The avifauna of Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal: a review of historical and recent ornithological records

Abstract

We present the results of a review of the bird species historically observed in Niokolo-Koba National Park, a World Heritage Site and 913 000 ha natural protected area in southeastern Senegal. In carrying out this work we consulted both formal and informal literature, and contacted the original observers whenever possible to try to verify unusual observations. We conclude that there is sufficient evidence to support the historical presence of 400 bird species in or just outside the park, although two species can be considered as locally extinct. We also list 19 additional bird species whose presence can be considered as possible or probable. The historical patterns of the observations are briefly discussed. If only those species observed after 1992 are counted, 333 bird species would be considered as present in Niokolo-Koba National Park.