The Sine-Saloum Delta in Senegal is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its stunning landscapes, unique ecosystems, and rich biodiversity. As the sun sets, the Delta becomes even more magical, offering the perfect setting for an evening of birding.

1. Arrival at the Delta

• Arrive in the late afternoon to catch the changing light, with the sun sinking behind the mangroves, casting an orange glow over the water.
• The air is calm, the temperature cools, and the birds become more active as the day winds down.

2. Birds to Look For

• The Delta is home to over 200 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Some species you might spot during the evening include:
  • African Fish Eagle: Often perched in tall trees, its distinctive call echoes over the water.
  • Pink-backed Pelican: These birds fly gracefully over the delta, their large wingspans making them easy to spot as dusk approaches.
  • Western Reef Heron: Look for this small, solitary heron as it hunts along the shorelines or in shallow waters.
  • Great Egret: Elegantly walking through the waters as the golden light enhances their long, graceful necks.
  • Pied Avocet and Black-winged Stilt: Wading birds that add character to the muddy shores as the tide shifts.
  • Marabou Storks: Towering figures that slowly drift across the horizon as the light fades.

3. The Setting Sun

• As evening deepens, the Delta’s distinctive mangroves and salt flats glow under the low light. The sky may turn vibrant shades of red and purple, providing an incredible backdrop for birdwatching.
• Many species of waterfowl, shorebirds, and migratory birds become more active at this time as they prepare to roost for the night.

4. The Soundscape

• The evening brings a symphony of bird calls—chattering kingfishers, the croaking of frogs, and the distant cry of a fish eagle. As the day transitions to night, the quieter sounds of the Delta's wildlife take over, adding to the serenity of the experience.

5. Best Birding Locations

• Basse-Casamance River: One of the best spots for birding, especially as the sun starts to set, as it is home to a rich variety of species.
• Toubacouta and Ndangane: Two small villages near the Delta, with numerous birdwatching spots in the surrounding salt marshes and mangrove forests.

6. Practical Tips

• Binoculars: Essential for spotting distant birds in the mangroves and over the water.
• Camera with a Zoom Lens: Ideal for capturing the beauty of the birds against the evening sky.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear light, neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
• Insect Repellent: The Delta's wetlands can be home to mosquitoes, especially at dusk.

7. Evening Reflections

• As you leave the Delta, the sight of birds returning to their nests, the sound of the water lapping against the shore, and the fading light provide a perfect conclusion to a day of birding.

The Sine-Saloum Delta offers an unforgettable evening birdwatching experience, where nature, tranquility, and vibrant birdlife come together as the day fades into night.