Merops nubicus
Northern Carmine Bee-eater
A vivid pink-and-turquoise bee-eater found across northern tropical Africa from Senegal eastward. In The Gambia it's a conspicuous seasonal visitor, often seen hawking insects in open country and nesting colonially in sandy riverbanks, with colonies ranging from around 100 to several thousand nests.
Identification
The combination of carmine-pink body plumage, a turquoise-blue head/throat, and a black mask separates it from all other Gambian bee-eaters; notably larger and more brightly coloured than the Little Bee-eater.
Want to see the Northern Carmine Bee-eater?
Join Yaya on a trip to one of the sites below, or ask about an itinerary built around it — he'll help you plan the best way to find it in the field.
Tours that target this bird
A carefully paced 15-day tour from the Atlantic coast through the mangrove-lined River Gambia and into the eastern part of the country, balancing serious birding with rest, wildlife and Gambian culture. Around 300 species are possible depending on season.
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