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Brufut Woods

West  >  Gambia

Located not far from the coast and locally managed, this forest offers a good chance of spotting a special bird species, the Long-tailed Nightjar.

Added* by Piet Grasmaijer
Most recent update 20 augusztus 2022

Description

Brufut forest is an easily accessible birding location not far the main resort areas of The Gambia. The site is managed by WABSA (West African Bird Study Association) in collaboration with community of Brufut. The area protects a tiny pocket of dense coastal forest and open woodland. A great place for birding and well known because it is a good place for spotting Long-tailed Nightjar which is reliably seen here at close quarters. Nature lovers will feel at home in the tropical surroundings of the Brufut Woods. The area is a hive of activity for resident and migrant bird species. It is located in the eastern part of the village where you can enjoy the picturesque scenery by following the dusty path routes, through areas of canopy trees and grassy plains. Among the birds you can encounter are Splendid Sunbird, Guinea Turaco, Verreaux's Eagle-Owl, African Paradise-Flycatcher, Northern Puffback, Bruce's Green-Pigeon, African Yellow White-eye, African Pied Hornbill, Violet Turaco, Cardinal Woodpecker, African Harrier-Hawk, Pin-tailed Whydah and Long-tailed Nightjar.

Details

Access

Brufut Woods is easily accessible from the hotels on the coast via the Coastel Road (GPS location: 13.372924,-16.756894). It is easiest to hire a local bird guide including transport. You are then assured of good local knowledge.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Plain , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , Agriculture , City/village

Conditions

Flat

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Unpaved road , Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

The Gambia is excellent for visiting independently, but an expert bird guide (and The Gambia has many very good local birders, see the link to the Bird Guide Association The Gambia below) can be of added value to spot less easily found species. Finding Long-tailed Nightjar is extremely difficult without local knowledge.

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

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