GAMBIA BIRD SPECIES

Northern Carmine Bee-eater

Merops nubicus

Overview

Few birds bring more colour to an upriver journey than the Northern Carmine Bee-eater. Flocks sweeping over fields or gathering on bare trees create one of the defining wildlife spectacles of inland The Gambia.

Identification

The adult is predominantly glowing carmine-red with a turquoise crown and rump, a black mask and long pointed wings. Juveniles are duller and shorter-tailed, but the slim shape and fluid, fast flight remain distinctive.

Habitat and behaviour

It frequents rivers, floodplains, farmland and open savannah, often perching conspicuously before sallying after flying insects. Colonies excavate nesting tunnels in steep sandy banks, while feeding groups may associate with livestock or grass fires that flush prey.

Birdwatching in The Gambia

Basse and the upper River Gambia region are classic areas, with birds also occurring across productive inland habitats according to season. Numbers and locations can shift, so an extended tour offers the best flexibility.

Field note

Watch overhead as well as along wires and dead branches. Lamin Jobaate can combine this target with Egyptian Plover, red-throated bee-eaters and other upriver specialities on a tailored Gambian birdwatching trip.

Plan your birdwatching tour: Ask Lamin Jobaate about a private itinerary for this species and The Gambia’s other outstanding birds.