region., as well as at several other sites.
To have a break from Bee-eaters here are some of our favourite animals which I photograph in Kenya.
Cheetah
Gerenuk
Giraffe
Grants
Impala
Female lion
Young male Lion
Onyx
