Sierra Leone is a haven of biodiversity, with coastal wetlands and large expanses of pristine rainforests that are home to a variety of birds, including some endemic and endangered species. Birdwatching enthusiasts should definitely add Sierra Leone to their twitcher’s list – here are 4 of the best places in Sierra Leone to go birdwatching, each promising a unique and captivating experience.
Best Places for Birdwatching in Sierra Leone
Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated in the Moa River, Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the easiest wildlife escapades from Freetown, with a variety of species also including many birds. The island’s lush rainforest is home to over 135 species of birds, including the Spot-breasted Ibis, Green-tailed Bristledbill and 8 species of hornbills, interesting from a conservation viewpoint as they are crucial in dispersing seeds.
Tiwai Island is managed by the local community, who also work as wildlife guides – a great opportunity to combine birdwatching with cultural exchange.
Gola Rainforest National Park
Gola Rainforest National Park is made up of three distinct areas, the Gola North, Central and South reserves, making it a great biodiversity hotspot. The park is home to more than 330 bird species, including several species endemic to the Upper Guinean Rainforest, a unique ecosystem that Gola is part of.Visiting twitchers can spot the rare Gola Malimbe, a striking saffron and black bird, as well as the Yellow-bearded Greenbul, Rufous-fishing owl and Timneh Parrot. The park’s dense forests and varied elevations mean that the park is a habitat for both forest and canopy-dwelling birds, providing a diverse birdwatching experience.
Loma Mountains National Park
Loma Mountains National Park is known for being home to Mount Bintumani, the highest peak in Sierra Leone, and it’s often visited by hikers. However, its highlands are also the habitat of over 200 bird species, different from those found at lower elevations. The park is a crucial habitat for the White-necked Picathertes, a sought-after bird species known for its striking appearance and unique nesting behavior – sure to be on every birdwatcher’s bucket list.In addition to the rockfowl, birdwatchers can encounter a variety of forest-dwelling birds, including the Yellow-footed Honeyguide and the White-chinned Prinnia, a diminutive bird common at higher elevations.
Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary
While primarily known for its efforts in chimpanzee conservation, the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary near Freetown also offers opportunities for birdwatching. The sanctuary’s proximity to the Western Area Peninsula Forest Reserve allows visitors to spot a variety of forest birds, including turacos, hammerkops, Palm-nut vultures and more. Tacugama run birdwatching tours, very easy and convenient to join for twitchers visiting Sierra Leone!
