When the rains arrive in the Masai Mara, everything changes. The golden grasslands turn lush green, seasonal rivers begin to flow, and with them, a wave of winged visitors fills the sky. These are the migratory birds — long-distance travelers from Europe and Asia — arriving in Kenya for rest, food, and breeding. For birdwatchers, it’s the perfect season to witness rare species and vibrant avian activity.
Why the Rains Bring the Birds
The rainy season (March–May and again in November) triggers a boom in insect life, fresh vegetation, and temporary wetlands — ideal conditions for migrating birds. The Masai Mara also sits on a key migratory route, offering a safe haven with rich food sources and diverse habitats, from open plains to acacia woodlands and riverine forests.
This seasonal abundance draws dozens of migratory bird species, many of which can be spotted in surprising numbers during a game drive or nature walk.
Top Migratory Birds to Spot in Masai Mara
Here are 10 remarkable migratory birds that make their way to the Mara during the rains:
European Bee-eater
These stunning birds are easy to spot thanks to their bright plumage and distinctive calls. They arrive in flocks and are often seen perched on wires or catching insects mid-flight.
Barn Swallow
Graceful and fast, barn swallows skim over grasslands and water, feeding on flying insects. They migrate all the way from Europe and are incredibly common during the rains.
White Stork
With long legs and elegant flight, white storks often gather in open plains and wetlands. They’re a symbol of change, arriving in the Mara just as the rains begin.
Steppe Eagle
This large raptor migrates from Central Asia and is frequently seen soaring over the savannah or perched in open areas looking for prey.
Amur Falcon
Tiny but mighty, these falcons make one of the longest migrations of any bird, flying from eastern Asia to Africa. They feed on termites and other insects stirred up by the rain.
Common Swift
Always in the air, these birds rarely land. You’ll see them darting through the skies in large groups, catching insects on the wing.
Lesser Kestrel
Another small falcon, the lesser kestrel prefers open areas and feeds on locusts and grasshoppers. It’s often seen hovering low before diving onto prey.
Eurasian Marsh Harrier
These powerful hunters favor wetlands and floodplains, using their broad wings to glide low as they search for frogs, birds, and small mammals.
Wood Sandpiper
This slender wader loves shallow pools and marshy edges created by the rains. With its spotted back and quick movements, it’s often seen darting around temporary wetlands in the Mara.
Red-backed Shrike
Don’t be fooled by its cute look — this small bird is a skilled hunter. It perches on low shrubs and uses thorny bushes to store its prey. A rare but fascinating find during the rainy months.
More birds that you can spot in rainy season in masai mara
- Yellow Wagtail
- African Paradise Flycatcher
- Wattled Plover
- Common Greenshank
- Black-winged Pratincole
- Grey-headed Kingfisher
- Spotted Flycatcher
- Northern Wheatear
- Whinchat
- Pallid Harrier
- Eurasian Hobby
- Common Nightingale
- Olive-backed Pipit
- Greater Striped Swallow
- Brown-throated Martin
When and Where to Spot Them
The best months are March to May and November, when the rains are most active. You’ll have the best luck spotting migratory birds:
- In the early morning or late afternoon
- Near temporary water bodies, marshes, and riverbanks
- In wooded and open grassy areas where insects are abundant
Bird-rich zones like the Talek River, Musiara Marsh, and Mara Triangle are fantastic hotspots.
Birdwatching Tips for Rainy Season Safaris
- Bring a pair of binoculars with good zoom power
- Use a telephoto lens for close-up photos without disturbing the birds
- Dress in earthy tones and move quietly to avoid scaring them away
- Hire a local guide who knows the bird calls and habitats
- Be patient — some of the best sightings come when you least expect them
While the Big Five may draw most safari-goers to Masai Mara, the birds steal the show during the rains. It’s a quieter, greener time of year — perfect for those who want to connect deeply with nature. If you love birdwatching or just want to witness a different side of the Mara, the rainy season is calling.
