The Gambia is a birders paradise. Africa's smallest country is home to around 500 species of birds and many birders manage to see from 100-300 new species in as little as a week. A photographer on the other hand will have to work hard to get a handfull of pictures since most of the birds are small, fast and shy. Having a good guide is a great help and ensures that Gambians and the local tourist industry recognizes the value of preserving the forests and mangroves which are the primary habitats of many birds.
We had the expert assistance of a local guide named Dawda Barry who is based at the Kotu Creek Bridge, one of the best birding areas along the coast. Dawda can be reached at birdseer@hotmail.com or cellphone +220 778 7051.
Gambia is an extremely poor country, and the use of relatively inexpensive local guides is a good way to help, without resorting to charity.

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