Habitat:
Wetlands, lakes, marshes

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The African Jacana, Actophilornis africanus, is a water bird known for its ability to walk on lily pads due to its long toes and claws. It features a golden-brown chest and neck, contrasting with its dark brown back and black wings. The forehead is adorned with a pale blue frontal shield, and the beak is blue-grey. This bird is mainly found in the wetlands of sub-Saharan Africa, where it feeds on insects, mollusks, and seeds. The African Jacana is polyandrous, meaning the female mates with several males, who then take care of incubating the eggs and caring for the young. This species is an excellent indicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the African Jacana, focus on wetlands early in the morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. Use a telephoto lens of 400mm or more to capture details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and wait for it to approach naturally. A tripod can be useful to stabilize your camera, especially when using a long focal length. Observe its behavior closely to anticipate its movements and capture dynamic shots.