Arkansas is one of the premier bird watching locations in the United States. Arkansas birding provides tourism dollars that can be used for conservation of habitat, and to support the local businesses that rely on tourists for their livelihoods. With over 400 native species, Arkansas is a prime location for a vacation watching birds.
The first, and probably the most practical reason is that it is affordable. Since Arkansas is centrally located within the United States, it is, with a few exceptions, just about a day's drive from anywhere in the country. This kind of access, coupled with the low cost of living in the area, makes a trip affordable. If you are coming from out of state or from the East or West coast, you will be delighted at the hospitable nature of the people who call the state of Arkansas home.
Another reason to consider Arkansas as your next bird watching vacation is the availability of local resources. A bird watching clubs are easily found and there are Audubon societies in the area, and most are ready and willing to provide information that will allow visitors to capitalize on all of the birding opportunities that an area has to offer. If you are serious about heading to Arkansas to do some bird watching, make sure you check out BirdingArkansas.com. Here you will find a number of resources and links that will help you plan your trip.
Arkansas bird watching recently made headlines around the world when the Ivory Billed Woodpecker, long thought to be extinct, was discovered living in the swamps of Arkansas. These sightings have led to resurgence in wild life awareness in the area and have increased the number of tourists and birding enthusiasts in the area.
Bull Shoals State Park, DeGray Lake Resort State Park, and Devil's Den State Park each host bird watching festivals or events at different times of the year. These organized festivals and events allow enthusiasts from around the country to come together and share information and to enjoy the company of folks who share similar passions. Local bird watching club involvement is very active in supporting these events.
One of the best ways to experience Arkansas bird watching is to participate in one of the many tours that are available. The Arkansas state park department provides a list of events and tours for the full calendar year, so that you can make your schedule well in advance. There are many benefits to taking a guided tour. You will get to where the birds are without wasting a lot of time wandering and driving in unfamiliar territory.
Although bird watching is an activity that can be done virtually anywhere on the planet, Africa remains one of the most popular destinations on the planet for a bird watch adventure. Specifically, there is a substantial portion of the tourism industry in Southern Africa that is meeting the needs of bird watching in Africa. Service providers recognize the needs and desires of bird enthusiasts and create safaris and adventures designed with the serious bird watcher in mind.
What Region is Best?
Bird Watching in Africa is also popular on the Eastern portion of the continent. The bulk of the tourism is in the South, but a larger number of species exist in the Eastern nations of Kenya and Tanzania than anywhere else. Boasting over 1300 species, bird watchers in Eastern Africa have the opportunity to see 15% of the world's bird population in one trip. While the number is not so striking in the South, it is still substantial at 920 species. This equates to about 10% of the world's known species.
One of the nations that makes up the Southern area is Botswana. There are several prime destinations within Botswana. One is Chobe National Park. Here bird watchers will find over 450 species of native African birds. Another popular bird watching destination in Botswana is the Okavango Delta. Striking wildlife displays can be seen here seasonally as tiger fish follow the migrating birds up river. A trip to the famous Victoria falls should be planned in when visiting Botswana as well.
When considering East Africa for bird watching, Kenya provides a diverse range of opportunities. From the Central Highlands, which are heavily forested, to the lower lying lakes region, Kenya is a haven for many of Eastern Africa's bird species. When considering Kenya, be sure to check out Aberdare National Park, Amboseli National Park, Lake Baringo, Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, Mount Kenya National Park and the Kakamego Forest Reserve. Several of these parks also serve as the home to various species of primates that are sure to attract your attention as you keep your binoculars turned towards the trees searching for birds.
Make the Most of this Incredible Bird Watching Destination
If you are going to invest the time and money into a trip to go bird watching in Africa, you will want to make sure that you take plenty of time to prepare. Research the species that you may be encountering so that you don't have to spend all of your time leafing through guide books. Read reviews on guides and outfitters to ensure that you have the best possible experience that you can. Some services meet certain needs and interests and you want to make sure that you get the most out of your once in a lifetime investment.
Article Source :
John Edmond has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home Management, Camping and College Education. John Edmond writes regularly for a number of websites on on oudoor recreation and pursuits including and. John Edmond's top article generates over 60500 views. to your Favourites.