Delta Inhabitants: Birds, Hippos, Impala and more

The Okavango Delta is alive with an incredible diversity of wildlife, from the dawn chorus of birds to the ripples of a hippo breaking the water’s surface. Impalas move in elegant herds, their keen senses always alert to the presence of predators. Kingfishers, herons, and African fish eagles dominate the waterways, while crocodiles lurk in the shallows. This collection celebrates the smaller, often-overlooked inhabitants of the delta—the creatures that bring movement, sound, and life to this extraordinary wilderness.

➡ Continue exploring Botswana’s wildlife:

• Predators: Lions, Cheetahs, and Leopards
• Large Mammals: Buffalo, Elephants, and Giraffes

🔙 Return to The Heart of Botswana: A Wildlife Collection

The Okavango Delta is a paradise for bird lovers, with an incredible variety of species filling the skies, reeds, and waterways. From the striking colors of the lilac-breasted roller to the sheer grace of an African fish eagle in flight, each encounter was a chance to capture the beauty and diversity of Botswana’s birdlife.

African Hornbill

Bateleur Eagle

Carmine Bee Eater

Lilac Breasted Roller

Silent and motionless, Nile Crocodiles lurked along the water’s edge, their presence barely noticeable until a sudden movement sent ripples across the surface. Their prehistoric appearance and piercing eyes made for fascinating subjects—perfectly adapted predators that have ruled these waters for millions of years.

The deep grunts and splashes of hippos were a constant soundtrack in the Delta. These seemingly comical creatures, with their round bodies and expressive faces, can be deceptively aggressive. Whether yawning wide to reveal their enormous tusks or bobbing just beneath the surface, they provided endless opportunities for dramatic and playful images.

Often overlooked due to their abundance, impala are among the most elegant and photogenic animals of the Delta. Their sleek coats, delicate features, and effortless leaps through the grasslands made them a joy to photograph, whether silhouetted against a golden sunset or standing alert, ever watchful for predators.