Ghana Mega Birding Tour I 27th November to 18th December 2018 (22 days) Trip Report

Red-throated Bee-eater by Nigel Redman

Tour leaders: Nigel Redman with local guides Victor and Foster Trip Report compiled by Nigel Redman

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Tour Summary

Ghana is the jewel in the crown of West African birding. With a wide range of habitats ranging from savanna and bush in the north to lush rainforests in the south, (mostly) good roads and accommodations, and an enviable reputation for safety and friendliness, Ghana is a great country for birding – and it has the best French fries in Africa! Although we saw White-necked Rockfowl well, the bird of the trip was, a little surprisingly, Blue- moustached Bee-eater, although the rockfowl did come second. Other highlights included such gems as Hartlaub’s Duck, Spot-breasted Ibis, White-crested Tiger Heron, Congo Serpent Eagle, Long-tailed Hawk, Denham’s Bustard, African Finfoot, Nkulengu Rail, Forbes’s and Egyptian Plovers, Rock Pratincole, Great Blue and Violet Turacos, Yellow-throated Cuckoo, Fraser’s and Akun Eagle-Owls, Brown and Standard-winged Nightjars, all four spinetails, five species of rollers, 11 species of kingfishers, 10 species Nkulengu Rail by Roy Zimmerman of bee-eaters, 9 species of hornbills, 13 species of barbets and tinkerbirds, Rufous-sided Broadbill, Blue Cuckooshrike, 20 species of bulbuls, 13 species of swallows including White-bibbed and Pied-winged, all five illadopsises and 19 species of sunbirds, as well as a bunch of cisticolas, starlings, flycatchers, chats, weavers and waxbills. Mammals were well-represented too, with highlights including bathing African Elephants and six species of monkeys.

Our tour began in Accra with a leisurely introduction to Ghanaian birds around our hotel, and for some a visit to Achimota Forest, a nearby area of regenerating forest within the city. The first official excursion the following day was to the Shai Hills, north-east of Accra. Here, we found a multitude of birds in a protected habitat of forest, savanna and rocky outcrops. We began with good views of Blackcap Babblers, Brown-throated Wattle- eyes and Senegal Parrots. A pair of White- crowned Cliff Chats showed well, but several Guinea Turacos and a party of White-crested Helmetshrikes gave fleeting views only. A Violet Turaco was more obliging, as were the ubiquitous Western Plantain-eaters. Red- necked Buzzard, Grey Kestrel and Shikra gave good views, as did a couple of Flappet Larks and a pair of Blue-headed Coucals. A walk across the grassland failed to find any bustards, but we did flush a Common Kob by Nigel Redman Buttonquail. By mid-morning, the bird activity had quietened considerably and we moved on to the Volta Dam area. At our first stop, we enjoyed the African Jacanas and Squacco Herons, and a pair of White-bibbed Swallows was a good find. At our lunch stop, the Mangrove Sunbirds played hard to get, but we eventually saw them well. We continued on to Ho, and then to Kalakpa Resource Reserve. Here, we had good views of Blue-bellied Roller, Lizard

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Buzzard and Western Banded Snake Eagle. Inside the forest, a pair of Forest Robins showed moderately well (for such a skulking species), and we improved on our views of Guinea Turaco. As dusk fell, we tried for nightbirds. We only heard Ngulengu Rail and Black-shouldered Nightjar, but we did get to see African Wood Owl and Long-tailed Nightjar.

The following morning, we were back at Kalakpa. Before we reached the forest proper, we found some obliging White- shouldered Black Tits and Whistling Cisticolas. Inside the forest, the birding was slow. A Forest Robin showed well, but we spent much time chasing Capuchin Babblers with most people only seeing glimpses. Wattle-eyes were also hard birds to see, but both Red-cheeked and West African were seen reasonably well by most. A Red-chested Goshawk in the canopy was very flighty, barely stopping long enough to give perched views, and Ahanta Francolins were only Lizard Buzzard by Nigel Redman heard. A memorable encounter (in the wrong sense!) with an antswarm prevented us from getting to grips with a pair of Grey-headed Bristlebills. Other species seen during the morning included African Paradise Flycatcher, Yellow-whiskered Greenbul, Grey Longbill, Green Hylia and Yellow-mantled Widowbird. In the afternoon, we visited the coastal Sakumono Lagoon where the birding was much easier! Several Senegal Thick-knees showed really well, as did African Wattled Lapwings, and a good selection of mainly migrant waders – 15 species in total. Perhaps most memorable of the waterbirds were the Black Herons. During our visit, numbers built up to 20 and they were actively feeding in the shallows, shading the water by using their wings as umbrellas. In the bushes, a Levaillant’s Cuckoo showed well, as did Scarlet-chested Sunbird and Wilson’s Indigobird. Late in the afternoon, a big flock of Collared Pratincoles flew overhead, and a flock of White-throated Bee-eaters came in to roost. To our surprise, the latter contained a single Blue-cheeked Bee-eater. This species is a vagrant to Ghana, and was a new bird for both Victor and Long-tailed Nightjar by Nigel Redman Foster.

We left Accra early the next morning in order to beat the traffic. It was slow at times, but we reached Winneba Lagoon in good time. The water level was high but we managed a few shorebirds, including Grey Plover and Curlew Sandpiper, as well as Gull-billed Tern and Striated and Western Reef Herons. Firing practice at the adjacent police college forced an early departure. It was already rather hot by the time we got to Winneba Plains. Nevertheless, we still found a few nice birds, including African Hobby, Croaking Cisticola, Guinea Turaco and Yellow-crowned Gonolek. A short roadside stop further west produced a nesting colony of Slender-billed Weavers. We reached Cape Coast for lunch overlooking the

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sea, where we enjoyed a fine buffet while watching Royal Terns and Yellow-billed Kites flying past at regular intervals. The visit to Cape Coast Castle was a truly sobering experience. Our well-informed guide gave us a chilling tour of the dungeons and cells where our ancestors had subjected untold numbers of innocent local people to unimaginable cruelty in the shameful days of the ‘slave trade’. On our way to Kakum, we made a short stop at the Ashanti offices to see some Magpie Mannikins. We arrived at the Rainforest Lodge at Jukwa in the mid- afternoon and, after checking into our rooms, we set off for our first excursion in the Kakum area. We arrived at Abrafo shortly after a rainstorm, and the bird activity in the adjacent farmbush was pretty good. We started with a fine male Black-and-white Shrike-Flycatcher, followed by a trio of tinkerbirds, namely Speckled, Red-rumped and Yellow-throated. Slender-billed Weaver by Roy Zimmerman We also had good views of a Yellow-spotted Barbet, Melancholy Woodpecker, Diederik and Klaas’s Cuckoos, Fanti Saw-wing, Western Oriole, Tit Hylia, Buff-throated and Superb Sunbirds, and an unexpected Preuss’s Cliff Swallow. At the magnificent colony of Village and Vieillot’s Black Weavers, we saw a pair of Bates’s Swifts overhead. At dusk, we tried for a Brown Nightjar, and almost immediately a bird came in and flew through the group at head- height. On the walk back, a couple of pairs of Nkulengu Rails called from nearby thickets, but we were unable to locate them. Our quest for a Fraser’s Eagle-Owl, however, was spectacularly successful, with one bird perching out for as long as we wanted.

We had nearly three days to enjoy one of Ghana’s premier sites, Kakum National Park and its environs. Our first day was spent on the famous canopy walkway. Arriving soon after dawn, the conditions were good for birding, with partial cloud and not too much sun, although it became sunnier later. By the end of the morning, we had seen or heard an incredible number of species. Our arrival on the walkway was greeted by a pair of Ussher’s Flycatchers flycatching from the walkway itself, and then three Fraser’s Forest Flycatchers doing the same thing on the next section. An early success was White-crested Hornbill perched out in the open, not too far away. The tree-tops in the mid-distance held a good variety of birds, including Splendid and Chestnut-winged Starlings, African Emerald Cuckoo, Blue-throated Roller, Forest and White-headed Wood Hoopoes, Naked-faced, Hairy-breasted and Yellow- Yellow-billed Barbet by Bengt Rönde billed Barbets, Fire-bellied Woodpecker and Red-headed Malimbe. Several target birds were also seen, including Blue Cuckooshrike, Chestnut- capped Flycatcher, Rufous-crowned Eremomela and Sabine’s Puffback, but Violet-backed Hyliota and Sharpe’s Apalis were only seen by a few people. A pair of Blue Malkohas put on a magnificent display, and numerous greenbuls included Golden, Honeyguide and Spotted, as well as several plainer species.

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Sunbirds were also well-represented, the highlights being a group of Fraser’s, Little Green, Superb and Johanna’s. Overhead, we saw Cassin’s Spinetail and another pair of Bates’s Swifts. A Red-thighed Sparrowhawk flew past, but a Congo Serpent Eagle that called for much of the morning did not show itself. Likewise, Blue-headed Wood Doves called frequently, but one that shot past at high speed was missed by most. We returned in the afternoon to consolidate our morning’s tally. It was, of course, much quieter in the afternoon, and not many new species were seen. Several Yellow-billed Turacos gave really great views, and we did well on monkeys, seeing both Mona and Lesser Spot-nosed Monkeys and a pair of White-thighed Colobus. At dusk, we tried again for nightbirds. A Brown Nightjar was spectacularly responsive, not only coming in very quickly, but it tried to land on Jan’s head, and then Foster’s! Shortly after, an Akun Eagle-Owl turned up, giving good views to half the group, but sadly it did not stay for long enough. Black Bee-eaters by Bengt Rönde

On our second morning, we worked farmbush and forest edge habitats on the west side of Kakum. We saw our first Black Bee-eaters at the first stop, as well as Red-faced Cisticola, Chestnut-breasted Nigrita, Little Green Sunbird, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Red-bellied Paradise Flycatcher, Vieillot’s Barbet, Blue-billed Malimbe and African Cuckoo-Hawk. Inside a small damp area, we all managed amazing views of an incredibly obliging White-spotted Flufftail, and nearby a Red-cheeked Wattle-eye showed well several times, if briefly. Further on, we found an assortment of species, including Ayres’s and Cassin’s Hawk-Eagles, Cassin’s Spinetail, Fire-bellied Woodpecker, Grey Parrot, Lesser Striped Swallow, Green Crombec, and Blue-throated Brown and Buff-throated Sunbirds. When the birding went quiet, we continued westwards by bus to the Pra River, where we quickly found several pairs of Rock Pratincoles and a few White-bibbed Swallows. In the afternoon, we encountered a big rainstorm, which confined our activities to the main road. Eventually, the rain subsided and we ventured out for the last bit of the afternoon. We were rewarded with prolonged views of a Brown-cheeked Hornbill, but there was little else of note other than a couple of Sabine’s Spinetails for some.

We returned to Abrafo Forest the following morning. As soon as the light permitted, we entered a dense area of bamboo thicket where we found a pair of Puvel’s Illadopsises. After much persistence, we all had great views of one bird perched high in the bamboo, puffing White-bibbed Swallow by Nigel Redman out his white throat feathers. We spent the next couple of hours in the farmbush at the edge of the forest. Here, we found a tree-full of gorgeous Rosy Bee-eaters, a fly-past Red-chested Goshawk, Mottled Spinetail, an obliging Western Nicator devouring a large caterpillar, Pale Flycatcher, Olive-bellied Sunbird, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Hairy-

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breasted Barbet and all four of Ghana’s malimbes. Inside the forest, an Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo gave flight views only, and a pair of White-tailed Alethes were equally elusive, but at ground level. Our second Blue-throated Roller of the trip actually showed his blue throat, and a Long-tailed Hawk finally came in to the sound recording, giving good flight views. A couple of good feeding flocks contained, amongst more common species, Western Bearded Greenbul, Sharpe’s Apalis, Rufous-crowned Eremomela, Yellow- mantled Weaver and Copper-tailed Starling. The morning ended with a party of Red-billed Helmetshrikes moving through the canopy. Moving on from Kakum, we returned to the coast and headed west towards Shama. On the way, we made our first visit to Nsuta Forest. At a small roadside lily-pond, a pair of African Finfoots was an unexpected find. The forest itself was typically quiet. Piping Hornbills were seen several times and Palm-nut Vulture by Nigel Redman Yellow-browed Camaroptera was new for most. A pair of Narrow-tailed Starlings flew over too quickly for most people to see them, but the afternoon’s highlight was probably the Green Mamba in a large puddle on the main track, with its head and about half a metre of its body sticking vertically out of the water, peering around and looking somewhat like a thick plant stem. A dusk vigil at the roadside produced a Bat Hawk and a Dwarf Bittern, but no ibises.

We visited Nsuta Forest twice more the following day. The morning started slowly, with a Blue-headed Crested Flycatcher giving flight views only, and various greenbuls also playing hard to get. A Red-bellied Paradise Flycatcher did show well, as did a Dusky- blue Flycatcher. A party of Bristle-nosed Barbets completed the set of barbets for Ghana. But the undoubted highlight of the first part of the morning was a perched Congo Serpent Eagle in a large tree, painstakingly preening every feather. Moving on to a second site in the forest, we found a cracking male Black-bellied Seedcracker that perched Blue-breasted Kingfisher by Nigel Redman obligingly at the side of the road for as long as wanted, although all we could see was its head. Back in the forest, Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, Black-throated Coucal and Kemp’s Longbill were all heard repeatedly, but refused to show themselves. A Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill was also heard at some distance, but a Black Dwarf Hornbill showed very well indeed. Overhead, a Sabine’s Spinetail finally gave good views, and a Crowned Eagle soared on high thermals. But the highlight of this second walk was an African Piculet that gave multiple views to everyone as it moved restlessly around in the mid-canopy. In the afternoon, we returned to Nsuta but it was predictably quiet. We managed good views of Maxwell’s Black and Yellow-mantled Weavers, and a Tiny Sunbird. Overhead, two Black Spinetails put in a brief appearance, and a group of Fraser’s Forest Flycatchers appeared as the light faded. Close to dusk, a Congo Serpent Eagle flew low across the road,

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presumably on its way to roost. It was the second sighting of the day for this species. And after dark, an Akun Eagle-Owl put on a wonderful show, staying for as long as we wanted.

Our final morning visit to Nsuta was rather misty. Dozens of Bristle-nosed Barbets were flying back and forth across the road, and a Black Cuckoo was very flighty at first before settling in a large tree beside the road. It was even hard to make out a pair of Red-vented Malimbes in the mist, and flocks of Chestnut- winged and Narrow-tailed Starlings flew over without stopping. As the mist cleared, we had some fine views of another African Piculet, and a single Tessmann’s Flycatcher was very obliging, staying in one place for ages. A Western Bronze-naped Pigeon called from the canopy, but would not reveal itself. Rufous-sided Broadbill by Nigel Redman Likewise, an Olivaceous Flycatcher remained invisible. We had more success with Western Oriole, Fraser’s Forest Flycatcher and Lemon-bellied Crombec, which all showed well. Two perched juvenile raptors were seen very well, and their unusual plumages proved a little confusing at first, but we resolved them to be Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle and Red- necked Buzzard. In the afternoon, we headed west to Ankasa National Park. We made a brief stop on the way to see some Orange Weavers at their nests, and a longer stop at Ebi Lagoon, where we added African Openbill, African Darter, Western Osprey and Reichenbach’s Sunbird to the ever-growing list.

Ankasa NP is a pristine lowland rainforest – hot, humid and hard to bird. On our first morning, we headed up the main track, scoring a Forest Robin and a couple of Blue-headed Wood Doves on the way. At our first brief stop, a pair of Great Blue Turacos showed well above us in the canopy, and shortly after, there were some Icterine Greenbuls. At the first waterhole, we saw a couple of Blue-breasted Kingfishers, and a single Hartlaub’s Duck at the next waterhole. We had expected the duck to swim around on the pool for us, but instead it stood on a submerged log and went to sleep as we were watching it, literally just a few metres away. Back at the first waterhole, we saw several Blue-billed Malimbes and Chestnut-breasted Nigritas while we waited for bigger fish. Our wait paid off, and we had prolonged and wonderful views of a Shining- blue Kingfisher, and a brief look at a White- crested Tiger Heron. In the gloom of the overhanging vegetation, we found an unfamiliar juvenile waterbird. It looked like Hartlaub's Duck by Roy Zimmerman a ball of fluffy brown down with a head reminiscent of female Smew! It turned out to be a very young African Finfoot, and its mother was not far away. Our lunch back at camp was interrupted by a bird party containing, amongst other things, Shining Drongos, and Western Bearded and Yellow Bearded Greenbuls. We headed back up the main track in the afternoon, finding a Rufous-sided Broadbill on the way, but little else that was new. A long

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vigil at the waterhole was eventually rewarded with great views of a White-crested Tiger Heron, but the Spot-breasted Ibises were only heard as they flew over to roost at a different waterhole.

We were woken on our second morning by the sound of Nkulengu Rails calling from the forest nearby, followed by the hurried footsteps of our guides in hot pursuit of them. While we enjoyed our breakfast, Victor and Foster were diligently searching the trees in the area from which the calls were heard. It took them a full hour, but they returned with a sense of urgency. A group of rails had been located, but as dawn was breaking there was no time to lose. The rails would shortly be leaving their roost high up in a tree for a day of unseen feeding in the forest. We made it just in time. Four birds were roosting on a Western Bluebill by Bengt Rönde single branch about 10 metres up in a big tree, and the last one departed shortly after the last person reached the roost site, deep in the forest and some distance off the trail. It was a great start to the day. The rest of the morning was less spectacular, with a lot of birds heard but few seen well. Western Bronze-naped Pigeon continued to elude us, and a vocal Lagden’s Bushshrike would not come in. Similarly, a Rufous-winged Illadopsis also played hard to get, although a Pale-breasted Illadopsis did show briefly. Close to the road, a Forest Scrub Robin called a few times, but moved away when we got close to it. At the waterhole there was little activity. A White-bellied Kingfisher called briefly but refused to show itself. Back at the river near our camp, a few people managed to see a Cassin’s Flycatcher, but a Little Grey Flycatcher moved on before we could scope it. We spent the afternoon back on the main trail. Several greenbuls showed themselves, and a Finsch’s Rufous Thrush gave prolonged scope views for everyone. On the trail, an Ahanta Francolin was seen by the first vehicle only, but would not come in. We finished the day at the same waterhole as the previous day. Shortly before the light faded, a White-crested Tiger Heron appeared, followed by three Spot-breasted Ibises. The ibises perched in the trees at the back of the pool, giving great scope views, before flying off. They were one of our top target birds, and we were not disappointed.

We began our final morning in Ankasa around camp. A Red-tailed Bristlebill repeatedly visited the lights along the entrance trail, giving great views. Outside the Tit Hylia by Nigel Redman park gates, several Square-tailed Saw-wings put in a brief appearance. On the river, a pair of Cassin’s Flycatchers showed well. The rest of the morning was spent on a forest trail. There were many frustrations, as many birds were heard but all proved hard to see. We spent time trying for the shyer lower-level species. A White-tailed Alethe showed briefly, and a Blackcap Illadopsis gave only the briefest of glimpses to a few. A Rufous-winged Illadopsis was even more frustrating, as it seemed to stay in one place for a long time but remained largely unseen.

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Only a couple of people managed to see it. After an early lunch, we bade farewell to Ankasa and set off eastwards for pastures new. On the way, we made another short stop at the Ebi River, and then a longer stop along the Brenu Beach Road. This area of savanna farmbush proved to be very rewarding. A Shikra was perched on a wire close to the bus, and a pair of African Hobbies showed well. A Simple Greenbul in the open was a surprise, and we enjoyed great views of Marsh Tchagra, Tropical Boubou and Yellow-crowned Gonolek. A pair of Snowy-crowned Robin-Chats was a good catch-up for some, as was Copper Sunbird. A Red-winged Warbler was a new species for the trip, but the most unexpected bird was an Icterine Warbler, a species that has only rarely been recorded in Ghana. But the most admired birds of the afternoon were an Oriole Warbler which sat out in the open for several minutes, and a single Pied-winged Swallow on the power lines – a localised species in Ghana and our main target at this White-necked Rockfowl by Nigel Redman site.

We spent a final couple of hours on the eastern side of Kakum, where we enjoyed excellent views of males of both Black-bellied Seedcracker and Western Bluebill. A Brown-crowned Tchagra also showed well, as did Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Tit Hylia and many Violet-backed Starlings. A pair of Black- throated Coucals put in an appearance for a few lucky people, and as usual there were some species that were seen poorly or only heard. A pair of Puvel’s Illadopsises chased each other across the path, only to disappear in a dense bush, but we had had great views of this species before. In the distance, a Lowland Sooty Boubou called briefly, but was too far to lure in. Much closer was a Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat; we all enjoyed its haunting cadences, but it was in a dense tangle of undergrowth and in a place where it was impossible to even get a glimpse of it. Much of the rest of the day was devoted to driving north to Kumasi, but on the way we had an important appointment in Bonkro Forest. Today was the day to search for Ghana’s most celebrated avian inhabitant, the White-necked Rockfowl. We arrived in mid-afternoon for the hour-long hike into the forest. On the way, we heard a couple of Yellow-footed Honeyguides in the canopy, but we could not find a good vantage to look for them. Some Brown-necked Parrots also advertised their presence without showing themselves. On reaching a huge rocky outcrop within the forest, we settled ourselves on the viewing benches, from which we could see at least ten large mud nests attached to the underside of one of the enormous boulders. We waited patiently for more than two hours, but no birds appeared. We had been told that a few rockfowl roost at this site almost every day of the year, but today was clearly one of the few days that they did not. When it was almost dark, we decided to beat a retreat, and on the way back visited one of the smaller sites. Here, we were able to spotlight Greyish Eagle-Owl by Nigel Redman a single bird at roost on an old nest. And what a magnificent

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sight it was too. We enjoyed superlative views of this spectacular species, surely one of the best birds in the world. We returned in high spirits, but there was one final surprise in store for us. For a long stretch of the trail, ants were swarming all along the narrow path. There were enormous numbers of them for about 100 metres of the trail. They were crawling all over us, getting inside our trousers and shirts, and even dropping onto us from the trees. It wasn’t the expected happy ending, but it was a small price to pay for the privilege of seeing the iconic rockfowl.

The following day, we continued northwards to Mole National Park. It was a long day, punctuated by only a few very short stops. At our first site, near Opuro Forest, we saw Lizard Buzzard, Double-toothed Barbet and Black-and-white Shrike-Flycatcher. Along the road there was African Spoonbill, African Cuckoo and Grasshopper Buzzard, amongst commoner species. Close to Mole NP, we stopped at a lake where we admired a small Bushbuck by Nigel Redman flock of Black-rumped Waxbills, as well as White-faced Whistling Ducks and Spur-winged Geese. After checking in at Mole, we headed back out for a spot of night birding. As darkness fell, several White- throated Francolins called nearby, but would not show themselves. A Long-tailed Nightjar was more obliging, and after dark, we had magnificent views of a Greyish Eagle-Owl on the road in front of the bus.

Mole National Park offers the true safari experience. Soon after first light, we saw Stone Partridges on the dirt road, and Red- throated Bee-eaters flycatching from the tops of bushes. We spent some time waiting for a pair of White-crowned Robin-Chats to show themselves to everyone. Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Swamp Flycatcher and a group of Oriole Warblers entertained us while we waited. A pair of Lavender Waxbills was much appreciated, as was a splendid male Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike and his very different-looking female consort. Other bush species seen before the morning warmed up Sun Lark by Nigel Redman included Little Weaver, Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-Weaver, Pygmy and Beautiful Sunbirds, Wilson’s Indigobird, Pin-tailed Whydah, the uncommon Togo Paradise Whydah, Yellow-crowned Gonolek, Northern Puffback, Orange-breasted Bushshrike and Grey Tit-Flycatcher. Overhead, a succession of raptors included White-backed, Hooded and White-headed Vultures, Bateleur, African Fish Eagle and Lanner Falcon. We finished the morning around the wetland area below the lodge. Here, we saw Hamerkop, Hadada Ibis and Woolly-necked Stork, and teased out a pair of Black Crakes. But the highlight was a group of Greater Painted-snipes at close range, sheltering under a large tree at the water’s edge. In the afternoon, we ventured further into the dry savanna. An African Cuckoo showed well, and a party of White-crested Helmetshrikes performed

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exceptionally well. We spent much time exploring the more open areas, and were quickly rewarded with multiple sightings of Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Larks and Sun Larks. Abyssinian Roller was new for the trip and a Spotted Thick-knee was inadvertently flushed from its day roost. As the daylight faded, we found our target bird, the localised Forbes’s Plover. But they flew far away as soon as we got on to them. Fortunately, we quickly re-found them at another site down the track. We were then diverted by another White-throated Francolin, but this would not come in either. To everyone’s delight and relief, a male Standard-winged Nightjar flew over at dusk, but could not be re-found. We finished the day with an African Scops Owl that showed well.

The following morning found us exploring farmbush and riverine forest on the edge of Mole NP. Brown-rumped Bunting was an early success, followed by both Dorst’s and Rufous Cisticolas, although the latter proved somewhat elusive again. We also had great views of several Red-winged Pytilias, and even found a nest containing young chicks. Abyssinian Roller by Bengt Rönde Other good birds included a trio of woodpeckers, namely Brown-backed, Fine-spotted and Golden-tailed, as well as Purple Roller, Black Scimitarbill and African Golden Oriole. A pair of Swallow-tailed Bee- eaters was a welcome surprise. We also had a close encounter with a White-throated Francolin, but not quite close enough as it refused to come out, despite being only a few feet away. At the Mognori Bridge, a Lizard Buzzard posed well, as did pairs of Bearded Barbets and Violet Turacos. Yellow-breasted Apalis, Wire-tailed Swallow and Brown-throated Wattle-eye also showed well. An Abdim’s Stork flew over all too briefly, but was a surprise at this time of year. When it became too hot, we ventured into the riverine forest, finding African Paradise and African Blue Flycatchers. Back at the lodge for lunch, we enjoyed prolonged views of a party of African Elephants bathing in the waterhole below us. We returned to the burnt savanna in the afternoon to get better views of Forbes’s Plovers. Melodious Warbler, Black- faced Firefinch, Northern Crombec, Red- headed Weaver, Exclamatory Paradise Whydah and Eurasian Hoopoe were added to the list, as was a White-breasted Cuckooshrike that did not stay long enough for everyone to see it. A large number of Wilson’s Indigobirds in a single tree was noteworthy, and three Abyssinian Ground Hornbills were wandering along the road. At dusk, we had much better views of two male Standard-winged Nightjars and also a female.

A pre-breakfast excursion at Mole NP on our final morning turned up few surprises. We Forbes's Plover by Nigel Redman heard a Northern White-faced Owl, but could not locate it. Soon after dawn, we made a final attempt to see White-throated Francolin, this time seeing one briefly in flight – clearly, we were destined not to get better views this year. A flowering kapok tree was full of Pygmy and Scarlet-chested Sunbirds, and we had good views of Greater Honeyguide, Singing

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Cisticola and White-shouldered Black Tit. A pair of Familiar Chats was seen by some, and two Speckled Pigeons were unusual for Mole. Back at the lodge, we were able to compare African and Bruce’s Green Pigeons side-by-side before it was time to continue our journey northwards. A short stop at Larabanga to view the ancient mosque produced good views of several Red-chested Swallows, but there were not many other stops during the long drive. We passed a tree-full of nesting Black-headed Herons and made a longer stop at a large lily pond at Nasia. White-faced Whistling Ducks and Spur- winged Geese were swimming amongst the water lilies, and close to the road we watched a variety of weavers, all in non- breeding plumage, including Black-headed Weaver (a scarce bird in Ghana), Red-billed Quelea and both Northern Red and Yellow-crowned Bishops. Further on, a pair of Chestnut-bellied Starlings showed well right next to the road, and a pair of Namaqua Doves was seen at the same stop. Our final appointment of the day was at the Tongo Hills. Here, in a restricted micro-habitat of large rocky boulders on grassy hillsides, we found many Goslings’s Buntings, a couple of Rock- loving Cisticolas, and a much-admired Fox Kestrel. Overhead, a Booted Eagle was a new bird for the trip, as was an obliging Lesser Honeyguide, and a Black-faced Firefinch put in a brief appearance for some. At dusk, we were treated to good views of several Freckled Nightjars.

From our base in Bolgatanga, the destination for our final morning in the north was the White Volta River on the border Swallow-tailed Bee-eater by Bengt with Burkina Faso. The road was in a terrible condition, and Rönde progress was painfully slow along the stretches that had not been repaired. We drove straight to the bridge over the river, where we immediately found many Egyptian Plovers, including a pair with two medium- sized chicks. We enjoyed great views of this iconic species. Other birds here included a Giant Kingfisher flying downstream, flocks of Piapiacs and Long-tailed Glossy Starlings, great views of Northern Red- billed Hornbills and Bearded Barbets, and a tree-full of glossy starlings which included a couple of Bronze-tailed Starlings. Two Black Crakes showed remarkably well for a prolonged period, and we added Mourning Collared Dove to our long list of doves. We continued to another stretch of the river a short way upstream, making several stops on the way in savanna scrub and at a small lily pond close to a village. Here, we found more Chestnut-bellied Starlings and Namaqua Doves, a single Four-banded Sandgrouse, Gabar Goshawk, Yellow-billed Oxpecker, West African Swallow, White-billed Buffalo Bearded Barbet by Nigel Redman Weaver and African Silverbill. In the lush margins of the pond, there were many Quailfinches, but we had to settle for repeated flight views rather than finding any on the ground. Somewhat more obliging were a couple of Black-backed Cisticolas. Eventually, we reached the lush margins of the White Volta, where we enjoyed wonderful views of

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Northern Carmine Bee-eaters, both perched at close range, and a large flock that was continually hawking insects around a small herd of grazing cattle. There were more Egyptian Plovers on the sandbanks in the river, bringing our day total to 20. In the afternoon, we visited Tono Dam, to the west of Bolgatanga. New birds here included Peregrine Falcon, Speckle-fronted Weaver and Green Bee-eater (the latter is a recent addition to the Ghanaian list), and we also saw several Four-banded Sandgrouse. The best bird, however, was a Denham’s Bustard which flushed at close range and flew off strongly towards the dam, giving good flight views. At dusk, we had a female Standard-winged Nightjar and a Northern White-faced Owl which showed rather poorly.

Leaving the north behind, we spent a whole day travelling back south. We made a short stop at a lily pond near the White Volta, where we added Green Sandpiper to the list, and a juvenile Lesser Moorhen. We stopped again at the lily pond at Nasia, where we saw much the same species as the previous stop, with the addition of a few Northern Carmine Bee-eaters. But there was little else of interest on the journey, and eventually we reached Violet Turaco by Nigel Redman our destination in Kumasi.

We had a slow start to our morning in Bobiri Forest, but as the light improved, so did the bird activity. We spent some time trying to entice a pair of Red-billed Dwarf Hornbills into view, and eventually they obliged us with excellent views in the canopy, both perched and in flight. A pair of Red-chested Goshawks also showed well in flight, and a much-wanted Black-throated Coucal flew low across the road. Fortunately, it remained in view long enough to be scoped, although it was deep in the shade. Many of the birds and the feeding flocks were old friends from Kakum or Ankasa: Dusky-blue Flycatcher, Blue Cuckooshrike, Sharpe’s Apalis, Yellow-browed Camaroptera, Green Hylia, Chestnut-capped Flycatcher, Rufous- crowned Eremomela, to name just a few, as well as the usual variety of sunbirds and greenbuls. A pair of White-tailed Alethes proved hard to see, as did a White-throated Greenbul. Some Red-billed Helmetshrikes, on the other hand, were easier and were scoped at length. We also had success with a Western Bronze-naped Pigeon. It took some time to track down, but eventually we Tusker at Mole NP by Nigel Redman managed to scope it high up in the canopy. And back at the bus, we saw a Least Honeyguide, scoping it at length before it vanished once again. Moving on to our final location of the trip, we spent the late afternoon in the farmbush at the base of the Atewa Range. It was quite birdy, with a number of old friends showing well. Many Naked-faced Barbets were occupying a dead tree full of nest holes, and Diederik Cuckoos were strongly in evidence. We also managed the trio of nigritas, with White-breasted showing particularly well. A pair of Ahanta Francolins

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was more frustrating, giving only brief views for some. New birds for the trip included a Thick-billed Weaver, Cassin’s Honeybird and Plain Nightjar.

Our final full day was an assault on the Atewa Ridge, spending the whole day walking up through the forest to the summit and back again. We took it gently, birding slowly along the trail. A Brown Illadopsis called tantalisingly close, but did not show. Yellow- billed Turacos showed very well, as did Golden Greenbul, Levaillant’s Cuckoo and White-crested Hornbill. A trio of Black Bee- eaters was nice to see, but we were after another closely related species. Typical forest species included Olive-green Camaroptera, Rufous-crowned Eremomela, Chestnut- capped Flycatcher and a variety of greenbuls. Bruce's Green Pigeon by Bengt Rönde A party of Maxwell’s Black Weavers showed well, but as usual Kemp’s Longbill and Blue-headed Crested Flycatcher were heard only. Black-capped Apalis and Fernando Po Batis were new for the trip, as was a pair of Forest Penduline Tits, which were building a nest high up in the canopy. As we reached the ridge, a couple of Narina’s Trogons called, but remained hidden. Fraser’s Sunbirds were present in several feeding flocks, and there was a solitary Fraser’s Forest Flycatcher. A pair of Purple-throated Cuckooshrikes were more elusive, but were eventually seen by most, and a little group of Tit Hylias showed well. We spent some time trying to see a Many-colored Bushshrike, with some people getting brief flight views. A Dusky Tit was new for the trip, appearing immediately after a pair of Nimba Flycatchers put in a brief showing to a lucky few. Similarly, a short time later, a Red-fronted Antpecker gave only the briefest of views to a few people. Much more satisfactory was a pair of Violet-backed Hyliotas which showed well in the canopy for several minutes. The highlight of the morning, however, was Blue- moustached Bee-eater. After a long search we found a pair of these gorgeous birds, watching and photographing one of them at length. It completed the bee-eater family for two members of the group. On the way down, it was noticeably quieter, being the mid- afternoon, but we managed great views of a pair of Blue-headed Wood Doves (at last) and Egyptian Plover by Nigel Redman Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher.

We returned to Atewa for our final morning of the trip. It was misty at first, and we spent a little time in the farmbush, trying to see various cuckoos. Inside the forest, we had great views of Finsch’s Rufous Thrush, Plain Greenbul, West African Wattle-eye and only the second Tessmann’s Flycatcher of the trip. Kemp’s Longbill continued to frustrate us, with not even a glimpse, but a Grey Longbill was a little more obliging. There were also brief views of Forest Robin, Grey Tit-Flycatcher and Black-throated Coucal. Yellow-mantled Weaver, Blue Malkoha and Crested Malimbe showed well, but as usual we only

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managed brief looks of Blue-headed Crested Flycatcher and Buff-spotted Woodpecker. An African Cuckoo-Hawk flew over, and we only spent a short time trying to see a couple of Red- cheeked Wattle-eyes. Our final forest birds were, predictably, greenbuls. A White-throated Greenbul gave only a glimpse to a few, but it was the first seen on the trip, and close-by a pair of Grey-headed Bristlebills were only marginally more cooperative. Back in the open farmbush, we saw our final Black Bee-eater, and then finished on a high when a male Yellow- throated Cuckoo finally showed itself, flying towards us across the marsh and giving great scope views in the top of a nearby tree. We returned to our hotel in high spirits, to pack up and begin our long journeys home. It had indeed been a memorable tour. Despite the occasional frustrations of forest birding, we had all amassed an enviable list of sought-after species, while leaving a few things for next time. This was West African birding at its best. ______

Bird of the trip Blue-moustached Bee-eater by 1st Blue-moustached Bee-eater (36 points) Bengt Rönde 2nd White-necked Rockfowl (23 points) 3rd Nkulengu Rail (20 points) 4th White-spotted Flufftail (6 points) 5th= Egyptian Plover (5 points) 5th= Standard-winged Nightjar (5 points) ______

Top 20 shop names of the trip

Biggest Babes Beauty Empire Never Again Cold Store Don’t Mind Your Wife Food Joint We Serve a Living God Boutique Master Pee Nightclub No Limit Mother of Divine Grace Fashion 2 Sisters Spraying Shop Open Happiness Barber Spot Jesus My CEO Plumbing Shop and Works Snow-Way Services Happy Yourself Spot Doggy 1 Cold Store Hope for the Hopeless Guest House No Night in Heaven Electrical Workshop America Cleaning Systems Bar and Grill Kiss Me Spot and Restaurant Royal Big Boy Enterprise Pope Francis Haircut Studio If Jesus Say Yes Beauty Spa The Blessings and Favour of God Enterprise

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Annotated List of Birds Recorded

(475 in total: 456 seen, 19 heard) Nomenclature and taxonomy follow Gill, F. and Donsker, D. (eds). 2018. IOC World Bird List (v 8.2). Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced, H = Heard only IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient Abbreviations: NP = National Park, FR = Forest Reserve

Ducks, Geese and Swans Anatidae White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata Flocks were seen on 5 days, mainly in the north, with a peak count of at least 500 flying over at the Tono Dam at dusk 14.12. Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis gambensis 2 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12 and 6 at Nasia Pond 13.12. Hartlaub’s Duck Pteronetta hartlaubii 1 was seen well at close range at Ankasa NP 6.12.

Guineafowl Numididae Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris galeatus 20 at Shai Hills 28.11, 20 at Mole NP 10.12 and about 100 at Mole NP 11.12.

New World Quails and allies Odontophoridae Stone Partridge Ptilopachus petrosus petrosus Heard at Shai Hills 28.11 and up to 10 were seen and heard daily at Mole NP 10-12.12.

Pheasants, Grouse and allies Phasianidae Latham’s Francolin Peliperdix lathami lathami 2 were seen briefly at Ankasa NP 7.12. White-throated Francolin Peliperdix albogularis buckleyi Up to 3 were heard daily at Mole NP 10-13.12, and finally, on our last morning, we saw one in flight. Ahanta Francolin Pternistis ahantensis ahantensis 1 was seen at Ankasa NP 7.12 and 2 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Also heard at Kalakpa 29.11 and near Kakum NP 2.12. Double-spurred Francolin Pternistis bicalcaratus bicalcaratus 6 at Shai Hills 28.11, 2 heard along the Brenu beach road 8.12, up to 10 seen daily at Mole NP 11- 13.12, and 1 heard at Tono Dam 14.12.

Grebes Podicipedidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis capensis 1 at Cape Coast 3.12 and 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12.

Storks Ciconiidae African Openbill Anastomus lamelligerus lamelligerus 3 at Ebi Wetland 5.12. Abdim’s Stork Ciconia abdimii 1 at Mole NP 12.12.

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Woolly-necked Stork (VU) Ciconia episcopus microscelis 1 at Mole NP 11.12.

Ibises and Spoonbills Threskiornithidae Spot-breasted Ibis Bostrychia rara 2 heard at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 3 seen well at dusk at Ankasa NP 7.12. Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash brevirostris Up to 16 each day at Mole NP 11-13.12. African Spoonbill Platalea alba 1 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12.

Herons, Egrets and Bitterns Ardeidae White-crested Tiger Heron Tigriornis leucolopha Singles were scoped at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 7.12. Dwarf Bittern Ixobrychus sturmii 1 was seen in flight at Nsuta Forest 3.12. Striated Heron Butorides striata atricapilla Singles were seen on 7 days, at Kalakpa, Sakumono Lagoon, Winneba Lagoon, Ankasa NP, Mole NP and White Volta. Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides 3 at Lake Volta 28.11, 4 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 1 at Cape Coast 3.12, up to 2 at Mole NP 11- 13.12, 2 at Nasia Pond 13.12 and 15.12, 2 at the White Volta 14.12, and 20 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Common throughout and seen almost every day. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea cinerea Small numbers seen on 9 days, with a peak count of 20 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11. Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala 1 at Mole NP 12.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and about 20 at a breeding colony in a tree near the White Volta on 13.12 and 15.12. Purple Heron Ardea purpurea purpurea 1 at Lake Volta 28.11, 2 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12, 1 at Mole NP 11-12.12, 2 at Nasia Pond 13.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and 3 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Great Egret Ardea alba melanorhynchos 3 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 1 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and 1 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia brachyrhyncha 2 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 and 1 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12. Black Heron Egretta ardesiaca 20 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 and 1 at Mankessim 30.11. Little Egret Egretta garzetta garzetta 4 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and 1 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Western Reef Heron Egretta gularis gularis 2 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11, 1 at Cape Coast 3.12, 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12 and 1 en route 8.12.

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Hamerkop Scopidae Hamerkop Scopus umbretta Singles at Mole NP 11-12.12, 2 at Tongo Hills 13.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and 4 at Tono Dam 14.12.

Cormorants and Shags Phalacrocoracidae Reed Cormorant Microcarbo africanus africanus 1 at Lake Volta 28.11, 3 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, about 50 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11, 4 at Cape Coast 3.12, 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12 and 1 at Nasia Pond 13.12.

Anhingas Anhingidae African Darter Anhinga rufa rufa 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12 and again on 8.12.

Osprey Pandionidae Western Osprey Pandion haliaetus haliaetus 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12 and 1 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12.

Kites, Hawks and Eagles Accipitridae Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus caeruleus 2 between Shai Hills and Kalakpa 28.11, 6 en route on 29.11, 1 along the Brenu beach road 8.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and 1 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. African Harrier-Hawk Polyboroides typus pectoralis 1 at Kalakpa 29.11, 1 near Kakum NP 1.12 and 2.12, 1 at Ankasa NP 6.12, 1 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Palm-nut Vulture Gypohierax angolensis 1 at Ankasa NP 6.12, 2 at Mole NP 11.12 and 1 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. European Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12 and 1 at Ankasa NP 7.12. African Cuckoo-Hawk Aviceda cuculoides batesi 1 at Kakum NP 2.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 3.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12. Hooded Vulture (EN) Necrosyrtes monachus 1 at Accra 27.11, 4 between Shai Hills and Kalakpa 28.11, up to 10 at Mole NP 11-12.12, and 6 at the White Volta 14.12. White-backed Vulture (NT) Gyps africanus 6 at Mole NP 11.12. White-headed Vulture (VU) Trigonoceps occipitalis 1 at Mole NP 11.12. Western Banded Snake Eagle Circaetus cinerascens 1 at Kalakpa 28.11. Congo Serpent Eagle Circaetus spectabilis spectabilis 1 heard at Kakum NP 1.12 and 2 singles seen on separate occasions at Nsuta Forest 4.12. Bateleur (NT) Terathopius ecaudatus Up to 3 per day in Mole NP 11-13.12. Bat Hawk Macheiramphus alcinus anderssoni 1 was seen at dusk at Nsuta Forest 3.12. Crowned Eagle (NT) Stephanoaetus coronatus 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12.

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Martial Eagle (NT) Polemaetus bellicosus 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus 1 at Tongo Hills 13.12. Ayres’s Hawk-Eagle Hieraaetus ayresii 1 near Kakum NP 2.12. Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle Aquila africana 1 near Kakum NP 2.12 and 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12. Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus monogrammicus 4 between Shai Hills and Kalakpa 28.11, 2 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12, singles at Mole NP 11-12.12, and 1 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Gabar Goshawk Micronisus gabar niger 1 at the White Volta 14.12. Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabates metabates 2 at Nasia Pond 13.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Long-tailed Hawk Urotriorchis macrourus 1 seen at Kakum NP 3.12 and 1 heard at Ankasa NP 7.12. Red-chested Goshawk Accipiter toussenelii macroscelides 1 at Kalakpa 29.11, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 en route 9.12 and 2 at Bobiri FR 16.12. Shikra Accipiter badius sphenurus Singles or pairs were seen on 12 days, with a peak daily count of 6 birds. Red-thighed Sparrowhawk Accipiter erythropus erythropus 1 at Kakum NP 1.12. Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus aeruginosus Singles or pairs were seen on 7 days. Yellow-billed Kite Milvus aegyptius parasitus Common throughout and seen almost every day. African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer 2 at Mole NP 11.12 and 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Grasshopper Buzzard Butastur rufipennis 7 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12, 1 at Mole NP 12.12, 20 in the Nasia Pond area 13.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and 15 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Red-necked Buzzard Buteo auguralis Singles or pairs were seen on 10 days.

Bustards Otididae Denham’s Bustard (NT) Neotis denhami denhami 1 was flushed and seen in flight at Tono Dam 14.12.

Flufftails Sarothruridae White-spotted Flufftail Sarothrura pulchra pulchra 1 gave fabulous views near Kakum NP 2.12 and 1 was heard at Atewa farm bush 16.12.

Finfoots Heliornithidae African Finfoot Podica senegalensis senegalensis 2 were found on a small roadside pool near Nsuta Forest 3.12 and 2 were seen well on a small pool in Ankasa NP 6.12.

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Rails, Crakes and Coots Rallidae Nkulengu Rail Himantornis haematopus 2 heard at Kalakpa 28.11 and 2 heard at Kakum NP 30.11. Heard daily at Ankasa NP 5-8.12, and shortly before dawn on 7.12 we saw four at roost, high up in a tree in the forest interior. Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra 4 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at the White Volta 14.12. African Swamphen Porphyrio madagascariensis 1 was seen by Jan at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11. Lesser Moorhen Paragallinula angulata 1 was seen near the White Volta between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12.

Buttonquails Turnicidae Common Buttonquail Turnix sylvaticus lepurana 1 was flushed at Shai Hills 28.11.

Thick-knees Burhinidae Senegal Thick-knee Burhinus senegalensis 6 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 2 at Mole NP 11.12 and 6 at Mole NP 12.12. Spotted Thick-knee Burhinus capensis maculosus 1 was seen at Mole NP 11.12.

Stilts and Avocets Recurvirostridae Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus 20 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 and 2 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11.

Plovers and Lapwings Charadriidae Spur-winged Lapwing Vanellus spinosus 15 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 4 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11, 4 en route 5.12, 2 at Ebi Wetland 8.12, 2 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12, 10 at the White Volta 14.12 and 4 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. African Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus senegallus 2 at Accra 27.11, 4 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 2 along the Brenu beach road 8.12, up to 12 at Mole NP 11-13.12 and 10 at the White Volta 14.12. Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola squatarola 10 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11. Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula hiaticula 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 and 1 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11. Forbes’s Plover Charadrius forbesi 12 at Mole NP 11.12 and 8 at Mole NP 12.12.

Egyptian Plover Pluvianidae Egyptian Plover Pluvianus aegyptius About 20 at the White Volta 14.12.

Painted-snipes Rostratulidae Greater Painted-snipe Rostratula benghalensis 11 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 there on 13.12.

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Jacanas Jacanidae African Jacana Actophilornis africanus Commonly encountered at wetlands throughout and seen on 13 days.

Sandpipers and allies Scolopacidae Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 2 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11, 1 at Cape Coast 3.12, 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12 and 1 at Ebi Wetland 8.12. Ruff Calidris pugnax 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11. Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea 2 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11. Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11. Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago gallinago 4 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 and 3 at Mole NP 11.12. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Small numbers seen on 9 days, with up to 6 birds per day. Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 1 was seen between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis 3 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola 6 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 1 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12, 1 at Mole NP 11.12, 2 at Mole NP 12.12, 2 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 10 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 2 at Ebi Wetland 5.12, 1 at Ebi Wetland 8.12 and 4 at the White Volta 14.12.

Pratincoles and Coursers Glareolidae Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola A flock of about 50 over Sakumono Lagoon 29.11. Rock Pratincole Glareola nuchalis liberiae 8 on the Pra River 2.12.

Gulls, Terns and Skimmers Laridae Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica nilotica About 20 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11. Royal Tern Thalasseus maximus albididorsalis 2 at Cape Coast 30.11 and 2 more at Cape Coast 3.12. Common Tern Sterna hirundo hirundo 1 was recorded by Jan at Winneba Lagoon 30.11.

Sandgrouse Pteroclidae Four-banded Sandgrouse Pterocles quadricinctus 2 at Mole NP 11.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and 5 at Tono Dam 14.12.

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Pigeons and Doves Columbidae Rock Dove Columba livia Common throughout and seen almost every day. Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea guinea Up to 10 seen daily in the north. Western Bronze-naped Pigeon Columba iriditorques Singles were heard on several occasions in Nsuta Forest and Ankasa NP. Finally, we tracked one down in Bobiri FR on 16.12 and had good views. Mourning Collared Dove Streptopelia decipiens shelleyi 4 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata Common throughout and seen almost every day. Vinaceous Dove Streptopelia vinacea 6 at Shai Hills 28.11, 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 and 2 Winneba plains 30.11. Commonly encountered in the north. Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis senegalensis Common throughout and seen almost every day. Black-billed Wood Dove Turtur abyssinicus 2 at Accra 27.11, 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, and 2 at Winneba plains 30.12. In the north, up to 10 birds seen daily. Blue-spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer Seen or heard most days in central and southern Ghana, but not in the north. Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistria Seen or heard on 9 days, mainly as singles, at Kakum NP, Ankasa NP, Bonkro, Bobiri FR and Atewa, with a maximum daily count of 6 birds. Blue-headed Wood Dove Turtur brehmeri infelix Recorded on 10 days, at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, Bonkro and Atewa. Mostly heard, but we managed sightings on 5 days. Namaqua Dove Oena capensis capensis 1 at Mole NP 11.12, 2 en route 13.12, 2 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Bruce’s Green Pigeon Treron waalia About 30 at Mole NP 10.12 and a few more there on subsequent days, and 15 at Tono Dam 14.12. African Green Pigeon Treron calvus sharpei Frequently encountered and seen on 14 days, with peak counts of about 20 per day.

Turacos Musophagidae Great Blue Turaco Corythaeola cristata 1 heard at Kakum NP 30.11 and up to 3 were seen at Ankasa NP 6-7.12. Guinea Turaco Tauraco persa persa Only recorded in the south. 3 heard at Accra 27.11, 4 seen at Shai Hills 28.11, up to 8 at Kalakpa 28- 29.11, and 5 at Winneba plains 30.11. Yellow-billed Turaco Tauraco macrorhynchus macrorhynchus Commonly encountered at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP and Atewa, with peak daily counts of 6 birds seen or heard. Violet Turaco Musophaga violacea 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, 1 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12.

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Western Plantain-eater Crinifer piscator Commonly encountered in non-forest areas; seen on 12 days with a peak day count of 10 birds.

Cuckoos Cuculidae Black-throated Coucal Centropus leucogaster leucogaster This shy species was heard on 7 days, at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Bobiri FR and Atewa. 2 birds were seen at Kakum NP 9.12, and singles were seen at Bobiri FR 16.12 and Atewa 18.12. Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis senegalensis Singles or pairs were seen on 15 days. Blue-headed Coucal Centropus monachus 2 seen at Shai Hills 28.11, 1 heard at Kakum NP 2.12, 1 seen at Kakum NP 9.12 and 1 seen at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Blue Malkoha Ceuthmochares aereus flavirostris Singles or pairs were seen (or heard) on 9 days, at Kalakpa, Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, and Atewa. Levaillant’s Cuckoo Clamator levaillantii 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 and 1 at Atewa 17.12. Diederik Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius Singles or pairs were seen or heard on 6 days, all at Kakum NP and Atewa. Klaas’s Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas Singles or pairs were seen or heard on 9 days, at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Bonkro, Bobiri FR and Atewa. Yellow-throated Cuckoo Chrysococcyx flavigularis 1 male gave great views at Atewa 18.12, and was almost the last bird of the trip. African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus Heard on 13 days at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, Bonkro, Opuro Forest, Bobiri FR and Atewa. One bird was seen well at Kakum NP. Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx olivinus Heard on 7 days at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, and Bonkro. After much effort, one bird was seen at Kakum NP. Black Cuckoo Cuculus clamosus gabonensis Single birds were seen well at Nsuta Forest 5.12, and Atewa 18.12. Also heard at Bonkro and Bobiri FR. African Cuckoo Cuculus gularis Singles were seen on three days at Mole NP 10-12.12.

Owls Strigidae African Scops Owl Otus senegalensis senegalensis Heard each day at Mole NP and one was seen on 11.12. Northern White-faced Owl Ptilopsis leucotis Up to 2 were heard each day at Mole NP 11-13.12 and 1 was seen at Tono Dam 14.12. Greyish Eagle-Owl Bubo cinerascens Single birds were seen on three days at Mole NP 10-12.12, 1 was heard at Tongo Hills 13.12 and 1 seen at Tono Dam 14.12. Fraser’s Eagle-Owl Bubo poensis 1 was seen at Kakum NP 30.11. Akun Eagle-Owl Bubo leucostictus 1 was seen at Kakum NP 1.12 and 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12.

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African Wood Owl Strix woodfordii nuchalis 2 at night at Kalakpa 28.11 and 2 during the morning at Kalakpa 29.11. Pearl-spotted Owlet (H) Glaucidium perlatum perlatum 1 heard at Mole NP 12.12 and 2 heard at Mole NP 13.12. African Barred Owlet (H) Glaucidium capense 1 was heard at Shai Hills 28.11.

Nightjars and allies Caprimulgidae Brown Nightjar Veles binotatus Singles at Kakum NP on 30.11 and 1.12, on both occasions flying around our heads. Black-shouldered Nightjar (H) Caprimulgus nigriscapularis 1 was heard at Kalakpa 28.11. Plain Nightjar Caprimulgus inornatus 1 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Freckled Nightjar Caprimulgus tristigma sharpei 3 at Tongo Hills 13.12. Long-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus climacurus 3 at Kalakpa 28.11 and up to 2 each night at Mole NP 10-12.12. Standard-winged Nightjar Caprimulgus longipennis Up to 3 each night at Mole NP 10-12.12 and 1 at Tono Dam 14.12.

Swifts Apodidae Mottled Spinetail Telacanthura ussheri ussheri 2 at Kakum NP 30.11, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 1 at Ankasa NP 6.12. Black Spinetail Telacanthura melanopygia 2 at Nsuta Forest 4.12. Sabine’s Spinetail Rhaphidura sabini 2 at Kakum NP 2.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 10 at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 1 at Ankasa NP 8.12. Cassin’s Spinetail Neafrapus cassini 1 at Kakum NP 1.12 and 2 at Kakum NP 2.12. African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus Common throughout and seen almost every day. Common Swift Apus apus apus Up to 30 at Kakum NP 1-2.12, up to 20 at Nsuta Forest 3-5.12 and at least 100 at Ankasa NP 6.12. Little Swift Apus affinis aerobates Common throughout and seen almost every day. Bates’s Swift Apus batesi Two pairs and a single bird at Kakum NP 30.11–2.12 and 1 at Atewa 17.12.

Trogons Trogonidae Narina Trogon (H) Apaloderma narina constantia 1 heard at Kalakpa 28.11 and 2 heard at Atewa 17.12.

Rollers Coraciidae Purple Roller Coracias naevius naevius 2 at Mole NP 12.12, 1 en route 13.12, 2 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinicus Up to 6 birds per day were seen in the north.

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Blue-bellied Roller Coracias cyanogaster 9 birds were seen between Shai Hills and Kalakpa 28.11, 3 more en route 29.11 and 1 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12. Blue-throated Roller Eurystomus gularis gularis 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 heard at Nsuta Forest 3.12 and 4 seen at Nsuta Forest 4.12. Broad-billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus afer 1 en route to Shama 3.12 was the only record.

Kingfishers Alcedinidae Chocolate-backed Kingfisher (H) Halcyon badia 3 heard at Nsuta Forest 4-5.12, 4 heard Ankasa NP 6-7.12 and 1 heard Atewa 17.12. Grey-headed Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala leucocephala Up to 2 each day at Mole NP 11-13.12. Striped Kingfisher (H) Halcyon chelicuti chelicuti 1 heard at Kalakpa 29.11. Blue-breasted Kingfisher Halcyon malimbica forbesi 1 at Kalakpa 29.11, 2 at Ankasa NP 6.12, 1 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis Singles or pairs were seen on 13 days. African Pygmy Kingfisher Ispidina picta 1 at Shai Hills 28.11, 2 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 1 at Ankasa NP 6.12. White-bellied Kingfisher Corythornis leucogaster bowdleri 1 was seen briefly by Foster at Ankasa NP 6.12 and we all heard one at Ankasa NP 7.12. Malachite Kingfisher Corythornis cristatus galeritus Singles or pairs were seen on 7 days, with a peak day count of 5 birds at Mole NP 11.12. Shining-blue Kingfisher Alcedo quadribrachys quadribrachys 1 showed well at Ankasa NP 6.12 and another was seen briefly at Mole NP 11.12. Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima 1 at the White Volta 14.12. Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis rudis 4 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 10 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11, 2 at Cape Coast 3.12 and 4 at the White Volta 14.12.

Bee-eaters Meropidae Blue-moustached Bee-eater (NT) Merops mentalis 2 showed very well at Atewa 17.12, and were voted Bird of the Trip. Black Bee-eater Merops gularis gularis 2 at Kakum NP 2.12, 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 4 at Ankasa NP 6.12, 3 at Atewa 17.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12. Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus chrysolaimus 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus pusillus 4 at the Pra River 2.12 and 1 at the White Volta 14.12. Red-throated Bee-eater Merops bulocki bulocki Up to 50 at Mole NP 11-13.12, 2 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12.

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White-throated Bee-eater Merops albicollis Common throughout except in the far north, and seen on 16 days with peak counts of 50 birds per day. Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis viridissimus Three were seen at Tono Dam 14.12. This species has only recently been found in Ghana. Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus chrysocercus 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 with a large flock of White-throated Bee-eaters. This species is a rarity in Ghana and previous records have only been in the north and east. Rosy Bee-eater Merops malimbicus 15 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 2 at Nsuta Forest 4.12. Northern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicus About 30 at the White Volta 14.12 and 10 at Nasia Pond 15.12.

Hoopoes Upupidae Eurasian Hoopoe Upupa epops senegalensis 1 at Mole NP 12.12.

Wood Hoopoes Phoeniculidae Forest Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus castaneiceps castaneiceps 2 at Kakum NP 1.12. White-headed Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus bollei bollei 2 at Kakum NP 1.12. Green Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus 2 at Accra 27.11, 1 en route 30.11, 1 at Mole NP 11.12, 4 at Mole NP 12.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12, 1 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12 and 2 at Accra 18.12. Black Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus aterrimus aterrimus 1 at Mole NP 12.12.

Ground Hornbills Bucorvidae Abyssinian Ground Hornbill Bucorvus abyssinicus 3 at Mole NP 12.12.

Hornbills Bucerotidae Northern Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorhynchus 6 in the White Volta area 14.12, 2 at Tono Dam 14.12 and 6 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. African Pied Hornbill Lophoceros fasciatus semifasciatus Common throughout except in the north, and seen on 16 days, with peak day counts of 15 birds at Nsuta Forest 3-5.12. African Grey Hornbill Lophoceros nasutus nasutus Frequently encountered in non-forest areas and seen on 10 days, with a peak count of 10 birds at the Shai Hills on 28.11. Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill Lophoceros camurus 1 heard at Nsuta Forest 4.12 and 3 seen in Bobiri FR 16.12. Piping Hornbill Bycanistes fistulator fistulator Up to 8 at Nsuta Forest 3-5.12, up to 2 at Ankasa NP 6-7.12, and singles at Bobiri FR 16.12 and Atewa 17.12. Brown-cheeked Hornbill (NT) Bycanistes cylindricus 1 at Kakum NP 2.12 and 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12. Black-casqued Hornbill (H) Ceratogymna atrata 1 heard at Kakum NP 30.11.

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Black Dwarf Hornbill Horizocerus hartlaubi hartlaubi 1 was seen well at Nsuta Forest 4.12. White-crested Hornbill Horizocerus albocristatus macrourus 2 at Kakum NP 1.12.

African Barbets Lybiidae Bristle-nosed Barbet Gymnobucco peli 8 at Nsuta Forest 4.12 and at least 50 there on 5.12. Naked-faced Barbet Gymnobucco calvus calvus Up to 4 at Kakum NP 1-2.12, up to 4 at Nsuta Forest 3-5.12, and 10 at Atewa 16-18.12. Speckled Tinkerbird Pogoniulus scolopaceus scolopaceus 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 1 at Nsuta Forest 3.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 8.12, 1 at Kakum NP 9.12, 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 4 at Atewa 17.12. Red-rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus atroflavus Singles were seen or heard on 9 days, at Kakum NP, Ankasa NP and Atewa. Yellow-throated Tinkerbird Pogoniulus subsulphureus chrysopygus Singles were seen or heard on 13 days, at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, Bonkro, Opuro Forest and Atewa. Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus leucolaimus 1 heard at Kalakpa 29.11, 1 at Kakum NP 2.12, 1 at Kakum NP 9.12 and 1 heard at Opuro Forest 10.12. Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus chrysoconus 1 heard at Accra 27.11, 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, up to 2 at Mole NP 11-13.12, 2 heard at the White Volta 14.12 and 1 heard at Nasia Pond 15.12. Yellow-spotted Barbet Buccanodon duchaillui 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 1 heard at Kakum NP 3.12, 4 heard at Nsuta Forest 4-5.12, up to 4 heard at Ankasa NP 6-7.12, and 1 heard at Atewa 17.12. Hairy-breasted Barbet Tricholaema hirsuta hirsuta Singles at Kakum NP 1.12 and 3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 2 heard at Ankasa NP 7.12 and 1 heard at Bobiri FR 16.12. Vieillot’s Barbet Lybius vieilloti rubescens 2 at Accra 27.11, 2 at Kakum NP 2.12, 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 at Tono Dam 14.12 and 1 at Atewa 16.12. Double-toothed Barbet Lybius bidentatus bidentatus 2 at Accra 27.11, 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, 3 at Accra 30.11 and 2 at Opuro Forest 10.12. Bearded Barbet Lybius dubius 2 at Accra 27.11, 2 at Mole NP 12.12, 1 at Tongo Hills 13.12, 10 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 at Tono Dam 14.12. Yellow-billed Barbet Trachyphonus purpuratus goffinii 1 at Kakum NP 1.12, 2 heard at Ankasa NP 6.12, 1 heard at Atewa 17.12 and 1 seen at Atewa 18.12.

Honeyguides Indicatoridae Cassin’s Honeybird Prodotiscus insignis flavodorsalis 1 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Yellow-footed Honeyguide (DD) (H) Melignomon eisentrauti 2 heard at Bonkro 9.12. Least Honeyguide Indicator exilis exilis 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12.

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Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor senegalensis 1 at Tongo Hills 13.12 and 1 at Atewa 17.12. Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator 1 at Mole NP 13.12.

Woodpeckers Picidae African Piculet Sasia africana 1 seen and another heard at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 1 seen at Nsuta Forest 5.12 and 2 heard at Bobiri FR 16.12. Fine-spotted Woodpecker Campethera punctuligera punctuligera 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni chrysura 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Buff-spotted Woodpecker Campethera nivosa nivosa 1 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 2 at Atewa 18.12. Fire-bellied Woodpecker Chloropicus pyrrhogaster Singles at Kakum NP 1.12, Kakum NP 2.12, Nsuta Forest 5.12, Ankasa NP 7.12, Bonkro 9.12, Bobiri FR 16.12 and Atewa 17.12. Melancholy Woodpecker Dendropicos lugubris 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 1 at Atewa farm bush 16.12 and 1 heard at Atewa 18.12. African Grey Woodpecker Dendropicos goertae 1 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Brown-backed Woodpecker Dendropicos obsoletus obsoletus 1 at Mole NP 12.12.

Falcons and Caracaras Falconidae Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Singles or pairs were seen on 4 days, usually on journeys. Fox Kestrel Falco alopex 1 at Tongo Hills 13.12. Grey Kestrel Falco ardosiaceus Singles at Shai Hills 28.11, Kakum NP 1.12, between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12, Tono Dam 14.12 and Atewa farm bush 16.12. African Hobby Falco cuvierii 1 at Winneba plains 30.11 and 2 along the Brenu beach road 8.12. Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus abyssinicus 2 at Mole NP 11.12, 1 at Tongo Hills 13.12 and 1 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 2 at Tono Dam 14.12.

African and New World Parrots Psittacidae Grey Parrot (NT) Psittacus erithacus 2 at Kakum NP 2.12 and 2 at Ankasa NP 6.12. Red-fronted Parrot Poicephalus gulielmi fantiensis 6 at Kakum NP 1.12, up to 6 per day at Nsuta Forest 3-5.12 and 2 heard at Bonkro 9.12. Brown-necked Parrot (H) Poicephalus fuscicollis fuscicollis 2 heard at Bonkro 9.12.

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Senegal Parrot Poicephalus senegalus versteri 2 at Accra 27.11, 6 at Shai Hills 28.11, 2 at Mole NP 11.12, 4 at Mole NP 12.12 and 6 at the White Volta 14.12.

Old World Parrots Psittaculidae Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri krameri 2 at Accra 27.11, 8 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 20 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Red-headed Lovebird Agapornis pullarius pullarius 1 at Accra 27.11 was a leader-only bird.

Broadbills Eurylaimidae Rufous-sided Broadbill Smithornis rufolateralis rufolateralis 1 seen and 2 heard at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 1 heard at Ankasa NP 8.12.

Wattle-eyes and Batises Platysteiridae Senegal Batis Batis senegalensis 1 at Kalakpa 29.11, 2 at Mole NP 11.12, 2 at Mole NP 12.12 and 2 at Tono Dam 14.12. Fernando Po Batis Batis poensis occulta 2 at Atewa 17.12. West African Wattle-eye Platysteira hormophora 3 at Kalakpa 29.11, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 2 heard at Nsuta Forest 5.12, up to 6 at Ankasa NP 6-8.12, 1 heard at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 4 seen at Atewa 18.12. Brown-throated Wattle-eye Platysteira cyanea cyanea 1 heard at Accra 27.11, 4 at Shai Hills 28.11, 2 heard at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 seen at Mole NP 12.12. Red-cheeked Wattle-eye Platysteira blissetti 1 seen and 2 heard at Kalakpa 29.11, 1 seen at Kakum NP 2.12 and 2 heard at Atewa 18.12.

Bushshrikes and allies Malaconotidae Lagden’s Bushshrike (NT) (H) Malaconotus lagdeni lagdeni 1 was heard at Ankasa NP 7.12. Many-colored Bushshrike Chlorophoneus multicolor multicolor 2 at Atewa 17.12 gave mostly brief views. Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus sulfureopectus 1 at Mole NP 11.12. Marsh Tchagra Bocagia minuta minuta 1 showed well along the Brenu beach road 8.12. Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis ussheri 1 at Kakum NP 9.12. Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus senegalus 4 at Accra 27.11, 1 heard at Shai Hills 28.11, 2 heard at Winneba plains 30.11, 1 at Mole NP 12.12, 2 at Mole NP 13.12 and 1 heard between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Sabine’s Puffback Dryoscopus sabini sabini 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 heard at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 1 heard at Ankasa NP 7.12 and 1 heard at Atewa 18.12. Northern Puffback Dryoscopus gambensis gambensis 4 at Mole NP 11.12, 1 at Mole NP 12.12 and 2 at Atewa 18.12. Lowland Sooty Boubou (H) Laniarius leucorhynchus 1 was heard distantly at Kakum NP 9.12.

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Tropical Boubou Laniarius major major 1 along the Brenu beach road 8.12 and 1 at Opuro Forest 10.12. Yellow-crowned Gonolek Laniarius barbarus barbarus 4 at Accra 27.11, 2 heard at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 2 at Winneba plains 30.11, 4 along the Brenu beach road 8.12, up to 4 at Mole NP 11-13.12, 4 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Brubru (H) Nilaus afer afer 1 heard at Mole NP 12.12 and 1 heard at Nasia Pond 15.12.

Vangas Vangidae White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus plumatus 6 at Shai Hills 28.11, 4 at Kalakpa 28.11, 12 at Mole NP 11.12 and 6 at Mole NP 13.12. Red-billed Helmetshrike Prionops caniceps caniceps 10 at Kakum NP 3.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 4 at Bobiri FR 16.12. Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher Bias musicus musicus 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 1 at Kakum NP 2.12, 1 at Opuro Forest 10.12 and 1 at Atewa farm bush 16.12.

Cuckooshrikes Campephagidae White-breasted Cuckooshrike Ceblepyris pectoralis 1 showed briefly at Mole NP 12.12. Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike Campephaga phoenicea 2 at Mole NP 11.12. Purple-throated Cuckooshrike Campephaga quiscalina quiscalina 2 at Atewa 17.12. Blue Cuckooshrike Cyanograucalus azureus 1 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 heard at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 1 heard at Bonkro 9.12 and 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12.

Shrikes Laniidae Yellow-billed Shrike Corvinella corvina Small flocks were frequently encountered, often on journeys. Seen on 9 days with a peak day count of 10 birds. Northern Fiscal Lanius humeralis smithii Singles or pairs were seen on 9 days, with a peak count of 15 birds along the Brenu beach road on 8.12.

Old World Orioles Oriolidae African Golden Oriole Oriolus auratus auratus 1 heard at Kalakpa 29.11, 2 seen at Mole NP 12.12 and another there on 13.12. Western Oriole Oriolus brachyrynchus brachyrynchus 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 2 at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 1 at Ankasa NP 6.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 7.12, 1 heard at Bobiri FR 16.12, 2 at Atewa 17.12 and 2 at Atewa 18.12. Black-winged Oriole Oriolus nigripennis 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, and singles heard at Nsuta Forest 4.12 and 5.12.

Drongos Dicruridae Shining Drongo Dicrurus atripennis Up to 6 at Ankasa NP 6-8.12 and 4 at Atewa 17.12. Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis divaricatus 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, 1 at Kalakpa 29.11, up to 2 at Mole NP 11-13.12 and 2 at the White Volta 14.12.

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Velvet-mantled Drongo Dicrurus modestus Up to 2 at Kakum NP 30.11-3.12, up to 4 at Nsuta Forest 4-5.12, 1 at Bonkro 9.12, 4 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12.

Monarchs Monarchidae Blue-headed Crested Flycatcher Trochocercus nitens reichenowi 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 1 heard at Atewa 17.12 and 1 seen at Atewa 18.12. Red-bellied Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone rufiventer nigriceps Singles or pairs were seen on 10 days, at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, Bobiri FR and Atewa. African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis ferreti 1 at Kalakpa 29.11, 2 at Mole NP 11.12, 3 at Mole NP 12.12 and 1 at Atewa 17.12.

Crows, Jays and Magpies Corvidae Piapiac Ptilostomus afer About 30 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 30 at the White Volta 14.12. Pied Crow Corvus albus Common throughout and seen almost every day.

Rockfowl Picathartidae White-necked Rockfowl (VU) Picathartes gymnocephalus After a long wait, we saw one bird at roost on an old nest at Bonkro 9.12.

Fairy Flycatchers Stenostiridae African Blue Flycatcher Elminia longicauda longicauda 2 at Mole NP 12.12.

Tits / Chickadees Paridae White-shouldered Black Tit Melaniparus guineensis 4 at Kalakpa 29.11, 3 at Mole NP 12.12 and 2 at Mole NP 13.12. Dusky Tit Melaniparus funereus funereus 1 at Atewa 17.12.

Penduline Tits Remizidae Forest Penduline Tit Anthoscopus flavifrons waldronae 2 were seen building a nest at Atewa 17.12.

Nicators Nicatoridae Western Nicator Nicator chloris Singles were heard at Kalakpa, Ankasa NP, Bobiri FR and Atewa, but we managed to see one at Kakum NP 3.12 and another at Atewa 17.12.

Larks Alaudidae Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix leucotis melanocephalus 6 at Mole NP 11.12, 10 at Mole NP 13.12, 2 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Flappet Lark Mirafra rufocinnamomea buckleyi 2 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 1 en route 5.12. Sun Lark Galerida modesta modesta 10 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12.

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Bulbuls Pycnonotidae Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus inornatus Common throughout and seen almost every day. Slender-billed Greenbul Stelgidillas gracilirostris gracilirostris 2 at Kalakpa 29.11, up to 6 at Kakum NP 1-3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4-5.12, 4 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 2 at Atewa 18.12. Little Greenbul Eurillas virens erythroptera Seen or heard on 13 days, at Kalakpa, Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, Bobiri FR and Atewa, with a peak day count of 6 birds at Atewa. More often heard than seen. Little Grey Greenbul Eurillas gracilis extrema Up to 4 at Kakum NP 30.11-3.12 and 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12. Ansorge’s Greenbul Eurillas ansorgei ansorgei 1 at Kakum NP 1.12 and 1 heard at Ankasa NP 6.12. Plain Greenbul Eurillas curvirostris 1 heard at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 2 seen at Ankasa NP 7.12 and 2 more at Atewa 18.12. Yellow-whiskered Greenbul Eurillas latirostris congener 2 at Kalakpa 29.11, up to 2 at Ankasa NP 7-8.12, 1 at Kakum NP 9.12 and 1 heard at Bobiri FR 16.12. Golden Greenbul Calyptocichla serinus 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 4 at Atewa 17.12. Honeyguide Greenbul Baeopogon indicator leucurus Up to 2 at Kakum NP 30.11-3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 1 heard at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 2 heard at Atewa 17.12. Spotted Greenbul Ixonotus guttatus 2 at Kakum NP 1.12 and 3.12. Simple Greenbul Chlorocichla simplex 1 at Accra 27.11, 1 at Shai Hills 28.11, 1 at Winneba plains 30.11, up to 4 at Kakum NP 2-3.12, 3 along the Brenu beach road 8.12 and 1 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Swamp Palm Bulbul Thescelocichla leucopleura Up to 2 at Kalakpa 28-29.11, up to 2 at Nsuta Forest 4-5.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 8.12, and 2 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Icterine Greenbul Phyllastrephus icterinus Up to 4 at Ankasa NP 6-8.12 and 2 at Atewa 17.12. White-throated Greenbul Phyllastrephus albigularis albigularis 1 heard at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 heard at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 1 seen at Atewa 18.12. Red-tailed Bristlebill Bleda syndactylus syndactylus Singles were heard at Kakum NP 3.12, Nsuta Forest 4.12, Ankasa NP 6.12, Bonkro 9.12 and Atewa 17.12. The only bird seen was one near the lights at our camp in Ankasa NP 8.12 Green-tailed Bristlebill (VU) (H) Bleda eximius Several were heard at Ankasa NP 6-8.12. Grey-headed Bristlebill Bleda canicapillus canicapillus Heard at Shai Hills Kalakpa, Ankasa NP, Bonkro and Bobiri FR. The only sightings were 2 at Kalakpa 29.11 and 2 at Atewa 18.12. Western Bearded Greenbul Criniger barbatus barbatus 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, up to 4 at Ankasa NP 6-8.12, 2 at Bonkro 9.12 and 6 at Atewa 17.12. Red-tailed Greenbul Criniger calurus verreauxi 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 2 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, up to 2 at Ankasa NP 6-8.12 and 6 at Atewa 17.12. Yellow-bearded Greenbul (VU) Criniger olivaceus 2 at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 4 at Ankasa NP 7.12.

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Swallows Hirundinidae Square-tailed Saw-wing Psalidoprocne nitens nitens 3 at Ankasa NP 8.12. Fanti Saw-wing Psalidoprocne obscura 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 4 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 3 at Nsuta Forest 4.12. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica rustica Common throughout and seen every day, with peak day counts of at least 500 in the Kakum area. Red-chested Swallow Hirundo lucida lucida Only seen in the north: 15 at Larabanga 13.12, 20 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Ethiopian Swallow Hirundo aethiopica aethiopica Small numbers were seen on 10 days with peak day counts of about 20 in the Kakum area. Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii smithii Only seen in the north: 5 at Mole NP 12.12, 4 at Nasia Pond 13.12, 2 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. White-bibbed Swallow Hirundo nigrita 2 at Lake Volta 28.11, 6 at the Pra River 2.12 and 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12. Pied-winged Swallow Hirundo leucosoma 1 bird was seen well along the Brenu beach road 8.12. Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula bansoensis 6 at Shai Hills 28.11. Common House Martin Delichon urbicum urbicum About 50 at Mole NP 11.12. Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica puella About 20 near Kakum NP 2.12 and 6 more there on 9.12. West African Swallow Cecropis domicella 6 at the White Volta 14.12. Preuss’s Cliff Swallow Petrochelidon preussi 1 at Kakum NP 30.11.

Crombecs, African warblers Macrosphenidae Moustached Grass Warbler Melocichla mentalis mentalis 1 at Accra 27.11 and 1 heard at Mole NP 12.12. Kemp’s Longbill (H) Macrosphenus kempi kempi 1 heard at Nsuta Forest 4.12 and 2 heard at Atewa 17.12 and 18.12. Grey Longbill Macrosphenus concolor Singles on 8 days, at Kalakpa, Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, Bobiri FR and Atewa. Northern Crombec Sylvietta brachyura brachyura 1 at Accra 27.11, 1 at Mole NP 12.12, 1 at the White Volta 14.12 and 1 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Green Crombec Sylvietta virens flaviventris Up to 2 at Kakum NP 1-3.12, up to 2 at Nsuta Forest 4-5.12, and up to 4 at Atewa 17-18.12. Lemon-bellied Crombec Sylvietta denti hardyi 1 heard at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12, up to 2 at Ankasa NP 7-8.12 and 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12.

Yellow Flycatchers Erythrocercidae Chestnut-capped Flycatcher Erythrocercus mccallii nigeriae 4 at Kakum NP 1.12, 3 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 4 at Atewa 17.12.

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Hylias Incertae Sedis Green Hylia Hylia prasina prasina Recorded on 15 days at Kalakpa, Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, Opuro Forest, Bobiri FR and Atewa. More often heard than seen, with peak counts of 8 per day at Kakum and Atewa. Tit Hylia Pholidornis rushiae ussheri Singles at Kakum NP 30.11, 3.12 and 9.12, and 4 at Atewa 17.12.

Leaf warblers and allies Phylloscopidae Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix 1 at Accra 27.11, 1 at Shai Hills 28.11, 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 1 at Kakum NP 1.12 and 2 at Nsuta Forest 4.12. Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus trochilus 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 2 at Mole NP 11.12, 5 at Mole NP 12.12, 2 at Atewa 17.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12. Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita collybita 1 at Mole NP 11.12.

Reed warblers and allies Acrocephalidae Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta 2 at Mole NP 12.12, 1 at Tono Dam 14.12 and 1 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina One was seen well along the Brenu Beach Road 8.12.

Cisticolas and allies Cisticolidae Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops erythrops 1 at Accra 27.11, singles at Kakum NP 2-3.12, 4 along the Brenu beach road 8.12, 2 at Kakum NP 9.12 and 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Singing Cisticola Cisticola cantans swanzii 1 at Accra 27.11, 1 heard at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 along the Brenu beach road 8.12 and 2 at Mole NP 13.12. Whistling Cisticola Cisticola lateralis lateralis 4 at Kalakpa 29.11, 4 at Kakum NP 30.11, 2 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12. Rock-loving Cisticola Cisticola emini admiralis 2 seen and 4 heard at Tongo Hills 13.12. Winding Cisticola Cisticola marginatus amphilectus 2 at Lake Volta 28.11, 4 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11 and 1 at Nasia Pond 13.12. Croaking Cisticola Cisticola natalensis strangei 6 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 4 at Winneba plains 30.11. Dorst’s Cisticola Cisticola guinea 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Short-winged Cisticola Cisticola brachypterus brachypterus 4 at Accra 27.11, 2 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 2 at Winneba plains 30.11. Rufous Cisticola Cisticola rufus 1 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis uropygialis 4 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11. Black-backed Cisticola Cisticola eximius 1 at Nasia Pond 13.12 and 2 at the White Volta 14.12. Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava melanorhyncha Seen on 9 days at a variety of sites with a maximum count of 6 at Nasia Pond 13.12.

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Red-winged Warbler Heliolais erythropterus erythropterus 1 along the Brenu beach road 8.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida caniceps 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Black-capped Apalis Apalis nigriceps nigriceps 2 at Atewa 17.12. Sharpe’s Apalis Apalis sharpii 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12. Oriole Warbler Hypergerus atriceps 1 heard at Winneba plains 30.11, 1 along the Brenu beach road 8.12 and 4 at Mole NP 11.12. Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata 4 at Shai Hills 28.11, up to 4 at Kakum NP 30.11-3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 3 at Mole NP 13.12 and 2 at Tono Dam 14.12. Yellow-browed Camaroptera Camaroptera superciliaris Singles at Kakum NP 2-3.12, Nsuta Forest 3-5.12 and Ankasa NP 6.12, 4 at Bobiri FR 16.12, and 2 at Atewa 17-18.12. Olive-green Camaroptera Camaroptera chloronota kelsalli Singles at Kakum NP 2-3.12 and Bonkro 9.12, and 2 at Atewa 17.12. Senegal Eremomela Eremomela pusilla 2 at Accra 27.11, 4 at Shai Hills 28.11, 2 at Kalakpa 29.11, 1 along the Brenu beach road 8.12, up to 6 at Mole NP 11-13.12 and 2 at Tono Dam 14.12. Rufous-crowned Eremomela Eremomela badiceps fantiensis 6 at Kakum NP 1.12, 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 4 at Atewa 17.12.

Fulvettas, Ground Babblers Pellorneidae Blackcap Illadopsis Illadopsis cleaveri cleaveri 1 showed briefly at Ankasa NP 8.12 and another was heard at Atewa 17.12. Rufous-winged Illadopsis (NT) Illadopsis rufescens 1 heard at Ankasa NP 7.12 and 1 seen at Ankasa NP 8.12. Puvel’s Illadopsis Illadopsis puveli puveli 2 showed well at Kakum NP 3.12 and 2 more at Kakum NP 9.12. Pale-breasted Illadopsis Illadopsis rufipennis extrema 1 heard at Ankasa NP 6.12, 2 seen at Ankasa NP 7.12 and 1 seen at Atewa 17.12. Brown Illadopsis (H) Illadopsis fulvescens 2 heard at Kalakpa 29.11, 1 heard at Kakum NP 2.12, 1 heard at Nsuta Forest 4.12 and 1 heard at Atewa 17.12.

Laughingthrushes Leiothrichidae Capuchin Babbler Phyllanthus atripennis rubiginosus About 6 were seen or heard at Kalakpa 29.11. Blackcap Babbler Turdoides reinwardtii stictilaema 6 at Shai Hills 28.11, 6 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Brown Babbler Turdoides plebejus platycirca 10 at Accra 27.11, 3 at Winneba plains 30.11 and 10 at Mole NP 12.12.

White-eyes Zosteropidae African Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis senegalensis 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, up to 3 at Mole NP 11-12.12 and 2 at Atewa farm bush 16-18.12.

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Hyliotas Hyliotidae Violet-backed Hyliota Hyliota violacea nehrkorni 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12 and 2 seen well at Atewa 17.12.

Starlings Sturnidae Copper-tailed Starling Hylopsar cupreocauda 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 heard at Ankasa NP 8.12, 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 1 heard at Atewa 18.12. Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus chalybaeus About 30 at Mole NP 11.12 and 20 at the White Volta 14.12. Lesser Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chloropterus At least 1 at the White Volta 14.12. Bronze-tailed Starling Lamprotornis chalcurus chalcurus 3 showed well with a mixed flock of Blue-eared Starlings at the White Volta 14.12. Splendid Starling Lamprotornis splendidus chrysonotis Common in small numbers throughout and seen on 16 days, with a peak count of 20 at Bonkro 9.12. Purple Starling Lamprotornis purpureus purpureus 4 at Accra 27.11, 1 en route 29.11 and 2 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12. Long-tailed Glossy Starling Lamprotornis caudatus 3 at Accra 27.11, 1 en route 13.12, 20 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Chestnut-bellied Starling Lamprotornis pulcher 4 en route 13.12 and 10 at the White Volta 14.12. Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster leucogaster 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, about 100 at Kakum NP 1.12, 20 at Kakum NP 3.12, 20 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 20 along the Brenu beach road 8.12 and 20 at Kakum NP 9.12. Chestnut-winged Starling Onychognathus fulgidus hartlaubii 6 at Kakum NP 1.12, 10 at Nsuta Forest 5.12 and 2 at Atewa 17.12. Narrow-tailed Starling Poeoptera lugubris Up to 6 at Nsuta Forest 3-5.12.

Oxpeckers Buphagidae Yellow-billed Oxpecker Buphagus africanus africanus 2 at the White Volta 14.12 and 3 at Tono Dam 14.12.

Thrushes and allies Turdidae White-tailed Ant Thrush (H) Neocossyphus poensis poensis Singles were heard at Kakum NP 3.12, Nsuta Forest 4.12 and Ankasa NP 7.12. Finsch’s Rufous Thrush Stizorhina finschi 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 3 at Ankasa NP 7.12, 2 at Bonkro 9.12 and 3 at Atewa 18.12. African Thrush Turdus pelios 1 at Accra 27.11, 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, 2 at Kalakpa 28.11, 1 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 2 at Mole NP 11.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12.

Chats and Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae White-tailed Alethe Alethe diademata 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 seen and 3 heard at Ankasa NP 6-8.12, 2 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 1 heard at Atewa 17.12. Forest Scrub Robin (H) Cercotrichas leucosticta leucosticta 1 was heard at Ankasa NP 7.12.

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Fraser’s Forest Flycatcher Fraseria ocreata prosphora 3 at Kakum NP 1.12, 3 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 2 at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 1 at Atewa 17.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12. Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher Myioparus griseigularis parelii 1 heard at Kakum NP 1.12 and 2 seen at Atewa 17.12. Grey Tit-Flycatcher Myioparus plumbeus plumbeus 3 at Mole NP 11.12, 1 at Mole NP 12.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12. Nimba Flycatcher (VU) Melaenornis annamarulae 2 were seen briefly at Atewa 17.12. Northern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis edolioides edolioides 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, 6 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Pale Flycatcher Melaenornis pallidus 2 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Singles were seen on six days. Swamp Flycatcher Muscicapa aquatica aquatica 2 at Mole NP 11.12. Cassin’s Flycatcher Muscicapa cassini 1 at the Pra River 2.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 7.12 and 2 at Ankasa NP 8.12. Olivaceous Flycatcher (H) Muscicapa olivascens olivascens 1 heard at Nsuta Forest 5.12 and 1 heard at Ankasa NP 8.12. Little Grey Flycatcher Muscicapa epulata 1 at Ankasa NP 7.12. Dusky-blue Flycatcher Muscicapa comitata aximensis 2 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 7.12, 2 at Kakum NP 9.12 and 2 at Bobiri FR 16.12. Tessmann’s Flycatcher (DD) Muscicapa tessmanni 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12. Ussher’s Flycatcher Muscicapa ussheri 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 4 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 2 at Atewa 17.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12. Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat (H) Cossypha cyanocampter cyanocampter 1 was heard at Kakum NP 9.12. Snowy-crowned Robin-Chat Cossypha niveicapilla niveicapilla 2 at Accra 27.11, 1 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 2 along the Brenu beach road 8.12. White-crowned Robin-Chat Cossypha albicapillus giffardi 2 at Mole NP 11.12 and 12.12. Forest Robin Stiphrornis erythrothorax 3 seen and several others heard at Kalakpa 28-29.11, 3 at Ankasa NP 6-7.12 and 2 at Atewa 18.12. European Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca 5 at Mole NP 11-12.12. Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 1 at Winneba plains 30.11, 1 at Mole NP 11.12 and 1 at the White Volta 14.12. White-crowned Cliff Chat Thamnolaea coronata coronata 2 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 2 at Tongo Hills 13.12. White-fronted Black Chat Oenanthe albifrons frontalis 1 seen at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 heard at Mole NP 12.12. Familiar Chat Oenanthe familiaris falkensteini 2 at Mole NP 13.12.

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Sunbirds and Spiderhunters Nectariniidae Fraser’s Sunbird Deleornis fraseri idius 4 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 6.12, 1 at Ankasa NP 7.12 and 4 at Atewa 17.12. Mangrove Sunbird Anthreptes gabonicus 2 at Lake Volta 28.11, 1 at Lake Volta 29.11, 2 at Winneba Lagoon 30.11, 1 at Ebi Wetland 5.12 and 1 at Ebi Wetland 8.12. Little Green Sunbird Anthreptes seimundi kruensis 2 at Kakum NP 1.12 and 1 at Kakum NP 2.12. Grey-chinned Sunbird Anthreptes rectirostris rectirostris 1 at Kakum NP 2.12 and 3.12, and 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12. Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris subcollaris Small numbers on 9 days at Kalakpa, Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ebi Wetland and Atewa. Pygmy Sunbird Hedydipna platura Up to 10 at Mole NP 11-13.12, 5 at Tongo Hills 13.12, 2 at the White Volta 14.12 and 2 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Reichenbach’s Sunbird Anabathmis reichenbachii 2 at Ebi Wetland 5.12 and 1 at Ebi Wetland 8.12. Green-headed Sunbird Cyanomitra verticalis verticalis 1 at Shai Hills 28.11 and 1-2 each day at Kakum NP 30.11-3.12 and 9.12. Blue-throated Brown Sunbird Cyanomitra cyanolaema magnirostrata Singles at Kakum NP 2-3.12, Nsuta Forest 3-4.12, Ankasa NP 7.12 and Atewa farm bush 16.12. Olive Sunbird Cyanomitra olivacea Singles or pairs seen on 10 days at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest, Ankasa NP, Bobiri FR and Atewa, with a maximum day count of 6 birds. Buff-throated Sunbird Chalcomitra adelberti adelberti 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 3 at Kakum NP 2.12, and singles at Nsuta Forest 3-4.12 and Atewa farm bush 16.12. Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis senegalensis 2 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 1 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12, up to 10 per day at Mole NP 11- 13.12, 5 at Tongo Hills 13.12 and 4 at the White Volta 14.12. Olive-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris chloropygius kempi 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 3 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 1 at Ankasa NP 8.12, 2 at Kakum NP 9.12 and 2 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Tiny Sunbird Cinnyris minullus 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12. Beautiful Sunbird Cinnyris pulchellus pulchellus 1 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Splendid Sunbird Cinnyris coccinigastrus 2 at Accra 27.11, 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, 1 at Lake Volta 29.11, 1 at Shama 4.12 and 5.12, and 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Johanna’s Sunbird Cinnyris johannae fasciatus 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, up to 2 at Nsuta Forest 3-5.12, 1 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 1 at Atewa 17.12. Superb Sunbird Cinnyris superbus ashantiensis Up to 2 at Kakum NP 30.11-3.12, 2 at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 1 at Opuro Forest 10.12 and 2 at Atewa farm bush 16.12.

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Copper Sunbird Cinnyris cupreus cupreus 1 at Kalakpa 29.11, 2 at Winneba plains 30.11, 6 along the Brenu beach road 8.12 and 2 at Kakum NP 9.12.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae House Sparrow Passer domesticus Singles or pairs were seen on four days in the south. Thisincluding species Cape is a Coastrecent and arrival Abrafo. in Ghana. Northern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer griseus Common throughout and seen most days, with peak day counts of 20 birds. Bush Petronia Gymnoris dentata Commonly encountered in the north and seen on 5 days. Peak day count was 100 birds at Mole NP.

Weavers and Widowbirds Ploceidae White-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis albirostris 3 at a nesting colony near the White Volta 14.12. Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser superciliosus Up to 4 per day at Mole NP 11-13.12. Speckle-fronted Weaver Sporopipes frontalis frontalis 4 at Tono Dam 14.12. Thick-billed Weaver Amblyospiza albifrons capitalba 1 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Slender-billed Weaver Ploceus pelzelni monacha 10 at a colony in Mankessim 30.11. Little Weaver Ploceus luteolus luteolus 6 at Mole NP 11.12, 1 at Mole NP 12.12 and 2 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Black-necked Weaver Ploceus nigricollis brachypterus Singles or pairs were seen on 8 days, at Accra, Shai Hills, Kakum NP, Mole NP and Atewa. Orange Weaver Ploceus aurantius aurantius 6 were seen at a roadside stop en route to Ankasa NP 5.12. Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus cucullatus Common throughout and seen most days. Vieillot’s Black Weaver Ploceus nigerrimus castaneofuscus Mostly seen in small numbers on 9 days, but a large breeding colony at Kakum NP was notable. Black-headed Weaver Ploceus melanocephalus 2 at Nasia Pond 13.12 and 1 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Yellow-mantled Weaver Ploceus tricolor tricolor Singles each day at Kakum NP 1-3.12, 6 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, and 2 at Atewa 17-18.12. Maxwell’s Black Weaver Ploceus albinucha albinucha 1 at Kakum NP 1.12, 4 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12 and 10 at Atewa 17.12. Red-vented Malimbe Malimbus scutatus scutatus 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 2 at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 1 at Ankasa NP 8.12. Blue-billed Malimbe Malimbus nitens Singles at Kalakpa 29.11, Kakum NP 30.11-3.12, 4 at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 1 at Ankasa NP 7.12. Red-headed Malimbe Malimbus rubricollis bartletti 2 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 2 at Bobiri FR 16.12 and 2 at Atewa 17.12. Crested Malimbe Malimbus malimbicus nigrifrons 2 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 2 at Ankasa NP 7.12, and singles at Atewa 17.12 and 18.12.

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Red-headed Weaver Anaplectes rubriceps leuconotos 1 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea quelea Good numbers in the north: 100 at Nasia Pond 13.12, 20 at the White Volta 14.12 and 100 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Yellow-crowned Bishop Euplectes afer afer 1 bird in non-breeding plumage at Nasia Pond 13.12. Black-winged Red Bishop Euplectes hordeaceus hordeaceus 1 at Kakum NP 2.12, 4 at Kakum NP 3.12, 2 along the Brenu beach road 8.12 and 2 at Kakum NP 9.12. Northern Red Bishop Euplectes franciscanus franciscanus 3 at Nasia Pond 13.12 and 10 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Yellow-mantled Widowbird Euplectes macroura macroura 1 in full breeding plumage at Kalakpa 29.11.

Waxbills, Munias and allies Estrildidae Red-fronted Antpecker (NT) Parmoptila rubrifrons 1 heard at Ankasa NP 6.12 and 1 seen briefly at Atewa 17.12. White-breasted Nigrita Nigrita fusconotus uropygialis 1 at Kakum NP 1.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12, 2 at Atewa farm bush 16.12, 1 at Atewa 17.12 and 2 at Atewa 18.12. Chestnut-breasted Nigrita Nigrita bicolor bicolor 2 at Kakum NP 2.12, up to 4 at Ankasa NP 6-7.12, up to 2 each day at Atewa 16-18.12. Grey-headed Nigrita Nigrita canicapillus emiliae Up to 6 birds per day on 9 days, at Kakum NP, Nsuta Forest and Atewa. Red-winged Pytilia Pytilia phoenicoptera phoenicoptera 4 at Mole NP 12.12. Black-bellied Seedcracker Pyrenestes ostrinus 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12 and 1 at Kakum NP 9.12. Western Bluebill Spermophaga haematina haematina 2 heard at Ankasa NP 7.12, 2 seen at Kakum NP 9.12 and 1 seen at Opuro Forest 10.12. Bar-breasted Firefinch Lagonosticta rufopicta rufopicta 6 at Accra 27.11, 8 at Accra 30.11, 1 at Kakum NP 3.12, 2 along the Brenu beach road 8.12, 1 at Mole NP 12.12 and 6 at Nasia Pond 13.12. Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala senegala Up to 10 birds seen daily in the north, at Mole NP, Tongo Hills, White Volta and Nasia Pond. African Firefinch Lagonosticta rubricata polionota 2 at Accra 27.11. Black-faced Firefinch Lagonosticta larvata nigricollis 1 at Mole NP 12.12 and 1 at Tongo Hills 13.12. Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Uraeginthus bengalus bengalus Seen daily in the north, mainly at Mole NP, Tongo Hills, White Volta, Tono Dam and Nasia Pond. The peak day count was 20 birds. Lavender Waxbill Estrilda caerulescens 2 at Mole NP 11.12. Orange-cheeked Waxbill Estrilda melpoda 2 at Accra 27.11, 1 at Kakum NP 2.12, 2 at Kakum NP 3.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12.

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Black-rumped Waxbill Estrilda troglodytes 10 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12, 10 at Nasia Pond 13.12, 20 at Tongo Hills 13.12 and 4 at Nasia Pond 15.12. Quailfinch Ortygospiza atricollis ansorgei 1 at Nasia Pond 13.12, about 20 beside a lake near the White Volta 14.12 and 2 at Tono Dam 14.12. African Silverbill Euodice cantans cantans 1 at Nasia Pond 13.12 and about 10 near the White Volta 14.12. Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata cucullata Common throughout and seen almost every day, usually in small flocks of up to 20 birds. Black-and-white Mannikin Lonchura bicolor bicolor 10 near Kakum NP 30.11 and 9.12, and 15 at Atewa farm bush 16.12. Magpie Mannikin Lonchura fringilloides 3 near Kakum NP 30.11 and 10 at Bobiri FR 16.12.

Indigobirds Viduidae Village Indigobird Vidua chalybeata 2 at Tongo Hills 13.12 and 1 between Bolgatanga and Kumasi 15.12. Wilson’s Indigobird Vidua wilsoni 2 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 6 at Mole NP 11.12, about 40 at Mole NP 12.12 and about 20 at Tongo Hills 13.12. Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura 1 near Kakum NP 1.12, 10 at Mole NP 11.12 and 1 at Tono Dam 14.12. Exclamatory Paradise Whydah Vidua interjecta 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Togo Paradise Whydah Vidua togoensis 1 at Mole NP 11.12.

Wagtails and Pipits Motacillidae Western Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava 10 at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11, 2 at Mole NP 11.12 and 1 at the White Volta 14.12. African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp vidua 2 at Lake Volta 28.11, 2 at Cape Coast 3.12, 1 en route 9.12, 2 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12 and 1 at Atewa 18.12. Yellow-throated Longclaw Macronyx croceus croceus 1 was seen by Jan at Sakumono Lagoon 29.11. Plain-backed Pipit Anthus leucophrys zenkeri 4 at Shai Hills 28.11, 2 at Nsuta Forest 3.12, 1 at Mole NP 11.12, 1 at Atewa farm bush 16.12 and 2 at Atewa 18.12. Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis trivialis 1 at Mole NP 11.12. Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus 1 at Mole NP 11.12.

Finches Fringillidae Yellow-fronted Canary Crithagra mozambica caniceps Up to 20 per day at Mole NP 11-13.12, 10 at Nasia Pond 13.12 and 2 at Nasia Pond 15.12.

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Buntings, New World Sparrows and allies Emberizidae Gosling’s Bunting Emberiza goslingi 10 at Tongo Hills 13.12 and 2 at the White Volta 14.12. Brown-rumped Bunting Emberiza affinis nigeriae 1 at Mole NP 12.12.

Annotated List of Mammals Recorded (30 in total: 28 seen, 2 heard)

Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced, H = Heard only IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient Abbreviations: NP = National Park, FR = Forest Reserve

Elephants Elephantidae African Elephant Loxodonta africana 1 at Mole NP 11.12 and 6 at Mole NP 12.12.

Hyraxes Procaviidae Western Tree Hyrax (H) Dendrohyrax dorsalis Heard at night at Kakum NP, Ankasa NP and Bonkro. Rock Hyrax Procavia capensis 3 at Tongo Hills 13.12.

Galagos Galagidae Northern Lesser Galago Galago senegalensis 2 at Mole NP 11.12. Demidoff’s Dwarf Galago (H) Galagoides demidovii Heard at night at Kakum NP and Nsuta Forest.

Old World monkeys Cercopithecidae Mona Monkey Cercopithecus mona 10 at Kakum NP 1.12 and 2 at Ankasa NP 6.12. Lesser Spot-nosed Monkey Cercopithecus petaurista petaurista 2 at Kakum NP 1.12. Green Monkey Chlorocebus sabaeus 2 at Shai Hills 28.11, 4 at Mole NP 11.12 and 10 at Mole NP 12.12. White-thighed Colobus Colobus vellerosus 2 from the canopy walkway at Kakum NP 1.12. Patas Monkey Erythrocebus patas 10 at Mole NP 11.12 and 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Olive Baboon Papio anubis 50 at Shai Hills 28.11, 20 at Shai Hills 29.11 and up to 6 each day at Mole NP 10-12.12.

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Rabbits and Hares Leporidae African Savanna Hare Lepus microtis Singles at Mole NP 11.12 and 12.12.

True Mice and Rats, Gerbils, Spiny Mice etc. Muridae Typical Lemniscomys (Striped Grass Mouse) Lemniscomys striatus 1 at Nsuta Forest 5.12.

Squirrels Sciuridae Fire-footed Rope Squirrel Funisciurus pyrropus 1 at Atewa 17.12. Kintampo Rope Squirrel Funisciurus substriatus 2 at Mole NP 12.12. Gambian Sun Squirrel Heliosciurus gambianus 1 at Kakum NP 1.12. Red-legged Sun Squirrel Heliosciurus rufobrachium 2 at Ankasa NP 7.12. African Giant Squirrel Protoxerus stangeri 1 at Nsuta Forest 4.12. Striped Ground Squirrel Xerus erythropus 1 at Atewa farm bush 16.12.

Mongooses Herpestidae Marsh Mongoose Atilax paludinosus 1 at Mole NP 12.12. Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguineus 1 between Kumasi and Mole NP 10.12. Gambian Mongoose Mungos gambianus 4 at Nsuta Forest 4.12.

Pigs Suidae Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus africanus Up to 10 per day at Mole NP 11-13.12.

Cattle, Antelopes, Sheep and Goats Bovidae Red-flanked Duiker Cephalophus rufilatus 1 at Mole NP 11.12. Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus defassa Up to 3 per day at Mole NP 10-12.12. Kob Kobus kob kob 8 at Shai Hills 28.11 and up to 40 per day at Mole NP 10-13.12. Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus Up to 6 per day at Mole NP 11-13.12.

Old World Fruit Bats Pteropodidae African Straw-coloured Fruit-bat Eidolon helvum Hundreds at roost in bare trees near Bunso 15-18.12. Hammer-headed Fruit Bat Hypsignathus monstrosus 1 at Kalakpa 28.11, 1 at Kakum NP 30.11, 2 at Kakum NP 1.12 and 2 at Ankasa NP 7.12.

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Peters’s Dwarf Epauletted Fruit Bat Micropteropus pusillus About 10 at roost in a tree at Tamale 13.12.

A final drink at the airport by Roy Zimmerman

One of the top shop names of the trip by Roy Zimmerman ______

Rockjumper Birding Ltd The Hive, Lot 23 Tel: (USA & Canada) toll-free: 1-888-990-5552 Centre Commercial du Barachois Email: [email protected] La Place Cap, Tamarin Alternative email: [email protected] Mauritius Website: www.rockjumperbirding.com

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