Ethiopian Endemics V 30th November to 18th December 2014 & Lalibela Historical Extension th th 26 November to 29 November 2014

Trip report

Yellow-breasted Barbet by Wayne Jones

Trip report compiled by tour leader Wayne Jones

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Our Ethiopian escapade began in the capital of Addis Ababa, a sprawling city of 3,5 million inhabitants set at an altitude of 2,355m. The first day was an arrival day and after everyone’s arrival we conducted various walks around the gardens of our hotel. We saw high elevation species such as the endemic Abyssinian Slaty Flycatcher, Abyssinian Woodpecker and Brown- rumped Seedeater, along with Dusky Turtle Dove, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Abyssinian Thrush, Montane White-eye, plenty of Tacazze Sunbirds, Streaky Seedeater and a flock of Slender-billed Starlings excitedly feasting on a flowering tree. The skies overhead were a constant stream of raptors, mostly the ubiquitous Yellow- billed Kite and Hooded Vulture.

The next morning we set off on a short flight north to Lalibela for the historical extension. The drive from the airport took us from Acacia-flecked lowlands where we saw White-fronted Black Chat, Yellow-rumped Seedeater, Vinaceous Dove, Speckle-fronted Weaver and Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu, to the mountains of Lalibela town itself, where we saw the first of many Bearded Vultures.

Over the next two days we explored the impressive network of Blue-breasted Bee-eater by Wayne Jones rock-hewn churches in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, culminating in the cross-shaped prism of Bet Giyorgis (Church of St George). Birding was never off the agenda, of course, and we spied White-billed Starling, Tawny Eagle, Mocking Cliff Chat and White-collared Pigeon as we ducked in and out of each holy place. Lunch on one of the days was spent at Ben Abeba, worthy of mention as much for its, um, unusual extra-terrestrial design influence as for the views of Bearded Vultures, Tawny Eagles and Fan-tailed Ravens sailing past almost at eye level! A visit to the mountain-top temple of Asheton Maryam afforded us not only a sensational vista over the countryside but also scintillating views of the endemic Ankober Serin, Little Rock Thrush, Rüppell’s Black Chat and a Lanner Falcon that was troubling a Bearded Vulture.

The small grounds of our hotel were equally productive, with Brown Woodland Warbler, Black-winged Lovebird, Hemprich’s Hornbill, Eurasian Hoopoe, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Common Redstart, Red-winged Starling, Greater Blue-eared Starling, Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Village Weaver and Red-fronted Tinkerbird all being seen with ease.

With our short time in Ethiopia’s holiest town up, we headed back to the airport, finding Abyssinian Roller, Hamerkop and Yellow-breasted Barbet along the way. Back in Addis we visited the National Museum – home to the famous Australopithecus remains of Lucy – only to find that it was closed due to some filming taking place. We headed back to our hotel, did a spot of birding in the garden and prepared for the main tour, which

Priest at Lalibela by Wayne Jones kicked off the next day.

As each set of guests arrived the following day we conducted walks around the hotel gardens, picking up similar species to before as well as Red-billed Firefinch, African Paradise Flycatcher, Montane White-eye and Wattled Ibis.

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After this relaxed introduction to the region’s birdlife, our tour began in earnest early the next morning at Lake Chelekcheka. This shallow pan flanked by scores of small crop fields held a wealth of species. Upon disembarking the bus we found Wattled, African Sacred and Hadeda Ibis poking about in a pile of fertiliser. Hundreds of Common Cranes set off in cacophonous glory to forage in surrounding agricultural lands while even more Marabou Storks could be seen covering the far shore. Waterfowl out in the depths included Red-billed Teal, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail and White-faced Whistling Duck, while waders such as Little Stint, Common Sandpiper, Red-throated Pipit, Wood Sandpiper and Black-winged Stilt stuck closer to the shoreline. The scrub lining the tomato fields also gave us sightings of Ethiopian Cisticola, African Citril and, eventually, sensational views of a pair of exquisite Quailfinch. Quailfinch by Wayne Jones

Due to construction work our breakfast stop at Lake Bishoftu was less productive than usual, although we did see the endemic Black-winged Lovebird, Speckled Mousebird, Western Marsh Harrier and Grey-backed Camaroptera. At Koka Dam we didn’t even need to climb out the bus before finding our target bird, the blushing Black Crowned Crane. Hamerkop, African Fish Eagle, Western Yellow Wagtail, Grey-backed Fiscal, Saddle-billed Stork, Great Egret and White-winged Tern all featured as supporting acts. A bit further on, yells from the back of the bus brought us to a screeching halt, which successfully attracted the attention of the local children – not that much escapes their attention anyway. We hopped out and admired a group of four stately Abyssinian Hornbills. One posed obligingly atop a termite mound as Eastern Grey Woodpecker and a Grey Kestrel also vied for some binocular time.

Later on the shoreline and surrounds of Lake Ziway yielded an incredible number of great birds including Hottentot Teal, Marsh Sandpiper, Double-toothed Barbet, Little Ringed Plover, Woodland and Malachite Kingfishers, Glossy Ibis, Northern Carmine Bee-eater, Knob-billed Duck, Common Snipe, Black Crake, Black-headed Gull, Fulvous Duck and a feeding frenzy of Great White Pelicans and Marabou Storks. The day was getting on so we decided to continue to Awassa without stops, but broke this commitment when we came upon a large grouping of vultures – Rüppell’s, White-backed and Hooded – attending a strong-smelling carcass close to the road.

The following day began with a stroll to nearby Lake Awassa that finished off in the hotel grounds. Highlights included African Pygmy Goose, Blue-headed Coucal, a very friendly White-browed Robin-Chat, Red-faced Cisticola, Lesser Swamp Warbler, more Black-winged Lovebirds, Malachite and Pied Kingfishers, White-breasted Cormorant, African Thrush, Little Weaver, Black-billed Barbet, Eastern Grey Woodpecker, Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Black- billed Wood Hoopoe and the “cryptic bark- Guereza Colobuses by Wayne Jones poking bird” triumvirate: Red-throated Wryneck, Eurasian Wryneck and African Spotted Creeper within minutes of each other. Plus we had close encounters – thankfully only of the first kind – with an Olive Baboon, Grivet Monkeys and velvet-faced Guereza Colobuses before hitting the road. A quick detour in Shashemene allowed good views of one of Ethiopia’s most impressive endemics, the hulking Thick-billed Raven.

The steady decrease in the bus’s speed told us we were gaining altitude again as we headed towards Dodola. Flat maize fields dotted with huge fig trees gave way to a hilly beige patchwork of wheatfields and ever-

RBT Ethiopian Endemics V Trip Report 2014 4 diminishing grassland. A stop at one of these remaining grassy tracts produced Abyssinian Longclaw, the “if-it-stands-any-more-upright-it’ll-topple-over-backwards” Moorland Chat, White-necked Pigeon, Green Sandpiper, White Wagtail, White-collared Pigeon and distant views of Blue-winged Goose.

Everyone was introduced to the concept of the miraculously hidden Ethiopian restaurant/hotel in Dodola (always tucked away in plain view!) where we had a delicious meal of traditional njera and tibs along with spaghetti and sauce, the latter a legacy of Italy’s occupation of Ethiopia during the twentieth century. After lunch we climbed higher still, so high that we encountered a flock of around 25 Red-billed Choughs, a species only encountered at alpine altitudes. A little further on, and with the eager assistance of knowledgeable – and protective – locals, we saw Cape Eagle-Owl from quite close. A small ephemeral waterbody down the hill yielded improved sightings of Blue- winged Goose and Common Snipe.

Soon we had entered the Bale Mountains National Park, through which the main road passes. Common Warthog, endemic Mountain Nyala, Bohor Reedbuck and Rouget’s Rail all showed nicely. At the park headquarters in Dinsho we enlisted some local expertise to find the big prize: Abyssinian Owl. Just in time too! It started to shower just as the last camera battery ran out so we bundled into the bus and drove to Goba, our base for the next Cape Eagle-Owl by Wayne Jones three nights.

The following day was devoted to exploring the Sanetti Plateau and the expansive Harenna Forest on the far side. While climbing up to the highest all-weather road in Africa we made a stop at the Juniper Forest on the plateau’s lower slopes. Although unusually quiet bird-wise, we did have sumptuous views of an Abyssinian Ground Thrush, fleeting glimpses of Brown Woodland Warbler and, eventually, good scope views of the endemic White-backed Black Tit. A little higher still and we started encountering Chestnut-naped Francolin, Rouget’s Rail, Thekla Lark, Ethiopian Siskin, both dark and light morph Augur Buzzards, Groundscraper Thrush and, very excitingly, a Caracal lying on a roadside boulder. The weather on top of the 4,000m high plateau was initially very misty, yet still allowed for excellent sightings of Ethiopian Wolf, Steppe Eagle, Abyssinian Longclaw, Wattled Crane, Starck’s Hare, Spot- breasted Lapwing, Ruddy Shelduck, Green Sandpiper and Giant Root-rat. Our journey down into Harenna Forest came to a standstill when we got stuck attempting a series of ever- worsening muddy troughs in the road. After some hair-raising moments, blocking the traffic for the better part of an hour and getting our hands well and truly dirty we managed to tow the bus out. Not wanting to risk a similar event we returned to the plateau and squeezed in a visit to a wetland near the town of Robe. The Dark and pale morph Augur Buzzards by Wayne Jones disappointment of missing out on Harenna Forest (for today, at least) was happily countered by the presence of Yellow-crowned Canary, Red-breasted Wheatear, Eurasian Wigeon, Garganey, Common Waxbill, Whinchat, Somali Crow and Yellow Bishop.

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The next morning we ambled groggily toward the bus for one of the earliest starts of the tour. The reason: a 100km drive along a dirt road to the Sof Omar valley, renowned as the best spot for Ethiopia’s prettiest endemic canary, Salvadori’s Seedeater. Our luck was in – we eventually found the canary, in addition to a “candyshop” full of other species such as Narina Trogon, Lesser Honeyguide, Grey- headed Bushshrike, Pearl-spotted Owlet, Red- fronted Tinkerbird, Brown-tailed Rock-Chat, Verreaux's Eagle, Mountain and Grey Wagtails, Northern Brownbul, Superb and Bristle-crowned Starlings, Acacia Tit, Red- bellied Parrot, Northern Red-billed, White- bellied Go-away-bird, Von der Decken's and Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbills, Emerald- spotted Wood Dove, Collared and Shining Sunbirds, Red-headed Weaver, Grey-headed Batis, Northern Crombec and Nyanza Swift. We didn’t do too badly on the mammal-front either, with Vervet Monkey, Sacred Baboon, Yellow-spotted Bush Hyrax, the area’s unique rufous-coloured Ethiopian Rock Hyrax, and a Mountain Nyala by Wayne Jones trail of tantalisingly fresh Leopard prints. A little later some of us ventured down into the cavernous Sof Omar caves, Ethiopia's largest cave system, where we got close views of Horseshoe Bats. After lunch we left the valley and started the long drive back towards Robe. Once finally back on the tarred road we swung right and returned to the Bale Mountain Headquarters at Dinsho, where our local contact had located an African Wood Owl. We had great views of the owl and a Mountain Nyala bull and terrible views of Abyssinian Catbird before calling it a day and heading to Goba for a well-deserved rest.

On the sixth day of tour we went back up over the Sanetti Plateau and this time went all the way down the other side! We passed through Harenna Forest, seeing Black Saw-wing, White-cheeked Turaco, Tambourine and Blue-spotted Wood Doves and a handful of other birds, most notably our best sighting of Abyssinian Catbird. We pushed on to our lunch stop in a quiet corner of Acacia woodland, which we christened “thorny fly-infested lunch spot”. This moniker makes the place sound a lot worse than it was, especially since the birding was sensational. The biggest surprise, and contender for sighting of the day, was a pair of Orange- winged Pytilias which allowed lengthy, unobscured views. But there were also Abyssinian Scimitarbill, Brubru, Purple Grenadier, Spotted Palm Thrush, Striped Kingfisher, Grey- headed Batis, Northern Black Flycatcher, Marico Sunbird, Crimson-rumped Waxbill, Tree Pipit, Reichenow’s Seedeater, Yellow-breasted Apalis, Slate-coloured Boubou, Grey Wren- Warbler and a Striped Ground Squirrel.

Continuing after lunch, our bus experienced an impeccably timed puncture in the Genale River region. We lurched to a halt less than a hundred metres from where we were due to stop anyway to search for the fabled Ruspoli's Turaco. The boys from the village who had been running behind the bus quickly caught up with us and in no time the hunt was on. These well- practised young men fanned out into the surrounding bush signalling to their leader, who quickly relayed the message to us, whenever a turaco was spotted. We were led through woodland and over ploughed fields chasing brilliant scarlet wings that always seemed to be gliding away from us! Eventually a couple of birds settled down in a tree allowing all of us protracted views. Within minutes of us returning to the bus the wounded tyre had been replaced and we were once Ruspoli’s Turaco by Markus Lilje

RBT Ethiopian Endemics V Trip Report 2014 6 again on the move – it could hardly have been planned better! We eventually arrived in the army town of Negele towards evening, a long but rewarding day behind us.

Our relatively early start the following morning was justified as the severe quality of the road meant we reached the nearby Liben Plain shortly after sunrise. We immediately set about searching for Sidamo Lark, a critically endangered species and the area's most famous resident. After flushing Somali Short-toed Lark, Pectoral-patch Cisticola and Plain-backed Pipit, and a fruitless search for vocal but shy Coqui Francolins, we decided to walk back to the bus where breakfast awaited us. At the eleventh hour we discovered a Sidamo Lark and admired its scalloped back and boxy head before continuing on to breakfast, a spring now in our collective step. We also spotted Amur Falcon, Montagu’s Harrier, Ethiopian Swallow, Common Kestrel, Yellow-necked Spurfowl, White-crowned Starling, Speke's Weaver and, in the crop field opposite the plain, we counted 11 Kori Bustards!

Heading east in the direction of Bogol Manyo and the Somali border the Acacia woodland became noticeably drier, denser and shorter. Stops along the way yielded such dry country species as Rosy-patched Bushshrike, Pringle's Puffback, Golden-breasted Starling, Pygmy Batis, Pale Prinia, African Grey Flycacther,

Dodson’s Bulbul, Straw-tailed Whydah, Pygmy Batis by Wayne Jones Somali Bunting and Black-throated Barbet; our roadside lunch spot gave us Three-streaked Tchagra, Cardinal Woodpecker and sought-after Scaly Chatterer. On our way back to Negele that afternoon we scored some extra treats in the form of Boran Cisticola, Grey- capped Social Weaver, White-browed Coucal and Eurasian Golden Oriole.

The next day was another early start, but our long drive took us through some of the wildest and most beautiful untouched countryside in Ethiopia. En route to our first official stop at the Dawa River (and the location of that morning's field breakfast) we saw Hunter's Sunbird, D'Arnaud's Barbet, Klaas’s Cuckoo, Eastern Chanting Goshawk, Purple Roller, Long-tailed Paradise Whydah, Wattled Starling, Chestnut Weaver, Golden-breasted Starling, Northern White-crowned Shrike and the subtly pretty White-winged Collared Dove.

At the Dawa River itself the morning temperature was already soaring. Our riverside search for Juba Weaver met with no success, however we did find Black-faced Sandgrouse, Violet-backed Sunbird, Nubian Woodpecker, Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit, Somali Crombec, Yellow-bellied Eremomela and Black-bellied Sunbird. More birds including Bateleur, Vulturine Guineafowl, Eurasian Hoopoe, Red-tailed Shrike, Rufous Chatterer, Magpie Starling, Bare-eyed Thrush, Black- Golden-breasted Starling by Wayne Jones capped Social Weaver and Shelley’s Sparrow were seen as we traversed the long dirt road south. Just after Soda, we found our first Stresemann’s Bush Crows, and then White-tailed Swallow, two of the major specials limited to the very small area around Yabello. Somali Fiscal, Short-tailed Lark, Grant’s Gazelle and the bizarrely proportioned Gerenuk all showed nicely before we hit the area’s sublime new tar road and purred along to our hotel in Yabello.

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The next day in and around Yabello was (relatively) laidback – we went for a pre-breakfast outing, a post-breakfast outing, had lunch and time off in the afternoon before embarking on an afternoon-cum-night-drive. The overgrazed Acacia and Commiphora woodlands hosted a good variety of species: White-bellied Canary, Red-fronted Barbet, Cinnamon-breasted Bunting, Foxy Lark, Pygmy Falcon, Common Rock Thrush, Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu, White-browed Scrub Robin, Red- billed and striking White-headed Buffalo Weavers, Lesser Striped Swallow, Shelley’s Starling, Red-faced Crombec, Black- headed Oriole and Crested Francolin. A gathering of vultures alerted us to the presence of four dead donkeys alongside the road, evidently the victims of a collision. White-backed, Rüppell’s, White-headed, Lappet-faced and Hooded Vultures were all in attendance, along with several Tawny Eagles. That evening shaken members of a fellow birding tour group also related how their 4x4 had struck a cow that had suddenly wandered in front of them. Both sober reminders of the hazards of road travel in this country!

Our night drive was moderately successful; after a long search we managed to locate a calling African Scops Owl as well as Common Genet, Senegal Galago, Lesser Kudu, Günther’s Dik- Tawny Eagle by Wayne Jones dik, Scrub Hare and Common Duiker.

Day 10 was essentially a travel day, getting from Yabello in the far south to Bishangari in the Lakes region of the Rift Valley further north. Almost endless road construction meant the going was very slow, but at least this bodes well for the future. Consequently not much birding took place although we did see Woolly-necked Stork, Bare-faced Go-away-bird, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Greater Honeyguide, Thick-billed Raven, Abyssinian White-eye, Isabelline Wheatear, Scarlet-chested and Beautiful Sunbirds, Vitelline Masked Weaver and Red-collared Widowbird as we went.

Following our long and tiring journey we took it easy for our full day at Bishangari. We almost didn’t make it to the breakfast table, though, as endemic Yellow-fronted Parrots, Banded Barbets and Ethiopian Boubous diverted our attention. After we’d finally managed to sit down and eat we set off to have a look around the forest edge and shoreline of Lake Langano. The former yielded African Pygmy Kingfisher, Black Scimitarbill, Hemprich’s Hornbill, Black- billed Barbet, Brown-backed Honeybird, Namaqua Dove, Western Black-headed Batis, Black-winged Lovebird, Buff-bellied Warbler, Tawny-flanked Prinia, Eurasian Blackcap, Montane White-eye, Common Redstart, Olive Sunbird, Little Weaver and Yellow-fronted Parrot by Wayne Jones Gambian Sun Squirrel. The latter gave us Common Snipe, Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper, Pink-backed Pelican, Little Egret, African Spoonbill, Squacco Heron, Spur-winged Goose, Senegal Thick-knee, Black-tailed Godwit, Ruff, Gull-billed Tern, Malachite and Pied Kingfishers and Sand Martin. The afternoon was set aside for Lake Abijata, the shallower of a pair of nearby lakes, where Greater and Lesser Flamingoes, Pied Avocet, Northern Shoveler, African Fish Eagle, Western Marsh Harrier, Kentish, Three-banded and Little Ringed Plovers were among

RBT Ethiopian Endemics V Trip Report 2014 8 tens of thousands of birds present. That night a brief nightwalk on the open plain at Bishangari had us marvelling at the gazillions of gnats whirling around above us and wondering why there was not a single nightjar taking advantage of this feast!

In the cool of the next morning we headed into the forest proper at Bishangari. Although lot of time was spent hunting for some vocal but uncooperative Green Twinspots, we did have terrific views of White-cheeked Turaco, Ethiopian Oriole, Silvery- cheeked Hornbill, African Dusky Flycatcher, Bush Petronia, Violet-backed Starling, African Hill Babbler, Grey Cuckooshrike, Rüppell’s Robin-Chat, Orange-breasted Bushshrike, Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike, Double-toothed Barbet, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Lemon Dove, Black Sparrowhawk, Abyssinian Ground Thrush and a superb sighting of a male Narina Trogon.

Leaving the civilised tranquillity of Bishangari behind we drove to Lake Shalla, Abijata’s deeper, volcanic twin. Birds were not as plentiful as expected, but we did get a chance to test whether the stream flowing into the lake was as hot as the clouds of steam billowing off it suggested! Next we visited a few targeted sites along the western shore of Lake Langano where local youngsters helped us locate three day-roosting nocturnal species – Slender-tailed Nightjar, Greyish Eagle-Owl and the sought-

Black-winged Lovebird by Wayne Jones after Northern White-faced Owl – before we continued north to our overnight stop at Nazret.

From Nazret we drove up and out of the Rift Valley. The lava flow fields at Fantale Crater and Lake Beseka failed to yield the special of the area, Sombre Rock Chat, but we did find Red-fronted Warbler, Blackstart, Rüppell’s Weaver and Striolated Bunting. We arrived at Bilen after lunch in Awash Sabat. In this dusty semi-desert landscape, dotted with Acacias and mesquites surrounding a massive reeded oasis, we found Barred Warbler, Purple Heron, Nile Valley Sunbird, Abyssyinian Roller, Yellow-breasted Barbet, Woodchat Shrike, Chestnut-headed Sparrow-Lark, Somali Bulbul, Lesser Masked Weaver and Northern Red Bishop. Numerous Lion paw-prints around the camp added an extra sense of adventure to our stay, but sadly that was the most we saw of these big cats.

Before heading out to Alleghedi Plain the next morning we made another attempt at Black Scrub Robin, which we’d unsatisfactorily glimpsed the day before. Our luck was in as no sooner had we stopped the bus than a splendid Black Scrub Robin was spotted sitting uncharacteristically still on top of a mesquite bush. Further on we walked along the edge of Alleghedi Plain, picking up Steppe Grey Shrike, Tawny Pipit and African Collared Dove before driving on to the wondrous expanse of the plain itself. Here we had great views of Arabian Bustard, Secretarybird, White Stork, Black-headed Lapwing, Somali Ostrich, Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark, Beisa Oryx, Soemerring’s Gazelle, Bat-eared Fox and Common Jackal. With time marching on we left Arabian Bustard by Wayne Jones Alleghedi behind and arrived in Awash National Park a couple of hours later. We spent two nights in Awash and found Gillett’s, Red-winged and Singing Bush Lark, Dark Chanting Goshawk, Hartlaub’s, White-bellied and Buff-crested Bustards, Blue-naped Mousebird, African Grey Hornbill, Lanner Falcon, Chestnut-bellied

RBT Ethiopian Endemics V Trip Report 2014 9 and Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse, Bruce’s Green Pigeon, Lesser Whitethroat, Pygmy Falcon, Desert Cisticola, Eastern Plantain-eater, Striated Heron, Yellow-spotted Petronia, Shining Sunbird, African Palm Swift, Ashy Cisticola, Cut-throat Finch, African Silverbill and a pair of White-backed Night Herons, a very scarce bird in Ethiopia. Our night drives in the park were also a success: Star-spotted Nightjar, Common Quail, Greyish Eagle-Owl and Double-banded Courser were all seen well.

We left after two days in Awash National Park and made another attempt for Sombre Rock Chat at Lake Beseka. This time we were successful and also netted ourselves Western Reef Heron and Egyptian Vulture. We traversed the new, wonderfully empty toll road to Addis Ababa and shot out the other side en route to Weliso. We found another endemic target in the form of Erlanger’s Lark in pastoral land as we went along.

The next morning we paid a visit to Gibe Gorge, working our way from the top down to the Gibe River that flows along the bottom, alongside which we had a field breakfast. The woodland at the upper reaches was surprisingly quiet, although we did see Star-spotted Nightjar by Wayne Jones Vinaceous Dove, Yellow-fronted Canary, Northern Puffback, Bush Petronia and Mocking Cliff Chat.

Down at the river we found one of the main targets of the area, Abyssinian Waxbill, as well as Black Crowned Crane, Wire-tailed Swallow, golden-looking Croaking Cisticolas, Wahlberg’s Eagle, Abyssinian Roller, Bronze Mannikin, Masked Shrike, Village Indigobird, Red-billed Firefinch, Yellow-rumped Seedeater and a pod of Hippopotamus.

Back in Addis we switched to three 4x4 vehicles – necessary for the routes over the next two days – and arrived in Debre Birhan, the final port of call for the tour and our home for the next two nights.

On the penultimate day of tour we drove for an hour, up, up to the top of the Ankober Escarpment. We were in search of the small, undistinguished-looking but highly localised endemic Ankober Serin. Luckily it was the very first bird we saw upon arriving at the site! Ten or so birds gave us excellent views before flying off never to be seen again. With the pressure off, we took time to soak in the breathtaking view and watch Geladas scampering about vertical cliff faces without hesitation.

We enjoyed a sit-down breakfast back in Debre Birhan before descending more than 1,500m to the Melka Ghebdu track, the Ankober Escarpment towering over us. Our Yellow-throated Seedeater by Wayne Jones main focus here was another endemic canary, the even more localised Yellow-throated Seedeater. We couldn’t believe our good fortune when we found this tricky species also within minutes of arriving. Other species seen well included Black Stork, Martial Eagle, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Little Rock Thrush, Abyssinian Wheatear, Crimson-rumped Waxbill and Bearded Vulture and White-collared Pigeon on our way back up to the plateau.

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We set out early the next morning for our final Ethiopian adventure in Ghibe Gorge. Our pre-dawn start was necessary to be in position to look for the area’s two special gamebirds, Harwood’s and Erckel’s Francolins. A rag-tag team of locals soon appeared to assist us with the task. We spotted Erckel’s, the easier of the two, and got reasonable scope views. After much searching the local scouts said they’d located Harwood’s. We followed them up and down the mountain and finally had good views of a pair of birds on the slopes quite close to us. With the francolins in the bag we checked out the rest of the birdlife around us, including Rüppell’s Black Chat, a Pied Wheatear of the white-throated vittata race, White-billed Starling, Long-billed Pipit, Singing Cisticola, Cinnamon- breasted Bunting, Common Swift, Eurasian Crag Martin and White-winged and Mocking Cliff Chats. Venturing down into the valley the temperature rose sharply and the birdlife thinned out although we still saw Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-Weaver, Speckle-fronted Weaver, Pin-tailed Whydah, Grey-hooded and Half-collared Kingfishers.

After lunch it was time to head back to the capital. Those whose flights were later that evening or the following day were treated to dinner at a cultural restaurant in Addis, with singing, dancing and honey wine to boot – a great way to wrap up our time in Pied Wheatear, vittata race by Wayne Jones Ethiopia!

Annotated List of Birds recorded

Total species recorded: 490 (including 4 heard only and 2 on Lalibela Ext. only)

Nomenclature and taxonomy follows the IOC 3.5 list of: Gill, F. and Wright, M. Birds of the World: Recommended English Names. Princeton NJ: Princeton University Press.

E = Endemic to Ethiopia, NE = Near-endemic to Ethiopia. NP = National Park

Ostrich Struthionidae Somali Ostrich Struthio molybdophanes We had good views on Alleghedi Plain. NOTE: Clements does not recognize this spilt and places all Ostriches under Struthio camelus.

Ducks, Geese & Swans Anatidae White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata We saw this species at Koka Dam. Fulvous Whistling Duck Dendrocygna bicolour A few were seen at Lake Ziway. Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis We found this huge goose at Bishangari Lodge. [Knob-billed] (Comb) Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos This large, distinctive duck was seen well at Lake Ziway and Bishangari Lodge. Blue-winged Goose (E) Cyanochen cyanoptera This pretty endemic was seen at scattered highland wetlands, particularly on the Sanetti Plateau.

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Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacA common and widespread species at wetlands throughout the tour. Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea A few pairs of these lovely ducks were seen on the Sanetti Plateau. African Pygmy Goose Nettapus auritus We saw this beautiful little waterfowl at Lakes Ziway and Awassa. Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope One bird was seen on a small wetland near Robe. African Black Duck Anas sparsa Seen briefly near Bishangari Lodge. Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata Common on small highland waterbodies and at Lake Ziway. Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata This migratory species was plentiful at Lakes Chelekcheka and Abijata and was also found on a small wetland near Robe. Red-billed Teal Anas erythrorhyncha Seen at Lake Ziway. NOTE: Clements names these as Red-billed Duck, but still share the same scientific name. Northern Pintail Anas acuta A few birds in transitional plumage were seen at Lake Chelekcheka. Garganey Anas querquedula Seen at the small wetland near Robe. Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota This small duck was seen at Lake Ziway. Southern Pochard Netta erythrophthalma We observed a few birds on Lake Bishoftu.

Guineafowl Numididae Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris First seen en route to Sof Omar with later sightings around Yabello, Liben Plain and Awash NP. NOTE: The nominate N. m. meleagris (Helmeted Guineafowl) which we recorded in Ethiopia, is sometimes regarded as distinct from the western N. m. galeata (West African Guineafowl) and the southern N. m. mitrata (Tufted Guineafowl). Neither IOC nor Clements recognize this split. Vulturine Guineafowl Acryllium vulturinum We had a few sightings of these stunners between Negele and Yabello.

Pheasants, Fowl & Allies Phasianidae Coqui Francolin Peliperdix coqui We heard at least three birds calling on Liben Plain, but could not manage to locate them. Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena This small gamebird was seen near Yabello, Bishangari and Awash NP. Scaly Francolin Pternistis squamatus Good views were eventually had by all at Bishangari Lodge. Harwood's Francolin (E) Pternistis harwoodi After a lot of hard work we had good views of two birds on the hillside at Ghibe Gorge. Chestnut-naped Francolin (NE) Pternistis castaneicollis This beautifully marked francolin was common on the slopes of the Bale Mountains. Erckel's Francolin (NE) Pternistis erckelii We had decent scoped views of this species in Ghibe Gorge. Yellow-necked Spurfowl Pternistis leucoscepus This attractive spurfowl showed well around Negele and Yabello.

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NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Francolinus and uses the common name: Yellow- necked Francolin. Common Quail Coturnix coturnix Flushed during our night drive in Awash NP.

Grebes Podicipedidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis This small waterbird was common on the Rift Valley lakes. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus This uncommon waterbird was seen at Lake Chelekcheka.

Flamingo Phoenicopteridae Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus We saw this species in big numbers at Lake Abijata. Lesser Flamingo Phoeniconaias minor Present at Lake Shalla and in huge numbers at Lake Abijata. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Phoenicopterus, but still uses the same common name.

Storks Ciconiidae Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis We saw this colourful stork at Koka Dam. Black Stork Ciconia nigra We had great views of a bird along the Melka Ghebdu track. Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus This stork was seen en route to Dodola and en route to Bule Hora. White Stork Ciconia ciconia Seen near Soda, Yabello, Alleghedi Plain and Awash NP. Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis This gorgeous stork was seen at Koka Dam. Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus A common species around Rift Valley lakes and anywhere there was rubbish or waste for them to feed on.

Ibises, Spoonbills Threskiornithidae [African] Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus This species was encountered at wetlands throughout the tour. Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash This vociferous bird was recorded a few times in the Rift Valley and near Weliso. Wattled Ibis (E) Bostrychia carunculata This noisy endemic was common across highland areas of the country. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus We recorded this slender ibis at Lake Ziway. African Spoonbill Platalea alba We had excellent views at Bishangari Lodge.

Herons, Bitterns Ardeidae White-backed Night Heron Gorsachius leuconotus We had some good views of two flushed birds in Awash NP. A very uncommon species in Ethiopia! Striated Heron Butorides striata We also found this species in Awash NP.

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Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides A commonly encountered heron on the Rift Valley lakes. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Small flocks of this stout egret were recorded on a regular basis around the country. NOTE: This group may be split into 2 species, the nominate Western Cattle Egret (which is what we recorded in Ethiopia) and the Asian/Australasian Eastern Cattle Egret E. coromanda. This split is as yet not recognized by Clements but is accepted by the IOC. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Also seen in small numbers at wetlands throughout the tour. Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala We observed this long-necked heron in fields near Koka Dam and Robe. Purple Heron Ardea purpurea This species was seen at Lake Beseka. Great Egret Ardea alba We saw this large white heron on the Rift Valley lakes and at Lake Beseka. NOTE: The nominate Old World Great Egret may be split from the New World A. a. egretta which would become American Egret. This split is as yet not recognized by Clements but is accepted by the IOC. Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia Seen at Koka Dam and Lake Awassa. Black Heron Egretta ardesiaca We were lucky to see this charcoal-coloured heron at Lake Ziway. Little Egret Egretta garzetta We had numerous sightings of this species around the Rift Valley lakes. NOTE: Clements lumps Little and Madagascar’s Dimorphic Egret E. dimorpha into a single species. This treatment is not widely accepted. Western Reef Heron Egretta gularis We saw a pale morph bird at Lake Beseka.

Hamerkop Scopidae Hamerkop Scopus umbretta We found this monotypic species at Koka Dam, Lake Ziway and a few other smaller wetlands.

Pelicans Pelecanidae Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus We had super close-up views of these birds at Lake Ziway. Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens This species showed nicely at Bishangari Lodge.

Cormorants Phalacrocoracidae Reed Cormorant Microcarbo africanus This small cormorant was common on the Rift Valley lakes and Lake Beseka. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Phalacrocoraxand uses the common name: Long-tailed Cormorant. White-breasted Cormorant Phalacrocorax lucidus This larger cormorant was found at similar locations to the previous species. Note: Clements treats this sub-Saharan bird as a race of the Great Cormorant P. Carbo and does not accept the spilt.

Anhingas, Darters Anhingidae African Darter Anhinga rufa This species was seen at Koka Dam.

Secretarybird Sagittariidae

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Secretarybird Sagitarrius serpentarius We saw two birds wonderfully well on Alleghedi Plain.

Kites, Hawks & Eagles Accipitridae Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus We saw this small raptor around wheatlands in the Goba-Robe area. NOTE: That Clements uses the common Black-shouldered Kite. Scissor-tailed Kite Chelictinia ricourii We briefly saw three birds some distance away in Awash NP. Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus After many excellent sightings on the Lalibela extension we saw just one bird – well, thankfully – on the main tour along the Ankober Escarpment. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Lammergeier. Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus This attractive vulture was seen in the Awash area. Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus These small vultures were observed almost daily. White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus This was the commonest open-country/savannah vulture, seen widely throughout the tour. Rüppell's Vulture Gyps rueppellii We enjoyed some excellent close-range sightings of this large vulture thanks to various roadkills thoughout the tour. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Rueppell's Griffon. White-headed Vulture Trigonoceps occipitalis We saw an immature bird at some dead donkeys near Yabello. Lappet-faced Vulture Aegypius tracheliotus We had soaring views of this huge vulture near Yabello and Ghibe gorge. Short-toed Snake Eagle Circaetus gallicus We saw a bird near Dodola. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Short-toed Eagle. Black-chested Snake Eagle Circaetus pectoralis We saw a bird en route to Sof Omar. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Black-breasted Snake-Eagle. Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus We had just one sighting while en route to Yabello from Negele. Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus A bird flew in and over us while we were on the Melka Ghebdu track. Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis Singletons were seen near Koka Dam and Harenna Forest. Lesser Spotted Eagle Clanga pomarina A bird was seen at Bishangari Lodge. Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus A bird was seen on the first day above our hotel in Addis Ababa. Ayre’s Hawk-Eagle Hieraaetus ayresii A distant soaring individual was seen over Sof Omar. Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax This was the commonest and most widespread eagle of the tour, and we saw various colour morphs. NOTE: The nominate African Tawny Eagle A. r. rapax may be split from the Asian Tawny Eagle A. r. vindhiana. This split is as yet not recognized by IOC or Clements. Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis We saw numerous birds on top of the Sanetti Plateau. NOTE: The Western Steppe Eagle A. n. orientalis, which we recorded, may be split from the Eastern Steppe Eagle A. n. nipalensis. This split is as yet not recognized by IOC or Clements.

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Golden Eagle Aquila crysaetos We enjoyed good views of this massive eagle on the Sanetti Plateau. Verreaux's Eagle Aquila verreauxii A single bird soared over us as we were getting ready to leave Sof Omar. Gabar Goshawk Micronisus gabar We saw two birds near Lake Abijata. Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabates Most sightings of this species came from the Awash and Bilen areas. Eastern Chanting Goshawk Melierax poliopterus This yellow-cered chanting goshawk was common in the south, around Yabello and Soda. African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro We had twilight views of a bird in Goba. Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucos One was seen at Bishangari Lodge. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Black Goshawk. Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus We saw this species at Lakes Bishoftu and Abijata, and Bilen. Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus This slight harrier was seen over cropland near Dodola and Goba. Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus We saw a female bird near Liben Plain. Black Kite Milvan migrans One or two birds were seen at hotel in Addis on the extension part of the tour. Yellow-billed Kite Milvus aegyptius Recorded on all but one day of tour! African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer This was present in small numbers at all Rift Valley lakes. Common Buzzard Buteo buteo A bird was seen near Shashemene. NOTE: The subspecies which we encountered is the northern breeding B. b. vulpinus, sometimes regarded as a separate species, Steppe Buzzard, from the nominate Common Buzzard and three other incipient groups in eastern Asia. Clements does not as yet recognize any of these splits. Augur Buzzard Buteo augur We encountered this smart raptor often, especially at higher elevations.

Bustards Otididae Arabian Bustard Ardeotis arabs We had super views of a bird on Alleghedi Plain. Kori Bustard Ardeotis kori We had sightings at Liben Plain, the Genale River area near Soda. White-bellied Bustard Eupodotis senegalensis We eventually found two of these lovely bustards in the late afternoon in Awash NP. NOTE: Clements lumps the northern form of White-bellied Bustard E. senegalensis with the Southern African endemic Barrow’s or Southern White-bellied Bustard E. barrowi. This treatment is not followed by the IOC and most authorities and they are generally considered two distinct species. Buff-crested Bustard Lophotis gindiana We had good views in Awash NP. NOTE: This species used to be lumped with the southern Red-crested Bustard E. ruficrista and the western Savile’s Bustard E. Savilei, Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Eupodotis. Hartlaub's Bustard Lissotis hartlaubi An eleventh-hour bird, we saw a stunning male in Awash NP as we were heading home from the last of many attempts to find this species.

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Rails, Crakes & Coots Rallidae Rouget's Rail (E) Rougetius rougetii This atypically bold rail was common on the slopes of the Bale Mountains. Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra We saw this rallid at Lakes Ziway and Awassa. Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus This species was seen at Lake Ziway. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Eurasian Moorhen. Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata Seen at Lake Ziway, Lake Awassa and near Robe.

Cranes Gruidae Black Crowned Crane Balearica pavonina We enjoyed two sightings of this sought-after species at Koka Dam and in Ghibe Gorge. Wattled Crane Grus carunculata Two of these endangered birds were seen very well on top of the Sanetti Plateau. Common Crane Grus grus We saw hundreds of these cranes at Lake Chelekcheka.

Stone-curlews & Thick-knees Burhinidae Senegal Thick-knee Burhinus senegalensis We had scattered sightings at Bilen, Bishangari, Awash NP and Jemma Valley.

Stilts, Avocets Recurvirostridae Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus This species was common on the Rift Valley lakes. Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta These elegant birds were present in large numbers at Lake Abijata.

Plovers Charadriidae Spur-winged Lapwing Vanellus spinosus A widespread wader that was found at various waterbodies throughout the tour. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Spur-winged Plover. Black-headed Lapwing Vanellus tectus We enjoyed great views of three birds on Alleghedi Plain. Black-winged Lapwing Vanellus melanopterus This grassland wader was spotted near Dodola. Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus Most of our sightings of this dryland lapwing were around Yabello and Soda. [African] Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus This handsome lapwing was seen at a dam outside Negele. Spot-breasted Lapwing (E) Vanellus melanocephalus We saw a large congregation of these endemics atop the Sanetti Plateau. Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Seen at Koka Dam and Lake Abijata. Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius These neat plovers were seen at Lake Ziway. Kittlitz's Plover Charadrius pecuarius We saw this plover at Koka Dam and Lake Abijata. Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris

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This handsome little plover was seen around Lakes Ziway and Chelekcheka and also in Jemma Valley. Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus We found a few of these plovers at Lake Abijata.

Jacanas Jacanidae African Jacana Actophilornis africanus These long-toed waders were found on floating vegetation along the margins of Rift Valley lakes.

Sandpipers, Snipes Scolopacidae Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago We had views of this secretive species at Lake Ziway, near Dinsho and at Lake Abijata. Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa This distinctive shorebird was found at Bishangari and Lake Chlekcheka. Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis We had great views of this and the next species alongside each other at Lake Ziway. Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Seen at Lake Ziway. Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Singletons were found at quiet streams and ponds, especially on the Sanetti Plateau. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola A widespread wader found at various wetlands and Rift Valley lakes. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos As with the previous species, this bird was common at a variety of wetlands during the tour. Little Stint Calidris minuta We had good numbers at the various Rift Valley lakes. Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii One bird was seen along the shoreline at Bishangari. Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Seen at Bishangari. Ruff Philomachus pugnax We saw a scattering of individuals at Lake Chelekcheka and Bishangari.

Coursers, Pratincoles Glareolidae Double-banded Courser Rhinoptilus africanus Only recorded twice before on this tour, we were lucky to find one on a night drive in Awash NP.

Gulls, Terns and Skimmers Laridae Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus This species was common on the Rift Valley lakes. Grey-hooded Gull Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus Seen at Lakes Ziway and Langano. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Gray-hooded Gull. Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus We scoped a very distant individual that thankfully came closer and provided pretty good views. Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica A common sight around the Rift Valley lakes. Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida We had this species at Koka Dam. White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus This species was also common on the Rift Valley lakes.

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Sandgrouse Pteroclididae Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus We had terrific views of birds coming in to drink in Awash NP. Black-faced Sandgrouse Pterocles decoratus We also had phenomenal views of a few birds coming to drink at the Dawa River. Lichtenstein's Sandgrouse Pterocles lichtensteinii I guess we were lucky with sandgrouse – we saw three altogether and had wonderfully close views of a male bird in Awash NP. NOTE: The nominate African form which we recorded may be regarded as distinct from the Asian P. l. arabicus which would be renamed Close-barred Sandgrouse. Neither IOC or Clements recognizes this spilt.

Pigeons, Doves Columbidae Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea Seen almost every day, often around human settlements. White-collared Pigeon (E) Columba albitorques This neat-looking endemic pigeon was seen in higher altitude locations like Addis Ababa, the Sanetti Plateau, Ankober Escarpment and Lalibela. Lemon Dove Columba larvata A tricky species anywhere but at Bishangari where we had great views. European Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur We found a single bird which disappeared just as we were raising our binoculars, thanks to an excited local. Dusky Turtle Dove Streptopelia lugens This species was common in higher altitude areas. African Collared Dove Streptopelia roseogrisea We had a good sighting of this subtly pretty columbid at Alleghedi Plain. White-winged Collared Dove (NE) Streptopelia reichenowi This lovely dove was seen near Dawa River. Mourning Collared Dove Streptopelia decipiens We saw this species at a number of woodland sites during the tour. Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata This dove was recorded quite frequently during the tour in areas of tall woodland. Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola This widespread species was common in lower-lying woodland habitat, especially near Yabello. Vinaceous Dove Streptopelia vinacea This pink-hued dove was seen well in Ghibe Gorge and near Lalibela. Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis A common and widespread species. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Streptopelia Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos We saw this dainty dove at Sof Omar and en route to Yabello. Blue-spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer Found in moister habitat than the previous species, we saw this dove in harenna Forest and at Bishangari. Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistra We had good views of this sometimes tough dove at Bishangari and Harenna Forest. Namaqua Dove Oena capensis This long-tailed dove was recorded every day in the latter half of the tour, often in dry habitat. Bruce's Green Pigeon Treron waalia This stunner showed well at Bishangari and in Awash NP!

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Turacos Musophagidae White-cheeked Turaco (NE) Tauraco leucotis Glimpsed in Harenna Forest and viewed lavishly at Bishangari! Ruspoli's Turaco (E) Tauraco ruspolii This sought-after endemic certainly gave us the run-around, but everyone had good views in the end. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Prince Ruspoli’s Turaco. Bare-faced Go-away-bird Corythaixoides personatus We saw this quirky turaco north of Yabello and at Bishangari. White-bellied Go-away-bird Corythaixoides leucogaster This very clean-looking go-away-bird was common at Sof Omar, Yabello, along the Bogol Manyo road and in Awash NP. Eastern Plantain-eater Crinifer zonurus These maniacal birds showed nicely in Awash NP and Weliso.

Cuckoos Cuculidae Blue-headed Coucal Centropus monachus We saw a pair of these large coucals alongside Lake Awassa. White-browed Coucal Centropus superciliosus Seen en route Sof Omar and at Bilen. NOTE: Some authorities split the southern dark-browed Burchell’s Coucal C. burchelli from the northerly White- browed Coucal C. superciliosus which we recorded in Ethiopia. Great Spotted Cuckoo Clamator glandarius This was a nice surprise! An adult and immature were seen near Soda, en route to Yabello. Klaas’s Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas We recorded this stunning cuckoo en route from Negele to Yabello.

Owls Strigidae African Scops Owl Otus senegalensis After much searching and walking through the bush at night near Yabello we found this little chap calling contently. Northern White-faced Owl Ptilopsis leucotis With the help of locals we had super views of this uncommon owl alongside Lake Langano. Cape Eagle-Owl Bubo capensis Local spotters showed us where this large owl was roosting en route to Dinsho. Greyish Eagle-Owl Bubo cinerascens We saw this species at Lake Langano and again in Awash NP. African Wood Owl Strix woodfordii A roosting bird was shown to us by a park guide at the Bale Mountain Park headquarters in Dinsho. Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum This intense-looking little brid was seen best at Sof Omar. Abyssinian Owl (E) Asio abyssinicus The park guide at Dinsho also showed us this species, of which we had great views.

Nightjars Caprimulgidae Star-spotted Nightjar Caprimulgus We were able to walk right up to this species in Awash NP! Slender-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus clarus We saw three day-roosting birds at Lake Langano and heard this species at Bilen.

Swifts Apodidae

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African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus Seen around Awash NP. Common Swift Apus apus This species showed briefly in Jemma Valley. Nyanza Swift Apus niansae We saw this brownish swift at Sof Omar.

Mousebirds Coliidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus Widespread and seen often on tour. Blue-naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus We recorded this species in Awash NP.

Trogons Trogonidae Narina Trogon Apaloderma narina We saw this bird well at Sof Omar and even better at Bishangari.

Rollers Coraciidae Purple Roller Coracias naevius We had this large roller at Yabello and Lake Shalla. Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudatus This brightly coloured species was seen en route to Negele, along the road to Bogol Manyo and near Yabello. NOTE: The subspecies which we recorded in Ethiopia, C. c. lorti might be split as Blue-breasted Roller which would become an Ethiopian near-endemic, based upon coloration of the breast and crown and an isolated population. Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinicus This gorgeous species was recorded at Bilen, Awash NP, Ghibe Gorge and Lalibela. European Roller Coracias garrulus One was seen en route to Sof Omar.

Kingfishers Alcedinidae Grey-headed Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala We saw this species at Awassa and in Jemma Valley. Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti Seen at our lunch-stop between Harenna Forest and Negele. Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis This stunning and vocal species showed well at Lakes Ziway and Awassa, Bishangari and Awash NP . African Pygmy Kingfisher Ispidina picta We saw this tiny kingfisher at Bishangari. Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata This jewel-like bird was common around the Rift Valley lakes. Half-collared Kingfisher Alcedo semitorquata A single bird was seen by some in Jemma Valley. Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis A common species at lakes, wetlands and rivers.

Bee-eaters Meropidae Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus First seen at Koka Dam, and later at Yabello and Bilen. Blue-breasted Bee-eater Merops variegates

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This rainbow-coloured species was common in Lalibela, Addis Ababa, Sof Omar, Bishangari and Melka Ghebdu track. NOTE: The Ethiopian form M. v. lafresnayii, is considered by several authorities to form a distinct species, called Abyssinian Bee-eater, based on size, coloration, habitat differences, and this combined with the fact that this sub- species is restricted to the highlands of Ethiopia and the Boma Hills in Sudan. It would therefore be an Ethiopian near- endemic if full species status is awarded. This enigmatic race has in the past been lumped with Cinnamon-chested Bee- eater M. oreobates. Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus We saw this uncommon bee-eater at Lake Ziway. Northern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicus This lovely species was common in the Rift Valley and around Bilen and Awash NP.

Hoopoes Upupidae Eurasian Hoopoe Upupa epops We encountered this great bird in various woodland habitats throughout the tour. NOTE: IOC recognizes three species (African U. africana, Eurasian U. epops and Madagascar U. marginata).Clements only recognizes the Eurasian and Malagasy forms. A forth is sometimes recognized (but not by IOC), West/Central African U. senegalensis. We only recorded the nominate Palaearctic migrant form U. e. epops.

Wood Hoopoes Phoeniculidae Black-billed Wood Hoopoe (NE) Phoeniculus somaliensis Seen a few times, with best sightings at Lake Awassa. Black Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus aterrimus We had excellent views on two occasions at Bishangari. Abyssinian Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus minor We saw this species in dry woodland near Negele, the Genale River and the road to Bogol Manyo.

Hornbills Bucerotidae Hemprich's Hornbill Tockus hemprichii We had excellent views at Bishangari and Lalibela. African Grey Hornbill Tockus nasutus This dry savannah hornbill was seen in Awash NP and Ghibe Gorge. Northern Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorhynchus A common species of moist savannah, such as at Sof Omar. NOTE: Some authorities (including the IOC) have split the Red-billed Hornbill complex into five species. Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbill Tockus flavirostris This banana-billed species was seen at Sof Omar, the Dawa River and Yabello. Von der Decken's Hornbill Tockus deckeni This sexually dimorphic hornbill was seen at Sof Omar and along the Dawa River. Silvery-cheeked Hornbill Bycanistes brevis We had great views at Bishangari.

Ground Hornbills Bucorvidae Abyssinian Ground Hornbill Bucorvus abyssinicus We saw this large species a few times in agricultural land, with our most memorable sighting of four birds near Koka Dam.

African Barbets Lybiidae Red-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus pusillus This cute little bird was seen at Lalibela, Sof Omar and in Awash NP. Red-fronted Barbet Tricholaema diademata We had great views near Yabello.

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Black-throated Barbet Tricholaema melanocephala This species was found in dry woodland along the road to Bogol Manyo and en route to the Dawa River. NOTE: The Serengeti and northern Tanzanian form of this barbet, T. m. flavibuccalis is sometimes considered a different species (Yellow-cheeked Barbet) from the nominate form which we recorded in Ethiopia, although this is not followed by the IOC nor Clements. Banded Barbet (NE) Lybius undatus We had wonderful views of some birds at Bishangari. Black-billed Barbet Lybius guifsobalito This species gave us sightings at Lake Awassa, Bishangari and Awash NP. Double-toothed Barbet Lybius bidentatus What a cracker of a bird! We saw this at Lake Ziway and Bishangari. Red-and-yellow Barbet Trachyphonus erythrocephalus This super-saturated barbet was seen en route to Negele and also en route to Yabello. Yellow-breasted Barbet Trachyphonus margaritatus We enjoyed good sightings of this species at Bilen and Lalibela. D'Arnaud's Barbet Trachyphonus darnaudii This very vocal species was commonly encountered around Yabello and near the Dawa River.

Honeyguides Indicatoridae Brown-backed Honeybird Prodotiscus regulus Seen near Bishangari. NOTE: That Clements uses the common Wahlberg's Honeyguide. Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor Seen well at Sof Omar and later at Bishangari. Scaly-throated Honeyguide Indicator variegatus We managed to find a calling bird at Bishangari and had good scope views. Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator Seen en route to Bishangari.

Woodpeckers Picidae Eurasian Wryneck Jynx torquilla This showed nicely at Lake Awassa. Red-throated Wryneck Jynx ruficollis Also seen well at Lake Awassa. NOTE: That Clements uses the common Rufous-necked Wryneck. Nubian Woodpecker Campethera nubica We had good views of this bird at the Dawa River, Yabello and Bishangari. Abyssinian Woodpecker (E) Dendropicos abyssinicus This beauty was only seen on the Lalibela extension, in the grounds of our Addis hotel. Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens We saw this small woodpecker along the Bogol Manyo road and in Awash NP. Bearded Woodpecker Dendropicos namaquus We found a pair of birds near Bishangari, one of which was poking about in dead wheat stalks! Eastern Grey Woodpecker Dendropicos spodocephalus This lovely woodpecker was seen near Koka Dam, Lake Awassa and Bishangari. NOTE: Clements uses the common name: Gray-headed Woodpecker. The form we saw is split by some authorities (such as Clements and IOC) from African Grey Woodpecker, D.goertae

Falcons Falconidae Pygmy Falcon Polihierax semitorquatus Our great initial sighting at yabello was followed by birds in Awash NP.

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Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus An oft-encountered roadside raptor throughout the tour. NOTE: Some authorities split this species into Common Kestrel, F. tinnunculus which we observed (occurring in East and West Africa and the Palaearctic region) and Rock Kestrel, F. rupicolis which occurs in Southern Africa. Clements does not as yet recognize this split, while IOC does. Grey Kestrel Falco ardosiaceus We had three sightings of this great species, including a pair near Koka Dam. Amur Falcon Falco amurensis Not a commonly recorded bird on our tours although we saw about 20 over a field opposite Liben Plain. Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus Seen on the Sanetti Plateau and, memorably, in Awash NP where it sat waiting for sandgrouse to come in and drink. Barbary Falcon Falco pelegrinoides This species was recorded at Bishangari.

Parrots Psittacidae Black-winged Lovebird (E) Agapornis taranta This small parrot was common in the Rift Valley and at Lalibela. Red-bellied Parrot Poicephalus rufiventris We saw this attractive parrot at Sof Omar. Yellow-fronted Parrot (E) Poicephalus flavifrons We had splendid views at Bishangari.

Wattle-eyes, Batises Platysteiridae Grey-headed Batis Batis orientalis Seen well at Sof omar, the Genale River area and Ghibe Gorge. Western Black-headed Batis Batis minor The moist-habitat counterpart of the previous species was recorded at Lake Awassa and Bishangari. NOTE: Clements does not accept the spilt between Eastern and Western Black-headed Batis. Pygmy Batis Batis perkeo A pair delighted us along the Bogol Manyo road. Brown-throated Wattle-eye Platysteira cyanea Seen at Lake Awassa.

Helmetshrikes Prionopidae White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus We saw these comical birds at Sof Omar. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name White Helmetshrike.

Bushshrikes Malaconotidae Grey-headed Bushshrike Malaconotus blanchoti This stunner showed nicely at Sof Omar and Yabello. Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus Another beauty, this one seen at Bishangari and Ghibe Gorge. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Telophorus and uses the common name Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike. Rosy-patched Bushshrike Teloporus cruentus First seen along the road to Bogol Manyo, as well as around Soda and Yabello. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Rhodophoneus. Three-streaked Tchagra Tchagra jamesi We had excellent views of this constantly moving bird along the road to Bogol Manyo.

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Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus Recorded often in the latter half of the tour, at Lake Abijata, Awash NP and Ghibe Gorge. Northern Puffback Dryoscopus gambensis Seen at Bishangari and Ghibe Gorge. Pringle's Puffback Dryoscopus pringlii This dry-country puffback was seen along the Bogol Manyo road. Slate-coloured Boubou Laniarius funebris First seen at our lunchstop between Harenna and Negele, and again near the Dawa River. Ethiopian Boubou Laniarius aethiopicus This species was common at Bishangari, Lake Awassa, Weliso and Jemma Valley. NOTE: Clements does not accept this spilt and places it under TropicalBoubou (Laniarius aethiopicus) Brubru Nilaus afer This small bushshrikewas seen in woodland in the Genale River region, near Yabello and along the Bogol Manyo road. NOTE: This previously monotypic genus might be split 4 ways: Northern Brubru N. afer, Black-browed Brubru N. nigritemporalis, Angola Brubru N. affinis and Southern Brubru N. brubru. Only the Northern Brubru occurs in Ethiopia. IOC does not recognize these splits.

Cuckooshrikes Campephagidae Grey Cuckooshrike Coracina caesia A bird showed itself briefly at Bishangari. Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike Campephaga phoenicea We saw this satiny bird at Bishangari.

Shrikes Laniidae Northern White-crowned Shrike Eurocephalus rueppelli Common in dry savannah throughout the tour. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name White-rumped Shrike. Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus Seen near Liben Plain, on the Bogol Manyo road. NOTE: This complex which used to be lumped with Red-backed Shrike L. collurio is being considered for a further 3- way split. The western L. i. phoenicuroides (Red-tailed Shrike) group and the nominate Isabelline Shrike group have both been recorded in Ethiopia. The L. i. speculigerus (Daurian Shrike) group are extra-limital. Clements does not as yet recognize the three-way split of the L. isabellinus group but does recognize the split from the Red-backed Shrike L. collurio group. Red-tailed Shrike Lanius phoenicuroides Seen near Soda and Bilen. Steppe Grey Shrike Lanius pallidirostris Seen well at Alleghedi Plain. Grey-backed Fiscal Lanius excubitoroides This gregarious shrike was seen at Koka Dam and around the Rift Valley lakes. Somali Fiscal Lanius somalicus This species was common around Soda. Northern Fiscal Lanius humeralis Seen near Goba and Jemma Valley. Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator Seen daily around Bilen and Awash NP. Masked Shrike Lanius nubicus We saw this species well in Ghibe Gorge.

Orioles Oriolidae Eurasian Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus

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We saw an immature bird in woodland near Liben Plain. Ethiopian Oriole (E) Oriolus monacha Seen very well at Bishangari. NOTE: That Clements uses the common Dark-headed Oriole. Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus We had great views at Yabello especially. NOTE: That Clements uses the common African Black-headed Oriole.

Drongos Dicruridae Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis A conspicuous species that was seen on many days of the tour in a variety of woodland habitats.

Monarchs Monarchidae African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis This striking species was seen in Addis Ababa, at Lake Awassa, Sof Omar, Bishangari and other places. NOTE: The northern races of this widespread African species which include the nominate form may be separated from the southern races which would become Grey-headed Paradise-Flycatcher T. plumbeiceps. The subspecies which we recorded in Ethiopia is T. v. ferreti would fall within the northern African Paradise-Flycatcher complex T. viridis if the group were to be split. Beside plumage and distributional differences, only the northern forms display polymorphism in males and we observed an example of this phenomenon in Ethiopia. Neither IOC nor Clements recognize this split.

Crows, Jays Corvidae Stresemann's Bushcrow (E) Zavattariornis stresemanni This great endemic was seen near Soda and Yabello. Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax We found a flock of about 25 birds en route to Dinsho. Cape Crow Corvus capensis This species was common at higher elevations. Pied Crow Corvus albus The most common and widespread corvid, often found around human habitation. Somali Crow (NE) Corvus edithae We had good views near Liben Plain, Negele, Robe and Yabello. NOTE: IOC and Clements recognize the split of Somali Crow C. edithae from Brown-necked Raven C. ruficollis. This species is considered distinct based on habitat, distribution (it is an Ethiopian near-endemic), plumage, physiology, call and behavior. It is known to hybridize with Pied Crow C. albus. Fan-tailed Raven Corvus rhipidurus Another widespread corvid found in a variety of open and mountainous terrain. Thick-billed Raven (E) Corvus crassirostris This large bird was seen well in Shashemene, Yabello, Goba and Robe.

Tits, Chickadees Paridae White-winged Black Tit Melaniparus leucomelas We saw this species near Lake Shalla. White-backed Black Tit (E) Melaniparus leuconotus After much searching we had decent scoped views in the Juniper Forest above Goba. Acacia Tit Melaniparus thruppi Sof Omar, the Bogol Manyo road and Soda were all spots where we had this species. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Somali Tit.

Penduline Tits Remizidae Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit Anthoscopus musculus

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Seen at the Dawa River and in Awash NP.

Larks Alaudidae Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix leucotis This dapper lark was seen near Koka Dam, Alleghedi Plain and Awash NP. Chestnut-headed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix signatus We found this species at Bilen. Foxy Lark Calandrella alopex This richly coloured lark was seen near Yabello. Archer’s Lark (E) Heteromirafra sidamoensis Formerly called Sidamo Lark, we enjoyed fantastic views of a single bird on Liben Plain. Red-winged Lark Mirafra hypermetra This large lark showed well in Awash NP. Singing Bush Lark Mirafra cantillans Everyone eventually had good views, flushed or otherwise, of this species in Awash NP. Gillett's Lark (NE) Mirafra gilletti We saw three birds singing their hearts out atop Acacia trees in Awash NP. Short-tailed Lark Spizocorys fremantlii We encountered a flock of 20 or more birds between Soda and Yabello. Thekla Lark Galerida theklae A common sight up on the Sanetti Plateau. Erlanger's Lark (E) Calandrella erlangeri We connected with this attractive lark in agricultural fields en route to Debre Birhan. NOTE: Clements has given C. erlangeri of central Ethiopia full species status. The Blanford’s/Erlanger’s Lark complex was originally lumped within the Red-capped Lark complex C. cinerea, which itself was lumped within the Greater Short-toed Lark complex C. brachydactyla! Somali Short-toed Lark (NE) Calandrella somalica This species was common on the Liben Plain.

Bulbuls Pycnonotidae Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus A widespread species seen in moist woodland throughout most of the tour. Somali Bulbul (NE) Pycnonotus somaliensis This arid country bulbul was found at Bilen. NOTE: Clements does not accept the spilt of this species and the two below and lumps them all under Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus). Dodson's Bulbul (NE) Pycnonotus dodsoni The dry woodland counterpart of the Common Bulbul, we found this species at Sof Omar, the Bogol Manyo road and Yabello. Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor We recorded this species in Harenna Forest. Northern Brownbul Phyllastrephus strepitans This dull but inquisitive species was seen at Sof Omar.

Swallows, Martins Hirundinidae Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne pristoptera These graceful forest swallows were seen at Bishangari and Harenna Forest. NOTE: The Black Sawwing P. pristoptera complex was split into 8 full species which caused extreme confusion with regard to their distributions and field identification. However, all authorities including IOC and Clements have now accepted one species. Grey-rumped Swallow Pseudhirundo griseopyga Seen near Robe and Liben Plain.

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Brown-throated Martin Riparia paludicola This small, drab swallow was common around the Rift Valley lakes. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Plain Martin. Sand Martin Riparia riparia Seen at Lake Chelekcheka, Bishangari and Bilen. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Bank Swallow. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica The commonest swallow, seen at scattered locations in various habitats. NOTE: This cosmopolitan species complex may be split based on the Old World nominate form and its congeners which would become Eurasian Swallow H. rustica and the New World Barn Swallow H. erythrogaster. Further splitting within the group may also be done e.g. the distinctive H. r. savignii which breeds in the Nile Valley and would be named Egyptian Swallow. We only recorded representatives of the Palaearctic migrant Barn/Eurasian Swallow. Neither IOC nor Clements recognize any of these splits. Ethiopian Swallow Hirundo aethiopica We saw this species very well on Liben Plain. Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii These small swallows were seen at Ghibe Gorge and Jemma Valley. NOTE: This species complex could be split based on the African nominate form that would become African Wire-tailed Swallow and the Asian Wire-tailed Swallow that would be H. filifera. Neither IOC nor Clements recognize this split. White-tailed Swallow (E) Hirundo megaensis This crisp looking swallow showed itself nicely to us near Soda. Eurasian Crag Martin Ptyonoprogne rupestris We had definitive views of this species in Jemma Valley. Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula Seen alongside the previous species in Jemma Valley. Common House Martin Delichon urbicum Seen briefly at Jemma Valley. Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica This beautifully marked swallow was seen en route to and near Yabello and in Ghibe Gorge. Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica Seen near Dodola and Alleghedi Plain. NOTE: The resident H. d. melanocrissus which we recorded may be considered a distinct species; Black-vented Swallow, which would become an Ethiopian endemic. IOC does not as yet recognize this split. Further extra-limital splits are likely within this wide-ranging species complex.

Crombecs, African warblers Macrosphenidae Northern Crombec Sylvietta brachyura The handsomest of the crombecs, we saw this one at Sof Omar and Melka Ghebdu track. Red-faced Crombec Sylvietta whytii This species was common around Yabello. Somali Crombec (NE) Sylvietta isabellina Some of us saw one bird at the Dawa River.

Leaf Warblers & Allies Phylloscopidae Brown Woodland Warbler Phylloscopus umbrovirens We had very poor views of two birds at the Juniper Forest near Goba, but excellent views in Lalibela. Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus Seen at our hotel in Addis Ababa and at Lake Awassa. Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Seen near Lake Chelekcheka and Robe. NOTE: Most authorities including (IOC and Clements) have split the Chiffchaff complex into 4 full species.

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Reed Warblers & Allies Acrocephalidae Lesser Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus gracilirostris There some very obliging birds at Lake Awassa. Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus One bird showed nicely at the wetland near Robe. Eurasian Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus This drab species was seen at Lake Ziway. Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris Recorded alongside Lake Awassa. African Yellow Warbler Iduna natalensis We were pleasantly surprised to find this lovely bird near Bishangari. Eastern Olivaceous Warbler Iduna pallida We saw this species at our lunch stop at Lake Ziway. NOTE: IOC and Clements have split Olivaceous Warbler into two species namely, Eastern Olivaceous I. pallida and Western Olivaceous I. opaca.

Grassbirds & Allies Locustellidae Little Rush Warbler Bradypterus baboecala This species was heard only at Lake Awassa. Cinnamon Bracken Warbler Bradypterus cinnamomeus We saw this normally skulking species incredibly well as we were ascending the Sanetti Plateau.

Cisticolas & Allies Cisticolidae Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops Seen well at Lake Awassa. Singing Cisticola Cisticola cantans We saw this species at Jemma Valley. Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana We saw this species at Koka Dam, and also heard it later in the tourin the Rift Valley. Boran Cisticola (NE) Cisticola bodessa This species showed – and called – nicely for us near Liben Plain. Ashy Cisticola Cisticola cinereolus This drab cisticola was seen in Awash NP. Ethiopian Cisticola (E) Cisticola lugubris This species was common in wetlands, damp habitats and adjacent areas, usually at high altitudes. NOTE: IOC have split the Winding Cisticola complex into five species (Winding C. marginatus, Coastal C. haematocephalus, Luapula C. luapula, Rufous-winged C. galactotes and Ethiopian C. lugubris). Clements lumps them all under Winding Cisticola (Cisticola galactotes). Croaking Cisticola Cisticola natalensis Two birds had us mystified to their identity at first due to their lovely golden colour. Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis An individual was seen near Robe. Desert Cisticola Cisticola aridulus Seen well in Awash NP. Pectoral-patch Cisticola Cisticola brunnescens Birds in breeding plumage showed well at Liben Plain. Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava We had this long-tailed bird in Addis Ababa, at Lake Awassa, Bishangari and Jemma Valley. Pale Prinia Prinia somalica Seen along the Bogol Manyo road. Buff-bellied Warbler Phyllolais pulchella Seen in Acacia trees around Lakes Ziway and Awassa, and around Bishangari.

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Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida This colourful little bird was seen in the Genale River region, along the Bogol Manyo road and en route to Yabello. NOTE: This widespread polytypic African species may be split into two species. The form we saw is sometimes split as Brown-tailed Apalis A. viridiceps. IOC does not accept this split. Red-fronted Warbler Urorhipis rufifrons We had good views of a few birds at the Fantale Crater. Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata Seen and heard in woodland, forest and thickets at Lake Bishoftu, the Dawa River, Bishangari and Awash NP. NOTE: IOC splits this species into Grey-backed Camaroptera (the birds we saw) and Green-backed Camaroptera C. brachyura. Clements does not as yet follow this split. Grey Wren-Warbler Calamonastes simplex This dry country species was seen in the Genale River region, along the Bogol Manyo Road and near Soda. Yellow-bellied Eremomela Eremomela icteropygialis This little species was common around Yabello and Awash NP.

Laughingthrushes Leiothrichidae Scaly Chatterer (NE) Turdoides aylmeri We were fortunate to find this difficult species at our lunch stop along the Bogol Manyo road. Rufous Chatterer Turdoides rubiginosa We had good views around Yabello. White-rumped Babbler (NE) Turdoides leucopygia We saw various subspecies at Lalibela, Lake Awassa, Bishangari, Ghibe Gorge and Sof Omar.

Sylviid Babblers, Parrotbills Sylviidae Abyssinian Catbird (E) Parophasma galinieri After many terrible views we eventually saw this species well in Harenna Forest. Whew! African Hill Babbler Pseudoalcippe abyssinica We had a brief sighting of this skulker at Bishangari. Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Seen at Lake Awassa and Bishangari. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Blackcap. Barred Warbler Sylvia nisoria Most of us managed to see a cooperative stationary but concealed bird at Bilen. Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca This species was common at Bishangari and Awash NP. Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis A few of us saw this species along the Bogol Manyo road. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Greater Whitethroat.. Brown Parisoma Sylvia lugens We saw this species well at our hotel in Addis Ababa. NOTE: Some authorities split this complex into 2 full species, Brown Warbler, S.lugens and Bale Warbler, S.griseaventris. The latter species is endemic to the Bale Mountains and represents the individuals that we saw. Banded Parisoma Sylvia boehmi This species showed nicely at Yabello. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Banded Warbler.

White-eyes Zosteropidae Abyssinian White-eye Zosterops abyssinicus The duller of the two local white-eyes, we saw this species at Lake Awassa, yabello and Bishangari. NOTE: Some authorities split this complex into 2 full species, namely Abyssinian White-eye Z. abyssinicus and the Kenyan and Tanzanian form Z. flavilateralis. Clements uses the common White-breasted White-eye.

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Montane White-eye (NE) Zosterops poliogastrus This brighter yellow bird was common in forest near Goba and Addis Ababa. NOTE: That Clements uses the common name Broad-ringed White-eye and some authorities split this complex into 6 full species.

Treecreepers Certhiidae African Spotted Creeper Salpornis spilonotus We saw this species terrifically well at Lake Awassa. NOTE: That Clements does not accept this spilt and lumps it with the Spotted Creeper (Salpornis spilonotus).

Starlings Sturnidae Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea Seen between Negele and Yabello. Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus A common species, recorded most days of the tour. NOTE: That Clements uses the common Greater Blue-eared Glossy-Starling. Rüppell's Starling Lamprotornis purpuroptera This indigo starling was common around Lake Awassa, Lake Ziway and Bishangari. NOTE: That Clements uses the common Rueppell's Glossy-Starling. Golden-breasted Starling Lamprotornis regius This exquisite bird was seen along the Bogol Manyo road and while driving from Negele to Yabello. Superb Starling Lamprotornis superbus This widespread starling was commonly seen in woodland and agricultural habitats throughout the tour. Shelley's Starling Lamprotornis shelleyi Seen en route to and near Yabello. White-crowned Starling (NE) Lamprotornis albicapillus This large starlignwas seen at Liben Plain and around Yabello. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Spreo. Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster We had one sighting at Bishangari. Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio Seen in Yabello and Lalibela. Slender-billed Starling Onychognathus tenuirostris We had good views at our hotel in Addis Ababa and saw this species again in Harenna Forest. Bristle-crowned Starling Onychognathus salvadorii This large, long-tailed starling was seen at Sof Omar. White-billed Starling (E) Onychognathus albirostris This endemic was seen well at Lalibela and Jemma Valley. Magpie Starling Speculipastor bicolor We saw three of these nomadic birds near Soda.

Oxpeckers Buphagidae Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus Often found near livestock or game around Goba, Robe and Bishangari.

Thrushes Turdidae Abyssinian Ground Thrush Zoothera piaggiae This stunner was seen at the Juniper Forest and later, by some, at Bishangari. Groundscraper Thrush Psophocichla litsitsirupa This spotted thrush was seen in higher-lying areas around Dinsho, Dodola and Goba.

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NOTE: This subspecies of Groundscraper Thrush P. l. simensis is considered a distinct species by some authorities and would therefore become a further Ethiopian endemic. This split is based on distribution (P. l. simensis forms an isolated population far to the north of the nominate form), habitat (high altitude grasslands versus wooded Southern savannas of the nominate), plumage and vocal differences. IOC and Clements does not as yet recognize this split. African Thrush Turdus pelios Seen well at Lake Awassa. Bare-eyed Thrush Turdus tephronotus After quite a bit of searching we found this dry country thrush at our lunch stop between Negele and Yabello. NOTE: Clements uses the common name African Bare-eyed Thrush. Abyssinian Thrush Turdus abyssinicus Common at various higher altitude sites like Addis Ababa, Harenna Forest and Lalibela. NOTE: The Olive Thrush complex has been split by the IOC into five species. Clements does not as yet recognize any of these splits, some of which are already well accepted e.g. Taita Thrush T. helleri.

Chats, Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae Black Scrub Robin Cercotrichas podobe We followed up mere glimpses with fantastic top-of-the-bush views the following morning at Bilen. White-browed Scrub Robin Erythropygia leucophrys We saw this small robin along the Bogol Manyo road, at Yabello and Awash NP. NOTE: This widespread African complex is being reviewed for a 3-way split, the Southern African C. l. leucophrys group would become White-browed Scrub-Robin, the Central African C. l. zambesiana would be Red-backed Scrub- Robin and the Northern African C. l. leucoptera would become White-winged Scrub-Robin. The latter is the form we recorded in Ethiopia. Clements does not as yet recognize these splits. Abyssinian Slaty Flycatcher (E) Dioptrornis chocolatinus This endemic was common in our hotel garden in Addis Ababa. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Melaenornis. Northern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis edolioides Seen a few times with best sightings at Bishangari. African Grey Flycatcher Bradornis mycrorhynchus This species was common in dry woodland, seen around Yabello, the Bogol Manyo road and Melka Ghebdu track. NOTE: The sub-species we saw is sometimes considered a split from African Grey Flycatcher B. microrhynchus, known as Ethiopian Grey Flycatcher B. pumilis. Pale Flycatcher Melaenornis pallidus This non-descript bird was seen on the Lalibela extension. African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta This tiny forest flycatcher was seen in Addis Ababa, Bishangari and Weliso. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Dusky-brown Flycatcher. Rüppell's Robin-Chat (NE) Cossypha semirufa This lovely bird was common at our Addis Ababa hotel, Weliso, the Juniper Forest and Bishangari. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Rueppell's Robin-Chat. White-browed Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini This accomplished songster was seen alongside Lake Awassa. Spotted Palm Thrush Cichladusa guttata This species showed nicely for us at our lunch stop near the Genale River region and also at Yabello. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Spotted Morning-Thrush. Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos This extreme skulker was heard only at Awash NP. Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus This handsome bird was seen art Lake Ziway and Bishangari. White-winged Cliff Chat (E) Monticola semirufus We had good sightings of this species in Jemma Valley and at Lalibela.

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Common Thrush Monticola saxatilis We had various sightings of this bird along the Bogol Manyo road and around Yabello, among other places. Little Rock Thrush Monticola rufocinereus We saw this small rock thrush along the Melka Ghebdu track, at Jemma Valley and Lalibela. Whinchat Saxicola rubetra This dapper little species was recorded near Robe, at Ghibe Gorge and at Liben Plain. Siberian Stonechat Saxicola maurus We saw this uncommon species at Lake Ziway and in Jemma Valley. African Stonechat Saxicola torquatus This very attractive species was seen near Dinsho. NOTE: Although IOC and Clements recognize the split of African S. torquatus and European S. rubicola Stonechats, the form we recorded in the highlands of Ethiopia S. t. albofasciata is considered for further separation as Ethiopian Stonechat and would then become an Ethiopian near-endemic. Neither IOC nor Clements recognize this split. Moorland Chat (NE) Pinarochroa sordida A very common species in highland areas like the Sanetti Plateau, Ankober Escarpment and around Dinsho. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Cercomela. Mocking Cliff Chat Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris This arresting species was cmmon around Lalibela and in Jemma Valley and Ghibe Gorge. NOTE: White-crowned Cliff-Chat, T. coronata of West Africa is considered by IOC as a full species. Clements does not recognize this species as yet. Rüppell's Black Chat (E) Myrmecocichla melaena Seen at Jemma Valley and Lalibela. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Rueppell's Chat. White-fronted Black Chat Pentholaea albifrons We found this species on the Lalibela extension. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Myrmecocichla. Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe Seen a few times around Goba, Liben Plain and Bilen. NOTE: The North-West African race may be split off as Black-throated Wheatear O. seebohmi (although this is not yet ratified by the IOC). The Palaearctic migrant forms which we recorded would remain within the nominate group. Red-breasted Wheatear Oenanthe bottae This attractive bird was found in high-lying fields around Goba and Robe. NOTE: This African and Arabian complex is treated as two species by IOC, Heuglin’s Wheatear O. heuglini of the Sahelian zone of Africa and Red-breasted Wheatear O. bottae, which is resident in Ethiopia and Arabia and is the form which we recorded. This split is not as yet recognized by Clements. Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina A common species found in a variety of dry habitats, seen most days of the tour. Pied Wheatear Oenanthe pleschanka This species was common throughout, often inhabiting more wooded habitats that the previous species. We also saw the scarce vittata form at Jemma Valley. Blackstart Oenanthe melanura We saw this species nicely at Fantale Crater. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Cercomela. Brown-tailed Rock Chat Oenanthe scotocerca We had good views of this species at Sof Omar. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Cercomela. Sombre Rock Chat (NE) Oenanthe dubia As scintillating-looking as it sounds, this near-endemic was seen in lava fields alongside Lake Beseka . NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Cercomela. Abyssinian Wheatear Oenanthe lugubris We had sightings of this wheatear at Jemma Valley, Melka Ghebdu track and Lalibela.

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NOTE: Clements does not support this spilt and lumps it with Mourning Wheatear (Oenanthe lugens)

Sunbirds Nectariniidae Eastern Violet-backed Sunbird Anthreptes orientalis We saw a few along the Dawa River. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Keyna Violet-backed Sunbird. Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris This tiny sunbird was seen in at Sof Omar. Nile Valley Sunbird Hedydipna metallica Sadly we only saw females and non-breeding males of this beautiful species at Bilen. Olive Sunbird Cyanomitra olivacea We eventually had good views of this drab sunbird at Bishangari. Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis This stunning species was seen at Lake Awassa and Bishangari. Hunter's Sunbird Chalcomitra hunteri The dry country equivalent of the previous species, we saw this en route to the Dawa River. Tacazze Sunbird Nectarinia tacazze So common at our hotel gardens in Addis that everyone got tired of seeing them! Beautiful Sunbird Cinnyris pulchellus We saw this long-tailed little sunbird around the Rift Valley lakes, unfortunately none in great breeding plumage. Marico Sunbird Cinnyris mariquensis This beauty was seen in the Genale River region and along the Bogol Manyo track. NOTE: Some authorities split this complex into 2 full species. The subspecies C. m. osiris which we recorded in Ethiopia would become Swahili Sunbird as opposed to the nominate form which would remain as Marico Sunbird. Black-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris nectarinioides We saw a pair along the Dawa River. Shining Sunbird Cinnyris habessinicus We saw this gorgeous bird at Sof Omar and Bilen. Variable Sunbird Cinnyris venustus We saw both forms of this sunbird – albiventris (white) and fazoqlensis (yellow) races. NOTE: We recorded the white-bellied race which may be split. Neither IOC nor Clements recognize this split.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae White-browed Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser mahali A common species, especially in the Rift Valley, around Bishangari and Bilen. Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-Weaver This attractive species was seen in Jemma Valley and near Lalibela. Grey-capped Social Weaver Pseudonigrita arnaudi We saw this little bird in woodland near Liben Plain. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Gray-headed Social-Weaver. Black-capped Social Weaver Pseudonigrita cabanisi Found on our way to Yabello from Negele. Shelley’s Sparrow Passer shelleyi We saw these rufous sparrows near Soda. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Shelley’s Rufous Sparrow. Swainson’s Sparrow (NE) Passer swainsonii Very common, seen almost everywhere and on almost every day. Chestnut Sparrow Passer eminbeyi Only a few people saw this species on the first day near Koka Dam. Bush Petronia Gymnoris dentate We had good vies at Bishangari and Ghibe Gorge.

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NOTE: Clements places this species and the next in a different genus, namely Petronia. Yellow-spotted Petronia Gymnoris pyrgita This unnremarkably marked sparrow was seen near Liben Plain, Sof omar and in Awash NP.

Weavers & Widowbirds Ploceidae Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis niger We had this species around Yabello. NOTE: This species complex might be split into two, the nominate group would become Southern Red-billed Buffalo- Weaver and the form which we recorded in Ethiopia would become Northern Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver B. intermedius. Neither IOC nor Clements recognize this split. White-headed Buffalo Weaver Dinemellia dinemelli This good-looking species was common around Awash NP and Bilen, also Sof Omar. Speckle-fronted Weaver Sporopipes frontalis We saw these tiny weavers in Jemma Valley and near Lalibela. Thick-billed Weaver Sporopipes frontalis We saw this species in Awash NP. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Grosbeak Weaver. Baglafecht Weaver Ploceus baglafecht Common in Addis Ababa, at Lake Awassa, Dinsho, Goba and Jemma Valley. NOTE: This polytypic species complex has been considered for multi-species splitting. We recorded two distinct subspecies which stand a good possibility of full species recognition: the nominate Baglafecht Weaver P. b. baglafecht was recorded around Addis Ababa and other higher altitude sites, and “Emin’s” Weaver P. b. emini was recorded through-out the Rift Valley e.g. Awassa. IOC and Clements do not recognize these splits. Little Weaver Ploceus luteolus We had sightings of this species at Lake Awassa and Bishangari. Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis Seen at Lake Awassa. Rüppell's Weaver Ploceus galbula We saw this at Lake Chelekcheka and later at Awash NP. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Rueppell's Weaver. Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius Seen briefly at Bilen. Vitelline Masked Weaver Ploceus vitellinus We had sightings between Negele and Yabello and in the Genale River region. Speke's Weaver Ploceus spekei We had sightings at Liben Plain and Yabello. Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus Seen at Ghibe Gorge and Lake Ziway. Chestnut Weaver Ploceaus rubiginosus We had good views en route to Dawa River. Red-headed Weaver Anaplectes melanotis This stunning weaver was seen at Sof Omar and Bishangari. NOTE: This species complex might be split into two, the southern nominate group would remain Red-headed Weaver and the northern black-faced form which we recorded in Ethiopia would become Red-winged Weaver A. leuconotos. Neither IOC nor Clements recognize this split. Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea Seen in good numbers, especially around Awash NP, Bilen and Bishangari. Black-winged Red Bishop Euplectes hordeaceus We saw a few non-breeding birds in Jemma Valley. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Black-winged Bishop. Northern Red Bishop Euplectes franciscanus Birds in non-breeding plumage were seen at Lake Chelekcheka, Awash NP and Bilen. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Orange Bishop. Yellow Bishop Euplectes capensis

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Our best views were at a wetland near Robe. Red-collared Widowbird Euplectes ardens Seen well at a wetland south of Dilla – this race laticauda keeps its long tail in non-breeding plumage.

Waxbills, Munias & Allies Estrildidae Orange-winged Pytilia Pytilia afra The least common out of the three locally occurring pytilias, and the only one we saw! We had fantastic views of a pair at our lunch stop between Harenna Forest and Negele. Cut-throat Finch Amadina fasciata Seen near Lake Awassa, the Bogol Manyol road, Bishangari and Bilen. Green Twinspot Madingoa nitidula For all intents and purposes we only heard this species as we only managed a few glimpses of silhouetted birds at Bishangari. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Green-backed Twinspot. Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala This species was common in savannah and forest edge at Lake Awassa, Addis Ababa, Bishangari, Bilen, Awash NP and other spots. Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Uraeginthus bengalus We recorded this cute species on most days of the tour. Purple Grenadier Uraeginthus ianthinogaster We saw this beautiful species en route to and around Yabello and Negele. NOTE: Clements places this species and the next in a different genus, namely Granatina. Abyssinian Waxbill (NE) Estrilda ochrogaster Seen nicely at Ghibe Gorge. NOTE: This is a recent split from Fawn-breasted Waxbill Estrilda paludicola and is not accepted by Clements. Crimson-rumped Waxbill Estrilda rhodopyga We had this at Sof Omar, Melka Ghebdu track and our lunch stop between Harenna and Negele. Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild Seen at a small wetland outside Robe. Quailfinch Ortygospiza atricollis We eventually got super views of this secretive little bird at Lake Chelekcheka. African Silverbill Lonchura cantans This little bird showed well at Awash NP. Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata We found this species at Ghibe Gorge, Addis Ababa and Lake Awassa. NOTE: Clements places this species and the next in a different genus, namely Spermestes.

Indigobirds, Whydahs Viduidae Village Indigobird Vidua chalybeata We had scattered sightings, including at Jemma Valley, Ghibe Gorge and Awash NP. Note: This extremely confusing species complex is in consideration for a multi-species split. The form which we recorded in Ethiopia V. c. ultramarina would become Purple Indigobird as opposed to the nominate V. c. chalybeata Green Indigobird of West Africa and the southern V. c. amauropteryx or South African Indigobird. IOC and Clements do not recognize these splits. Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura Seen in Jemma Valley on our last day. Straw-tailed Whydah Vidua fischeri Seen along the Bogol Manyo road. Long-tailed Paradise Whydah Vidua paradisaea This beautiful species was seen en route from Negele to Yabello and at Awash NP. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Eastern Paradise-Whydah.

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Wagtails, Pipits Motacillidae Western Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava This species was plentiful in grassy, agricultural and damp habitas. Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Seen nicely at Sof Omar. Mountain Wagtail Motacilla clara Also seen well at Sof Omar and later at Awash NP. White Wagtail Motacilla alba Singletons were seen at scattered wetlands across the tour. African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp Seen in Awash NP and Ghibe Gorge. Abyssinian Longclaw (E) Macronyx flavicollis We saw this near Dodola and later had excellent views of birds on the Sanetti Plateau. African Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus Seen near Dodola. Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris We saw this species alongside the Alleghedi Plain. Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis This inhabitant of rocky areas was seen in Jemma Valley and Ghibe Gorge. Plain-backed Pipit Anthus leucophrys We had this species on Liben Plain and near Soda. NOTE: A. l. goodsoni of central and SW Kenya may be split off from the nominate group A. leucophrys. The Ethiopian races we recorded would probably remain within the nominate complex. Neither IOC nor Clements recognize this split. Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis We saw this pipit between Harenna Forest and Negele and also around Yabello. Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus Common around Lake Chelekcheka, Bishangari and near Dodola.

Finches Fringillidae African Citril (NE) Crithagra citrinelloides This pretty sexually dimorphic canary was seen at Lake Chelekcheka, Lake Awassa and Bishangari. NOTE: This complex is now treated as three full species by IOC: Southern Citril, S. hypostictus, the central Western Citril S. frontalis and African Citril S. citrinelloides. Yellow-rumped Seedeater (NE) Crithagra xanthopygia Seen well in Ghibe Gorge and Lalibela. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Serinus, and uses the common name Yellow-rumped Serin. Reichenow’s Seedeater Crithagra reichenowi These were common around Negele, Liben Plain and Yabello. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Serinus. Yellow-throated Seedeater Crithagra flavigula Seen wonderfully well along Melka Ghebdu track. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Serinus, and uses the common name Yellow-throated Serin. Yellow-fronted Canary Crithagra mozambica We had a terrific sighting of two birds at Sof Omar. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Serinus. Yellow-fronted Canary Crithagra mozambica This species showed well in Ghibe Gorge. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Serinus. White-bellied Canary Crithagra dorsostriata We enjoyed good views at Yabello. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Serinus. Ankober Serin (E) Crithagra ankoberensis We had really incredible sightings at both Lalibela and Gemasa Geden (Ankober Escarpment).

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NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Carduelis. Brown-rumped Seedeater (NE) Crithagra tristriata We saw these drab canaries at our hotel in Addis Ababa, Dodola and Gemasa Geden. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Serinus. Streaky Seedeater Crithagra striolata Also common at our hotel in Addis Ababa, Dodola, Dinsho and Goba. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus, namely Serinus. Yellow-crowned Canary Serinus flavivertex A few were seen at a wetland near Robe, as well as Harenna Forest. Ethiopian Siskin (E) Serinus nigriceps This beautiful endemic was common on the Sanetti Plateau, around Gemasa Geden and at Lalibela. NOTE: Clements uses the common name Abyssinian Siskin.

Buntings & Allies Emberizidae Striolated Bunting Emberzia striolata A few birds provided excellent views at Lake Beseka. Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Emberiza tahapisi Seen near Yabello and again, later, at Jemma Valley. Somali Bunting Emberiza poliopleura We saw this lovely species around Yabello, along the road to Bogol Manyo and at the Dawa River.

Annotated List of Mammals recorded (39 species)

Note: Names and taxonomical order of the land mammals follow that of “The Kingdom Field Guide to African Mammals”; additional names are given in parenthesis and are likely to appear in other popular field guides.

Baboons & Monkeys Cercopithecidae Guereza Colobus Colobus guereza This lovely pied primate was seen around Lake Awassa, Goba, Bishangari and Weliso. Sacred (Hamadryas) Baboon Papio hamadryas We had distant views at Sof Omar followed by much closer sightings along the road between Bilen and Awash NP. Olive (Anubis) Baboon Papio anubis A widespread species that was found at many sites including Lake Awassa, Bishangari and Awash NP. Gelada Theropithecus gelada We saw a few of these peaceful primates at Gemasa Geden, perched perilously on the side of a sheer cliff! Grivet Monkey Cercopithecus aethiops We saw this monkey at Lake Awassa, Bilena and Awash NP. Vervet Monkey Cercopithecus pygerythrus We had good views at Sof Omar.

Galagos Galagonidae Senegal Galago Galago senegalensis We had great views on our night drive near Yabello.

Bats Chiroptera Horseshoe Bat sp. G sp. Many were seen well in the Sof Omar caves, but identification of these similar-looking species is difficult unless the animal is in the hand.

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Yellow-winged Bat Lavia frons We were pleasantly surprised to find two of these lovely bats in Acacia woodland along the Bogol Manyo road.

Hares & Rabbits Leporidae Cape Hare Lepus capensis A single animal was seen, not by all, at Bilen. Scrub Hare Lepus saxatilis Very common around Yabello, also in Awash NP. NOTE: The subspecies which was encountered in Ethiopia is L. fagani which is often regarded as a different species; Abyssinian Hare. Starck's Hare Lepus starcki An individual gave us excellent close-up views on Sanetti Plateau.

Squirrels Sciuridae Unstriped Ground Squirrel Xerus rutilus These were common around Yabello, also seen near Bilen. Striped Ground Squirrel Xerus erythropus We saw one of these en route from Harenna Forest to Negele. Gambian Sun Squirrel Heliosciurus gambianus We had good views at Lake Awassa and Bishangari.

Rats & Mice Cricetidae & Muridae Giant Root Rat Tachyoryctes macrocephalus We eventually all managed to see these shy, bizarre-looking creatures on the Sanetti Plateau. Ethiopian Meadow Rat Stenocephalemys griseicauda These were common on the plateau.

Dogs & Allies Canidae Common Jackal Canis aureus We saw this canid near Goba, near Negele and the Alleghedi Plain. Black-backed Jackal Canis adustis Seen at Awash NP. Ethiopian Wolf (E) Canis simensis We had great sightings of the world's rarest canid atop Sanetti Plateau. NOTE: Latest genetic evidence indicates they are most closely related to the Eurasian Wolf (C. lupus). Bat-eared Fox Otocyon megalotis Seen poorly at Alleghedi Plain and better at Awash NP.

Mongooses Herpestridae Dwarf Mongoose Helogale parvula We saw this cute little species near Yabello.

Genets & Civets Viverridae Common Genet Genetta genetta We saw this beauty on our night drive near Yabello and on our night walk at Bishangari. NOTE: Some authorities call this species: Small-spotted Genet.

Cats Felidae Caracal Felis caracal

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We had a brief but fabulous sighting of a cat sitting on a boulder on our way up to the Sanetti Plateau... spotted by a sharp-eyed guest!

Hyraxes Procavidae Ethiopian Rock Hyrax (NE) Procavia habessinica We saw both the conventional form near Lake Beseka and the lovely rufous form at Sof Omar. Yellow-spotted Hyrax Heterohyrax brucei Seen at our lodge in Weliso and also at Sof Omar.

Hippopotamus Hippopotamidae Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibious We saw quite a few in the middle of the Ghibe River in Ghibe Gorge.

Pigs Suidae Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus Seen well in Bale Mountain NP, Bilen and Awash NP. The ones at Bale Mountain NP were impressively tusked specimens!

Antelope & Allies Bovidae Menelik's Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus meneliki We saw this endemic subspecies in the Bale Mountain NP in and near Dinsho. Mountain Nyala (E) Tragelaphus buxtoni This magnificent endemic antelope was seen in the Bale Mountain NP at and near Dinsho, with great views of a male at the park headquarters. Lesser Kudu Tragelaphus imberbis We saw this boldly striped antelope on our night drive near Yabello and later at Awash NP. Bush Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia This was common on our Yabello night drive; also seen at Bishangari and Dinsho. NOTE: Some authorities call this species: Common or Grey Duiker. Klipspringer Oreotragus oreotragus We had a good sighting of this rock-hopping antelope at the edge of the Sanetti Plateau. Salt's Dik-dik Madoqua saltiana This cute antelope was common around Bilen and Awash NP. Günther's Dik-dik Madoqua guentheri We found this dainty antelope to be common around Yabello. Bohor Reedbuck Redunca redunca We saw quite a few of these antelope in the Bale Mountain NP near Dinsho. Grant's Gazelle Gazella granti A few individuals were seen near Soda. Soemmerring's Gazelle (NE) Gazella soemmerringi We had good views of animals out on the Alleghedi Plain, and saw more in Awash NP. Gerenuk Litocranius walleri We had around a dozen animals near Soda. Beisa Oryx Oryx beisa This stunning creature was seen on the Alleghedi Plain and in Awash NP.

Annotated List of Reptiles recorded (3 species positively identified)

Leopard Tortoise Geochelone pardalis We saw one of the huge local variants at Bilen. Lanza’s Spiny Agama Agama spinosa

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We found a couple of these in the lava field alongside Lake Beseka. Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus Africa’s largest reptiles were seen in Awash NP and Ghibe Gorge.

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