Kenya is a birding haven that attracts enthusiasts from around the globe, with the country's varied habitats providing a plethora of habitats for birds and offering twitchers the opportunity to spot both endemic and migratory species year-round. Here are five lifers you can add to your birding checklist when exploring the avian wonders of Kenya.

Twitcher’s Paradise: 5 Lifers You Can Spot Birding in Kenya

1. Great Blue Turaco - Kakamega Forest

Hidden in the lush greenery of Kakamega Forest, the Great Blue Turaco makes for a stunning sight. With its vibrant blue and green plumage, distinctive crimson flight feathers, and a prominent crest, this turaco is a true gem of the forest. Kakamega Forest, located in western Kenya, is a unique haven for birdwatchers, offering a chance to spot not only the Great Blue Turaco but also a variety of other forest-dwelling species.

2. African Finfoot - Lake Baringo

Lake Baringo, part of the Great Rift Valley, is a birding paradise, and spotting the elusive African Finfoot is a sought-after experience. With its striking black and white plumage and distinctive lobed toes, the Finfoot is a rare and secretive bird that often hides among the reeds along the lake's shoreline. A boat trip on Lake Baringo provides an excellent opportunity to observe this enigmatic species and other water-loving birds in their natural habitat.

3. Secretarybird - Maasai Mara National Reserve

While the Maasai Mara is famous for its wildlife, it's also a prime location for birdwatching, and the Secretarybird is a charismatic highlight. With its distinctive appearance characterized by long legs, a feathered crest, and a unique set of facial features, the Secretarybird is a fascinating bird of prey. The open grasslands of the Maasai Mara offer an ideal environment to observe these striking birds as they forage for prey, showcasing their impressive hunting skills.

4. Malachite Kingfisher - Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park, just a short drive from the capital city, is a surprising oasis for birdwatchers. The Malachite Kingfisher, with its dazzlingly plumage of turquoise and orange, is a common yet captivating sight around the park's waters. Capture the iridescence of this kingfisher as it perches on branches overlooking the park's ponds - a stunning photographic opportunity.

5. Sokoke Scops Owl - Arabuko Sokoke Forest

The Arabuko Sokoke Forest, located on the coast of Kenya, is a biodiversity hotspot and home to the Sokoke Scops Owl. This small, nocturnal owl is endemic to the East African coastal forests and is a prized find for birders. Recognized by its distinctive tufted "ears" and reddish-brown plumage, the Sokoke Scops Owl can be spotted during guided night walks through the forest, offering a unique and thrilling birding experience.