Meru National park occupies an area of 870 sq.km to the north-east of Mt.Kenya.Popularly portrayed in Joy Adamson’s books,this area still retains much of its attraction as an unspoiled wilderness despite being opened up to tourists in recent years.All the parks is now freely accessible on well-maintained system of roads,which take in all the main habitats.The higher northern part of the park,essentially the foothills of the Nyabene,is mainly scarttered-trees and open grassland with odd patches of acacia woodland along the Murera river;the lower side area to the south being predominantly commiphora-acacia dry bush.
Palm trees are a prominent feature along the main rivers,and in the north of the lodges.In addition there are several swamps situated in the middle of the park, although these tend to seasonal in nature.Rojewero river can produce species like;African Harrier-hawk,Barbets,Waxbills,Sunbirds and sometime with luck Pel’s Fishing Owl.
Open plains can reward you with Somali Ostrich,several species of Vultures,African Hawk-Eagle,Bateleaur,Vulturine Guinearfowl,Kori,Hartlaub’s and Buff-crested Bustard,Seceretarybird,Black-headed Lapwing,Two-banded and Heuglin’s Courser,Black-faced and Chesnut-bellied Sandgrouse,Somali Bee-eater,Red-winged and Flappet Lark,Nubian and Donalson’s-Smith’s Nightjar,Ashy and Tiny Cisticola,Golden-breasted Starling and Grey-headed Silverbill among many others.
Early April-May is the best time to see paleeartic migrants in Meru.A fair selection of raptors may be noted,including Booted Eagle,but the passage of small birds is usually much more exciting during this time.Shrikes can be numerous,especially Lasser Grey,whilst Wheatear,Rocc Trush and Warblers are by no means uncommon.The passage of Swallows and Martins is best described as spectacular.
Kenya Birding 