The birds of Madagascar: True representatives of the beauty of Malagasy nature

Madagascar is home to 258 bird species, 115 of which are endemic. The island's avifauna can be observed in various protected areas, ideally between October and December. From the ankoay to the kingfisher and the iconic flamingos, birdwatching enthusiasts are always delighted. So, grab your cameras and binoculars !

Legendary birds of Madagascar

While Madagascar is best known for its lemurs, the island is also a birdwatcher's paradise. Of the 258 recorded species, most are endemic. In the past, giant ground birds roamed the island, but they gradually disappeared with the arrival of humans around the year 1000. However, historical accounts and testimonies suggest that rare elephant birds were sighted as late as the 17th century. These massive birds stood about 3 meters tall and weighed nearly 500 kilograms. Unable to fly due to their small wings and heavy weight, they had strong legs that allowed them to run quickly. A single 10-kilogram egg from these birds could have fed over 150 people! Fossilized eggs and skeletons are displayed in various museums, including the one at Tsimbazaza Zoo in Antananarivo.

Birds in beliefs and symbolism

Today, many bird species face extinction due to environmental degradation and local beliefs. For example, the Madagascar fish eagle (Haliaetus vociferides), known as ankoay, is considered a sorcerer’s bird and a symbol of evil. Its dwindling population is primarily located in the western regions of the island, but deforestation and pollution may threaten its survival without human intervention. These raptors measure 60 to 70 cm in height with a wingspan of 165 to 180 cm and have a grayish-white cap, throat, and nape, with some brown or reddish feathers.

In Malagasy royalty, the sparrowhawk symbolized power, as evidenced by the bronze sparrowhawk statue at the entrance to the Queen’s Palace. Among the Sakalava people of western Madagascar, the Mijoa bird (ibis) is believed to represent the connection between the living and the dead.

Endemic land birds of Madagascar

Among the endemic land birds, the Madagascar serpent eagle is notable. This small eagle, measuring 66 cm with a wingspan of about 1 meter, feeds on chameleons and geckos and inhabits the rainforests of Tsaratanana in northeastern Madagascar. Another remarkable species is the long-tailed ground roller (Uratelornis chimaera), the only species in its genus. Found in the spiny, arid forests near the southeastern coast, this bird measures 34 to 47 cm (including a 30 cm tail), is gray with blue feathers, and feeds on invertebrates.

Endemic water birds of Madagascar

Water birds are among the easiest to spot and include some of the most striking species. For instance, the Malagasy kingfisher boasts stunning rufous and white plumage. The Bernier’s teal (Anas bernieri), found in the lakes of Ambondro and Sirave in the Androy region (southern Madagascar), is particularly appealing to ornithological tourists. It stands out from gray teals with its reddish plumage. The Coua, a famous forest bird, is known for its blue skin patch behind the ears and a gray-blue crest. Its name mimics its distinctive call from treetops over 15 meters high.

Birdwatching in protected areas

Madagascar offers numerous protected areas ideal for birdwatching. For example:  

- Ankarafantsika National Park: Home to 129 bird species, including 75 endemic ones.  

- Masoala National Park: Hosts approximately 60 endemic species, including the serpent eagle.  

- Mahavavy–Kinkony Wetlands Complex: A paradise for birdwatchers, covering 258,900 hectares, showcasing birds with dazzling colors such as flamingos, fishing eagles, and sacred ibis.  

- Tsimembo-Manambolomaty Protected Area: Located in the northwest, it's the perfect spot to observe the ankoay.  

- Tsimanampetsotsa National Park: In the south, visitors can see birds perched on baobabs or near turquoise waters. It boasts 72 species, including flamingos and the red-shouldered vanga (Calicalicus rufocarpalis).