Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
NIGEL REDMAN: BIRD TOUR LEADER
Nigel Redman is the author of
Birds of the Horn of Africa
(Princeton Field Guides) and leads birdwatching tours in
Africa.
How would you characterise birdlife in Somaliland?
Many of the birds in Somaliland are typical of those found
in the drier eastern parts of East Africa, but a suite of endemic species are of considerable interest to birders. Top
targets include the little brown bustard, Somali pigeon, Somali wheatear, Philippa's Crombec and Warsangli Linnet.
Where are the best birdwatching spots in Somaliland?
Half of Somaliland's special birds are found on the ex-
tensive, semi-arid plains and bushland that cover most of the country. The rest are in the hills of the escarpment,
which rises to 2400m and runs east to west, close to the coast. The best and most scenic area is the magnificent
Daallo Forest which holds all of the highland specialities.
What makes birdwatching in Somaliland different from other birdwatching destinations in Africa?
The 15 or
so species that can only be seen in the Somali region; all but two of these endemics occur in Somaliland. Somaliland
is perhaps best known for its profusion of larks (20 species).
Is it safe to sign up for a birdwatching tour in Somaliland?
Yes, at present it is. Somaliland has a stable and
democratically elected government. The authorities require visitors to be escorted by armed soldiers, just to be on
the safe side.
What about mammals?
Although not as rich in mammals as East Africa, Somaliland has a wide variety of mam-
mals. Most interesting is probably the beira, a small, unique species of antelope that is only found in Somaliland and
Djibouti. Speke's gazelle is another Somali endemic and quite easy to see.
Burao
POP 200,000
The capital of Todgheer province and the second-largest city in the country, Burao feels a
bit rougher around the edges than Berbera or Hargeisa, but that's part of the adventure.
There's nothing of tangible interest here, but you can soak up the atmosphere at the
live-
stock market
and enjoy being the focus of attention - as a tourist, you'll be something of
a novelty here! On a more practical note it's also a staging point for travel east to Erigavo.
Sleeping & Eating
City Plaza Hotel $$
HOTEL
