It is the only place to see Rhinos in the wild during your Uganda wildlife safaris. In fact, a traveler who is interested in seeing all the big 5 safari animals on Uganda safaris should visit the Uganda Rhino Sanctuary.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a not-for-profit project established to revive the population of the endangered White Rhinos in Uganda. The Rhino species previously roamed free in the savannah plains of Murchison Falls National Park and Kidepo National Park.

However, following the intense civil wars and poaching that happened in the 1990s, they depleted the species. And, today, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to 32 southern White Rhinos and has become famous for Rhino trekking.

Brief History Of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda

Uganda had both the Black Rhinos and Northern White Rhinos in its national parks of Murchison Falls and Kidepo National Park. However, due to the prolonged civil wars in the 1970s, poaching for ivory and mismanagement of their natural habitat led to the wiping out of the Rhinos by 1982.

Ziwa Ranch was first a cattle farm in 1983 that introduced exotic cattle in Uganda. It was a private farm owned by Captain Roy and his family.

In 2002, after lengthy discussions with Rhino Fund’s Executive Director, Yvonne Verkakik decisions were made to relocate 7,000 herds of cattle to establish a Rhino sanctuary.

After a lot of fundraising, the land was fenced to prevent intruders and create enough security for the project. Finally, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda was established in 2005 to re-introduce Southern White Rhinos in Uganda.

The project started with 6 Rhinos 4 of which were bought from Solio Ranch in Kenya and 2 were donated from Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the USA. In 2013, the Rhino population had grown to 13 individuals.

Today, the number has increased to 32 Rhinos Southern White Rhinos. The Rhino sanctuary is 70 km2 surrounded by a 2-meter electric fence to secure Rhinos from intruders. It has 112 rangers who are on a full guard of the Rhinos.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary works hand in hand with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Rhino Fund of Uganda to conserve the Rhinos.

Attractions In Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary | What To See

Attractions in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda are gorgeous making the sanctuary a perfect destination for wildlife safaris in Uganda. The main prize is the Rhinos. However, the Rhino Sanctuary is home to at least 40 mammal species including;

• Monkeys,
• Antelope species
• Hippos, and
• Crocodiles

There is a 10-kilometer swamp known as Lugogo Wetland where the rare Shoebill is a resident along with other water-associated birds.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has over 350 bird species like

• White Crested Turaco,
• Great Blue Turaco,
• Giant Kingfisher,
• Palm-nut Vultures,
• Barbets,
• Woodpecker species

Safari Activities At Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda | What To Do

Usually, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda is a prominent stopover for those going for Uganda safaris in Murchison Falls National Park. However, this amazing place has wonderful Uganda safari activities one can always engage in during their visit.

Activities done in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary include;

1. Rhino trekking,
2. Shoebill trek and canoe rides
3. Birdwatching
4. Nature walks

Rhino Trekking

Rhinos are the second largest land animals after the African Elephant. Trekking the Southern White Rhinos in their natural habitat is extraordinary and a lifetime experience.

The endangered Rhinos move freely in the 7,000 hectares of land feeding on grasses. Rhino trekking is done at any time of the day though the recommended time is between 8-10 am or 4-8 pm.

Each session lasts between 1½ to 2½ hours depending on where you spot the Rhinos. You can first drive into the area in search of the species, and when spotted you can step out of the vehicle for up-close views.

However, you are escorted by armed rangers for safety and guidance. Those with no vehicles can always hire cars with a driver from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary reception.

Furthermore, it is advised to wear closed shoes, long pants and carry water and insect repellent.

Rhino Trekking Fees/Cost

Please Note; the Rhino trekking fees listed above exclude entrance fees which are $20.

2. Shoebill Trek And Canoe Ride

The Shoebill is one of the sought-after bird for everyone to see when birding in Uganda. And, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is one of the best places where the sighting of the Shoebill is guaranteed.

Records of Rhino Sanctuary have proved that 11 individuals were spotted in 1 trip within the swamps. Anyone who is on Uganda birding tours shouldn’t miss this golden opportunity of seeing the Shoebill.

Visitors set out on a canoe early morning at 6:00 am in search of the Shoebill along the 10 km stretch in Lugogo swamp. This epic encounter can last for approximately 4 hours enjoying the sunrise on the canoe along the nature swamp.

Since the spectacular activity is done in the morning, it is advised to spend the night in the sanctuary since no one is allowed to access it before 7:30 am.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Shoebill Trek Fees/Cost

Note that the mentioned rate is not inclusive of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary entry fees.

3. Bird Watching

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has over 350 Uganda birds that those on Uganda bird-watching safaris can enjoy. The Rhino Sanctuary has four birding trails that cover woodlands, swamps, and savannahs.

And, during bird watching in the sanctuary, you can as well see other games like Antelope species and Warthogs. Visitors can observe birds here at any time of the day though the best times are in the morning (7-9 am) and evening (4-6 pm).

The wonderful activity usually lasts for 2 hours. They may seem short though are worth it. However, to enjoy the experience of seeing birds more, one has to spend more than 1 night in Rhino Sanctuary.

These are some of the birds spotted in the Rhino Sanctuary;

• Shoebill
• Grey-crowned Cranes
• Abyssinian Ground Hornbill
• Pel’s Fishing Owl
• Hammer Kop
• African Fishing Eagle
• Giant King Fisher

And many spectacular bird species

4. Nature Walks

Nature walks in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda are among the notable wildlife safari activities in the area one on a Uganda safari holiday can enjoy. The guided nature walks in this sanctuary will see you off in search of Uganda wildlife and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Visitors can always go for nature walks at any time of the day though the best and recommended time is in the morning and evening. More also, you are escorted by armed rangers during the nature walks to offer you protection and guidance.

You can follow the four walking trails in the sanctuary passing in savannah and woodland vegetation giving you natural wonders. If lucky, you can spot primates like Monkey species, Rhinos, animals, and bird species.

The nature walks in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary usually last for 2 hours leaving you mesmerized by the beautiful landscape of the small area.

Nature Walks In Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Fees/Cost

Please note that all prices listed exclude Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary entry fees which is $20.

What Is The Best Time To Visit The Rhino Sanctuary?

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is open to visitors all year long though the best time to visit the sanctuary is in the dry season. The dry season is epic as it gives you successful experiences, especially during activities when on your Uganda tours.

Since all the tracks in the Uganda Rhino Sanctuary are marram, they are dry in the dry season leading to easy accessibility. It is also easy to spot birds especially the rare Shoebill since the water levels in the swamp are low favoring the residence of the bird.

The dry season in Uganda is from December to February and from June to August. Usually, this is as well the peak season of tourism in the country.

In the wet months, it may rain heavily during safari activity time causing delays or missing the activities. However, nature lovers who are interested in scenery viewing should visit in the wet months as new green grasses will be growing again.

Visitors especially birders should put in mind that the sanctuary receives migrant birds from November to April.

Why Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda? | What is Unique At The Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda should be on every tourist’s itinerary on safaris to Uganda especially those visiting Murchison Falls National Park. It is the only place in Uganda to see Rhinos making your African safari memorable as you get to see all the big 5.

It is one of the best places for spotting the prehistoric-looking Shoebill. A canoe ride in the Lugogo swamp is the best way of seeing the Shoebill when in the Uganda Rhino Sanctuary.

And, there are other birds to see in the sanctuary as has over 350 Uganda birds making it a paradise for bird lovers.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has other wild animals as it has over 40 mammal species including Antelope species, Warthogs, and Crocodiles. For sure, every visitor on Uganda tours in Uganda should visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary as it has got it all in one place.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Accommodation | Where To Stay?

Visitors visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary don’t have to worry about where to stay as the Rhino Sanctuary has got fine accommodations.

Accommodation in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary fits every traveler’s budget as there is a luxury lodge, mid-range guesthouse, and a campsite. Accommodation in the sanctuary includes Amuka safari lodge and Ziwa Rhino Campsite, BackPackers, and Lodge.

1. Amuka Safari Lodge

Amuka Safari Lodge is a luxury lodge nestled in pristine woodlands in the heart of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This wonderful lodge brings you breathtaking encounters of Uganda’s only Rhinos as well as birds and other wildlife.

The Lodge offers comfortable and affordable accommodation not expected elsewhere in the African wilderness. Its accommodation is offered in unfenced chalets that make the most of the bush environment.

Amuka Safari Lodge has an escapist feel of seclusion and when you are there, it is like nothing else exists in the world.

Rooms at Amuka Safari Lodge

Amuka Safari Lodge currently has 10 units and among these are 4 family chalets having 3 beds perfect for families.

The other are 6 standard chalets each with one bedroom and bathroom. Each chalet is named after one of the Rhinos and is constructed from hardwood timber and stone.

Chalet facilities at Amuka Safari Lodge

• All chalets are complete with, personal verandas can where visitors can lounge.
• They have chairs where visitors can sit and take in the serenity of the surroundings.
• All chalets are tucked into the woodlands which provide complete privacy.
• They have en-suite bathrooms with private toilets and showers.
• It has double comfortable beds with clean linen and clear views to the surrounding area.

Other facilities at Amuka Safari Lodge

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Swimming pool
• Kid’s play area
• Free Wi-Fi

2. Ziwa Rhino Campsite, BackPackers, and Lodge

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers budget and mid-range accommodations to visitors. The budget accommodation is offered at a campsite which is like the compound of the sanctuary.

Visitors who camp at the campsite pay $20.

The midrange accommodation at the sanctuary is divided into two guesthouses.

Guest House One

This guesthouse is comfortable and nice to spend a night in and has the following rooms.

1. Room Obama En-suite with Veranda (Single and Double occupancy)
2. Room Malaika (Single and Twin occupancy)
3. Room Sonic and Nguzo En-suite Room (Single and Double occupancy)
4. August (Family Room) (Max occupancy 4 pax + 1 child)

Guest House Two

Guesthouse two has 4 rooms all with special names and these are;

1. Room No. 1 Bella
2. Room No. 2 Kori
3. Room No. 3 Umoja, and
4. En-suite Dorm Room

Room facilities at the guesthouse

• En-suite bathrooms with toilets and showers
• Comfortable double beds with mosquito nets
• Inside working table
• Lounge
• Private verandas

Other facilities at the Ziwa Rhino Campsite, BackPackers, and Lodge

• Restaurant
• Bar

What To Wear When Visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?

When visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you need to dress decently and simply. Choosing what to wear may seem challenging for you and that’s why we are here to guide you. This is a list of what you can wear.

1. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
2. Comfortable shoes
3. Hat or cap
4. Sunglasses

Long-sleeved shirts and trousers will cover your body entirely preventing insects from biting you and itching plants from contacting you. They can as well keep you warm when it is cold.

However, they should be light and not bright colors as these colors stress animals. Khaki and brown are highly recommended.

Comfortable shoes are of great importance as they keep your feet dry and protected from piercing objects. They should be light, cover your ankles, and have rubber soles to always keep you stable on the trails.

A hat or cap keeps your head from the strong sunlight as it covers your entire head. It should however be fitting enough as it can be blown away by the wind during your wonderful safari activities.

Sunglasses should be polarized to reduce the glaze of the sun protecting your eyes and giving you cleat sightings.

What To Pack Or Carry When Visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a great destination to visit when on your safari in Uganda. However, there are some essential items you need to carry with you if you are to enjoy the full gist of the visit.

These are;

1. A good camera with extra batteries
2. Binoculars
3. Poncho/ Rain Jacket
4. Insect Repellent
5. Sunscreen
6. Bottled Water
7. Backpack
8. Walking sticks

A good camera is for capturing all the safari memories that you will share with friends at the end of your trip. And, mind carrying extra charged batteries and memory cards since there are very many memories to encounter.

Binoculars are one of the best things to pack first as they give you clear sightings of far wildlife by zooming in. They are used often, especially during birding excursions in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

A poncho or rain jacket will prevent you from getting wet in case it rains when embarking on safari activities in the sanctuary.

The Insect repellent will chase away all dangerous insects that may bite you and infect you with diseases.

Sunscreen is to protect your skin from getting damaged by the strong sunlight in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, especially during nature walks.

Bottled water is to keep you hydrated at all times since you may move long distances during Rhino trekking or birdwatching.

The backpack is to help you keep essential small items in one place with you always. Items like sunscreen, camera batteries, insect repellent, water, and travel documents are kept in a backpack.

Walking sticks give you extra support during the activities especially when the trails are slippery.

How To Get To Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located in the north of Kampala the capital city of Uganda in Nakitoma in the Nakasongola district. Its geographical coordinates are 1°29’08.0″N, 32°05’43.0″E.

From Kampala along Gulu Highway is about 190 km which is around a 3-hour drive en route to Murchison Falls.

Conclusively, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a top touristy destination for one on a Uganda safari vacation. It is the only place in Uganda to find Rhinos in the wild. Also, it is a good place for seeing the Shoebill during Uganda birding tours.

Visitors going for Murchison Falls safaris can en-route to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to trek the Rhinos and get new experiences.

Let us tailor your safari in Uganda including the Rhino Sanctuary to get all the fun on your safari. Kindly send us an inquiry.

It is recognized as a Ramsar site and a significant area for Uganda safaris in Murchison Falls National Park. The Nile-lake Albert delta stretches from the devil’s cauldron where River Nile squeezes in an 8m gorge dropping 45m and forming the Murchison Falls.

After dropping, the Nile loses its power flowing smoothly to Lake Albert. However, before connecting to the lake, it forms a shallow area dominated by a swamp and wetlands.

This swamp area is made up of papyrus, marshes, and thick bushes and some part has rolling savannas.

Lake Albert delta is home to a lot of bird species and is significant as a hotspot for birding in Uganda. This is why it is an Important Bird Area as it has over 75 water-associated bird species.

It is one of the best places for seeing the rare Shoebill when on your African safari in Uganda, especially during the dry season.

Other unique water-related bird species to see here include;

• Goliath Herons
• African fish eagles
• Grey-crowned cranes
• Saddle-billed stork
• Denham’s bustard
• Black-winged and Spur-winged lapwing, and
• Senegal thick-knee

The morning boat cruise to Lake Albert delta is the best way to explore the area giving you wonderful views. It is a 20km distance voyage that can last for about 4-5 hours leaving you mesmerized with wildlife views.

Tall acacia standing along the Albert Nile Game viewing track immediately north of the junction with the Queen’s track host several woodland birds.

Herds of grazers in the area especially Buffaloes are often attended to by insectivores like Cattle Egrets and Oxpeckers.

Uganda animals to see in the Nile-Lake Albert Delta area include

• Uganda kobs
• Defassa waterbucks
• Jackson’s hartebeests
• Buffalos
• Giraffes
• Oribi
• Patas monkey
• Side-stripe jackals
• Lions

Attractions At The Nile-Lake Albert Delta | What To See At The Nile-Lake Albert Delta

The Nile-lake Albert Delta is full of tourist attractions everyone on a Murchison falls safari in Uganda would like to see. These attractions range from Uganda bird species, animals, and Lake Albert.

Visitors will get lifetime experiences when they come to this area and they will want more since it is rewarding.

These are some of the attractions at the Nile-Lake Albert Delta

1. Uganda Birds At The Nile-Lake Albert Delta In Murchison Falls National Park 

The Nile-Lake Albert Delta is one of the best places having water-related bird species which some are only endemic. When birding Uganda, this is the ideal spot for you to be and see these beautiful flying creatures.

It has 78 spectacular unspoken-for water birds including the rare Shoebill. It is home to 3 globally endangered and 7 nationally threatened bird species like the Grey-crowned Cranes and the Papyrus Gonolek.

Those on Uganda birding safaris can always board a 4-5 hour boat cruise to the Nile-Albert Delta to see these birds.

Here are the birds found at the Nile-Lake Albert Delta

2. Uganda Animals At The Nile-Lake Albert Delta In Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda animals come along the Albert Nile game viewing circuit to refresh from the Lake shores. Additionally, herds of grazers like Buffaloes are present in the area though the prize of the area is the Rothschild’s Giraffes.

Giraffes here are spotted in large herds of over 30-50 individuals which is not common elsewhere during your Uganda wildlife safari.

While at the Delta circuit, look out for the known Hippo Point where several hippos come out of the water to graze.

More also, Lion prides have come to the delta circuit because of the antelope species that are in the area.

Here are some of the animals along the Albert Nile game viewing circuit

• Rothschild Giraffes
• Hippos
• Lions
• Crocodiles
• Elephants
• Buffaloes
• Waterbucks
• Bushbucks
• Jackson’s Hartebeests
• Warthogs

Safari Activities At The Nile-Lake Albert Delta | What To Do At The Nile-Lake Albert Delta In Murchison Falls National Park

The Nile-Lake Albert Delta has 2 main Uganda safari activities everyone is yarning for when on their Murchison Falls National Park safari. They are, bird watching and the boat cruise though, the Albert delta boat is favored by bird watchers.

The Nile-Lake Albert Delta Launch Cruise

The Nile-Lake Albert Delta launch cruise is the most recommended for those on safaris in Uganda and who want to explore the delta area. The cruise sails downstream a 20-kilometer stretch and is mostly favored by travelers on a Uganda birding safari.

And, it is the best way of seeing the rare Shoebill, particularly during the dry season when the water levels are low. The cruise departs from Paraa Jetty at 07.00 am scheduled with breakfast on board.

While on the boat cruise, you can enjoy the views of the Congo mountain ranges with undulating forested horizons.

The Nile-Lake Albert Delta launch cruise is between 4-5 hours returning to Paraa with unforgettable memories. Wild Frontiers operates the cruises and charge $55 per adult.

Visitors can always go for the Nile-Lake Albert Delta launch cruise at any time of the year. However, the best time is in the morning and the dry season when the water levels are low. This makes navigation easy and sightings of wildlife come quickly and easily.

What Is The Best Time To Visit The Nile-Lake Albert Delta?

The Nile-Lake Albert Delta is visited all year throughout. However, the best time is in the dry season as the water levels of the Nile are low making navigation easy and sightings come quickly.

Many water-related birds don’t like when the water levels are high and may intra-migrate to other areas.

The dry months are from December to February and from June to August. During these months, little or no rainfall is received in the area leading to successful sightings of animals and birds since there are no delays.

However, weather is unpredictable and can change at any time of the day as it can rain during the dry season or shine in the wet season. And, since it is a birding spot, many migratory birds are in the area from November to April.

Why Visit the Nile-Lake Albert Delta? | What Is Unique About The Nile-Lake Albert Delta

The Nile-Lake Albert Delta is the best bird watching area in Uganda for seeing water-related bird species. It has got the highest opportunities among other areas for spotting the rare Shoebill.

It has 78 water birds with 3 globally endangered and 7 nationally threatened including the Grey-crowned Cranes. It is a gentle and national bird of Uganda.

There are other animals to see in the area like Rothschild Giraffes, Hippos, Lions, Waterbucks, and Bushbucks.

This is the best opportunity of seeing the longest river (River Nile) pouring its water into Lake Albert the biggest Rift Valley lake.

What To Wear When Going To Visit The Nile-Lake Albert Delta?

There is wear you need to put on when visiting the Nile-Lake Albert Delta when on your safari in Uganda. Don’t stress yourself trying to look for clothing that you should wear, we are here to guide you.

Here is some wear you can always put on.

1. Long Sleeved shirts and trousers

These will keep you warm in case it is cold. It will as well keep you from getting bitten by insects since your body will all be covered. However, avoid putting on bright colors since they stress animals and birds. Brown and Khaki are recommended.

2. Light Shoes or Boots

Shoes will keep your feet protected throughout the entire trip to the Nile-Lake Albert Delta. Shoes should have rubber soles that will keep you stable on the boat deck and should be light.

3. Polarized Sunglasses

These will reduce the glaze of the sun and protect your eyes and hence giving you clear sightings.

4. Hats or Caps

Murchison Falls National Park is hot and a hat or cap will protect your head from that. However, it should be fitting so that it is not blown away from your head by the wind.

What To Carry When Going To Visit The Nile-Lake Albert Delta?

The Nile Delta area is a good destination to see especially for those on Uganda birdwatching safaris. However, there are some essential items you need to carry with you when visiting the area, especially going for a boat cruise.

These are some of the essential items to carry

1. A pair of Binoculars
2. A camera or phone for Photography
3. Poncho or Rain Jacket
4. Sunscreen
5. Insect repellent

A pair of binoculars; since the Delta is a birding area, binoculars are highly recommended. They will bring closer far sightings, especially those of birds.

A camera or phone for photography; will help you capture unforgettable memories. The area has many sightings and surprises so please come with extra charged batteries and memory cards.

Poncho or rain jacket; a poncho will prevent you from getting wet when it rains when on the Nile Albert Delta launch cruise.

Sunscreen; Murchison park is hot so it is advised to pack sunscreen.  You will apply it to your body to prevent it from getting damaged by the hot sun.

Insect repellent; will chase away all the dangerous insects that may bite you and infect you with diseases.

The Nile-Lake Albert Delta area is one of the best rewarding places for birding watching in Uganda. It has the highest number of water birds in the country.

If you are on your Murchison falls safaris, this Nile Delta area is an ideal spot for you to visit. It gives you the best opportunities of seeing the rare Shoebill and the biggest rift valley lake (Lake Albert).

The delta circuit is rich with wild animals and herds of Giraffes are spotted along the area. Indeed the Nile-Lake Albert Delta is a tourist destination for everyone to visit.

For any inquiries, send us an email.

The Kaniyo Pabidi Forest is essentially a northeastern extension of the Budongo Forest Reserve. The natural beauty is characterized by mahogany and ironwood trees. Kaniyo Pabidi is as well subjected to Swan-forest mixed trees and with Cynometra mid-altitude semi-deciduous Celtis forest.

This small forest was managed by the Jane Goodall institute but was handed over to Budongo eco-lodge in 2009.

Kaniyo Pabidi is a significant area in tourism and it can be enjoyed on Uganda safaris. It is well known for those on Uganda Chimpanzee tours as they visit the tourism site to track Chimpanzees.

This is because it hosts Uganda’s densest population of chimpanzees, recently estimated at around 6.5 individuals per square kilometer. Spotting chimpanzees in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest is easy as chances are at 80%.

And, it also has other Uganda primates like Olive Baboons, Blue Monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, and Black and White Colobus monkeys.

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest is also favored by those birding in Uganda as it allures a selection of over 360 birds. Some of the birds are West and Central African species as well as Guinea-Congo forest-related birds.

Unique Uganda birds in the forest include the Great Blue Turacos, White-thighed Hornbills, Crested Guineafowl, Kingfishers, Little Greenbul, and Ituri Batis.

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest in Murchison Falls National Park is a top destination, especially for those on a Murchison falls safari.

Wildlife In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

The wildlife in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest is extraordinary and unique. If you are on your safari in Uganda then you will not be disappointed with the wildlife and nature in the forest.

Wildlife in the forest ranges from primates, birds, moths, butterflies, mammal species, and tree (plant) species.

1. Primates In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

Uganda primates in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest are amazing and mount to a total of 9 species. The forest has over 120 Chimpanzees that play within the area and drum tree stems and can be heard hooping in the tree canopy.

Many Monkey species swing on the mahogany tree branches and are spotted picking ripe fruits for food. And, Kaniyo Pabidi has nocturnal primates that are not easily sighted in other places in Uganda like the Galagos and Pottos.

These primates in the forest are enjoyed most by those on Uganda primate safaris.

Below Are The Primates In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

1. Chimpanzees
2. Red-tailed Monkeys
3. Blue Monkeys
4. Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys
5. Olive Baboons
6. Vervet Monkeys
7. Pottos
8. Galagos
9. L’Hoest’s Monkeys

Uganda Birds In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

Birds in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest are sought-after birds and every bird lover should see these amazing flying beauties when birding Uganda.

This forest has over 360 bird species and some of these are West and Central African birds and others are Guinea-Congo forest birds. The Yellow-footed Flycatcher and Puvel’s Illadopsis are only endemic to Kaniyo Pabidi Forest not elsewhere in East Africa.

Some of the birds in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest include;

• African shrike-flycatcher
• Puvel’s Illadopsis (found in no other place throughout the whole of East Africa)
• Yellow-footed Flycatcher
• Chestnut Wattle Eye
• Narina Trogon
• Little Greenbul
• Chestnut-Winged Starling
• Grey Apalis
• Dwarf Kingfisher
• Pygmy Kingfisher
• Chocolate Backed Kingfisher
• Great Blue Turacos
• Several forest Sunbirds and Hornbills including the striking White-thighed Hornbill.

1. Other Wild Animals In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

Animals in Kaniyo Pabidi are not commonly spotted though move within the forest boundaries. There are not so many animals in the forest as a few cross from the savannah Murchison Falls National Park.

Visitors in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest mostly spot Antelope species and their droppings are seen on the walking trails.

Big cats like Lions and Leopards are occasional visitors in the forest as they are heard at night roaring. When on your wildlife Uganda safari in the forest, you can spot Elephants and Buffaloes passing through the forest.

Forest Giant Squirrels are sighted running on the forest floors and Pangolins shying away in the tree canopy.

Things To Do In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest | Safari Activities In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest has amazing safari activities that visitors on safari Uganda can do.

It is the best place for chimpanzee trekking in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda birdwatching safaris and nature walks. These activities should not be missed by anyone during their safari tours in Uganda.

• Chimpanzee Trekking In Kaniyo Pabidi

Kaniyo Pabidi is the second best place in Uganda after Kibale National Park for Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. The forest has 1 habituated Chimpanzee community with over 120 individuals.

This activity will give you close views of the apes in their natural habitat. Chimpanzee trekking at Kaniyo Pabidi is conducted by Budongo Eco-lodge which is responsible for taking care of the Chimpanzees.

Trekking of the apes is done twice a day in the morning and the afternoon. It starts with a 30-minute briefing which is conducted by a ranger from Kaniyo Pabidi eco-tourism site headquarters.

Each session sets out to track the apes consisting of 8 tourists led by an armed ranger. Chances of seeing the Chimpanzees in the forest are at a rate of 80%. And, it is about 2-5 hours depending on where you find the Chimpanzees.

After you have come across the Chimpanzees, you are given 1 full hour to be with them which is breathtaking and memorable.

The age limit for Chimpanzee trekking in Kaniyo Pabidi is 14 years. A Chimpanzee trekking permit is $120 per person.

• Chimpanzee Habituation At Kaniyo Pabidi

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience will have you spend a full day with the Chimpanzees as you learn about their way of life. Chimpanzee Habituation is a long process and can take around 15 years to fully habituate a community.

The habituation of Chimpanzees at Kaniyo Pabidi started in 1992 to make the apes get used to human presence.

Same to Chimpanzee trekking, chimpanzee habituation experience in Kaniyo Pabidi starts with a briefing. You then join a group of rangers and professional guides on their daily program of following and habituating the Chimps.

It is a full-day experience and so it is wise and advisable to carry packed lunch which is provided by the lodge.

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience is at a fee/cost of $230 per person.

• Bird Watching In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

Bird watching in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest is superb as it is among the best bird watching areas in Uganda. This small forest has phenomenal species that are unique and mount up to 360 bird species.

Most of the birds here are forest-related species as it has Guinea-Congo forest region bird species. It has well-developed trails one can follow and get clear views of birds.

Those on birding safaris in Uganda do birding in the forest mostly in the morning and evening. This is when the birds are most active as they are spotted leaving their nests and coming back in the evening.

Look out for the White-thighed Hornbill, Ituri Batis, Crested Guineafowl, Puvel’s Illadopsis, Yellow-footed Flycatcher, Kingfishers, and Sunbirds.

There is no limitation to bird watching in Kaniyo Pabidi as it is done all year round. However, migratory birds are in the forest from November to April.

Cost -Fees For Birdwatching In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

• Nature Walks In Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest has one of the best walking trails in Uganda. Its well-developed trail system sums to a total of 115km leaving you speechless as you will want more. The trails take you around the forest giving sightings of mother nature.

Nature walks in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest are done in the morning (8 am) and the afternoon (2 pm) and usually last for 2 hours. These nature walks are return trips as the starting point is the ending point.

You are accompanied by skilled and armed rangers to guide you through the entire session of nature walks. The trails are not steep and are flat meaning that anyone can enjoy the walks in style.

During these walks in the forest, you can spot primates like Chimpanzees, Olive Baboons, Blue Monkeys, and Vervet Monkeys.

Birds to look out for are the African Dwarf Kingfisher, Black-Eared Ground Thrush, Blue-Breasted Kingfisher, Brown Twinspot, Cassin’s Hawk Eagle, and Cassin’s Spinetail

What Is The Best Time To Visit Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

Uganda Safari undertakers can visit Kaniyo Pabidi Forest at any time of the year. However, the best time is in the dry season/dry months as the murram roads leading to the forest are dry making accessibility easy.

Also, the trails to follow during safari activities in the forest are not slippery leading to successful experiences.

The dry months are from December to February and from June to August. During the wet months, heavy rains may cause delays in Chimpanzee trekking and birdwatching.

However, March to May and August to November are good bird watching months as there are many birds in the forest since food is abundant.

Also know that migratory birds are in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest from November to April.

How To Get To Kaniyo Pabidi Forest?

Kaniyo Pabidi is situated at 1°55’0″ N 31°40’0″ E in the northwest of Kampala with a distance of 220km which is 3 hour drive. From Masindi, it is a 30 km distance roughly less than an hour’s drive.

The forest is positioned along the murram road from Masindi to Paraa. And, it is about 8 km from the Kichumbanyobo gate of Murchison falls park.

One can fly to Pakuba airstrip for less than an hour using scheduled or chartered flights and then transfer to the forest. These flights set off from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip.

Flight operators are Aero link Uganda, Bar Aviation, and Eagle Air.

Accommodation At Kaniyo Pabidi Forest | Where To Stay When At Kaniyo Pabidi Forest?

Tourists visiting Kaniyo Pabidi can stay at Budongo Eco Lodge.

The facility is located in Budongo central forest reserve within the boundaries of Murchison falls national Park. The lodge has eco-cabins that are inside the forest and are connected by walking paths.

All these cabins have en-suite bathrooms and toilets with hot water flowing in the showers. And, with king-size beds for double occupancy or single beds for a twin.

The lodge also has four dormitories and these are for people who travel in groups. The dormitories have bunk beds and also will a common bathroom with cold and hot water running.

Room facilities,

Facilities at the lodge are,

• Outdoor restaurant
• Visitor’s Centre with craft shop
• Lounge area
• Parking available

However, one can sleep in accommodations in Murchison Falls National Park and do activities in the forest during day time.

Why Visit Kaniyo Pabidi Forest? | What Is Unique About Kaniyo Pabidi Forest? 

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest has spectacular wildlife that will leave you mesmerized. It is the second-best place in Uganda for Chimpanzee trekking and habituation experiences after Kibale National Park.

It also has other primates that you would like to see during your safaris to Uganda. These are the Monkey species and nocturnal primates of the Galagos and Pottos.

The bird life in the forest is unmissable as it has over 360 Uganda bird species including Guinea-Congo forest-related birds. Other birds are West or Central African birds. The trails in the forest are well developed and are on a standard to give excellent nature walks.

In brief, the forest has Primates, birds, animals, butterflies, moths, and plant species of different kinds. For sure, no one would want to miss such a destination during their safari to Uganda.

What to wear when visiting Kaniyo Pabidi Forest?

There is clothing you need to wear if you are going for Uganda tours in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest. You should always wear decent as in Africa it is not proper for people to move with their body parts uncovered.

Here is what you can wear on your visit to Kaniyo Pabidi

1. Light long-sleeved shirts and trousers

These are unique and will keep you warm if it tends to be cold. They will keep your body safe from itching plants and dangerous biting insects.

However, avoid putting on bright colors as the stress animals. Khaki and brown are recommended.

2. Comfortable shoes

Most of the activities in the park require you to walk and hike, so light hiking boots are advised wear. They will keep you stable on the unproper trails and keep your feet dry. They should be able to cover your ankles.

3. Sunglasses

Sunglasses will protect your eyes from direct sunlight. They should be polarized to reduce the sun’s glaze.

4. Hat or cap

A hat or cap will protect your head from the strong direct sunlight which causes you headaches. It should fit you very well in that it cannot be blown away by the wind.

What To Pack When Visiting Kaniyo Pabidi Forest?

If you are planning to visit Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, there are essential items you need to carry or pack.

There is no need to think a lot about these items, below are some of the items you can pack.

1. A good camera with extra batteries

This is for capturing your favorite memories while in the forest, especially during Chimpanzee trekking and bird watching. Cameras with a focal length between 400mm and 600mm are highly recommended.

2. Binoculars

Binoculars will enable you to view distant wildlife like birds by zooming on them clearer to you. Binoculars with magnification between 7x and 10x are highly recommended.

3. Insect repellent

This will keep away insects from biting you, especially mosquitoes which may infect you with malaria.

4. Sunscreen

Sunscreen will protect your skin from getting damaged by direct sunlight rays.

5. Backpack

A backpack will keep all your small items in one place and with you always. Items like insect repellent, sunscreen, notebooks, and more.

6. Poncho or rain jacket

This will prevent you from getting wet in case it rains during your safari activities.

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest is not a must-miss for those on Uganda Chimpanzee tour as it is a good place for Chimpanzee trekking. The avian life of the forest is spectacular and it is a birders’ haven for tourists on Uganda bird watching safaris.

Nature walks are spectacular in the forest and it’s the right place for you to be. Activities in the forest can be combined in a Murchison falls safari giving you unforgettable memories.

For any inquiries, please send us an email.

Additionally, Rabongo Forest is an extension of Murchison falls park and it is part of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA). Historically, it is a place of great Uganda adventures that was marked by the great English explore John Speke and James Grant.

This forest is considered to be the Ugandan amazon considering the various tree species it has got. It is subjected to big tall Mahogany and Ironwood trees estimated to have a height of up to 60 meters. The other tree species are Parasitic Strangler Figs and Spiky Faraga trees.

Rabongo Forest is considered a birders’ paradise because of the endangered species found here. Some of the Uganda birds include the White Thighed Hornbills, Narina Trogon, Crested Guineafowl, Great Blue Turaco, Kingfishers, and Sunbirds.

The forest also harbors Uganda primates like

• Olive Baboons
• Black and White Colobus Monkeys
• Red-tailed Monkeys
• Vervet Monkeys

And, animals like Elephants, Buffaloes, Antelope species, Leopards, and Lions are rare visitors to the forest.

Rabongo is ideal for educational tours as it provides opportunities to identify animals, birds, medicinal plants, and trees.

For relaxation, visitors can camp and enjoy picnics along the Wairingo River and enjoy thrilling night falls of the sweet melodies from the birds.

Scenery Of Rabongo Forest

Rabongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park is full of blooming nature and pristine to those on Uganda safaris. The forest is full of Mahogany and Ironwood trees which are tall going up to 60 meters and look like city skyscrapers.

The roots of these trees look like giant amazon pythons and their canopies are occupied by Monkey species. On a lucky day, you can hear the monkeys drumming the tree stems as they are trying to communicate with each other.

Rabongo Forest is bisected by the Wairingo River which supplies wildlife with water and has riverine vegetation. This makes the forest receive annual rainfall between 1200 and 2200 mm.

What To See In Rabongo Forest | Attractions In Rabongo

Rabongo Forest is a tropical rainforest evergreen and this favors the inhabitation of wildlife like primates, bird species, and wild animals.

Visitors on safaris in Uganda can always enjoy the thriving wildlife when they visit the forest. The best way to enjoy wildlife in the forest is during nature walks.

1. Uganda Primates 

Primates in Rabongo Forest are not so many though sighting them will leave you mesmerized. Most of them are similar to those in Budongo Forest though are fewer in number since the forest is not so big.

Chimpanzees are absent in the forest though nocturnal primates of Galago species and Pottos are present.

These are some of the primates that are spotted in Rabongo Forest

• Olive Baboons (Papio Anubis)

Olive Baboons are also called the Anubis Baboon and it is native to Africa. The population of the primate is not endangered or vulnerable as it is listed least concern on the ICUN Red List.

Identification; Olive baboons are heavily built monkeys with sturdy limbs. They have green-grey fur and their face looks scary due to their doglike pointed muzzles and powerful jaws. And, have long pointed canine teeth.

Behavior; these are social primates and live in groups of 15-150 individuals and are headed by females. When they die, their daughters inherit the leadership. However, males at times babysit the young ones to make friends with females.

Feeding and diet; Olive Baboons feed on leaves, roots, fruits, seeds, mushrooms, and lichens. However, they also eat small invertebrates.

Breeding; Females Olive Baboons mates with several males and their gestation period is about 226 days. And, they produce a single offspring.

• Black and White Colobus Monkeys (Colobi)

A black-and-white Colobus Monkey is a beautiful species of old-world monkey native to Africa. It is closely related to the Red Colobus Monkey genus Piliocolobus

Identification; It has a distinctive black body, white facial markings, a long white tail, and a white side stripe. And, have whiskers and beards around their face.

Behavior; amazingly, this Monkey is capable of jumping up to 30m, an incredible sight with its white tail streaming behind.

They spend most of their time grooming each other.

Feeding; Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys are herbivores and feed on leaves, lichens, fruits, and flowers.

Reproduction; females give birth every after 20 months. Their gestation period is about 142-161 days producing a single infant.

• Red-tailed Monkeys (Cercopithecus Ascanius)

The Red-tailed Monkey is also known as the Black-cheeked, White-nosed Monkey, Red-tailed Guenon, Red-tail Monkey, or Schmidt’s Guenon. It is a species of primate in the family Cercopithecidae.

Its population is stable as it is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; it has a black or dark grey body however, it’s named after its red tail.

This Monkey has white cheek whiskers and a coppery tail. It as well has a distinctive white heart-shaped patch on its nose, giving rise to its more vivid alternative name of Black-cheeked White-nosed Monkey.

Behavior; it is a social primate as it lives in groups of about 10-30 members. The groups are headed by a mature dominant male.

However, grown males may decide to leave the group and fight other ruling males to take over power.

They collect and gather food in their mouths and eat in a safe place.

Feeding; the Red-tailed Monkeys are omnivores and on both fruits and flesh.

Reproduction; The Red-tailed Monkey is polygamous. A male can have more than two females. This Monkey’s gestation period is about 5-6 months producing a single offspring.

• Blue Monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis)

The Blue Monkey also known as a Diademed Monkey is a species of Old World monkey native to Central and East Africa. This Monkeys population is listed least concern on the IUCN Red List meaning that it’s stable and not vulnerable.

Identification; Despite the monkeys’ name, the Blue Monkeys are not blue. They’re called so due to the hairless face which seems to be colored blue. However, it has a dark head top and the coloration of the body is mainly olive or grey.

Additionally, the Blue Monkey exhibits some black and white markings all over its body with a long tail as its body.

Behavior; these are social primates and live in groups though they consist of mostly females.

Sub-adult males leave the group and return at a later age to challenge the male leader to take over.

Feeding; Blue Monkeys are herbivores and feed on fruits, flowers, and on tree figs.

Reproduction; males are polygamous and mate with many females. Females have a gestation period of about 5 months and produce every after 2 years.

• Vervet Monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus)

A Vervet Monkey is an Old World Monkey of the family Cercopithecidae native to Africa. Its population is stable as it is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. This means that the Monkeys population is stable and not endangered.

Identification; Vervet Monkeys have black faces with a white fringe of hair while their overall hair color is mostly grizzled-grey.

Males are recognized by a turquoise-blue scrotum. Also, males are larger and heavier than females.

Behavior; these Monkeys are social primates that leave in groups. They also groom each other.

Feeding; Vervet Monkeys are herbivores and feast on crops, fruits, flowers, and seeds. They as well feast on the eggs of birds and their chicks.

Reproduction; these primate species have a gestation period of 165 days producing a single offspring every year.

• Galagos | Bush Babies (Galagidae)

Bush Babies are also known as Galagos and are native to sub-Saharan Africa.

They’re named bush babies after their distinctive shrill baby-like cry in the quiet night of the jungle.

Identification; the most prominent feature of the Galago is its saucer-like eyes. These allow them to see in the dark as they hunt for prey at night.

They have small ears strong back limbs and long tails. The ears are sharp for hearing and are used for tracking insects.

Behavior; they are nocturnal primates that are most active during nighttime. They jump long distances in mere seconds.

Feeding; Galagos eat tree gum, fruits, insects, and small animals.

Reproduction; Galagos have a gestation period of about 110-133 days producing 1 baby or 2 and at times triplets.

Galagos are caring as they feed their young ones for 6 weeks and when they are 2 months, they then start to feed themselves.

Infants grow at a faster rate as they can outgrow their mother though she still has to carry them.

• Pottos (Perodicticus Potto)

Pottos are also called Tree Bears, or slow-moving tropical African primates. It’s a nocturnal tree dweller found in rainforests from Sierra Leone eastward to Uganda. It has a strong grip and grips tightly to branches.

Identification; Pottos have woolly greyish-brown fur and a non-functioning index finger.

Pottos have webbed fingers and feet. They have 4-6 tubercles that shelter their long vertebrae from the neck. They as well have scent glands under their tail and an odor.

Behavior; they are nocturnal primates and are mostly active at night. They live in big territories having more males than males though the males lead.

Pottos feed in the night and can sometimes be located at night by shining a spotlight into the canopy.

Feeding; Pottos mostly feed on fruits and sometimes feast on strong-smelling insects that other animals don’t eat.

Reproduction; the mate at any time of the year. Females have a gestation period of 193 days and usually produce a single offspring or twins.

2. Uganda Birds

Uganda birds in Rabongo Forest are extraordinary and sweet to watch especially for those birding in Uganda. If you are interested in watching forest-related birds, then Rabongo Forest is the ideal spot.

Most bird species here are the same as those in Budongo Forest. It has 2 of the big 5 Uganda birds that is the Great Blue Turaco and the Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill.

These are some of the notable birds in Rabongo Forest

• Crested Guineafowl (Guttera pucherani)

A Crested Guineafowl is a member of the Numididae, the Guineafowl bird family. It breeds in sub-Saharan Africa. This, bird’s population status is stable as it is listed least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; It is a beautiful big-bodied, small-headed, black gamebird flawlessly creased with rows of bluish-white spots. This fowl has ridiculous-looking plumes above the naked face, which holds a prominent ivory-colored bill and red eyes. Its facial skin color (red, black, and blue,) varies on geographical location.

It’s much similar to the Helmeted Guineafowl lacks a feathered crest and holds a bone-like casqued on top of its head.

Habitat; this nice-looking bird mostly forages on the ground in thickets, open woodlands, and savanna mosaics however, it’s rarely spotted.

Feeding; feasts on seeds and small insects.

Breeding; this bird is monogamous and spends most of its time in couple pairs. They lay 4-5 nearly white eggs in nests well-hidden scraped in long grass or under a bush.

• Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill (Bycanistes subcylindricus)

The Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill is also called the Grey-cheeked Hornbill. It is least concern according to the IUCN Red List and it is non-migratory.

Identification; the Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill is a large black-and-white hornbill easily identified by its enormous blackish bill with a large casque on top.

In flight, they show a broad white patch at the back of the wing and a black tail with white sides

Males have relatively large black and white bills while females are smaller. They’re monogamous, and commonly seen in pairs.

Feeding; their diet consists mainly of figs, fruits, and insects.

Breeding; females lay up to two eggs

• Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata)

The Great Blue Turaco is the largest species of the Turaco and breeds throughout the African tropical rainforest. This bird is non-migratory and its population is stable as it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Unquestionably, the Great Blue Turaco is one of the most attractive birds in Uganda.

Identification; this lovely bird is easily identified by its tall black crest, red-and-yellow bill plus black bars at the end of the tail.

It has grey-blue upper parts, a white chin, a yellow-green lower breast, and a yellow belly darkening to chestnut brown posteriorly.

Behavior; the Great Blue Turaco is gregarious, with birds forming small troops of six or seven individuals.

Feeding; this bird eats leaves, flowers, and fruits.

Reproduction; females lay 1-3 greenish-white eggs and both parents incubate the eggs for about 29-31 days.

Other Birds In Rabongo Forest

• White Thighed Hornbill
• Plain Greenbul
• Cassin’s Hawk Eagle
• Blue-Breasted Kingfisher
• Chocolate-Backed Kingfisher
• Crowned Eagle
• Chestnut-Capped Flycatcher
• Grey-Headed Sunbird

3. Other Wild Animals In Rabongo Forest

Since Rabongo Forest is surrounded by savannah grasslands, it attracts a few animals from Murchison Falls National Park. Visitors can always spot these animals on the trails that are visible in the plains.

Buffaloes and Elephants roam in the grasslands and usually come near the Wairingo River to refresh. Antelope species run on the floors of the forest. Visitors on camping safaris in the forest should be vigilant as Leopards and Lions are rare visitors.

Safari Activities In Rabongo Forest | Things To Do At The Forest

Rabongo Forest is small in size though rewarding with its unforgettable safari activities. Visitors on safaris to Uganda can always engage in nature walks, and bird watching and as well enjoy picnic and camping safaris.

1. Nature Walks

Nature walks in Rabongo Forest are rewarding as you get to see most of the wildlife while on foot. Since the forest doesn’t have safari tracks for game drives, it’s best explored on foot.

The well-developed walking trails will lead you to unusual wildlife like birds, primates, and plant species. Visitors on Murchison falls safari in Rabongo Forest can do nature walks in the morning and afternoon lasting for 2 hours.

These walks are return trips and take you around Wairingo River to see a natural beauty.

Tourists can spot primates like Olive Baboons, Vervet Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, and Red-tailed Monkeys. Uganda birds spotted include the Crested Guineafowl, White-Thighed Hornbill, Crowned Eagle, and Sunbirds.

Nature walks in Rabongo Forest are done all year through though the best time to get great experiences is in the dry season.

2. Bird Watching

Rabongo Forest is one of the best bird watching spots during your birding safaris Uganda. Many birds here are forest-related birds some being Uganda endemics and others are migratory.

The birding trails in Rabongo Forest are most rewarding with phenomenal birds like the White Thighed Hornbill and Crowned Eagle. These birds are natives and sightings come easy and quickly.

Other birds one can see include the Cassin’s Hawk Eagle, Olive-Breasted Greenbul, Brown Twinspot, Little Green Sunbird, and Kingfishers.

Visitors can enjoy bird watching in Rabongo Forest in the morning and evening hours as this is when the birds are most active. During morning hours, birds are leaving their nests and come back in the evening.

Birdwatching in Rabongo Forest is good all year though sightings come quickly during the dry season. However, migratory birds are in the forest from November to April.

Please note; Rabongo Forest is also an ideal spot for those on camping safaris in Uganda since it offers a good setting for camping.

Many visitors camp in the forest for picnics along the Wairingo River giving exclusive nightfall as you hear nature calling. However, always be on high alert as Leopards and Lions are occasional visitors to the amazing forest.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Rabongo Forest?

Rabongo Forest is open to visitors all year long though the best time for wildlife viewing is in the dry months. Also, this is as well-known as the peak season as the trails in the forest is dry and easy to access.

Little or no rainfall is expected during this time making leading to successful activities as nothing is causing any delays.

Dry months are from December to February and from June to August. Migratory birds come to the forest from November to April.

Additionally, one has to put in mind that Ugandan weather can change at any time due to climatic changes. It can rain unexpectedly during the dry season or shine hot in the wet season.

Why Visit Rabongo Forest? | What Is Unique About The Forest?

Rabongo Forest is a top destination that shouldn’t be missed when on your Uganda wildlife safaris. This forest has epic lifetime Uganda safari activities that are best here like birdwatching and nature walks.

The Uganda birds in Rabongo Forest are unspoken for as they are spotted whistling, swooping, and singing in the trees. The primates in the forest are gorgeous and sightings are easy and quick, unlike in other areas.

This forest is not so far away from Murchison falls park meaning that one can do activities at both destinations in a day. The trails in Rabongo Forest are well developed as anyone with the least levels of fitness can enjoy the activities in the forest.

Accommodation In Rabongo Forest | Where To Stay ?

Rabongo Forest has no accommodation though those interested in visiting the forest can always opt to sleep in Murchison Falls National Park. Visitors can sleep in the park and do Uganda safari activities in the forest during day time.

Here are some of the Uganda safari lodges in Murchison Falls National Park;

Luxury Accommodation In Murchison Falls National Park

1. Chobe Safari Park
2. Paraa Safari Lodge
3. Bakers’ Lodge
4. Nile Safari Lodge

Mid-Range Accommodation In Murchison Falls National Park

1. Murchison River Lodge
2. Pakuba Safari Lodge
3. Fort Murchison
4. Sambiya Safari Lodge
5. Kabalega Wilderness Lodge
6. Twiga Safari Lodge

Budget Accommodation In Murchison Falls National Park

Indeed Rabongo Forest is a supreme of nature and a true source of happiness as you get to see the unusual. The forest is rich with wildlife especially primates and its avian diversity is extraordinary.

Visitors on Uganda safaris can always enjoy the best nature walks in the forest as well as Uganda birding tours. Let us be your ambassadors and tailor your lifetime safari with activities in Rabongo Forest.

Feel free to contact us.

Budongo Forest Uganda is one of the few surviving natural rainforests in Uganda. Budongo Forest is located northwest of Kampala on the escarpment northeast of Lake Albert.

Covering an area of about 435 square kilometers, Budongo Forest is contiguous with the Kaniyo Pabidi Forest.

The outstanding natural beauty lies south of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA). Budongo Forest Reserve is under the protection of the National Forestry Authority (NFA).

However, it works with Budongo Conservation Field Station a non-government organization. This organization studies and researches the forests’ wildlife especially Chimpanzees.

Budongo Forest Reserve is the biggest Mahogany forest found in the whole of East Africa and these trees are over 80m tall. The forest is astonishingly bio-diverse with ironwood trees that are 30 years and beyond of age.

The forest is a top destination for visitors on Uganda Chimpanzee tours as it hosts one of Uganda’s largest populations of chimpanzees.  This forest is home to about 800 individuals and this leads to successful Budongo forest chimp trekking.

Other Primates Resident In The Budongo Forest Include;

• • Red-tailed monkeys
  • Blue monkeys
  • Black-and-white colobus monkeys
  • Pottos

• Galagos

Budongo Forest Uganda also holds 24 mammal species, over 360 bird species, 289 species of butterflies, and 465 plant types.

The forest is occasionally visited by Elephants and other large mammals associated with the adjacent Murchison Falls National Park.  Tree Pangolins, Elephant-shrew, and gigantic hammerhead Bats are also residents.

Budongo Forest Reserve is also one of the key destinations for visitors on ornithological safaris tours in Uganda. Indeed, its avian wealth is widely regarded to be Uganda’s single most rewarding birding spot.

The Busingiro Royal Mile, a 2.5-kilometer stretch is the best birding trail in the forest.

The sought-after bird species here include;

• Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle
• Nahan’s Francolin
• White-Thighed Hornbill
• Yellow-billed Barbet
• Forest Flycatcher
• Yellow-footed Flycatcher
• Jameson’s Wattle-eye

History Of Budongo Forest

The history of Budongo Forest is little known and what is achieved is about Vernon Reynolds who was a Chimpanzee researcher.

Vernon Reynolds first arrived in the forest in 1962.  He studied Chimpanzees and formed Budongo Forest Project which is now Budongo Conservation Field Station.

In 1965, he wrote a book about Budongo Forest and its Chimpanzees. He was on the right track until civil wars broke up in the 1970s and 1980s. These wars led to the killing of chimpanzee mothers and collectors smuggled Chimpanzee infants for wealth.

Reynolds went back to his home country returning to Uganda in 1990 to proceed with his research in Budongo Forest. He had to hire field assistants to look for the remaining Chimps and by 1995 around 50 individuals were discovered.

The number of Chimpanzees remained constant until 2000 when it started rising. Habituation was quite difficult since the Chimpanzees were terrified by human actions during the civil wars.

Budongo Sawmills Ltd buildings were renovated and then occupied by field assistants and the research team. Later in 2005, the project received funding from RZSS at Edinburgh Zoo.

The other researchers that worked with Vernon Reynolds were Jane Goodall and Adriaan Kortlandt. The Jane Goodall institute continued to work on the Chimpanzees until 2009 when it handed over the work to Budongo Eco Lodge.

Scenery And Setting Of Budongo Forest 

Budongo forest Uganda is a natural beauty with mother nature calling and whispering in the wild. The forest is mostly made of moist, medium-altitude, semi-deciduous forest, with patches of savanna and woodland.

It has a wonderful landscape rolling gently to the East African Rift Valley. As it is where the extension of the rift valley ends. Budongo forest has 4 water streams that flow to Lake Albert and these are Waisoke, Sonso, Kamirambwa, and Siba.

Annually, the rainfall received in the Budongo forest is between 1200 and 2200 mm. Many natives around the forest have pressured on the forest margins and are growing crops. And many have exploited the natural beauty for building materials and practicing poaching.

This has led to the defacement of Chimpanzees and other animals.

Tourist Attractions In Budongo Forest | What To See In Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest is a tourist destination for those on Uganda safaris. This forest has many tourist attractions one can see during his/her visit. The main attraction is the forest is its diverse wildlife that inhabits most areas of the forest edges.

The wildlife in the forest includes 24 mammal species with 9 primates, 360 Uganda species, 290 butterflies, and 465 plant species.

1. Uganda Primates In Budongo Forest

Many Uganda primate species are encountered in the Budongo forest, especially for those on Uganda primate tours. The forest has 9 primate species including the human cousin the Chimpanzee.

These apes are estimated to be around 600-700 individuals in 4 communities however the Kaniyo Pabidi group is easily accessed.

Budongo Forest has nocturnal primates like the Pottos and Galago species that you cannot miss on your Murchison falls safari.

Below is a list of the 9 primates found in Budongo Forest.

1. Chimpanzees
2. Red-tailed Monkey
3. Blue Monkey
4. Black-and-white Colobus Monkey
5. Olive Baboons
6. Vervet Monkey
7. Pottos
8. Galagos
9. L’Hoest’s Monkey

Other Wild Animals In Budongo Forest

Animals in Budongo Forest are rarely sighted though roam in the spectacular landscape of the forest.

Most of these animals are not residents as they cross from the nearby Murchison Falls National Park. The most common animal in the forest is the antelope species.

On your Murchison falls safaris in Uganda in the forest, look out for the Elephant Shrew on the forest floor and the Forest Giant Squirrel.

Forest Buffaloes are occasionally spotted with the Lions and Leopards being rare visitors in the forest. You can spot Pangolins if lucky running from one tree branch to another.

• Birds in Budongo Forest 

Birds in Budongo Forest are unique and phenomenal and are of great concern to birders who are on Uganda birding tours.

Budongo forest has a Uganda bird checklist of over 360 birds. 60 of the bird species in the forest are taken to be West or Central African birds.

It is the second most important place in Uganda with Guinea-Congo forest region bird species after Semuliki National park.

Budongo forest Uganda has two bird species that are not spotted anywhere else in East Africa and these are the Yellow-footed Flycatcher and Puvel’s Illadopsis

Below Are Some Of The Notable Uganda Bird Species In Budongo Forest.

Top Safari Activities In Budongo Forest | Things To Do In Budongo Forest | Budongo Forest Activities

Budongo Forest Reserve Uganda as a top destination has excellent activities for those on safaris in Uganda.

One can always engage in a full day of Uganda safari activities in the forest to get lifetime experiences. Some of the things to do include Chimpanzee trekking, bird watching and nature walks.

Most of these activities are not a must-miss as the Budongo Forest gives them to the fullest compared to other places.

1. Chimpanzee Trekking In Budongo Forest

Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest is one of the finest activities that will give you up-close views of the Chimpanzees. This activity is most favored by those on Uganda Chimpanzee tours.

It is the only chance to see the apes in their natural habitat. Budongo forest chimp trekking is carried out at Kaniyo Pabidi as there is 1 habituated Chimpanzee community.

Visitors do this amazing activity twice a day. This is in the morning and afternoon with each session setting off with 8 tourists. Chimpanzee trekking is usually between 2-5 hours and starts with a 30-minute briefing.

You then follow the forest trails with the guidance of a range to meet the Chimpanzees. And, after you sight the Chimpanzees, you are permitted to be with them for 1 full hour. The chances of spotting the Chimps here is at 80%.

Visitors see the apes feeding in the tree canopy and grooming each other. And if they are moving and you decide to follow them is a lifetime experience.

The Chimpanzee trekking permit in Budongo forest is $120 per person.

2. Birdwatching In Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest is one of the best bird watching areas in Uganda with over 360 bird species. The forest has Guinea-Congo forest region bird species which are not rare in most birding spots of Uganda.

The best spot for birdwatching in the forest is on the “Royal Mile” at Busingiro. However, Kaniyo Pabidi has well-developed trails to follow during birding.

Birders can do bird watching in Budongo forest in the morning and evening as this is when the birds are most active.

Visitors can always spot birds like the Olive-Breasted Greenbul, Cassin’s Hawk Eagle, Crested Guineafowl, Puvel’s Illadopsis, and the Ituri Batis.

Birdwatching in the forest is good all year though the best time is in the dry months. Migratory birds are available and present in the forest from November to April.

Cost -Fees For Birdwatching In Budongo Forest

3. Nature Walks In Budongo Forest

Nature walks in Budongo Forest are off the beaten track as they create unforgettable memories. The forest has a well-developed trail system that sums to a total of 115km giving you the real beauty of nature.

The walking trails are flat and are suitable for every traveler. They start from the Kaniyo Pabidi eco-tourism site and are return trips. Nature walks start at 8 am and 2 pm and usually last for 2 hours.

While on nature walks in Budongo forest, look out for Uganda birds and primates in the forest. Primates you can see include Chimpanzees, Blue Monkeys, and Olive Baboons.

Birds include the White-Thighed Hornbill, Crowned Eagle, Crested Guineafowl, Sabine’s Spinetail, and Grey-Headed Sunbird.

Climate And Weather Of Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest is located near the equator line meaning that the forest is hot and has a tropical climate. The forests’ temperature of the day ranges from 32°C/90°F and becomes cooler at the night with a temperature of 17°C/63°F.

The tropical rainforest has two seasons the wet season and the dry season. The wet season is usually from April to October as during this time there are heavy rains at times with storms.

In the dry season expect little or no rainfall this is from December to February.

Dry Season In Budongo Forest

The dry season/dry months in Budongo forest is when a tourist in the forest is at its highest peak. All the trails in the forest during this time are dry.

Dry months are December, January, February, June, and July. In these months, the skies are clear and it is relatively hot with high temperatures during the day at an average of 31°C/88°F.

However, temperatures turn down during the night and are at an average of 17°C/63°F. Otherwise, Budongo forest humidity is relatively low.

Wet Season In Budongo Forest

The wet season in Budongo Forest is full rainfall almost throughout the entire season. The wet months are March, April, May, August, September, October, and November.

Although they are wet months, it may not rain every day though rainfall increases and some storms may be expected. The forest trails for safari activities tend to become hard to access as they are slippery.

Temperatures in this season during the day time are about 30°C/86°F and 18°C/64°F during night hours.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Budongo Forest?

Tourists/visitors on safaris to Uganda can visit Budongo Forest at any time of the year. However, the best time to enjoy safari activities in the forest is in the dry season/ dry months.

During this time, the murram trails are dry and are easy to access since they are not slippery. Chimpanzee trekking and birdwatching are at their peak as there are no heavy rains to inconvenience you.

The best months are from December to March and from June to August. However, due to climatic changes, Ugandan weather is unpredictable as it can rain at any time of the day.

Also, migratory birds are present in the Budongo forest from November to April.

How To Get To Budongo Forest?

Budongo Forest is usually visited as en-route by those on Uganda safaris to Murchison Falls National Park. Budongo Forest is at 1.7941° N, 31.5827° E coordinates.

It is located about 300km northwest of Kampala which is at least 4 hour’s drive.

From Fort Portal in the southwest, Budongo Forest is 280km away which is about 3 hour drive.

Also if you are in Murchison falls park, it is in the southeast. From Masindi, the distance is 30km which is roughly a 1-hour drive. When driving from Kichumbanyobo gate in the south of Murchison park, the forest headquarters are 8km away.

There is a signpost along the marram road to Paraa indicating Budongo Eco-lodge and this is where the headquarters are.

One can as well fly to Pakuba airfield in Murchison Falls National Park using scheduled or chartered flights and then transferred to Budongo.

The flights are less than 1 hour and depart from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip. Flight operators include Aero link Uganda, Bar aviation, Eagle air, and many others operators.

FAQs About Budongo Forest

1. Where Is Budongo Forest Found? | Where Is Budongo Forest Located In Uganda? | In Which District Of Uganda Is Budongo Forest Located?

Budongo Forest is located at coordinates 01°43′27″N 31°32′45″E northwest of Kampala city the capital of Uganda in Masindi district. From Kampala, the distance is about 300km which is roughly 3 hour drive.

From Masindi, it is about 30km with a driving time of 1 hour and from Fort Portal is about 280km which is a 3-hour drive.

2. Is Budongo The Largest Natural Forest In Uganda?

Budongo Forest is one of the largest natural forests in Uganda covering an area of 335km. It has the biggest and oldest Mahogany trees in the whole of East Africa.

This forest inhabits primates and it is the second place with the largest number of Chimpanzees in Uganda after Kibale National Park. Its birdlife is unspoken for as it has over 360 Uganda bird species and over 465 plant species.

3. Is Budongo Forest A Natural Forest?

Yes, the Budongo forest is a natural forest. The tropical rainforest has existed for many centuries in Uganda and it is one of the best places for Chimpanzee tours in Uganda.

Budongo Forest also provides room for other safari activities like nature walks and bird watching.

4. Why Visit Budongo Forest?

Budongo Forest is a tropical natural forest rich in wildlife. It is the second-best place in Uganda to see Chimpanzees after Kibale National Park. It also has 9 primates including nocturnal creatures like the Pottos and Galagos.

The natural forest has over 360 Uganda birds 60 of which are West or Central African birds making it a birding paradise.

For nature lovers, the Budongo forest reserve has 290 Butterflies, 130 Moths, 465 Trees, and 24 mammals.

Chimpanzee trekking is the main safari activity travelers on Uganda tours can do while in the forest. Budongo Forest also has a well-developed trail system that supports nature walks.

5. What To Wear When Visiting Budongo Forest?

On your safari tours in Uganda in Budongo Forest, there is specific clothing you can wear. Most clothes are ok though they are for other occasions.

This is what you can wear when visiting Budongo forest Uganda.

1. Light long-sleeved shirts and trousers

These will protect you from dangerous biting insects and can as well keep you warm when it is cold. Avoiding putting on bright colors as they stress animals so brown and khaki are recommended.

1. Comfortable shoes

Always wear comfortable shoes that are light and will protect your feet from getting damaged by piercing items. They will as well keep your feet dry and stable on slippery trails.

1. Sunglasses

Sunglasses will reduce the glaze from the sun giving you clear sight and protecting your eyes. Polarized sunglasses are highly recommended.

1. Hat or Cap

This will cover your head entirely protecting you from the direct strong sunlight rays.

6. What To Pack When Visiting Budongo Forest?

We are aware that Budongo forest is a wonderful tourist destination and it will require you to pack a few items.

Avoid the stress of looking for what to come with. Here are some of the top essential items that you need to come with.

• A good camera with extra batteries

A camera is used in capturing unforgettable memories, especially during Chimpanzee trekking and bird watching. Cameras with a focal length between 400mm and 600mm are highly recommended.

• Binoculars

A pair of binoculars will help with clear views of wildlife that may seem to be far away. It will magnify bringing you closer views. Binoculars with magnification between 7x and 10x are highly recommended.

• Insect Repellent

It will chase away all the dangerous infectious insects like mosquitoes since there are very many of them in Budongo Forest.

• Sunscreen

Sunscreen is used for protecting your skin from getting damaged by the strong sunlight in the forest.

• Backpack

You will use the backpack for carrying other small essential items like sunscreen, a notebook, pens, repellents, and travel documents.

• Poncho or rain jacket

In case of any weather changes and it starts raining when you are in the forest, a poncho will protect you from getting wet.

Indeed, Budongo Forest, is an ideal touristy place especially for those on Murchison falls safaris. It’s a birders’ paradise as it has unique bird species including West and Central African birds and Guinea-congo biome species.

It is also the second-best place in Uganda to see Chimpanzees and Kibale National Park. It is one of the few areas with well-developed trails for nature walks.

A visit to Budongo Forest is truly remarkable and wait for no one to tell you about the forest wonders. Let us guide you through that lifetime travel experience in the forest.

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Murchison falls park holds the highest diversity of Uganda animals/Uganda wildlife among other national parks of Uganda. This park is home to over 144 mammal species.

Among them are the four of African safari Big Five animals (Lions, Elephants, Leopards, and Buffaloes). The Rhino is absent as it is only found in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Murchison Falls National Park animals/wildlife thrive in the park’s landscape in the plain savannahs and forests. On your Uganda safari, most of these animals are sighted in the northern sector in the Buligi game area.

The park is one of the few areas where the African-bush Elephant numbers are increasing rapidly. An aerial survey counted 900 individuals in 2010 and 1330 in 2013. Reliable information proves that Elephant numbers have subsequently increased.

The Buffalo population in Murchison Falls National Park has also increased from 4,000 in 1999 to over 10,000 today.

The Lion population is incredibly estimated at a healthy 150 to 200 individuals split across 15 to 20 prides. This makes Murchison falls park to be with the highest number of Lions in Uganda.

Leopards have as well increased in number.

Other Uganda Animals In Murchison Falls National Park – Wildlife

Besides the big five, the other park’s specialty is the Rothschild’s Giraffe. The rarest of all giraffe races are often found here in large herds.

Murchison Park supports the world’s largest population of Rothschild’s Giraffe, currently estimated at around 1,250 individuals.

They inhabit the northern sector of the park, but 20 individuals were translocated to the southern sector in 2016.

Hippos are seen in the Victoria Nile leaning on each other in big numbers. The amazing park has the highest concentration of Nile crocodiles in Uganda.

The main antelope in Murchison Park is the Uganda kob and big herds of them inhabit the grassy plains. The Uganda Kob population has leaped from around 7,500 in 1999 to more than 3, 5000 today.

If you watch these antelopes carefully, you won’t have any problems spotting Lions.

Spotted Hyenas are also present in significant numbers.

Also common in varying degrees are.

• Jackson’s Hartebeests
• Defassa Waterbucks
• Oribi
• Bohor Reedbucks
• Warthogs
• Grey Duiker
• Bushbucks.

In the savannah and woodland areas, Vervet Monkeys, Olive Baboons, and the localized Patas Monkey thrive.

Kaniyo Pabidi and the nearby Budongo forests harbor around 600-700 Chimpanzees making it a great place for Uganda Chimpanzee tours.

Other Uganda primates in the Budongo include Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys, Red-tailed Monkeys, and Blue Monkeys.

Indeed Murchison falls national park Uganda has almost all the safari animals one requires to see on an African safari vacation.

For you to see and enjoy these animals, you need to engage in Murchison falls activities. These include safari game drives, boat cruises, nature walks, and Chimpanzee trekking.

 Below is a simple detailed study of Murchison Falls National Park animals

Carnivorous Uganda Animals In Murchison Falls National Park – Wildlife

Carnivore animals are those that feed on flesh and prey on other weaker animals.

On your Murchison falls safari, they’re mostly spotted while on a game drive in the northern sector.

These are the common carnivores to see in the park

1. African Lions (Panthera Leo) in Murchison Falls National Park

The African Lion (Panthera Leo) is a large cat native to Africa and India. They are the largest carnivore animals in Africa. It is one of the most recognized animal symbols in human culture.

Lions are among the African big five animals. They have been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red list. This is due to their population decrease as they are sparsely populated.

The Panthera Leo is taken to be the most aggressive animal in the wild. They show off their strength and bravery during the hunting of their prey. And this is why they were named the “King of the Jungle.”

Identification

Lions are sexually dimorphic meaning that males and females look different. Males are usually larger than females.

These males have a mane that covers their head, neck, chest, and shoulders. It is notable as it is brownish with yellowish, orange-brown, and black hair.

Lionesses lack a mane though they share other body features. Both lions are muscular with broad chests, rounded heads, reduced necks, and round ears.

And their fur varies in color from light buff to silvery grey, yellowish red, and dark brown. Their underparts are generally lighter, and the tail ends are dark with hairy tufts.

Newborn cubs have dark spots which disappear when they reach adulthood. However, some faint spots may still be seen on the legs and underparts.

Social life and behavior

Lions are social cats that live in groups known as “prides” and are headed by dominant male lions. These prides usually consist of about 15 individuals that are mature lions, juveniles, and cubs.

The big cats spend most of their daytime resting. And they are most active in the morning and late evenings when they hunt for their prey.

The lioness leads the hunts and male lions only intervene when there is some help needed.

Males are chased away from their pride when they turn 3-4 years. However, they tend to come back when they are about 7-10 years to fight the old males and take over the pride.

They hold their leadership for about 2-3 years when they are challenged by other coalitions of males. The females in most cases stay with their mothers. However, they may decide to move away to other prides when they are sub-adults.

Feeding

Lions are carnivorous and are known to be keystone predators as they prey more than they scavenge.

The amazing big cats prey on antelopes, Buffaloes though it avoids big animals like Elephants and Hippos. The big animals may cause harm to the Lion however, they grab the young ones and feast on them.

Reproduction

Lions mate any time of the year though females are polyestrous meaning that they can mate with more than one male. Females produce when they are sub-adults producing every after 2 years

They have a gestation period of about 110 days and give birth privately as they hide in thick bushes or caves. About 2-4 cubs are produced weighing about 1.2-2.1 kg. And they are produced blind and start walking in about 3 weeks.

The Lioness protects her young ones by moving them every morning to a new location. She carries them one at ago by biting them by the neck back.

Life span; in the wild, Lionesses can live to about 15-16 years whereas males typically live to about 8-10 years. In captivity, Lions can live for more than 20 years.

Habitat

Lions like inhabiting savannah grasslands, and scrub and open woodlands where they can easily hunt for their prey.

On your Uganda safari in Murchison falls park, Lions are spotted on the northern bank while on the Buligi and Victoria tracks. The best way of seeing the amazing predator is through game drives.

Visitors can also see Lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo National Park, and in a few national game reserves.

2. Leopard (Panthera pardus) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Leopard (Panthera Pardus) is a big wild cat in the family of Felidae.

This animal is mostly found in Sub-Saharan Africa and it is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red list. This is because its population status is threatened by its habitat loss.

It is among Africa’s big 5 savannah animals that one would love to see when on an African safari.

Identification

Leopards are sexually dimorphic meaning that males are larger and heavier than females.

For many, leopards can be confused with a cheetah however, they can be differentiated. Leopards have rosette-shaped spots with short bigger limbs and are more muscular than cheetahs.

Its skin color varies between individuals from pale yellowish to dark golden with dark spots.

Behavior

Leopards are well known for living an isolative life in the game parks. They are solitary cats and they are spotted or 1 in pairs during the mating season.

The Panthera Pardus is shy and vigilant as it hides in tree shrubs being more active at night than in day time.

Feeding

it is a carnivore animal and mostly feasts on medium-sized animals like antelopes. It stalks, drags, and kills its prey and drags it to its hiding place which in most cases are tree branches.

Reproduction

female Leopards have a gestation period of about 90-105 days. They produce privately the same as Lionesses in hidden thickets and bushes and produce around 2-4 cubs.

The cubs are born with blind eyes and can start crawling in the next 2 days. Cubs can live on their own between 15-18 months and can give offspring between the ages of 2-3years.

Their life span is between 10-15 years.

Habitat

Leopards adapt easily to any environment as they can live in forests, mountains, and savannah grasslands.

On your Murchison falls safari, you can spot Leopards along the Buligi track in palms and sausage trees.

When on your wildlife tours in Uganda, they can as well be spotted in Kidepo National Park, Queen Elizabeth park, and Lake Mburo National Park.

3. Spotted Hyena (Crocuta Crocuta) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Spotted Hyena also known as the laughing hyena is a medium-sized predator native to Sub-Saharan Africa.

It is one of the amazing animals in Murchison Falls National Park. The population of the hyena species is listed as least concern by IUCN. This means that spotted hyenas are not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification;

they’ve got a sloping back with dark brown spots. And are blessed with mighty jaws that can crack open bones and slice through the thickest hides.

They have a strong neck, rounded rump, rounded ears, a short tail, and webbed feet with short claws.

Spotted Hyenas have a pale greyish-brown or yellowish-grey color with round spots on their back and limbs.

The spots are faintly spread on the legs and belly.

Behavior;

Spotted Hyenas are social animals and live together in large groups which are known as “clans.” These clans can have individuals summing up to 80 members and are headed by females.

When the female leader dies, her female offspring takes over showing nepotism in their leadership structure.

They also have good hearing and sharp eyesight at night. Spotted Hyenas are fast and run long distances without tiring. They make weird noises including laughing.

Feeding;

Spotted Hyenas are scavengers and usually feed on the leftovers of other predators, especially Lions. However, they are as well skilled hunters and can take down antelopes.

Reproduction

these animals are non-seasonal breeders though the birth peak occurs during the wet season. Females are polyestrous having an estrus period lasting for about 2 weeks.

The gestation period of females is about 110 days. Females have a difficult birth process as their narrow clitoris breaks down for the cubs to pass. The newborn is usually 1.5kg soft with brownish-black hair.

Cubs lose the black coat and develop the spotted, lighter-colored pelage of the adults at 2-3 months. They become sexually mature when 3 years old.

Habitat

Spotted Hyenas like inhabiting thick bushes and open savannah grasslands where they can hunt for their prey.

When on your tour to Uganda in Murchison park, it’s possible to spot Hyenas in the Buligi game area during game drives.

Spotted Hyenas are also present in Kidepo National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park

4. Side-striped Jackal (Lupulella Adusta) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Side-striped Jackal is an amazing animal in Murchison Falls National Park. It is a canine native to central and Southern Africa. The animals’ population status is least concern according to the IUCN Red list.

This means that the numbers of these animals are not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; it is a dog-like carnivore, slightly larger than the black-backed jackal of Kidepo national park.

Its fur color is buff-grey, the back is darker grey than the underside, and the tail is black with a white tip. It has white stripes on the sides running from elbow to hip.

Behavior; The Side-striped Jackal is a solitary animal however, sometimes it is spotted in small groups of up to 6 individuals. They are also territorial.

Feeding; it is less carnivorous therefore, it’s omnivorous, feeding on small mammals, fruits, maize, reptiles, eggs, and birds.

Reproduction; The Side-striped Jackal is monogamous as it can be with one partner for a long period.

Their gestation period is between 57-70 days and produces about 3 to 6 pups. The young ones are mothered for about 8 to 10 weeks.

And, they reach reproductive maturity early between 6 to 8 months of age, and become independent at 11 months.

Habitat; they inhabit savannah grasslands or open woodlands.

The Side-striped Jackal is spotted on the northern bank of Murchison falls park when on safari game drives.

It’s also canid spread in all 4 Uganda savannah parks. Other parks where it is present are Kidepo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Lake Mburo park.

5. Serval Cats (Leptailurus Serval) In Murchison Falls National Park

Serval Cats are wild cats native to Africa. This wild animal is the only member of the genus Leptailurus.

It’s listed on the IUCN Red list as the least concern meaning that its population is widespread.

Identification; It is characterized by a small head with large ears. And it has a golden-yellow to buff coat spotted and striped with black, and white marks on the ear, and a short black-tipped tail.

The Serval Cat has the longest legs of any cat relative to its body size. Its eyes are green and have whitish chins and whiskers.

Behavior: this animal is solitary and it is occasionally seen singly or if lucky you can spot a mother and a kitten.

It’s active both during the day and at night. Servals may be more active for longer hours on cool or rainy days. When it is hot, they rest or groom in tree shades or grasses.

Feeding; Serval cats prey on rodents, frogs, insects, reptiles, and small birds as they can jump over 4m up in the air.

Reproduction: these cats mate once or twice a year. The gestation period of the female is about 2-3 months giving birth to around 2-4 kittens.

The kittens are mothered for 1 month and start hunting when they are 6 months becoming independent at 12 months.

On your Uganda safaris in Murchison Falls National Park, you can spot Servals in the Buligi game area.

6. African Civets (Civettictis Civetta) In Murchison Falls National Park

The African Civet is a native animal to Sub-Saharan Africa.  It is as least concern on the IUCN Red List since 2008.

This means that the population status of the animal is stable and is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification: Civets have a cat-like appearance though they have black and white blotches on their fur brownish-grey fur. It has rings on its tail that are in a cryptic pattern.

Their face is solid grey, except for a white muzzle and black markings around the eyes that lead down the face.

They are about 17-28 inches in length.

Behavior; these animals are solitary and are mostly spotted singly. They are territorial and when threatened, they raise their dorsal crest to appear big to chase away its threat.

It’s relatively nocturnal as it spends most of its day time roosting in bushes and becomes active at night.

Feeding; African Civets are omnivorous, preying on rodents, birds, reptiles, frogs, insects, fruits, etc.

They sense their prey by smell and sound, not their eyes.

Reproduction; they mate for about 40 to 70 seconds and females usually give birth in the rainy season.

Females can give birth to around 1-4 young ones. The newly born young ones are covered in dark short fur and can crawl.

Young ones leave the nest after 18 days though remain dependent on their mother for milk and protection for at least 2 more months. They have a life span of about 15-20 days.

You can spot African Civets while on nature walks in Budongo forest in Murchison Falls National Park.

Other Carnivore Animals In Murchison Falls National Park

There’re several carnivore animals in Murchison Falls National Park.  However, some are rarely spotted due to their secretive way of life.

They can be spotted on a lucky day.

7. Genets (Genetta) In Murchison Falls National Park

Genets (Genetta) are small-bodied animals in Murchison Falls National Park. This small animal is endemic to Africa.

Its population status is stable as it is listed least concern on the IUCN Red List. This means that the species is not endangered.

Identification; Genets are cat-like animals with long bodies. They have a small head with whiskers, large eyes, and large oval-like ears.

They have a long ringed tail, large ears, and a pointed muzzle with partly retractile claws. They have dark stripes along the spine.

Feeding; Genets are carnivores and feed on small reptiles, birds, and insects.

Reproduction; the reproduction cycle of these animals is unclear however, females have a gestation period of about 10-11 weeks. They produce around 1-3 kittens.

In Murchison Falls National Park, Genets are spotted in the northern bank during safari game drives.

8. African Wild Cats (Felis Lybica) In Murchison Falls National Park

The African Wild cat is a small wild animal mostly native to Africa. This animal is not endangered as is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; it is similar and identical to domestic cats but it has longer legs with a reddish color with a thin long tail.

Behavior; African Wild Cats are nocturnal animals as they mainly walk and hunt at night. They reach their prey by crawling toward it slowly hiding in the vegetation. These animals are mostly seen singly.

When threatened, they raise their hair to look bigger so that they intimidate their opponent.

Feeding; it is a carnivore animal that mostly feeds on small reptiles and snakes.

Reproduction; its gestation period is between 56 and 60 days producing up to 5 kittens. The kittens open their eyes after 10-14 days and at 3 months they learn how to hunt.

They become independent they are 6 months old.

African Wild Cats are found in the northern sector and can be seen during safari game drives.

9. Aardvarks (Orycteropus Afer) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Aardvark is a small animal native to Africa. This animal is not endangered as it is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; they have thick bodies, pinkish-gray a long nose, and a short tail. Its face looks like that of a pig and its ears are that of a rabbit.

Behavior; they are nocturnal animals as they are more active during the night. This animal is ever seen singly.

Feeding; it is a carnivore and feeds on ants and termites as it can smell them from a long distance. It as well feeds on beetle larvae.

Reproduction; the female gestation period is about 8 months and produces 1 young offspring.

10. Honey Badger (Mellivora Capensis) In Murchison Falls National Park

A Honey Badger is also known as a Ratel. It is a medium-sized animal and it is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. This means that its population is stable, and not endangered.

Identification; they have a puppy-like head, black sides, and underparts with a grey-white back. They have enormous claws that they use for digging the ground but also as weapons.

Behavior; incredibly, honey badgers are among the most fierce animals in Africa recorded attacking lions and buffalos, especially when threatened.

It’s said that they’ve been known to kill Buffaloes by running underneath them and biting off their testicles.

Feeding; they feed on reptiles, amphibians, and other small mammals

Honey Badgers have a relationship with the honeyguide, a bird that leads them to beehives for honey- their favorite diet.

Reproduction; they have a gestation period of about 7 to 10 weeks producing 1-2 cubs.

11. Mongoose In Murchison Falls National Park

Mongooses are wonderful carnivore animals in the Murchison Park which are mostly spotted in the northern sector.

Visitors can see Mongoose during safari game drives in the park most especially in the afternoons.

Mongoose species in Murchison Falls National Park.

1. Banded Mongoose
2. Greater Grey Mongoose
3. Lesser Slender Mongoose
4. Marsh Mongoose
5. White-Tailed Mongoose

Identification; these animals look like weasels and have long bodies though have short legs and small ears. And have pointed faces with long furry tails.

Many visitors have confused them with rodents though these animals have grayish-brown fur with five toes on each foot.

Behavior; they move in groups and live in communities of around 50 individuals.

Feeding; Mongoose are carnivores and feed on frogs, small reptiles, insects, and frogs.

Reproduction; females have a gestation period of about 42 to 105 days and produce 1-4 off springs.

12. Weasels In Murchison Falls National Park

Identification; Weasels are slim animals with long bodies having triangular heads. They have large eyes, rounded ears, and pointed noses with long whiskers.

They are brown, and grey with black or pale yellow patterns.

Feeding; these animals feed on mice and also on Lizards, rats, and frogs.

Reproduction; they have a gestation period of 32 days and females produce 2-3 off springs.

Herbivore Animals In Murchison Falls National Park – Wildlife

Herbivores animals depend on plant materials as their diet. The following are the commonly spotted herbivores animals while on your Uganda tour in Murchison Falls National Park;

13. African Bush Elephant (Loxodonta Africana) In Murchison Falls National Park

The African Bush Elephant (Loxodonta Africana) is the largest land animal. They are the only surviving members of the family Elephantidae and the order Proboscidea.

Elephants are natives of Africa and Asia. They are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List meaning that their population has decreased.

Physical description;

they are large big animals that are not mistakable weighing 6,000kg on average.  Elephants have pillar-like legs, wrinkled grey tough skin which is 30mm thick, and large ears.

The large ears help them to reduce body heat by flapping them.

They have sturdy tusks that curve out and then point forward. These start growing when Elephants are about 1-3 years.

Elephants have long trunks that they use for breathing, bringing food and water to their mouth, and grasping objects.

Behavior;

Elephants have behaviors similar to those of humans as they adopt orphan calves, care for the weak and also grieve for their dead companions.

Elephants live in herds and individuals move long distances with no boundaries looking for food and water. The herd of elephants is headed by a female Elephant which is not common in the Jungle.

However, some elephants are chased away from their families and are spotted walking alone or in duets.

Feeding/Diet;

Elephants are herbivore animals that feed on grasses, leaves, and herbs.

A mature elephant can consume between 250-350kg of vegetation requiring 110-190 liters of water per day.

Reproduction;

Elephants have a low reproduction rate as a female elephant produces a calf every after 8 years. They menstruate for about 3-4 months and have a gestation period of 22 months.

They have a life span of about 70- 75 years.

Habitat; Elephants like living in forests and savannah woodland.

On your Uganda wildlife safari in Murchison falls park, elephants are best spotted on the northern bank of the park. They as well come on the Nile banks in Paraa to bathe and refresh and a boat cruise is the best way to see the animal.

14. Cape Buffalo (Syncerus Caffer) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Cape Buffalo is also known as the African Buffalo. It is a large animal native to Africa.

Cape Buffaloes are listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List. It’s among the Big 5 of Africa.  And is generally regarded as one of the most dangerous animals in Uganda killing over 200 people per year

Identification; they are huge animals looking like cows with unique horns that form a continuous shield of bones.  Male buffaloes are slightly bigger than female Buffaloes.

Their color ranges from grey or black and young ones are often reddish-brown. They can weigh around 425-870kg.

Behaviors; Buffaloes live in groups of 60-100 buffaloes and these are known as gangs and are led by dominant male buffaloes.

Some buffaloes are chased away from the herd and are spotted moving alone or two.

Feeding; these amazing animals are grazers and feed on savannah grasses and drink lots of water.

Reproduction; A gestation period of a Buffalo runs up to 11 months. They usually give birth only in the rainy season producing a single calf or two.

Young calves are protected by their mothers. When they grow a little more, they join the gang and always move in the middle of the gang.

Habitat; Buffaloes usually live in savannah woodland vegetation and swampy areas where they flock during hot days.

On your Uganda safaris in Murchison park, they’re spotted along the Nile banks in the Paraa area. However to spot the animal clearly, one has to go for safari game drives in the Buligi game area.

15. Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus Amphibious) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Hippopotamus is also called the Hippo, Common Hippopotamus, or River Hippopotamus. It is a large semi-aquatic animal native to Sub-Saharan Africa.

A hippo is the 3^rd largest land animal on earth after the elephants and rhinos, weighing over 1,300- 1,500kg. The animal is listed on IUCN Red List as Vulnerable.

Hippos are Uganda-native animals known to kill more people than any other animal in Africa (over 500 people per year).

Identification; they have a physical resemblance to pigs. Male hippos are bigger than female hippos.

They’re amazing animals with barrel-shaped torsos, wide-opening mouths with large canine tusks, nearly hairless bodies, and pillar-like legs.

Despite their stocky shape and short legs, hippos can run 30km/h over short distances.

Behavior; Hippos live in families in water, they spent all day time in the water to cool down their bodies as they have no sweat glands.

They are territorial when in water but during the time for grazing they can always mix up. They only feed at night starting in the late evening.

Feeding; they feed on grasses. Hippos come out water to go grazing and they can move to over 6 miles grazing.  They eat up to 40 kilograms of grass depending on the size of the hippo.

Reproduction; Mating and reproduction of hippos happens in water and a young cave-born can weigh up to 45 kilograms. Their gestation period is 8 months.

After birth, the mother Hippo and the young calf come back to the school for protection from crocodiles, lions, and hyenas.

They become sexually mature at about 5-7 years.

Hippopotamuses are found in Victoria Nile and the Albert Nile delta. Visitors can see Hippos during a boat cruise launch safari at the bottom of the falls in Murchison park.

16. Rothschild’s Giraffe (Giraffa Camelopardalis Rothschildi) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Rothschild’s Giraffe is a subspecies of the Northern Giraffe and it is one of the amazing large animals in Uganda. It is the most endangered Giraffe species in the whole world.

It is only endemic to Uganda and Kenya. The population status of the species is listed on the IUCN Red List as near threatened.

Identification; A giraffe is the tallest animal in the world towering about 5.5m high, above any animal and most plants.

It has pale orange-brown patches, and it’s famously known for its long amazing neck plus a 45cm long tongue.

Amazingly, the Giraffes’ front legs are taller than their hind legs thus, giving them a steep sloping back from the shoulders to the rump.

Please also note that giraffes have two horns called ossicones which are bone protrusions covered with skin and fur.

Behavior; they move in pairs or a tower of 50 individuals and more. They are also tolerant of other animals around them as long as they don’t feel threatened.

Feeding; Giraffes feed on acacia vegetation, especially from tall trees.

Reproduction; they mate all year through and females have a gestation period of 14-16 months producing a single calf.

Giraffes are in groups of 10-50 individuals along the shores of the Lake Albert area and as well in the Buligi game area during safari game drives.

Please note:

Murchison Falls National Park has over 1,500 Rothschild’s giraffes making it the only park with the biggest number of the species in the whole world.

17. Uganda Kob (Kobus Kob Thomasi) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Uganda Kob is an antelope species native only to Sub-Saharan Africa. Its population status is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN Red List.

It is the national animal in Uganda appearing on the coat of arms of Uganda representing the abundant wildlife present in Uganda.

Identification; in appearance, it’s more like an impala and it is reddish-brown. However, it is more sturdily built, has a throat patch, and its muzzle, eye ring, and inner ear are white.

Its belly and inside of the legs are white while the front of the forelegs is black. Only males have lyre-shaped horns.

Behavior; Uganda kobs move in herds and territory areas. However, female kobs come to male kobs for mating.

Feeding; the antelope species is an herbivore and feeds on grass.

Reproduction; Females have a gestation period of 9 months and usually produce in the rainy season. Female Uganda kobs mature faster than male kobs.

This is so because the females start mating at the age of 1 year yet the males take longer than that.

Habitat; Uganda Kobs like living in forests, and savannah grasslands where there is more pasture. The Ugandan kob is the most prey for the carnivores in Murchison park.

They are spotted in the Paraa area or Buligi game area when on safari game drives.

18. Bush Buck (Tragelaphus Sylvaticus) In Murchison Falls National Park

Bush Bucks are antelope species widely spread in Sub-Saharan Africa. This antelope is not endangered as it is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; It is a close relative of the Nyala but, the Bushbuck is rather a large antelope.

Female bushbucks have a lighter brown coat however, all sexes have up to 7 white stripes and white spots on the sides. Other white patches are on the ears, chin, tail, legs, and neck.

The muzzle is also white and horns are found only on the males.

Males weigh from 40-80kg with a shoulder height of 70 to 100 cm. Females weigh between 25-60kg with a shoulder height of 65cm to 85cm.

Behavior; unlike other antelopes, Bushbucks are isolative animals and are not as social as they are mostly spotted singly.  But mothers are seen with their young ones in their early stages.

Feeding/Diet; they feast on vegetation like leaves and shrubs.

Reproduction; females have a gestation period of about 180 days and produce a single calf.

Habitat; Bushbucks in habitats in areas such as riverine, woodlands, and other thicketed habitats.

On your Murchison falls safari, they’re spotted in the Paraa area or while on a game drive in the Buligi game area.

19. Jackson’s Hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus)

Jackson’s Hartebeest is also known as kongoni or Kaama. It is an African antelope and it’s listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; it is a large fawn-colored antelope. Its most distinctive features include a sloping back, long legs, and an elongated face. Despite their awkward appearance, they’re graceful even more than other antelopes.

They have a bodyweight ranging between 100-200kg and a shoulder length of up to 1m.

Behavior; The Jackson’s Hartebeest is a social animal that lives in herds of 30-200 individuals. Despite being big, the animal is not aggressive, as they graze, there is one that stands on guard for protection.

They’re among the fastest antelopes and enduring runners- capable of reaching speeds of up to 70km/h.

Feeding; they feed on vegetation like grasses and leaves

Reproduction; The Jackson’s Hartebeest mate at any time of the year. Their gestation period is 9 months and produces a single calf which is about 9 kg.

They sexually mature when they are 1 year old.

While on your safari Uganda tour in Murchison park, you can spot it in the Buligi game area on a game drive.

20. Defassa’s Waterbuck (Kobus Ellipsiprymnus)

Defassa’s Waterbuck is an antelope species breeding in Sub-Saharan Africa. The antelope is listed as least concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Identification; they’ve long bodies, necks and short legs, coarse hair, and a mane on their necks, and only males have horns. More so, waterbucks have a cream-colored patch (a bib) on the throat.

They often have a shaggy brown-grey coat that emits a smelly greasy secretion when nervous. This act repels predators and waterproofing when the animal dives into the water

The male Waterbucks are bigger and taller than the female. They have a shoulder length of about 110cm-130cm and can weigh up to 264kgs, unlike the females.

Behavior; they are social antelopes and live in groups of 10-60 individuals.

Feeding; Defassa’s waterbucks feed on grasses and drink lots of water and that’s why they are never far from permanent water sources.

Reproduction; they have a gestation period of 8 months and produce a single calf or two.

Females are sexually mature at 2 or 3 months as males at six.

Defassa’s waterbucks are mostly spotted while on a boat cruise in the Paraa region on the banks of the Nile in Murchison falls park.

21. Common Warthog (Phacochoerus Africanus)

The Common Warthog is a wild member of the pig family commonly found in the savannah and woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa.

Its population is least concern as it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; they’re identified by their amazing 2 pairs of tusks protruding from the mouth and curving upwards. Their tusks are used to combat other hogs and in defense against predators.

Their head is large, with a mane down the spine to the middle of the back. They’ve sparse hair covering the body, usually black or brown, and have a long tail that ends with a tuft of hair.

Warthogs weigh on average 45- 150kg.

Behaviors; they are social and live in clusters known as sounders. They mark feeding territories.

Feeding and diet; warthogs are omnivores and like grazing in savannah areas feasting on grass, fruits, and insects.

Reproduction; Common Warthogs breed in the rainy season or early dry season. Their gestation period is 5-6 months producing 2-8 piglets. Females look after the newly born for around 6 months when they become independent.

Common Warthogs are spotted around the Paraa area and in the Buligi game area in Murchison Falls National Park.

22. Bush Pig (Potamochoerus Larvatus)

A Bush Pig is a member of the pig family. The pigs’ population is not endangered as it’s listed on the IUCN Red List as least concern.

Identification; it resembles the domestic pig however, they can be identified by their blunt muscular snouts, small eyes, and pointed tufted ears.

Their color varies from reddish brown to dark brown, and have a lighter-colored mane that erects when the animal is anxious. The upper parts of the face and ears are also lighter in color.

Behaviors; they live in groups known as sounders of about 8-12 individuals. Individuals may fight for food but reconcile and fight their enemies together.

Feeding/diet; Bush pigs are omnivores and feed on crops, roots, and small reptiles and can as well stalk young antelopes.

Reproduction; Females have a gestation period of 8-10 months producing 3-4 piglets sending away their young ones when they reach 6 months.

Habitat; they inhabit forests, woodland, riverine vegetation, and cultivated areas.

Due to their nocturnal habits, they’re rarely spotted in Murchison falls park. However, on a lucky day, you can spot Bush Pigs in the Buligi game area during safari game drives.

23. Sitatunga (Tragelaphus Spekii)

A Sitatunga also known as a Marshbuck is a swamp-dwelling antelope adapted to survive where few antelopes can.

This special antelope is least concern according to the Red List of IUCN.

Identification; in look, they’re closely related to Bushbucks. Males have long twisted horns and their coat color is greyish-brown and reddish-chocolate brown in females.

They’ve white facial markings as well as several stripes and spots all over. White patches can be seen on the throat, and near the head and males develop a rough scraggy mane.

Behavior; Sitatungas are shy and are spotted singly. They’re great swimmers capable of hiding underwater leaving eyes and nostrils showing.

Feeding/ Diet; they are herbivores and feast on grasses, herbs, and shrubs.

Reproduction; Sitatungas are polygamous antelopes and can mate at any time of the year.

Females have a gestation period of about 247 days producing a single calf.

Sitatungas are mostly spotted along the shores while on a boat cruise in the Paraa area in Murchison falls.

24. Oribis ( Ourebia Ourebi)

An Oribi is a small weighing antelope endemic to Africa. Its population status is stable as it is not endangered.

Identification; It has a slightly raised back, long neck, and limbs. Oribis have a glossy yellowish to rufous-brown coat with a white chin, throat, and underparts.

They also have a rump plus a black sound glandular patch below each ear. Only males grow horns that are slender and upright (they’re smooth and pointed).

It weighs between 12-22kgs.

Behavior; Oribis are social animals in that they live in groups.

Feeding; it feeds on grass and low-growing crops and plants.

Reproduction; females have a gestation period of about 7 months producing a single calf that is dark brown.

Oribis are present in most parts of Murchison park. However, they’re mostly spotted while on a boat cruise in the Paraa region on the banks of the Victoria Nile.

25. Bohor Reedbuck (Redunca Redunca)

The Bohor Reedbuck is a small antelope species breeding in Africa. Its population status is stable as it is listed least concern on the Red List of IUCN.

Identification; it is a beautiful sturdily built antelope having a yellowish to greyish brown coat (yellower than other reedbucks). It has white undersides plus white markings under the tail.

Males only have horns and on average, they can weigh about 35-65kg.

Behavior; they are social animals and live in small herds. Females are more solitary and usually form herds of about 5-10 individuals.

Feeding; The Bohor Reedbuck feeds on grasses and drinks lots of water.

Reproduction; they usually mate in the rainy season having a gestation period of about 7-8 months. They produce a single calf which becomes independent at the age of 8 months.

Visitors can see the Bohor Reedbuck while on game viewing in the Buligi game area in Murchison Falls National Park.

Other Herbivores in Murchison Falls National Park – Wildlife

26. Common duikers.
27. Squirrels such as the African tree squirrel and the giant squirrel.
28. Hares
29. Porcupines, for example, the East African crested porcupine.
30. Rats such as cane rats, langer cane rats, striped grass mice, harsh-furred rats, unstriped grass mice, common swamp rats, etc.
31. Hyraxes include rock hyrax and tree hyrax.

Uganda Primates In Murchison Falls National Park – Primate Animals

Murchison falls park is among the national parks in Uganda with a high number of primate species. Most of these primates are found in the Kaniyo-Pabidi and Budongo forest.

These are some of the Uganda primates found in Murchison Falls National Park.

33. Uganda Chimpanzees (Pan Troglodytes) in Murchison Falls National Park

The Chimpanzee is also simply known as a Chimp. It is a great ape native to forests in Africa.

Chimpanzees are critically endangered according to the Red list of IUCN. Chimps in the wild are only found in Africa in only 21 countries.

Arguably, chimpanzees share over 98.7% of man’s DNA thus, the closest living relatives of man compared to any other great ape.

Identification; Chimpanzees somehow look like humans as they also have 4 limbs. Their body is covered with black hair/fur. However, their faces, hands, palms fingers feet toes, and feet soles are bare with no hair.

Usually, males are bigger than females as they can weigh from 40-70kg and females weigh around 27-50kg.

Behavior; Chimpanzees are social primates as they live in communities with about 20-150 individuals. These communities are headed by a dominant male.

Feeding; these primates are omnivores and feed on leaves, stems, leaf buds, and seeds. Cases have been witnessed of Chimps killing small antelopes and feasting on their carcasses.

Reproduction; Chimps mate at any time of the year and have a gestation period of 8-9 months.  Mothers are so close to their young ones.

On your safari Uganda tour in Murchison falls park, the best place to spot chimps is in the Budongo forest– Kaniyo Pabidi area. You can do Chimpanzee trekking to see these apes.

34. Olive Baboons (Papio Anubis)

The Olive Baboon also called the Anubis Baboon is native to Africa. It is widely spread in 25 African countries. These primates are not endangered nor vulnerable as their population is least concern according to ICUN Red List.

Identification; Olive Baboons are amazing heavily built monkeys with sturdy limbs.

They’ve green-grey fur and their face look scary due to their doglike pointed muzzles and powerful jaws with long pointed canine teeth.

Behavior; Baboons are social primates and live in groups of 15-150 individuals. The females head the groups and pass on leadership to their daughters. Males at times babysit the young ones to create a friendship with females.

Feeding and diet; they are omnivores and feed on leaves, roots fruits, seeds, mushrooms, and lichens. They as well feast on small invertebrates.

Reproduction; Females mate with several males and her gestation period is about 226 days producing a single child.

Baboons live in a range of environments therefore, they can easily be spotted all over Murchison Park Uganda. They’re most spotted along the Buligi game track.

35. Black And White Colobus Monkey (Colobi)

A black-and-white Colobus Monkey is a beautiful species of old-world monkey native to Africa. It is closely related to the Red Colobus Monkey genus Piliocolobus

Identification; It can easily be identified due to its distinctive black body, white facial markings, long white tail, and a white side stripe. They also have whiskers and beards around their face.

Behavior; amazingly, an Adult Black And White Colobus are capable of jumping up to 30m, an incredible sight with its white tail streaming behind.

They spend most of their time grooming each other.

Feeding; they are herbivores and feed on leaves, lichens, fruits, and flowers.

Reproduction; females give birth every after 20 months. Their gestation period is about 142-161 days producing a single infant.

On your primate safari in Uganda, you can spot the Black-and-white Colobus Monkey while on nature walks in the Budongo forest.

36. Vervet Monkey (Chlorocebus Pygerythrus)

A Vervet Monkeys is an Old World monkey of the family Cercopithecidae native to Africa. Its population is stable as it is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; they have black faces with a white fringe of hair while their overall hair color is mostly grizzled-grey.

Males can easily be recognized by a turquoise-blue scrotum. Also, males are larger and heavier than females.

Behavior; Vervet Monkeys are social primates that leave and stay in groups. They also groom each other.

Feeding; they are herbivores and feast on crops, fruits, flowers, and seeds. They as well feast on the eggs of birds and their chicks.

Reproduction; these primate species have a gestation period of 165 days producing a single offspring every year.

Vervet Monkeys are spotted in Budongo forest in Murchison Falls National Park.

37. Red-tailed Monkeys (Cercopithecus Ascanius)

The Red-tailed Monkey is also known as the Black-cheeked White-nosed Monkey, Red-tailed Guenon, Red-tail Monkey, or Schmidt’s Guenon. It is a species of primate in the family Cercopithecidae.

Its population is stable as it is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; A Red-tailed monkey has a black or dark grey body however, it’s named after its red tail.

This monkey is easily identified due to its amazing appearance with white cheek whiskers, and a coppery tail. And a distinctive white heart-shaped patch on its nose, giving rise to its more vivid alternative name of black-cheeked white-nosed monkey.

Behavior; it is a social primate as it lives in groups of about 10-30 members. The groups are headed by a mature dominant male.

However, grown males may decide to leave the group and fight other ruling males to take over power.

They collect and gather food in their mouths and eat in a safe place.

Feeding; they mostly feed on fruits and sometimes on flesh species and that’s why it is an omnivorous animals.

Reproduction; The Red-tailed Monkey is polygamous. A male can have more than two females. Their gestation period is about 5-6 months producing a single offspring.

On your wildlife safari in Uganda Murchison Falls National Park, you can spot it in the Budongo forest.

38. Blue Monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis)

The Blue Monkey also known as a Diademed Monkey is a species of Old World monkey native to Central and East Africa. The Monkey population is stable as it is listed least concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; Despite what the common name suggests, the Blue Monkeys are not blue. They’re called so due to the hairless face which seems to be colored blue. This pleasing primate has a dark head top and the coloration of the body is mainly olive or grey.

Additionally, the Blue Monkey exhibits some black and white markings all over its body with a long tail as its body.

Behavior; these are social primates and live in groups though they consist of mostly females.

Sub-adult males leave the group and return at a later age to challenge the male leader to take over.

Feeding; Blue Monkeys are herbivores and feed on fruits, flowers, and on tree figs.

Reproduction; males are polygamous and mate with many females. Females have a gestation period of about 5 months and produce every after 2 years.

On your Murchison falls safari, Blue Monkeys are spotted in the Budongo forest.

39. L’Hoest’s Monkey (Cercopithecus Lhoesti)

L’Hoest’s Monkey is also called a mountain monkey endemic to the Congo basin and Uganda. The primate species is Vulnerable according to IUCN Red List.

Little is known about this monkey. It’s more difficult to see than most of its relatives due to its love for dense forests and its terrestrial habits.

Identification; these monkeys have a dark brown coat with a chestnut color across the back and a dark belly.

Their cheeks are light grey with a pale mustache and they’ve got a prominent white bib plus a long tail that’s hook-shaped at the end.

Behavior; they are social monkeys and live in small groups though these groups mostly consist of females.

They rest and sleep while hanging on tree branches.

Feeding; L’Hoest’s Monkeys are herbivores and mostly feed on fruits and flowers. However, they also feast on chicks of birds and eggs.

Reproduction; they breed seasonally depending on the area. Females have a gestation period of 5 months and usually produce at night giving birth to a single offspring.

Other females are loving and will hold onto the newborn.

Visitors can see L’Hoest’s Monkeys in Budongo forest when in Murchison Falls National Park.

40. Patas Monkey (Erythrocebus Patas)

The Patas Monkey also known as the Wadi Monkey or Hussar Monkey is a ground-dwelling monkey native to West and East Africa.

Patas Monkeys are listed as near threatened on the IUCN Red List.

Identification; It can easily be confused with the Vervet Monkey however, for it, it has long limbs and a light reddish-brown coat.

And a black stripe above the eyes. Assuredly, a Patas Monkey is the fastest primate on earth running over 35mph.

Behavior; they are social monkeys and live in multi-female groups of up to 60 individuals. The group has only 1 male. When the males reach their sexuality stage, they leave to find a new group.

Feeding; Patas Monkeys feed on insects, gum, seeds, and tubers.

It has ever been spotted on the northern side of Murchison falls park, however, it’s rarely spotted. It’s restricted in Kidepo Valley National Park and also in the Pian Upe game reserve.

41. Bush Babies (Galagidae)

Bush Babies are also known as Galagos and are native to sub-Saharan Africa.

They’re named bush babies after their distinctive shrill baby-like cry in the quiet night of the jungle

Identification; the most prominent feature of the Galago is its saucer-like eyes. These allow them to see in the dark as they hunt for prey at night.

They have small ears strong back limbs and long tails. The ears are sharp for hearing and use them for tracking insects.

Behavior; they are nocturnal primates that are most active during nighttime. They jump long distances in mere seconds.

Feeding; Bush Babies eat tree gum, fruits, insects, and small animals.

Reproduction; bush Babies have a gestation period of about 110-133 days producing 1 baby or 2 and at times triplets.

Bush Babies are caring as they feed their young ones for 6 weeks and when they are 2 months, they then start to feed themselves.

Infants grow at a faster rate as they can outgrow their mother though she still has to carry them.

Bush Babies have been recorded in the Budongo forest though, on rare occasions.

42. Potto (Perodicticus Potto)

A Potto is also called a tree bear, or a slow-moving tropical African primate. It’s a nocturnal tree dweller found in rainforests from Sierra Leone eastward to Uganda. It has a strong grip and grips tightly to branches.

Identification; they have woolly greyish-brown fur and a non-functioning index finger.

Pottos have webbed fingers and feet. They have 4-6 tubercles that shelter their long vertebrae from the neck. They as well have scent glands under their tail and an odor.

Behavior; they are nocturnal primates and are mostly active at night. They live in big territories having more males than males though the males lead.

Pottos feed in the night and can sometimes be located at night by shining a spotlight into the canopy.

Feeding; Pottos mostly feed on fruits and sometimes feast on strong-smelling insects that other animals don’t eat.

Reproduction; the mate at any time of the year. Females have a gestation period of 193 days and usually produce a single offspring or twins.

Pottos are spotted in Budongo forest in Murchison falls park.

Reptiles In Murchison Falls National Park

Reptiles in Murchison Falls National Park are in many in numbers and cannot be missed. This park has the highest concentration of Nile Crocodiles in Uganda and East Africa at large.

These are some of the reptiles found In Murchison falls park.

43. Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus Niloticus) In Murchison Falls National Park

The Nile Crocodile is a large reptile that is native to freshwater areas in Africa. This reptile species is listed least concern on the Red List of IUCN.

Identification; female Crocodiles are bigger than males. They have a dark bronze back with pale blackish spots. The belly sides are yellowish-green with striped patterns and have green eyes.

They’ve got a powerful bite of sharp conical teeth, allowing a grip that’s almost impossible to loosen

Mature crocodiles can weigh about 225- 414.5kg and are 9- 4ft in length

Behavior; they are more solitary though share feeding grounds and busking spots.

They spend most of the day especially when it’s hot busking. They do this by opening their mouth wide open for a long time.

Crocodiles are also great swimmers.

Feeding; they are carnivores and their diet consists mostly of fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals.

Reproduction; After mating, the female lays eggs and hides them in holes of half a meter for about 3 months when they hatch.

The eggs are protected by both the male and female. After they hatch, infant Crocodiles are protected until they mature and can move on.

They have a life span of up to 45 years.

In Murchison falls park, they’re spotted while on a thrilling boat cruise in the Paraa region basking along the Nile banks.

Other Reptiles In Murchison Falls National Park

Snakes

Lizards

54. Nile Monitor Lizard
55. Snake lizard
56. Common house lizard.

Geckos counting the;

57. Blue-bodied Agama black-throated Dwarf Gecko
58. Uganda-house Gecko.

Tortoises

59. Soft-shelled Turtles
60. Western hinged Tortoises

Chameleons

61. Bright-green Chameleon
62. Smaller Chameleon
63. Pigmy Chameleon.

Skinks

64. Red and black skink,
65. Side-striped skink
66. Speckled-lipped Skink
67. Grey-black Limbless Skink

Frogs

68. Bullfrog
69. Clawed frog
70. Sharp-nosed Frog
71. Tree Frog

Murchison falls park is one of the most visited national parks in Uganda due to its great diversity of wildlife.

Out of the 76 species of animals in Murchison Falls National Park, there includes the most sought-after African safari big five. These are Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, and Elephants except Rhinos thus, making it a haven for most safaris in Uganda.

When you visit the park, you will see most of the safari animals especially when you do game drives and the ultimate boat cruise.

Let us be your ambassador and organize for you a lifetime Uganda safari where you will see epic wild animals. Kindly send us an email.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What Animals Are Found In Murchison Falls National Park? | Which Animals Are In Murchison Falls National Park?

Murchison Falls National Park boasts over 144 animal species, including 4 of the African safari big five (Lions, Leopards, Elephants, and Buffaloes).

Other animals in Murchison Falls National Park include Hippos, Giraffes, Crocodiles, Warthogs, and Spotted Hyenas.

There are several antelopes as well like Uganda Kob, Hartebeests, Bushbucks, Waterbucks, and Oribis.

2. Are There Lions In Murchison Falls National Park? | How Many Lions Are In Murchison Falls National Park?

In Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park holds the highest number of lion prides than any savannah park. According to the WCS lion monitoring program, 128 lions were recorded in the northern bank.

This survey was from 2010 and of now, a higher number is expected.

3. Are There Zebras In Murchison Falls National Park?

No, currently Murchison Falls National Park has no Zebras. Zebras in Uganda are only in Lake Mburo National Park, Kidepo National Park, and Katonga Game Reserve.

There is other Uganda wildlife one enjoy while in the park. Over 144 mammal species and over 556 Uganda bird species.

4. Are There Cheetahs In Murchison Falls?

There are no Cheetahs in Murchison falls. Cheetahs are only available in Kidepo National Park and its animal migration corridor. However, Murchison falls park has other impressive big cats like Lions and Leopards.

5. How Many Elephants Are In Murchison Falls?

On estimation, Murchison Falls National Park boasts over 15,000 Elephants, 14,000 Hippos, and 26,500 Buffaloes. The park is one of the most biodiverse national parks in Uganda with over 144 mammal species.

The Uganda animal species include 4 of the African safari big five except Rhinos.

6. What Is The Best Time Of The Day To See Uganda Animals In Murchison Falls National Park?

Visitors on Uganda tours in Murchison park can see animals at any time of the day. However, the best time is in the morning and evening when animals are most active.

The best way to see them is when you are on safari game drives or during a wonderful boat cruise.

Safari game drives are the best way of getting up close views of savannah safari animals.

7. What Is The Best Season? –Best Time Of The Year To See Animals In Murchison Falls National Park?

Tourists can see Uganda animals in Murchison Falls National Park at any time of year. However, the best time is in the dry season. During this season, grasslands are low and trails are easy to access as they are dry.

This makes sightings easy and quick as animals are rushing to water sources to bathe and refresh.

The dry season is from December to February and from June to August.

In the wet months, the trails may flood or become slippery leading to delays in animal sighting activities.

8. What To Wear When Going To See Animals In Murchison Falls National Park?

There is a lot of wear one can always put on when going to see Uganda animals in the park. However, there is specific wear which is advised.

Below is what you can wear and have excellent and successful sightings.

1. Light clothes
2. Comfortable shoes
3. Sunglasses and a hat

Light clothes; always wear light clothes without bright colors as those colors stress animals. Khaki and brown colors are highly recommended.

Ensure to wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers as they will keep you warm during cold days. They as well keep you protected from biting insects.

Comfortable shoes; ensure to wear light comfortable shoes when going to see animals in Murchison falls National Park. Shoes will protect your feet from any piercings.

The recommended shoes are those that cover your ankles.

Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the direct sun rays and will reduce the glaze hence giving you clear sightings.

A hat or cap should be able to cover your head to block direct hot sun rays from causing harm to you.

9. What To Carry When Going To See Animals In Murchison Falls National Park?

Don’t get stuck trying to figure out what to carry when going to see animals in Murchison falls park.

Here is a list of essentials you need to come with.

1. A good camera with extra batteries
2. Binoculars
3. Insect Repellent
4. Sunscreen

A good camera will help you capture good memories that you will share with friends and family. However, ensure to come with extra batteries and memories since there are a lot of everlasting sightings.

Cameras with a focal length between 400mm and 600mm are highly recommended.

Binoculars; these will give you a closer view of sightings of animals that are far from you. They will optimize and zoom in to give you everlasting memories.

Binoculars with magnification between 7x and 10x are highly recommended.

Insect repellent; carry and spray yourself with an insect repellent to chase away dangerous biting insects. Insects like mosquitoes may infect you with sickness.

Sunscreen; Murchison park is hot and sunscreen will protect your skin from the strong sunshine from damaging your skin.

Undoubtedly, River Nile is one of the natural wonders of Africa and it is famous as the longest river. Surely, it is having its source beginning at Lake Victoria in Jinja in Uganda.

The Nile is approximately 6,650 km long and its drainage basin covers 11 countries. It is because of its fascinating history that many people visit Uganda.

Many tourist activities such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, and Kayaking are done on the River Nile. However, in Murchison Falls National Park the perfect way to get a closer feel of the great Nile is by joining a falls boat cruise. This cruise takes you to the bottom of the Falls.

And, the Murchison park boat cruise has been the most popular safari activity in Murchison Falls National Park. This is because Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother made the inaugural voyage in a spanking new boat back in 1959.

As you cruise on the Nile to the bottom of the falls, you will see hundreds of Hippos leaning on each other’s backs. Besides Hippos, this is where the highest concentration of Nile Crocodiles are found in Africa.

Other animals spotted are small herds of Buffaloes, Uganda Kobs, Elephants, Waterbucks, and Bushbucks.

Additionally, birdlife is also prolific here and key species include;

• African Fish Eagle
• Goliath Heron
• Saddle-Billed Stork
• African Jacana
• Pied And Malachite Kingfishers
• African Skimmer
• Piapiac
• Rock Pratincole
• Black-Headed Gonolek
• Black-Winged Red Bishop
• Yellow-Mantled Widow Bird
• Yellow-Backed Weaver, and
• Several Migrant Waders

The Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls is the most powerful waterfall in the World. Additionally, it is the most spectacular thing to happen to the world’s longest river en route from Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea.

It is not only the most visited spot in Uganda but in the entire African continent for those on Uganda safaris.

Here in Murchison Falls park, you can hear, see, and feel the power of nature as the historic River Nile. Gallons of water squeeze into a narrow gorge 6 meters wide, dropping down 45 meters to the rift valley escarpment in the devil’s cauldron. And it then continues its journey to the Mediterranean Sea.

History Of Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls is first alluded to in the writings of John Hannington Speke. Upon visiting Karuma Falls to the east in 1862, he was told that a few other waterfalls lay downriver. ‘Mostly of minor importance’ but ‘one within ear sound was the Murchison.

Two years later, partially to fulfill the promise they had made to Speke, Samuel Baker and his wife Florence Baker visited. They became the first Europeans to explore the stretch of the river between Lake Albert and Karuma Falls.

As they were paddling about 30 kilometers east of the estuary, Samuel Baker wrote:

This is what he wrote;

“We could distinctly hear the roar of water (and) upon rounding the corner a magnificent site burst upon us.

On either side of the river were beautifully wooded cliffs rising abruptly to a height of about 300 feet (100m).  Rocks were jutting out from the intensely green foliage, and rushing through a gap that cleft exactly before us.

The river contracted from a grand stream, was pent up in a passage of scarcely 50 yards (46m) in width; roaring furiously through the rock-bound pass, it plunged in one leap of about 120 feet (36m) perpendicular into the large abyss below.

The fall of water was snow-white, which has a superb effect as it contrasted with the dark cliffs that walled the water. And, the graceful palms of the tropics and wild plantation perfected the beauty of the view.

This was the greatest waterfall of the Nile, and in honor of the distinguished president of the Royal Geographic Society, “I named it the Murchison Falls.” It is the most important object throughout the entire course of the river.

What Was The Former Name Of Murchison Falls?

The falls later lent their name to the surrounding Murchison Falls National Park. During the regime of Idi Amin in the 1970s, the name was changed to Kabalega Falls. This was after the Omukama (King) Kabalega of Bunyoro, although this was never legally promulgated.

The name reverted to Murchison Falls following the downfall of Amin.  It is still sometimes referred to as Kabalega Falls.

Winston Churchill took the hike to the bottom of the falls in 1907 on his African Journey. He was also highly impressed by the power of nature unleashed here.

And, Ernest Hemingway 1954 crash-landed here after his plane became entangled in old electrical wires at the top of the falls. Lastly, Humphrey Bogart and Kathrine Hepburn spend some time in the area making “The African Queen” films.

In August 2019, Uganda rejected a hydropower project by South Africa’s Bonang Power and Energy to preserve the falls.

How Can I See Murchison Falls?

When on your Murchison falls safari in Uganda it is very possible to see these spectacular waterfalls with clear views. There are 3 ways to enjoy the spectacular views of the waterfalls and these are;

1. Boat cruise to the bottom of these Falls
2. A hike to the top of the Falls
3. Top of the falls viewpoint

Murchison Falls Boat Cruise | Boat Cruise To The Bottom Of The Falls

Murchison falls boat cruise is one of the notable safari activities that shouldn’t be missed by any traveler on a Uganda safari. This epic voyage takes you to the bottom of the Falls giving you wonderful views of the falls.

It is a 2-3 hours cruise sailing a total distance of 17km starting from Paraa Jetty giving you sightings of Uganda wildlife. It gives you sightings of bird species and animals that come to the shores to bathe and refresh like Elephants, Buffaloes, and antelope species.

The cruise to the bottom of the falls is done in the morning (9 am) and afternoon (3 pm). After the wonderful cruise, it docks on a small bay just a hundred meters away from the crashing waterfalls. This is a great chance for you to take pictures and see the mighty waterfalls in full view.

Boat Cruise Fee/Cost

Murchison Falls Hike

A hike to the top of the Falls is a spectacular memorable experience that brings you closer to the natural wonder of Murchison falls. The wonderful hike is undoubtedly rewarding with its views of primates and Uganda birds.

The hiking trail is made up of cemented steps. It is a 45-minute hike starting from Bakers point after leaving the boat cruise to the bottom of this water Falls. Visitors can enjoy this short journey in the morning and afternoon.

It gives you views of the Uhuru falls which are not regularly seen by anyone on safaris in Uganda.

During this hike, you get the clear sound of the thunderous roar of Murchison Falls as well as see the famous rainbow.

Hike Fees/Cost

Top Of The Falls View Point

The great Murchison Falls is a stunning sight while on a boat cruise. However, for sheer sensory overload, be sure to tour this spectacular southern bank. It is north of Paraa road, about 500 meters past Sambiya River Lodge.

From a car park, a short footpath leads downhill to the waterfall’s head and a fenced viewpoint. And, this is where you can truly appreciate the astonishing power of the River Nile. The Nile squeezes through the narrow gap in the escarpment, with a vociferous roar.

A footpath from this main viewpoint leads to Baker’s viewpoint on a ridge looking directly to the Falls. Additionally, it as well gives you views of the broader Uhuru Falls about 100 meters to the north.

According to history, Uhuru Falls was a seasonal feature until the great floods of 1962. Since then it has been more constant, but it is still subject to dramatic variation in Volume.

Furthermore, there is much wildlife in the vicinity of the falls. The bat cliff immediately south of the main waterfall is a good place to spot raptors and swallows. Anubis Baboons and Black-and-Colobus Monkeys can also be spotted in the vicinity.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Murchison Falls?

Best Time Of The Day To Visit The Falls

The ultimate Murchison Falls is visited at any time of the day. However, the Murchison boat cruise voyages twice a day and that is in the morning and afternoon. This is the scheduled time for the cruises through private boat cruises can be arranged and sail at any time.

Also, wildlife viewing is best during this time as animals are most active. Uganda animals and birds are spotted along the river shores bathing and refreshing.

Best Time/Season Of The Year To The Falls

However, the best season or time of the year to visit Murchison falls is the dry season. During this time of the year, the water levels are low making sailing easy, and getting clear views of the falls is wonderful and epic.

The Murchison falls hike trails are dry leading to successful hikes and the beautiful rainbow is present as it is shining.

Dry months are from December to February and from June to August. Little or less rainfall is received during this time.

Why Visit Murchison Falls? | What Is Unique About Murchison Falls

Indeed, the thriving Murchison Falls is a wonderful adventurous scenery while on your safari in Uganda in Murchison park.

You get the best chances to see river Nile bisecting in an 8-meter gorge escarpment dropping 45m into the devil’s cauldron. And, this force forms the strongest waterfalls as it emits 300 cubic meters per second.

Also, the boat cruise bottom of the Falls will give you sightings of various animals like Hippos and Crocodiles, Elephants, Elephants, and Antelope species. Additionally, Uganda birds are spotted like the Red-throated Bee-eater on the Nyamusika cliff.

For those on safari tours in Uganda, Murchison Falls is the strongest waterfall in the world and should not be missed to see. A trip to these Falls will leave you wondering more about how the Nile passes in an 8-meter gorge to form the falls.

Doing Murchison Falls safaris is a great idea for seeing the falls and it gives you other views of wildlife while on the boat cruise.

Let us help you meet and experience the strongest waterfalls in the world when we arrange for your safari activities that you will enjoy.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Murchison Falls

• Where Is Murchison Falls Located In Uganda?
  

The Falls are located northwest of Kampala in Murchison Falls National Park. It is along coordinates 2°16′41.52″N 31°41′7.08″E. It is one of the most epic tourist attractions in the park and has the world’s strongest waterfalls.

It is about 305 km from Kampala which is about a 3-4 hour drive. Fort Portal is 209 km and a 2-3 hour drive away from Murchison Falls.

• Is Murchison Falls The Most Powerful Waterfall In The World?

Murchison is indeed the most powerful waterfall in the world. They are formed when River Nile squeezes into an 8-meter gorge escarpment dropping 45 meters into the devil’s cauldron.

One can access the waterfalls when he boards a Murchison falls boat cruise, hikes to the top of the falls, or by car along the Tebito track.

• Why Is It Called Murchison Falls?

The falls were named “Murchison Falls” by Samuel Baker who visited the epic falls with his wife Florence Baker in 1863. He named them after the geologist Roderick Murchison, then the president of the Royal Geographical Society (RGS).

John Speke and James Grant were the first Europeans to visit Murchison Falls National Park in 1862.

• What Was The Former Name Of Murchison Falls?

These falls were known as “Kabalega Falls.” During the reign of Idi Amin, he changed the waterfalls’ name to Kabalega falls after the Omukama Kabalega who was the king of Bunyoro.

However, this name was never legally promulgated so it was changed to Murchison after his downfall though a few people still call it Kabalega.

• What River Is Murchison Falls On?

The Falls are on the lower Victoria Nile in Northwestern Uganda 32km east of Lake Albert. The Nile bisects Murchison Falls National Park passing through an 8-meter gorge dropping 45 meters and forming the Murchison falls.

Unquestionably, this means that Murchison Falls is at a height of 45 meters.

It is indeed a birder’s paradise with over 556 Uganda bird species that can be witnessed on your birding safaris.

The Uganda bird list of the park ranges from endemic species and migratory phenomenal bird species. These unspoken-for species flourish within the parks’ vegetation whistling, chirping, trilling, and rattling. Wow!!

Most of the birds in Murchison park are savannah birds, water birds, and forest birds and a few are Albertine rift endemics.

Did you know that the big five bird species are citizens in Murchison falls park? There is no doubt about this, the big five are 100% present.

These are the Shoebill, Grey crowned cranes, Great blue turaco, Long-crested eagle, and the Black and white casqued Hornbill.

The park is as well home to most of Uganda’s endangered and vulnerable bird species. These are the Shoebill, Grey crowned cranes, Vultures, and the Papyrus Gonolek.

Uganda birds in Murchison Falls National Park colonize the savannah grasslands, woodlands, riverine vegetation, and forest vegetation.

Have you seen the shoebill before while on your Africa birding safari? Well, am glad to tell you that prehistoric-looking Shoebill is a resident in the park.

A 4-5 hour Albert Delta launch trip will guarantee you sightings of the bird in relation to other water-associated birds.

These include Grey Crowned Cranes, African Jacana, Saddle-billed stork, Great White Pelican, Great Cormorant, African Darter, etc.

Murchison park is the best place in Uganda and East Africa to spot the Red-throated bee-eater on your Uganda birding tour. The bird is seen in a colony of over 200 individuals on the Nyamusika cliff towards the bottom of the falls.

The park hosts nocturnal birds like the Eagle Owl and 3 seasonal Africa’s distinctive nightjar species. These are the Long-Tailed Nightjar (Mar-Aug), Pennant Winged Nightjar (March-Sep), and the Standard-Winged Nightjar (Sep-Apr).

Where In Murchison Falls National Park Are Birds Spotted?

Uganda bird watching safaris in Murchison falls park are done in the Buligi area where variant savannah and woodland birds are present.

Some of these birds include the Secretary bird, Eastern Plantin Eater, Hooded Vultures, Guinea Fowls, Barbets, Kingfishers, Rollers, etc.

The delta area is another rewarding prize for birding tours in the park, especially for those interested in spotting water-related birds.

The other area is Budongo Forest which has Guinea-Congo biome bird species. It is the best place to for seeing forest associated birds.

The Yellow Footed Flycatcher and Puvel’s Illadopsis birds are only residents in the forest not anywhere else in East Africa.

The best way to see birds in Murchison Falls National Park is through boat cruises, nature walks, and safari game drives.

For successful and rewarding Uganda birding safaris, Murchison park should indeed be on everyone’s buck list.

Below, we have listed for you the top 100 most sought-after birds in Murchison Falls National Park.

Top 100 Notable Birds In Murchison Falls National Park | Sought-After Birds In Murchison Falls National Park

Details On Uganda Birds In Murchison Falls National Park 

A. Order; PELECANIFORMES

A.I. Family; Balaenicipitidae

A.I (1) The Shoebill (Shoebill Balaeniceps rex)

The shoebill is on every birder’s bucket list to see. However, did you know about anything concerning this bird? Well, I will give you a hint.

A shoebill is also known as a whale bill and gets its name from its enormous shoe-shaped bill. This bird is in its own family of Balaenicipitidae in the order Pelecaniformes.

It is taken to be the world’s most vulnerable bird. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature estimates the number of adult shoebills to be between 3,300 and 5,300 individuals left. Yes, that’s how vulnerable the species is!

The prehistoric-looking bird is said to be the only bird to have lived closest to the dinosaur error. It as well survived the historic ice age.

Did you know that the Shoebill’s flapping when flying is one of the slowest among other birds? When flying, it approximately flaps 150 times per minute.

The Shoebill is only native to swamps and wetlands of Central and East Africa. As shy as the Shoebill is, believe me, you cannot win a staring contest with this bird.

Size

A Shoebill is a big bird with a body height of about 115cm (3.8 feet). Females weigh around 11 pounds and males weigh around 12 pounds.

Physical appearance

Adults are usually grey and juveniles are browner. Shoebills have broad wings and long blackish legs. They have a small feathered crest on the back of their heads.

They have short necks and a big stork bill proportion to their body.

The eyes are yellowish or grayish-white in color and exceptionally large as well.

Usually, the shoebill claps the mandibles of its bill jointly as a display. This act produces a loud hollow sound.

Behavior

Shoebills are solitary birds and are never found in groups of more than two. Unless when there is a food shortage supply then these birds may forage each other. Also in a breeding season, a female can rarely be seen with a female.

The males gular-flutter during the breeding season to keep cool. How amazing!!

Shoebills are non-migratory birds as long as good foraging conditions exist. However, they can make seasonal movements between their feeding and nesting zones.

On hot days, shoebills are seen soaring in the air above their territories with the neck retracted. They do this to cool their bodies.

Breeding/ Reproduction

Shoebill birds form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. The breeding season is usually at the start of the dry season. These birds clear a 3-meter diameter area to form their nest. It is usually located on a small island or floating vegetation.

1-3, normally 2 whitish eggs are laid. Incubation takes about 30 days until the eggs thatch. However, after thatching, the stronger young shoebill kills the other relatives as their mother watches on. This is done to avoid competition for food.

Development of young shoebills is slow compared to other bird species. The birds fledge at 95 days though their feathers do not fully develop for around 60 days.

After fledging, they cannot fly for about 105-112 days. They remain dependent on their parents for one more month. After that time the shoe bills are on their own and independent from their parents.

Life span

the average life span of a Shoebill in the wild is 35 years whereas in captivity is about 50 years.

Feeding

Shoebills are carnivores and feast on lungfish, catfish, water snakes, or even young crocodiles. They spend most of their time in swamps and aquatic environments in await of this delicacy.

The bird is patient when hunting as it stands and waits, wades, and walks slowly until it spots its prey. The shoebill uses the “collapse” technique to capture its prey.

In this technique, the head and neck swiftly stretch in front into the water making the bird overbalanced and collapsing forward and downwards.

This is done continuously, however, after one collapse it cannot perform another straight away. It waits again until it gains balance and starts from the standing position again.

When the Shoebill collects its prey, it comes along with various vegetation. To remove the vegetation, the bird sways the prey from side to side as it keeps hold of the prey.

Since the shoebill doesn’t have teeth, when swallowing it usually decapitates the prey.

Habitat

Shoebills are occasionally natives in freshwater swamps with dense marshes. These birds are strange as they hate flooded swamps with papyrus and reedbeds.

However, when in an area with deep water, there should be floating vegetation. If not the bird can drown if not saved since it cannot swim.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the Shoebill is spotted along the Albert Delta area. The 4-5hour boat cruise will guarantee you sightings of the prehistoric-looking bird.

The Shoebill is also spotted in Mabamba swamp, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo NP, and Semuliki NP.

A.II. Family; Scopidae

A.II (2) Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta)

A Hamerkop is an amazing medium-sized wading bird. It is the only bird in the family of scopidae. The Hamerkop is the closest relative to pelicans and the prehistoric-looking Shoebill.

The bird species is not endangered or vulnerable globally and it is not a migratory bird. It is found in tropical African countries.

Identification

A Hamerkop is a medium-sized bird having brown plumage with long legs. The shape of their head, a long bill, and crest at the back resemble a hammer, hence their name.

Size and weight

This bird usually stands an average height of 50cm. A female Hamerkop can weigh about 470g as the male weighs about 530g.

Behavior

The Hamerkop is so active during the day and tends to rest at noon when the day is hot. They also are active around dusk. However, hamerkops are not nocturnal birds.

Feeding

It mostly feeds in shallow water preying on fish and amphibians though, shrimps, insects, and rodents are taken too.

Breeding

these wading birds are monogamous meaning that an individual can have one partner for the rest of her life.

They lay 3-9 eggs in their giant stick tree nests (about 1.5m in size across) in large trees. Incubation begins once the third egg has been laid.

If not disturbed the nests can be used for four years consecutively.

Distribution/ Habitat

Hamerkops live around mangrove swamps and usually on the edges of lakes and rivers.

In Murchison Falls National Park, this bird is seen along the shores of Victoria Nile and on the backs of Hippos. When on an Albert Delta boat cruise, this adding bird cannot be missed.

A.III. Family; Ardeidae

A.III. (3) Black-Crowned Night Heron Nycticorax Nycticorax

Black-crowned Night Heron is sometimes called the Black-capped night heron. Others prefer to shorten its name and just call it night heron.

It is a medium-sized heron found on all continents of the world. The bird is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification

Black-Crowned Night Herons are medium-sized with rather squat and thick proportions.

Their necks are thick, large, flat heads and dense thick pointed bills. The legs of night herons are short and in flight, they barely reach the end of the tail. Their wings are rounded and broad.

Adult Night herons are light grey and have a neat black back, a black crown, and a black bill. Immatures are usually brown having large white spots on their wings and unclear streaks on the underparts. They have yellow and black bills.

Size and weight

Black-Crowned Night Herons can weigh around 727-1014 g and have a length of 58-66 cm. Their wing span is at a length of 115-118 cm

Behavior

These birds are funny as they spend most of their days perched on tree branches. In the evenings and at night, they forage in water and on land.

When flying, Night herons fold their heads back against their shoulders and if not observant enough, you may think that the neck disappeared.

Feeding

the lovely birds are carnivores and feast on small fish, earthworms, frogs, snakes, and other aquatic insects. They usually stand still at water edges in wait to ambush their prey.

Black-Crowned Night Herons are among the 7 herons that are involved in bait fishing. What a wise bird!!

Breeding

night herons nest in big colonies, and a tree can have more than a dozen nests. A male selects a nesting site and displays himself to attract a female. When a female chooses him, the construction of the nest begins.

They lay about 3-5 eggs. These eggs are incubated by both parents for around 24-26 days. The young cannot fly until they are 5 weeks old.

Habitat

Night Herons like wetlands and swampy areas where they can hunt for their prey.

In Murchison Falls National Park, this heron is spotted along the Victoria Nile banks. However, sightings are guaranteed along the Albert Delta stretch.

A.III. (4) Squacco Heron (Ardeola Ralloides)

A Squacco Heron is a relatively small stout Heron that’s commonly found in areas with freshwater marshes, lakes, and ponds with reeds.

This bird is not endangered or vulnerable. It is a migrant bird however in Europe it migrates to the Sahara regions from February to May.

Identification; this bird appears buffy brown overall with a streaked head and back. In breeding, it ten grows a black and white mane. However, as in flight, it looks almost white when the white wings and tail are exposed

Size and weight; it is a small heron about 44-47cm long, its body is about 20-23cm, and its wing span at about 80-92cm. They weigh between 230-370 g.

Behavior; the Squacco heron mostly nests in small colonies with other wading birds in trees or shrubs.

Feeding; they are carnivores and feed on fish, snakes, frogs, and insects.

Reproduction; breeding of Squacco herons usually takes place in or immediately after the rainy season. They lay 3-4 eggs and incubation takes around 22-24 days.

The young ones are taken care of by both parents. After 30 days, they can fly and fledge at 45 days. After 45 days, they become independent.

Habitat; it likes residing in marshy wetlands in warm countries.

In Murchison Falls National Park, Squacco herons are hardly missed in the Nile delta region.

A.III. (5) Grey Heron (Ardea Cinerea)

A Grey Heron is a nice-looking quiet Heron, commonly spotted within wetland habitats such as marshes, tidal flats, and wet fields.

They are members of the family Ardeidae. The majority of the extant bird species in the family of Ardeinae are known as typical herons.

The bird is not endangered or vulnerable and it is not a migrant bird.

Identification

Grey herons have long legs that are brown, pinkish, or yellowish. Its plumage is generally grey, with a whitish neck. Adults hold a white crown, black eyebrows, and a black shoulder patch.

They have a black crest and along straight thick pinkish-yellow beak.

Size and weight

Grey herons weigh between 1.5-2kg with a length of 90-98cm and their wing span is about 175-195cm.

Behavior

this bird is mainly seen singly however, sometimes small groups can be spotted. They stand quietly in or at the edges of the water and hunt less often in fields.

Just like other herons and egrets, it flies with its neck pulled in, to form a bulge. It flies with slow wing beats and glides for short distances.

They usually hunt during dawn and at dusk though can be active at other times of the day.

Feeding; Grey herons are carnivores and mostly feast on fish. They as well feed on snakes, frogs, small birds, and rodents depending on the season on what is available.

Reproduction; they are monogamous birds as they form pairs during the breeding season. Their breeding colonies are known as heronries.

They lay 3-5 eggs and both parents incubate them for around 25-26 days. The young herons can fly at around 50 days and becomes independent.

Habitat and where to see it in Murchison Fall National Park

It is spotted within the Paraa area (Nile delta region) while on a Nile boat cruise which is done mostly in the morning.

A.III. (6) Goliath Heron (Ardea Goliath)

The Goliath Heron is as well-known as a giant heron. It is a large wading bird in the family of Ardeidae. It is the world’s largest heron.

The bird is not endangered or vulnerable. It is not a migrant bird and it is mostly found in sub-Sahara Africa.

Identification

Males and females look alike. This incredible giant heron has slate-grey plumage, with a chestnut-colored head and a striped neck plus a white chin and throat.

It has black legs and yellow eyes with a yellow eye ring plus a strong dagger-like bill.

Size and weight

This heron species weighs over 4-5kg and is 6-7ft tall with a wingspan of 2m

Behavior

Goliath Herons are solitary birds and territorial unless in the breeding season when they form pairs.

It hunts by standing in shallow waters and staring at the water at its feet. It can decide to move into deep waters because of its large size. Mostly it perches on floating vegetation preventing water from swelling around them.

Habitat

A Goliath Heron is so aquatic as it rarely wanders away from water. It mostly inhabits shallow freshwater swamps, marshes, and wetlands. It cannot be found in areas of human disturbance.

Feeding;

The goliath heron is a carnivore and feeds on fish from the water, water snakes, frogs, and aquatic insects.

Reproduction; they lay 3-4 pale blue eggs. Both parents begin incubating the eggs after the first egg has been laid and it takes between 24-30 days.

Both parents take care of the young ones for about 40 to 80 days until they become independent.

In Murchison falls park, the Goliath Heron is mostly spotted while on a boat cruise to the Nile delta region.

A.III. (7) Purple Heron (Ardea Purpurea)

A purple is a wide-wading bird in the subfamily of Ardeidae.

The bird is mostly found in Africa and some parts of Europe and Asia. In Africa, the Purple Heron is not a migrant as populations are primarily sedentary.

No documentation is talking about the bird being endangered or vulnerable.

Identification

The Purple heron is more similar to the Grey heron. However, it is smaller, slender, and has darker plumage. Its bill is noticeably thinner and nearly level with a flat head.

Mature birds have black stripes along the rufous flanks of the neck. Immature purple herons have more rambling streaks and are sandy brown but not grey.

When flying, the dark underwings are seen of adults.

Size and weight

Purple Herons have a length of 78-90 cm and a wingspan length of between 120-150cm. They weigh between 525-1218 g.

Behavior

Purple herons are secretive birds as they spend less time in the open. Its flight is slow as it retracts its neck and extends its legs along way behind the tail.

It’s most active during dawn and dusk and can rest with other birds in the middle of the day or even at night. When hunting it occasionally waits motionless for prey.

Habitat

The heron species likes marshes and freshwater swamps or living near dense vegetation surrounding lakes or rivers.

Feeding

it is a carnivore and feeds on fish, water snakes, amphibians, and aquatic insects. It hunts its prey by stalking or it can wait and ambushes its prey.

Breeding

the female Purple Heron lays about 5 bluish-green eggs which are incubated by both parents. Eggs hatch after four weeks and can fledge after six weeks.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the Purple Heron is a resident at the Nile Albert Delta stretch.

A.III. (8) Great Egret (Ardea Alba)

The Great egret is also called the Common Egret, Large Egret, Great White Egret, or Great White Heron. It’s a spectacular large gangly, long-necked White Heron identified from other white egrets.

It is a resident in tropical and warm countries. Worldly, the species is not vulnerable and neither is it a migrant in Africa.

Identification

Great Egrets are tall and long-legged wading birds. They have long S-curved necks with long dagger-like bills that are yellowish-orange.

However, the bill becomes darker and the lower legs lighter in the breeding season.

All their feathers are pure white and their legs are black.

Size and weight

Great Egrets weigh up to 1000g and have a length between 94-104 cm and a long wing span between 131-145 cm.

Behavior

The egret species spend most of their time in wetlands waiting for their prey. They stand still and patiently wait for prey to pass by. When they spot the prey, they increase their speed and strike with a prod of their long bills.

Habitat

These loving egrets inhabit freshwater swamps and marshes. They build their nest near water-surrounded areas in colonies.

Feeding

The bird is a carnivore and feasts on fish, snakes, worms, and amphibians.

Reproduction

Great Egrets are monogamous and lay 3-4 eggs. Both parents incubate the eggs for around 3-4 weeks. After thatching, the stronger younger egret kills the weaker siblings to avoid competition for food.

The surviving great egret fledges in 2-3 weeks.

When on your Uganda birding safari, it can be spotted in the Nile Delta area in Murchison Falls National Park.

A.III. (9) Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)

The cattle Egret is in the family of Ardeidae. The species is found in the tropics, subtropic, and zones with warm temperatures.

Identification

Cattle egrets are mainly white with a yellow bill and greyish-yellow legs. They are moderately short with a thick neck and a bent posture.

Juveniles do not have colored plumes and have a black bills.

Size and weight

Cattle Egrets weigh between 270-512 g and have a length of 46-56cm. their wing span has a length of 88-96cm.

Behavior

The beautiful egret stalk animals on the ground in savannah grassy plains and as well insects. They are less seen in water areas. They nest in small colonies and can mix with other species of herons.

Habitat

Cattle egrets mostly move in flocks in pastures and fields. They focus on drier habitats, unlike herons.

Feeding

They feed on particularly insects like flies, grasshoppers, crickets, spiders, maggots, and other insects.

Reproduction

Cattle egrets are seasonally monogamous. Female cattle egrets lay 3-4 eggs.

Both parents incubate the eggs for 24 days. Young egrets fly at the age of 4 weeks and become independent at the age of 6-7 weeks.

In Murchison Falls National Park on your birdwatching tours, you can spot the bird on the Northern banks of the park. They are mostly sighted following buffalo herds.

A.III. (10) Little Egret (Egretta Garzetta)

The Little Egret is a nice-looking small heron similar to the Great Egret in the family Ardeidae.

The bird is found in tropical countries of Africa and on other continents. It is not vulnerable and in Africa, it is not a migrant.

Identification

The Little Egret is all snow white having a slim dark bill, long blackish legs, and yellowish feet. While in the breeding season, long plumes develop on their head and neck.

Size and weight

An adult egret is usually 55-65cm long and weighs between 350-550g. Their wing span is between 88-106cm.

Behavior

This bird is social and is seen in small flocks with other birds. Little Egrets feed in the morning and late afternoon.

They stalk their prey when in water areas and chase after them on dry land. The birds are peaceful and quiet though they can make a harsh alarm call when disturbed.

Habitat

These birds are usually spotted mostly within water habitats that have fish. Water habitats are mostly wetlands, lakes shores, rivers, and marshes.

Feeding

They ate carnivore birds and feed on fish, amphibians, and as well small reptiles.

Reproduction

Little Egrets breed colonially. They lay about 3-5 bluish-green eggs with are incubated by both parents for around 3 weeks. The young little egrets can fly at the age of 6 weeks.

When birdwatching in Uganda in Murchison park, this bird is sighted along the Nile Delta region.

Other birds in the family of Ardeidae

11. Little Bittern
12. Black-headed Heron
13. Squacco Heron
14. Striated Heron
15. Intermediate Egret
16. Little Egret

A.IV. Family; Threskiornithidae

A.IV. (17) African Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis Aethiopicus)     

The African Sacred ibis is an amazing-looking species of ibis, a wading bird of the family Threskiornithidae native to Africa and the Middle East.

The bird species is about to become vulnerable as it exists in specific few places in the world. It is not a migrant bird.

Identification

This striking white ibis is easily identified by its bald black head, thick curved black bill, and black legs. They have white plumage with some black color edged on their wings and tails.

Size and Weight

Male sacred African Ibis is slightly bigger than females. They have a body length of 68cm and weigh between 1.35-1.5kg. the wing span of the bird is between 112-124 cm.

Habitat

The African Sacred Ibis inhabits freshwater swamps or wetlands that are marshy and mud-flat. They nest in trees occasionally near water sources.

Feeding

They are carnivore birds and mainly feed on insects, worms, fish, and amphibians. However, they at times feed on seeds.

Reproduction

this bird is monogamous. It lays up to 5 eggs which are incubated by both parents for around 30 days. The young African Sacred Ibis fledge at 37 days and become independent at around 6-7 weeks.

When birding in Uganda in Murchison falls park, the African Sacred Ibis is spotted around the Nile Albert Delta area. The best way to see this bird is when you are on a morning boat cruise.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Threskiornithidae

18. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus
19. Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash
20. African Spoonbill Platalea alba

A.V. Family; Pelecanidae

A.V. (21) Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus

The Great white pelican is also called the Eastern White Pelican (White Pelican).

It is one of the largest flying birds. Mostly it is found in swamps in Africa.

The bird is rated as a species of least concern on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species (IUCN)

In Africa, the bird is not migratory.

Identification

is truly unmistakable due to its enormous and awkward bill that has a yellow-orange throat pouch.

This amazing bird has pink legs with webbed feet and pink bare skin around its eyes that extends towards the bill.

Juveniles are browner overall while the adults are white

Size and weight

male Great White Pelicans are slightly bigger than the female. They have a body length which is between 140-180 cm, and a wing span between 226-360 cm.

Males weigh between 9-15 kg whereas females weigh between 5-9 kg.

Behavior

Great White Pelicans are social birds as they live in groups. They are great swimmers and flyers as they can fly during the day and at night. They mostly fly in a V-shape.

It is difficult to see this bird elsewhere if not in water-logged areas. The Great White Pelican is silent though noisy during the breeding season.

Habitat

This bird is found in freshwater swamps, marshes, lakes, rivers, and along water deltas.

Feeding

Great White Pelicans mainly feed on fish. Normally, they fish cooperatively, swimming in a wide arc, rounding up the fish, and then scooping them into their pouch.

Reproduction

these sweet birds nest in quite big colonies. Females lay 2 chalky white eggs and are incubated for around 29-36 days.

Both parents take care of the chicks and fledge at around 65-75 days. Their life span goes over 16 years.

Great White Pelicans are spotted within the Paraa region and at the Nile Albert Delta area in Murchison falls park. The best way to see these birds is when you are on a boat cruise.      

A.V. (22) Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens

The Pink-backed Pelican is a relatively small Pelican when it comes to pelican standards.

The bird is native to swampy African areas. As of 2016, the Pink-backed Pelican has been assessed for the IUCN Red List of threatened species.

In Africa, the bird is not migratory unless when there are natural disasters in its habitat area.

Identification

These great birds have pale grey plumage, a pinkish bill, a grey crest, and a pinkish hue on the back. (not in the deep pink of a flamingo).

Immatures have darker grey plumage.

Size and Weight

These pelicans weigh between 4-7kg. They have a length between 125-155cm and a wing span length of about 2.15-2.9m.

The bill of the Pink-backed Pelican has a length between 30-38cm.

Habitat;

These birds share habitats with the Great White Pelicans. However, they can easily be identified by their much smaller size and pinkish bill.

They like living in swampy and water-logged areas and nest in trees.

Feeding

Pink-backed Pelicans are carnivores and mainly feast on fish and amphibians.

Reproduction

Females lay 2-3 white eggs which are incubated by both parents. The young pelicans fledge around 65-67 days and become independent afterward.

In Murchison park Uganda, Pink-backed Pelicans are spotted within the Paraa region just on the banks of the Victoria Nile. However, for guaranteed sightings, the Albert Delta area is highly recommended.

B. Order; GRUIFORMES

B.I. Family; Gruidae

B.I. (23) Grey Crowned-Crane Balearica regulorum

The grey crowned crane is also known as the African Crowned Crane, Golden Crested Crane, Golden Crowned Crane, and Crested Crane.

Its other names are the East African Crane, East African Crowned Crane, African Crane, Eastern Crowned Crane, Kavirondo Crane, and South African Crane

It is only endemic in Eastern and southern Africa. It is the national bird of Uganda.

The bird is not migratory and it is endangered.

Identification

Grey Crowned Cranes have grey bodies, white cheeks, and white wings with brown and gold feathers. They have long legs with red bright gular pouches under their chins.

The most amazing is the spray of golden feathers that form a crown around the bird’s head.

Size and weight

These beautiful birds are 1 m tall and weigh up to 3.5 kg. they have a wing pan of about 2 m.

Behavior

Grey Crowned Cranes move in flocks and are territorial. In the breeding season, these birds put up quite a show as they dance, bow and jump.

Immature birds usually join them and the show becomes massive.

Habitat;

This bird likes nesting in wetter areas where there are swamps and marshes. They can as well inhabit grassy flat lands near lakes and rivers.

Feeding;

Grey-crowned cranes are omnivores as they feed on seeds and small worms, insects, and invertebrates.

Reproduction;

The bird is monogamous and gets only one partner for life. Females lay 2-5 white eggs and are incubated by the two parents for about 28-31 days.

The young cranes fledge between 56–100 days and become independent forming their own families.

On your birdwatching safari in Uganda in Murchison Falls National Park, Grey Crowned Cranes are present in the Albert Delta area.

A 4-5 hours boat cruise to the Albert Delta is the best way to see the national bird of Uganda.

B.II. Family; Heliornithidae

B.II. (24) African Finfoot (Podica Senegalensis)

The African Finfoot is an aquatic bird. The bird is endemic in Eastern, Western, Central, and Southern Africa.

The bird is a non-migrant. Its population status is the least concern though its numbers are decreasing.

Identification; the African Finfoot has a long neck, a sharp red beak, and red-lobed feet. Their plumage is pale underneath and dark on top.

Behavior; in most cases, this water bird is seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season.

It is so secretive that’s why it is not known if they spend most of their time in the water or on land.

Habitat; this bird inhabits areas with lakes, rivers, streams, and freshwater swamps. However, these areas should have good coverage.

Feeding; the African Finfoot is a carnivore as it feeds on invertebrates, dragonflies, snails, and amphibians.

Reproduction; female Finfoots lay 2 eggs and she incubates them solely. The young African Finfoots fledge after a few days of leaving the nest.

In Murchison park, the bird is seen along the Victoria Nile, especially in the Nile Albert Delta area.

B.III. Family; Rallidae

B.III. (25) Black Crake (Zapornia Flavirostra)

A Black crake is a nice-looking water bird in the Rail and Crake family.

The bird is found in tropical countries in water-swampy areas. In Africa, the bird is not a migrant and its population status is the least concern.

Identification

It’s a lovely small blackish water-bird having a yellowish bill, reddish eyes, and long pink-red legs and toes.

Juveniles are browner and have duller legs and bills.

Size and Weight

The Black crake weighs about 69-118 g and has a body length between 19-23 cm. Its wing span is about 25cm.

Behavior

this bird is not so secretive compared to other rails as it is seen in the open air. Usually, it’s a single bird unless in the breeding season when they make pairs. It walks with its head lowered down.

Habitat

The Black Crake is mostly spotted along the edges of swamps and other water bodies. It prefers moist reedbeds and other emergent vegetation to forage on.

Feeding;

It is an omnivore bird as it preys on other living organisms and as well feeds on seeds. It eats small fish, worms, and amphibians.

Reproduction

The Black crake is monogamous as it pairs with another sex for only one breeding season.

The female lays 2-6 eggs that are either cream or white and incubates for around 13-19 days before hatching.

By 5-6 weeks, the chicks can fly and become independent at around 6-12 weeks.

On a birding tour in Murchison Falls National Park, the Black Crake is spotted within the Nile Delta region.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Rallidae

26. African Crake
27. Lesser Moorhen
28. Allen’s Gallinule
29. African Swamphen

C. Order; ACCIPITRIFORMES

C.I. Family; Sagittariidae

C.I. (30) Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius)

The Secretary bird is a large bird of prey endemic to Africa. This bird is in its own family of Sagittariidae.

It spends most of its time in Open savannah grasslands. The bird species is taken to be endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Identification; the Secretary bird is a large bird and resembles an eagle. However, the sexes of this bird are similar in appearance.

They have grey plumage, with a compressed dark crest and black flight feathers and thighs. Mature secretary birds have a red-orange faces with no feathers with long eyelashes. They as well have long legs.

Size and weight; the bird has a height of 1.3m and weighs between 3.74-4.27kg. it has a length of between 1.1-1.5m. its wing span is between 1.9-2.1m.

Behavior; Secretary birds are in most cases solitary birds as they are seen singly or sometimes in pairs.

They prefer walking to flying as they are always seen walking in savannah grasslands. They are most active in the first two hours of the day after sunrise as they don’t want the morning dew.

They usually feed in late afternoons and fly at great heights.

Habitat; Secretary birds like living in open savannah grasslands that are 1 meter or less of their height. This is because they don’t want to get obstructed in search of prey.

Feeding; the bird is a carnivore. Unlike other predator birds, the secretary bird hunts its prey on the ground, not in the air.

Its main delicacy is snakes, rodents, amphibians, and reptiles.

Reproduction; the bird mates for life. The female secretary bird lays 3 blue-green eggs which are incubated by both birds for around 50 days. Usually, the young chicks will fledge after 3 weeks.

The Secretary bird is present in the Nothern bank of Murchison Falls National Park in the Buligi game area.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            C.II. Family; Pandionidae

C.II. (31) Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) 

The Osprey is a predator bird also known as Sea Hawk, River Hawk, and Fish Hawk. It is the only one in the family of Pandionidae.

The bird is found mostly in tropical countries and it is not a migrant in Africa. Its population is increasing.

Identification; Ospreys are large birds that are hawk shaped. They have slender bodies with long narrow wings and long legs. When flying they make an M-shape when seen from below.

This bird is brown from the top and white at the chest, the wings have dark patches at the wrists.

Their heads are mostly white with a brown stripe over the eye. Juvenile Ospreys have white spots on their backs.

Size and weight; Ospreys have a length of 54-58 cm and weigh between 1400-2000 g. Their wing span is about 150-180 cm.

Behavior; this bird searches for fish in relatively shallow water by flying on wing beats circling in the sky. They grab the fish in the water by diving with their feet first.

Habitat; Opreys like living near water bodies like lakes, rivers, ponds, and deltas where it can fish. However, they build their nests on top of open trees or poles.

Feeding; the bird is carnivorous and mainly feasts on fish.

Reproduction; Ospreys lay typically 3 eggs and are incubated by both parents however, the eggs don’t hatch at once. Their life span is 30 years.

On your Uganda birding tour in Murchison park, the Osprey is spotted around the Paraa area. The other area is around the Nile Delta.

C.III. Family; Accipitridae

C.III. (32) Martial Eagle (Polemaetus Bellicosus)

The Martial Eagle is a large eagle native to sub-Saharan Africa.

This endangered attractive eagle is the only member of the genus Polemaetus. It’s the largest Eagle in Africa.

The bird species is not migratory in Africa.

Identification; this giant eagle has a short but prominent crest. Martial Eagles have dark brown plumages on their upper parts (head, back, and chest) with undersides covered in brown blotches.

In flight, its underwings are brown. The eyes of a mature eagle are yellow.

Size and Weight; Martial eagles weigh between 3-6kg and have a length of about 78-79cm. Their wing span is about 188-260cm

Behavior; the bird is solitary and it is rarely seen alone or two during the breeding season. They don’t tolerate or associate with other eagles.

They are shy birds as they fear to be near humans though they at times pass in the air near crowded places. It has superb keen eyes that can locate prey from 6km away.

Feeding; Martial Eagles are carnivorous and prey on small antelopes, other birds, snakes, reptiles, etc.

Reproduction; the eagles are monogamous and form pairs for life. The female eagle lays one egg and it is incubated for around 45-53 days.

Both parents take care of the eaglet and become independent at around 9-15 months.

When in Murchison Falls National Park Uganda, Martial Eagles are mostly spotted in the Buligi game area.

C.III. (33) Black-chested Snake Eagle (Circaetus pectoralis)

The Black Chested Snake Eagle is a large African bird of prey. The bird is endemic to Africa and its population status is the least concern.

Identification; the bird has a brown-black head and chest. Both sexes look similar with the same plumage.

Its breast is unmarked and has white underwings. It has bright yellow-orange eyes with the bill and legs being of pale grey.

Below the thighs of the Black Chested Snake Eagle is unfeathered.

Habitat; the eagle species likes living in open acacia grasslands. Forests and mountains are not good places for the Black-chested snake eagle.

They as well build their nests on top of open trees and electric poles.

Feeding; it feeds mostly on snakes hence, the other name though, it even feeds on lizards, insects, small mammals, and frogs.

Reproduction; the female only lays one white egg and it is incubated by the female alone for 52 days. After hatching, the eaglet remains in the nest for 90 days.

The Black Chested Snake Eagle can be spotted in the Buligi game area while on safari game drives in Murchison park Uganda.

C.III. (34) Long Crested Eagle (Lophaetus occipitalis)

A Long-crested Eagle is a giant African bird of prey locally known as Kamusungu-sungu in Luganda.

The bird is endemic to Africa and its numbers are increasing however its population status is the least concern.

Identification; it has blackish-brown plumage and long thin feathers that grow from the rear of the crown, usually held erect.

Their secondary feathers are black, barred with light grey, and have broad black tips. The primary feathers and underwings are white and have a black tail striped with pale grey.

Their eyes are bright yellow though, females have darker and their cere and feet are yellow, fading to white in males.

Size and weight; it has a body length of about 53-58cm and females weigh between 1,300-1,500g. The body weight for males is between 912-1,300g.

Behavior; the Long-crested Eagle is a solitary bird that is occasionally seen singly unless in the breeding season when they form pairs.

Habitat; the Long-Crested eagle likes inhabiting forest edges and moist woodlands. However, these particular areas mentioned have to be near grasslands, marshes, a river, or a lake.

Feeding; this eagle is carnivorous and mostly feeds on rodents.

Reproduction; females lay 1-2 eggs and incubate them solely for 42 days as the male-only provides food.

Taking care of the eaglets is the job of the male. The young ones fledge in about 53 days and remain dependent for about 2-3 more months.

When birding in Uganda in Murchison Falls National Park, the bird can be spotted in the Buligi plains.

C.III. (35) African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus Vocifer)

The African Fish Eagle also known as the African Sea Eagle is a large eagle species found in Sub-Saharan Africa.

They like areas with open water body sources where the food supply is abundant.

The population of the African Fish Eagle is stable and least concerned. It is not a migrant bird.

Identification; mature adult African Fish Eagles have a white head and are regularly brown.

They have a yellow featherless face with the head, breast, and tail all covered in snow white. Their eyes are dark brown and have a hook-shaped beak.

Size and Shape; the eagle species weigh between 2-3.6kg with a body length between 63-75 cm. they have a wing span of 2-2.4m.

Behavior; African Fish Eagles move in pairs and are active during the day. They perch on tree branches near water bodies where they await their prey in water.

They as well steal a catch from other birds like Herons.

Habitat; the eagle species lives near freshwater bodies like rivers, lakes, and deltas where food is abundant.

Feeding; the African Fish Eagle are carnivore and mainly feeds on fish. However, they also feast on other small birds and small antelopes, and monkeys.

Reproduction; African Fish Eagles are monogamous and mate for life. Females lay 1-3 eggs and incubation is done by both parents for about 42-45 days.

Eaglets fledge when they are about 70-75 days and become independent at 5 months

In Murchison Falls National Park Uganda, the bird is seen in the Buligi game area during safari game drives.

C.III. (36) African Harrier-Hawk (Polyboroides Typus)

The African Harrier Hawk is a bird of prey endemic to Africa. This bird is not a seasonal migrant.

It is not endangered or vulnerable as its population is stable.

Identification; it is a medium-sized raptor with its head and breast being pale grey. Its belly is white with dark barring, its wings are pale grey, and has a black tail edge with a narrow white line.

Its beak is hooked like that of an African Fishing Eagle. The bird as well posses jointed knees.

It has a body length between 60-66cm.

All genders look alike and you need to be more observant to identify the sex of the individual.

Habitat; African Harrier Hawks are adaptable in areas of agriculture as they have abundant food. These hawks do not like living in forests or thick bushes.

They are also able to live in both urban and rural areas

Feeding; these hawks are omnivores as they feed on other small birds from their nests like barbets and woodhoopoes. They as well feed on fruits and seeds.

Reproduction; African Harrier Hawks lay 1-3 eggs and are incubated by both parents for 30 days.

Chicks start fledging at around 60 days and become independent between 4-5 months.

African Harrier Hawks are common in the Buligi area and the southern sector of the park.

C.III. (37) Black-winged Kite (Elanus caeruleus)    

The Black-winged Kite is also known as the Black-shouldered Kite. It is a small bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. This bird likes hovering over open grasslands in the same way as smaller kestrels.

It is not a migrant bird and its population status is stable as it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; this wonderful bird of prey is grey, and white with black shoulders and reddish eyes.

Their head is white, with a black mask around their eyes, and have a short bill that is hooked black with yellow cere in color.

Its wings are long and pointed and have a round tail. All in all both sexes look similar.

Size and weight; The Black-winged Kite has a body length between 35-38cm with a weight between 197-343g. They have a wingspan of around 80-95 cm.

Behavior; the bird usually perches on open trees as it awaits its prey. It hovers in the air and when prey is seen, it grabs it silently with its feet first and wings in a V shape.

They hunt mostly at dusk. During breeding, these birds are very aggressive to other birds who come near the nest.

Habitat; the bird leaves in savannah areas or in steppes, cultivated plains with thickets however it requires a lot of water.

Mostly it is found in areas with 2700m above sea level.

Feeding; the Black-winged Kite is a carnivore and feeds on rodents, other small birds, and reptiles.

Reproduction; female Black-winged Kites lay 3-5 eggs and are incubated solely by her for about 25-28 days. The eggs hatch at different intervals.

Chicks reach their plumage in 3 weeks and start flying between 30-35 days.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the bird is sighted on the northern bank during safari game drives.

C.III. (38) African Hawk Eagle (Aquila spilogaster)

The African Hawk Eagle is a large bird of prey belonging to the family of Accipitridae. The bird breeds in tropical Sub-Saharan Africa.

It is not a migrant and its population status is stable and least concerned meaning it is not vulnerable.

Identification; African Hawk Eagles have a small head and a long neck with a prominent beak.

They have a longish tail, slender feathered legs, and large robust feet. They have a slate black-grey coloration above and whitish coloration below.

Size and weight; Both males and females look similar in terms of size. The average body length of the bird is between  55 to 68 cm with a wing span of 130 to 160 cm.

They weigh between 1,250 to 1,750 g (males) and 1,480 to 2,470 g ( Females).

Behavior; the African Hawk Eagle is commonly spotted singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season.

They like perching in trees or soaring high overhead.

Habitat; they prefer making their homes in dry savannah areas with trees or woodland habitats.

Feeding; The African Hawk Eagle is a carnivore bird and mainly feeds on small antelopes, rodents, and reptiles.

Reproduction; females lay 1-2 eggs and incubate them for around 43 days. After the eggs hatch, eaglets practice siblicide, this is where the stronger eaglet kills the weaker one.

The remaining eaglet usually fledges at around 61-71 days.

On your Uganda birding safaris in Murchison park, the African Hawk Eagle is a resident in the northern sector of the park. The best way to see the bird is through game drives along the Buligi area.

C.III. (39) Palm-nut vulture (Gypohierax angolensis)

Also called the Vulturine Fish Eagle, the Palm-nut Vulture is a large bird of prey in the family Accipitridae.

The bird breeds in forest and savannah areas in sub-Saharan Africa. The Palm-nut Vulture is not migratory and it’s not endangered or vulnerable globally.

However, in Uganda, the species is vulnerable.

Identification; It features a white plumage except for black areas on its wings and tail. A palm-nut vulture has a red patch around its eyes.

In flight, the palm-nut vulture resembles more like an eagle than a typical vulture. It can be confused with the African fish eagle, but this vulture has red bare skin around each eye. It has yellow eye patches.

Size and weight; the Palm-nut Vulture is the smallest old-world vulture. It weighs around 1.3-1.7 kg, its body length is about 60 cm and its wing span is 150 cm.

Habitat; the vulture species likes inhabiting coastal forests and mangrove swamps but is mostly seen in wet savannahs. It likes leaving in areas with 1,500m elevated from sea level.

Feeding; The Palm-nut Vulture is a bird of prey but mainly feeds on fleshy fruit husks of the oil palm.

However, this bird feeds on crumbs of dead meat as well like frogs, small animals, and reptiles.

Reproduction; These amazing birds mostly breed in areas where raphia palms are present. Females lay one white and brown egg which is incubated by both parents for around 4-6 weeks.

The chicks fledge when around 85-90 days.

When birdwatching in Uganda in Murchison falls park, the Palm-nut Vulture is present in the Paraa expanse.

C.III. (40) Lappet-Faced Vulture (Torgos Tracheliotos)

The Lappet-faced Vulture is the only member of the genus Torgos.

It is the biggest vulture in Africa and the only endemic to the continent.

The Lappet-faced Vulture is not migratory and its population is critically endangered in Uganda and globally.

Identification; it is a large and long-winged vulture it ranks 1 among other vultures. It is large with a bare pink head and some fleshy folds of the skin (lappets) on both sides of its neck.

Their beak is hooked and yellowish.

Size and weight; The Lappet-faced Vulture weighs between 4.4-9.4 kg and has a body length of 95-115cm. Its wing span is between 2.5-2.9m.

Habitat; they usually live in dry savannah areas, arid plains, and thornbushes. They like living in undisturbed environments with minimal grass cover. They like areas with elevations 4,500 m above sea level.

Feeding; Lappet-faced Vulture is a scavenger bird that mostly feeds on animal carcasses. They usually stand on trees as they wait for predators to leave so that they eat the remaining flesh.

Reproduction; Palm-nut Vultures are monogamous and mate for life. Females lay one egg which is incubated by both parents for around 7 to 8 weeks.

The chick fledges at around 125-135 days and becomes independent from its parents. It will breed when it is about 6 years of age.

The Lappet-faced Vulture is a native of the northern sector of Murchison falls national park. The best way to see the bird is through safari game drives.

C.III. (41) Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes Monachus)

A Hooded Vulture is a lovely small vulture. It is not a migratory bird and it is only native to sub-Saharan Africa.

The bird is critically endangered globally and in Uganda at large.

Identification; the bird is typically brown and has a small neck and a pink head that is covered in velvety white fluff-like feathers.

This Vulture has a drooping slender black bill and a blue eye ring which is seen at close range. Juveniles have grey facial skin and brown feathers on their nape.

While in flight, this vulture has silvery flight feathers and a rounded tail.

Size and weight; Hooded Vultures weigh about 1.5-2.6kg and have a body length of 62-72 cm. their wing span is 155-165 cm.

Behavior; these birds travel in flocks. They are occasionally seen soaring in the air during the day. Hooded vultures are shy when it comes to human presence as they fly away immediately when they recognize humans.

Since they are small vultures, they quickly take off and adults are quite unlike chicks when are being fed.

Habitat; though it’s rare, it can be spotted in open savannahs, and also possible along forest edges, and in towns.

Feeding; Hooded Vultures are scavenger birds that mostly feed on animal carcasses. However, they can as well prey on small reptiles and rodents.

Reproduction; this vulture species form monogamous pairs and live for life. Females lay only one egg and are incubated by both parents for around 48-54 days.

The chick remains dependent on its parents for more than 7 months and later becomes independent.

While on your birding tours in Uganda in Murchison park, the Hooded Vulture is spotted in the northern sector. Safari game drives are the best way to see the bird in the park.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Accipitridae

D. Order; STRIGIFORMES

D.I.Family; Strigidae

D.I. (78) Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl (Bubo lacteus)

The Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl is also known as the Milky Eagle Owl or Giant Eagle Owl. The bird is the largest African owl with a wide spread in sub-Saharan Africa.

It is non-migratory and according to IUCN, the bird species is the least concern.

Identification; Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl is big and mainly grey, has pink eyelids, and has long wings.

The eyes are dark brown, a black back with white spots on the shoulder, and their oval facial disc is paler.

Their beak is hooked like that of a Martial Eagle with feathered thighs and black-brown feet.

Size and Weight; Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl has a body length of 66 cm with a wing span between 140-164 cm. they weigh about 56-110 oz.

Behavior; it is a nocturnal bird and roots by day in trees. They sleep lightly as they can awaken at any time to defend its self during the daytime.

Family groups usually roast together during the day. It has been known that this eagle owl bathes in rain.

Habitat; the eagle owl species like living in savannah areas with dotted trees and thorny shrubs.

Feeding; Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl is a carnivore bird and feeds on snakes, other birds, and reptiles.

Reproduction; these birds do not build their own nests, they use other birds’ nests for breeding. They are monogamous as they stay with one partner for life.

Females lay 2 eggs that are incubated solely by her for 30 days. The male-only provides food to the female and the young one if it hatches.

The chicks tend to start walking around the nest when at 60 days however they cannot fly. The checks remain in their parents’ nest until they are 2 years and can now get a partner.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl is spotted in the Paraa area as well in the northern sector.

D.I. (79) Pel’s Fishing-Owl (Scotopelia Peli)

The Pel’s Fishing Owl is among the large species of owls. The bird is endemic in Africa and mostly lives near water sources.

The bird is not migratory and according to IUCN, the bird’s population is the least concern.

Identification; this owl has a reddish-brown coloring. They have rounded, large, dark eyes on a rounded head with no ear tufts.

It has a short tail with dark plumage with even dark markings and underneath is pale with muted markings.

Size and weight; the Pel’s Fishing Owl has a body weight between 2-2.3kg and a body length of 55-63 cm. Their wing span is 150 cm.

Habitat; the bird occupies forests and wood areas that are close to water sources where it can fish.

Feeding; the Pel’s Fishing Owl is carnivorous and mostly feasts on fish. However, it can as well feed on other prey like frogs, crabs, and juvenile crocodiles.

Reproduction; the bird is monogamous and mates with one partner for life. The female lays two eggs which are incubated by the female for 32 to 33 days.

Chicks fledge at 70 days and remain dependent on their parents for nine months.

The Pel’s Fishing Owl in Murchison Falls Park can be spotted around the Paraa area and the delta area.

D.I. (80) Greyish Eagle Owl (Bubo Cinerascens)

The Grey Eagle Owl, also known as Vermiculated Eagle-Owl is also a large owl species. It is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa and it is not a migratory bird.

The IUCN considers the species population to be the least concern.

Identification; The Grey Eagle Owl is gray and has mottled dark brown, buff, and white upper parts.

It has dark brown eyes with a brownish facial disk marked with a heavy brown circle around each eye.

Size and weight; the owl species has a body length of 43cm and weighs about 500 g.

Behavior; These are nocturnal birds and mostly solitary. They hunt at the night and rest during the day.

Habitat; The Grey Eagle Owl inhabits dry rocky areas, open savannah, and lowland forests.

Feeding; this bird is carnivorous and feeds on small antelopes, rodents, and other birds.

Reproduction; female Grey Eagle Owls lay 2-3 eggs that are incubated by her solely.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Strigidae

81. Northern White-faced Owl
82. Spotted Eagle Owl

E. Order; ANSERIFORMES

E.I. Family; Anatidae

E.I. (83) White-Faced Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna Viduata)

The White-faced Whistling Duck is a whistling duck endemic to Africa. The bird is not migratory and its population is stable.

According to IUCN the population status of the bird is least concern meaning it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; Males and females look similar. The White-faced whistling duck has a long grey bill, a long head, and longish legs.

The neck and head of the duck are black with a white face. They as well have webbed feet for swimming.

They weigh between 1-2 kg

Behavior; The White-faced whistling duck is not solitary as they move in flocks.

Habitat; this bird inhabits freshwater wetlands or swamps, marshes, and lakes.

Feeding; the bird feeds on grass, seeds, aquatic plants, and aquatic invertebrates.

Reproduction; female White-faced Whistling Ducks lay 8-12 white eggs and are incubated by both parents between 27-32 days. The ducklings fledge at around 8 weeks

They take 2 years to mature and their life span in the wild is 10-12 years.

In Murchison Falls National park, the bird is spotted in the Nile Albert Delta area.

E.I. (84) Fulvous Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna Bicolor)

The Fulvous Whistling Duck also known as the Fulvous-tree Duck is a whistling duck that breeds in tropical regions.

This bird is not migratory and its population is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; The Fulvous Whistling Duck has long legs and a bill that is dark gray. Their neck is long and has white stippling and their flanks are long white stripped.

The tails are black and white under. Females are more blackish on the crown and back of the neck compared to males.

Behavior; The Fulvous Whistling Duck often forages at night by dubbling and deeping its neck and head into the water to reach food.

Usually, they feed at dawn and dusk in groups.

Habitat; These birds inhabit freshwater swamps, wetlands, and marshes.

Feeding; the bird feeds on grass, seeds, aquatic plants, and aquatic invertebrates.

Reproduction; female ducks lay 12-13 eggs which are incubated by both parents between 24-29 days. The ducklings fledge in 9 weeks and are sexually mature in a year.

The Fulvous Whistling Duck is present and can be spotted in the Nile Albert Delta area.

E.I. (85) Egyptian Goose (Alopochen Aegyptiaca)

The Egyptian Goose is a member of the duck, goose, and swan family Anatidae. It breeds in sub-Saharan Africa and the Nile Valley.

It is not a migratory bird and its population status according to IUCN is Least Concern.

Identification; The Egyptian Goose is pale brown and grey. It has chestnut markings around its eyes, the neck, on a portion of the wings, and a black tail. The wings are crisp white marked and have a brown patch on their chests.

Females are smaller than males.

Size and weight; The goose weighs between 1.1-3.5kg with a body length of 63 cm-73 cm. their wing span is around 134 cm-154 cm.

Habitat; The Egyptian Goose inhabits freshwater swamps, wetlands, and marshes. They live in long grasses where they can get food easily.

Feeding; the bird feeds on grass, grain, and aquatic plants. However, they can as well feast on earthworms, moths, termites, ants, and beetles.

Reproduction; females lay 10-12 eggs which are incubated by both parents for around 28-30 days.

Both parents take care of the young ones until they become independent. Their life expectancy is between 20-25 years.

When birding in Uganda Murchison Falls National Park, the Egyptian Goose is spotted around the Albert Delta area.

E.I. (86) Spur-Winged Goose (Plectropterus Gambensis)

The Spur-winged Goose is a large bird breeding in Sub-Saharan Africa. The species is not migratory and its population status is least concern.

Identification; Males are larger than females. These goose are mainly black with white faces and big white patches. They have long legs that are pinkish and their bills are red.

Size and weight; Adult Spur-Winged Goose has a body length of 75-115cm and can weigh between 4-6.8kg. their wing span ranges from 150-200cm.

Behavior; they are not solitary birds as they move in groups.

Habitat; the goose species likes inhabiting freshwater swamps, marshes, wetlands, and seasonal open pools.

Feeding; the bird’s diet is grass, grain, and aquatic plants. However, they can as well feast on earthworms, moths, termites, ants, and beetles.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the Spur-Winged Goose is spotted along the Victoria Nile and around the Albert Delta area.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Anatidae

87. White-backed Duck
88. Knob-billed Duck
89. African Pygmy-Goose
90. Garganey
91. Yellow-billed Duck
92. Southern Pochard

F. Order; GALLIFORMES

F.I. Family; Numididae

F.I. (93) Helmeted Guinea Fowl (Numida meleagris)

The Helmeted Guinea Fowl is in the family of Numididae and is the only member in the genus Numida. It breeds in Africa and it is not a migratory bird.

According to IUCN the bird’s population is stable and is Least concern.

Identification; the Helmeted Guinea Fowl is a big bird with a round body and small unfeathered head. The head is decorated with dull yellow or reddish bony knob and bare skin which is blue.

Its plumage is gray-black springled with white spots

Size and weight; their body length is about 53-58cm and weighs about 1.3 kg.

Behavior; the bird species form flocks of about 25 birds outside the breeding season. Helmeted Guinea Fowls can walk for more than 10 km in a day.

They tend to run rather than fly when alarmed. They as well fly for short distances. When disturbed, they make loud harsh calls.

Habitat; the Helmeted Guinea Fowl likes inhabiting open dry scattered shrubs and savannah areas.

Feeding; the bird is omnivore as it feeds on grain, grasses, and insects. However, it can as well feed on worms.

Reproduction; Females lay 6-12 eggs which she incubates solely for about 26-28 days. The keets fledge at around 10-14 days and around after 50-75 days they become independent.

In the Murchison Falls National Park, the bird species are spotted in the northern sector of the Buligi game area.

F.I. (94) Western Crested Guinea fowl (Guttera verreauxi)

The Western Crested Guinea fowl is also known as Crested Guinea fowl. The bird is native to Sub-Saharan Africa.

It is not a migrant and its population is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; the Western Crested Guineafowl plumage is blackish with dense white spots. It has a black crest on top of its head that varies from small curly feathers. It has reddish eyes.

Size and weight; their body length is about 50cm and can weigh about 721-1,543 g

Habitat; the bird inhabits open forest, woodland, and forest-savanna mosaics.

Feeding; the Western Crested Guineafowl is an omnivore and feeds on grain and insects.

Reproduction; Females lay 6-12 eggs which she incubates solely for about 26-28 days. The keets fledge at around 10-14 days and around after 50-75 days they become independent.

Western Crested Guineafowl is spotted in the northern sector in the Buligi game area and Budongo forest in Murchison park.

F.II. Family; Phasianidae

F.II. (95) Crested Francolin (Ortygornis sephaena)

The Crested Francolin is a beautiful bird in the family of Phasianidae. It is sometimes considered a separate species, Kirk’s francolin.

It is only endemic in Africa and it is not migratory. IUCN considers the population to be stable as it is least concern.

Identification; this bird is medium-sized, buff-brown, and has a raised bushy crest. They as well have a broad string of pearls collar around the white throat.

Behavior; They are usually spotted in duets and make rapid and repeated sounds at dawn and dusk.

They walk confidently with a cocked tail giving them a chicken’s gait.

Habitat; the Crested Francolin inhabitants in savannah and riverine forests.

Feeding; This bird is an omnivore and feeds on grain, plants, and small insects.

The Crested Francolin can be spotted in the Paraa area and the Buligi game area near the different tracks in Murchison park.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Phasianidae

96. Coqui Francolin
97. Ring-necked Francolin
98. Scaly Spurfowl
99. Heuglin’s Spurfowl
100. Red-necked Spurfowl
101. Blue Quail
102. Common Quail

G. Order; OTIDIFORMES

G.I. Family Otididae

G.I. (103) Denham’s Bustard (Neotis Denhami)       

The Denham’s Bustard also known as Stanley’s Bustard is a large bird that breeds in Sub-Sahara Africa.

In Africa, the bird is migratory and its population is near threatened according to IUCN.

Identification; The Denham’s Bustard has a chestnut, hind neck, and pale gray fore neck. Their heads are grayish with distinct black and white crown stripes.

Females and juveniles are always smaller than males.

Size and weight; males weigh around 9-10kg with a body length of 100-116cm. the females weigh around 3-4kg with a body length of 80-87cm.

Behavior; They always move in pairs or small groups and march purposely.

Habitat; they inhabit dried marshes, wooded savanna, and cereal fields.

Feeding; The Denham’s Bustard feeds on plants, seeds, and other small animals.

Reproduction; the female lays 1 or 2 eggs and she incubates them solely and takes care of the chicks alone.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the Denham’s Bustard is spotted in the northern sector in the Buligi game area if lucky.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Otididae

• Black-bellied Bustard Lissotis melanogaster
• Hartlaub’s Bustard

H. Order; CHARADRIIFORMES

H.I. Family; Burhinidae

H.I. (106) Senegal Thick-Knee (Burhinus senegalensis)

The Senegal Thick-Knee is a wading bird in the family of Burhinidae. It is a large shorebird similar to Water Thick-Knees. This bird breeds only in Africa.

The bird is not migratory and its population is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; Senegal Thick-Knees strong heavy black and yellow bills with big yellow eyes. They have a reptilian appearance with cryptic plumage. In flight, this bird strikes with a broad white wing bar.

Behavior; The bird is most active at dawn and dusk. It is a quiet bird as it takes a long to whistle.

Habitat; this species prefers dry open habitats with bare ground. Mostly they like inhabiting near water areas.

Feeding; Senegal Thick Knees feed on insects, other invertebrates, and on small prey.

Reproduction; the reproduction of this bird is unclear, however, they lay two light brown eggs on a ground scrape.

The Senegal Thick-Knee is spotted around the Paraa area in Murchison falls park if lucky. Also one can look for the bird around the Nile Delta area when on a bird watching safari in Uganda.

Other Birds In The Family Of Burhinidae

107. Water Thick-knee
108. Spotted Thick-knee

H.II. Family; Pluvianidae

H.II. (109) Egyptian Plover (Pluvianus aegyptius)

The Egyptian Plover is also known as the Crocodile bird. This wading shorebird is in its own family of Pluvianidae.

It is called a crocodile bird because it flies inside the reptile’s mouth when it is resting. It then feeds on the decaying meat in the Crocodiles’ teeth.

The population status of the bird species is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; Egyptian Plovers have a blue-gray back and their underparts are salmon. Their heads and breasts are marked with black and white boldly.

In flight, they show a striking pattern of black and white in the outer wing.

Usually, immature is duller than matures though still distinctive.

Behavior; they usually fly and move in pairs or small groups of individuals near water sources.

Habitat; Egyptian Plovers likes inhabiting on sandbars in slow-flowing rivers or wetland areas.

Feeding; the bird feeds on small insects and seeds near water shores.

Reproduction; 2- 3 eggs are laid but are not incubated, instead, they are buried in the warm sand. The parents only come to cool them down using their wet soaked breasts.

The chicks hatch, they immediately start running and feeding themselves though cannot fly at that age.

When birding in Uganda Murchison Falls National Park, the Egyptian Plover is spotted around the Paraa area if lucky. The other place to spot the bird is around the Albert Delta area.

H.III. Family; Jacanidae

H.III. (110) African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus)

The African Jacana is a wader breeding in Sub-Saharan Africa. The bird is not migratory and its population is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; this unusual bird has long legs with elongated toes and claws that prevent it from sinking into the water. It has a distinctive chestnut, white, and has a sky blue bill. Immature don’t have the blue bill and are brown-headed.

Behavior; The African Jacana is weak when flying as it flies low over water with its legs dangling behind awkwardly. They often make noises during the night.

Habitat; this bird inhabits freshwater swamps, wetlands, and marshes.

Feeding; African jacanas feed on insects and other invertebrates picked from the floating vegetation or the surface of the water.

Reproduction; This weird bird mates with multiple males in a Harlem. Females lay eggs that are incubated by either parent for 26 days.

It is the male who raises and takes care of the chicks alone. Chicks fledge at 35 days and become independent at around 70 days.

The African Jacana is spotted in the Albert Delta area in Murchison Falls National Park.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Jacanidae

111. Lesser Jacana Microparra capensis

H.IV. Family; Charadriidae

H.IV. (112) Long-Toed Lapwing (Vanellus Crassirostris)

The Long-toed Lapwing is a medium-sized shorebird in the family of Charadriidae. This bird is only endemic in Sub-Saharan Africa and is not migratory.

It is only nomadic as it flies to new areas in case water levels have increased in its habitat.

According to IUCN, the birds’ population status is least concern.

Identification; The Long-toed Lapwing is large and has long pinkish legs. The face of this bird is white and its throat is framed by a black nape and breast band.

The southern parts of the wings are white with black patches at the tip. The northern parts of the wings are half black and half white.

The Long-toed Lapwing has pinkish-reddish eyes with a black iris and its bill is pinkish with a black tip.

Behavior; the birds’ behaviors are unclear but are mostly seen singly and sometimes in pairs.

Habitat; this bird inhabits freshwater swamps, marshes, and wetlands with floating vegetation.

Feeding; it feeds on vegetation, aquatic insects, and invertebrates that it finds in swamps floating on water.

Breeding; The Long-toed Lapwing lays 2-4 eggs which are incubated by both parents for about 27 days. The chicks fledge at about 2 months.

When on a birding safari in Murchison park, the Long-toed Lapwing is spotted in the Albert Delta area.

H.IV. (113) Spur-Winged Lapwing (Vanellus Spinosus)

The Spur-winged Lapwing is also known as a Spur-winged Plover and it is in the group of largish waders.

This bird breeds in Sub-saharan Africa and around the eastern Mediterranean.

In Africa, the bird is not migratory though nomadic, its population is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; this unmistakable bird is medium-large with a black crown, chest, foreneck stripe, and tail.

The face of the bird, neck, and belly are all white whereas its wings and back are light brown. Its bill and legs are all black.

Habitat; The Spur-winged Lapwing inhabits freshwater swamps, marshes, and wetlands but also in cultivated areas.

Feeding; It forages mainly for arthropods, but also for small reptiles and amphibians.

Reproduction; the breeding of the bird is unclear, however, it lays usually 4 blotchy yellowish eggs. It is so aggressive to anyone who comes near its young ones.

The Spur-winged Lapwing is present around the Nile Albert Delta in Murchison Falls National Park. The best way to see the bird is in the morning on the Albert Delta boat cruise when on your bird-watching tours.

H.IV. (114) African Wattled Lapwing (Vanellus Senegallus)

The African-wattled Lapwing is also known as the Senegal-wattled Plover or simply Wattled Lapwing. It is a large lapwing bird that breeds in Sub-saharan Africa outside the rainforests.

This unmistakable bird is not migratory although it makes seasonal movements. The birds’ population is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; it has a black crown, a white forehead, and big yellow facial wattles. The bird’s tail is white and tipped black and its legs are long and yellow.

In flight, the underwings are white with black flight feathers.

Habitat; The African-wattled Lapwing prefers inhabiting wet grasslands as well as swamps. They can as well be found in dry savannah and cultivated fields.

Feeding; the bird feeds on drier grounds on seeds and insects.

Reproduction; this amazing bird lays 2-4 eggs which are incubated by both parents for around 28-32 days.

One parent attends to the young ones for the next 6 weeks.

In Murchison Falls National Park, The African-wattled Lapwing is spotted around the shores of Victoria Nile and the Abert Delta area.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Charadriidae

H.V. Family; Glareolidae

H.V. (124) Collared Pratincole (Glareola pratincola)

The Collared Pratincole is also known as the Common Pratincole or red-winged Pratincole. It is a native of the old world.

It is migratory and spends its winter in tropical Africa. Its population is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; This amazing bird has short legs, a long forked tail, long pointed wings, and a short bill. Their backs and head are brown, their belly is white, and their wings are brown with darker flight feathers.

Habitat; The Collared Pratincole usually inhabits near water sources like rivers, swamps, and lakes.

Feeding; it feeds on insects.

Reproduction; Females lay 2-3 eggs which are cream with black or dark brown spots. They are incubated by both parents and hatch after around 17-19 days.

The chicks leave the nest after 2-3 days and are cared for by their parents.

They fledge after around 25-30 days.

When on a birding safari in Murchison Falls National Park, the bird is spotted around the Paraa area.

H.V. (125) Rock Pratincole (Glareola nuchalis)

The Rock Pratincole is a small bird in the family of Glareolidae. This wonderful bird is endemic to Africa, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.

It is not migratory and its population is stable as its least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; this bird has dark gray or brown plumage. It has a white line at the beginning beneath the eye extending to the back of the neck like a collar.

The wings are long and dark with a white patch on the underwing. The tails are forked and have white bellies. Its bill is black with a red base and the legs and eyes are coral red.

Size and weight; The Rock Pratincole has a body length of 16.5-19.5cm and a weight of around 43–52 grams. Their wing span is about  14.3–16.0 cm

Behavior; they move in flocks of around 25 individuals. They make seasonal movements depending on the water levels in the local area.

Habitat; The Rock Pratincole likes inhabiting areas around rivers and lakes.

Feeding; these birds feast on insects, flies, moths, ants, beetles, and grasshoppers.

Reproduction; the reproduction of this bird is unclear however, females lay 1-2 eggs and are incubated by both parents. Usually, parents come with wet soaked feathers to cool the eggs during hot temperatures.

When in Murchison Falls National Park, the Rock Pratincole is spotted around the Paraa area along the Victoria Nile.

Other Birds In The Family Of Glareolidae

126. Black-winged Pratincole
127. Temminck’s Courser

H.VI. Family; Laridae

H.VI. (128) White-Winged Tern (Chlidonias Leucopterus)

The White-winged Tern also known as White-winged Tern is a small bird in the family of Laridae.

This spacious bird is migratory and comes from Europe and spends its winter days in tropical Africa. The population status of this bird is stable and is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; The White-winged Tern has two appearances that is breeding and non-breeding plumages.

Breeding adults are conspicuous in flight and have black and white plumages. The rest of their shoulders are white contrasting with a black body.

The non-breeding are white with gray patches and have black earmuffs.

Behavior; these birds don’t dive for fish, they instead fly slowly over water surfaces to pick insects.

They move in flocks of very many individuals.

Their wing beats during flights are shallow and leisurely.

Habitat; The White-winged Tern inhabits around rivers, swamps, and wetlands

Feeding; these birds feed on insects and small fish.

Reproduction; the breeding or reproduction of these birds is not clear, however they nest on floating vegetation. They also lay 2-4 eggs.

The White-winged Tern is found along the Victoria Nile in the Paraa area in Murchison Falls National Park.

H.VI. (129) Gray-Hooded Gull (Chroicocephalus Cirrocephalus)

The Gray-hooded Gull is also known as the Grey-headed Gull that breeds in Sub-saharan Africa. This bird is not migratory and its population is stable as its population status is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; this wonderful bird has a gray hood, pale eyes, and red bill and legs. Their backs are medium gray with wings that have dark flight feathers. All these features are for breeding adults.

However, these birds lose the gray hood in the non-breeding season which is replaced by a dark cheek spot.

Behavior; the Gray-hooded Gulls move in hundreds or thousands if the feeding conditions favor. They usually feed in the morning and roost in the evenings.

Habitat; these birds like inhabiting freshwater areas like swamps, rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

Feeding; they feed on insects and invertebrates from the water.

Reproduction; the reproduction and breeding of these birds are not so clear however they lay 2-3 eggs in their nests.

In Murchison Falls National Park, they are spotted along the Victoria Nile around the Paraa area and the Albert Delta area.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Laridae

130. Black-headed Gull
131. Lesser Black-backed Gull
132. Gull-billed Tern
133. Whiskered Tern

H.VII. Family; Rostratulidae

134. Greater Painted-Snipe

H.VIII. Family; Scolopacidae

H.VIII (135) Common Sandpiper (Actitis Hypoleucos)

The common Sandpiper is a small Palearctic wader in the family of Scolopacidae that migrates from Europe to Africa.

This bird’s population is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; the bird has greyish-brown upperparts, white underparts, and short dark-yellowish legs and feet. Its bill has a pale base and a dark tip.

Adults have a body length of around 18–20 cm with a wing span of about 32–35 cm.

Behavior; The common Sandpiper is seen in large flocks and flies low over water surfaces.

Habitat; this gregarious bird likes living in wetland areas. They are usually seen on rocky stony grounds along rivers and lakes. They as well mix with other species.

Feeding; the bird feeds on small food items like insects and other invertebrates that it picks in flight or on shallow water.

Breeding; The common Sandpiper nests on grounds near freshwater. When scared or threatened, the young cling to their parents to be flown away for safety.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the Common Sandpiper is spotted along the Victoria Nile in the Paraa area. The best way of seeing this bird is by getting on a boat cruise.

Other Birds In The Family Of Scolopacidae

Other Birds In The Order Of CHARADRIIFORMES

H.IX. Family; Turnicidae

147. Small Buttonquail
148. Black-rumped Buttonquail

I. Order; CICONIIFORMES

I.I. Family; Ciconiidae

I.I. (149) African Open Bill (Anastomus lamelligerus)

The African Open Bill is a stork in the family of Ciconiidae. This bird breeds in Sub-saharan Africa and the western regions of Madagascar.

Its population is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN and it is not migratory. In Africa, the bird is not a migrant, however, it is nomadic when weather conditions change in its habitat.

Identification; it’s a medium-sized bird all dark with a greenish gloss and a unique long bill that has a gap between the two halves of the bill.

It has long legs and a neck that separate it from other dark waterbirds.

Size and weight; The African Open Bill is a stork with a body length between 80-94 cm and weighing about 1-1.3 kg.

Habitat; this bird inhabits freshwater swamps, wetlands, marshes, and around shallow rivers and lakes. It uses its strange bill for extracting food from these areas.

Feeding; it’s a carnivore bird as its feeds on snails, mussels from their shells, and fish.

Reproduction; The African Open Bill form monogamous pairs and breed in colonies with over 40 individuals. These can only be of their race or other bird species.

Females lay 3-4 oval chalky white eggs which are incubated by both parents for around 25-30 days.

When chicks have hatched, at around 50-55 days, these chicks will leave the nest and fledge.

The African Open Bill is sighted in the Albert Delta area in Murchison Falls National Park. A 4-5hr boat launch to the Albert Delta is the best way of seeing the bird.

I.I. (150) Saddle-billed Stork (Ephippiorhynchus Senegalensis)

The Saddle-billed Stork is a large wading bird in the stork family of Ciconiidae.

This incredible bird is a resident breeder in Sub-saharan Africa and is not migratory. It can however make nomadic movements in case of any trouble in its natural habitat.

Its population is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; This bird is a medium-sized tall black and white stork with a long red, yellow and black bill. Males have dark brown eyes whereas females have yellow eyes.

Their legs and feet are black with pink hocks.

Size and weight; The Saddle-billed Stork has a height of about 145 to 150 cm with a body length of 148cm. they have a wing span of about 2.4 to 2.7 m.

They weigh between 5.1–7.52 kg.

Behavior; it is a silent bird except for bill clattering in its nest. They are usually seen singly or in pairs, especially in the breeding season.

Habitat; this bird species likes inhabiting freshwater swamps, marshes, and wetlands where there are no other storks.

Feeding; The Saddle-billed Stork is carnivorous and feeds on catfish, frogs, birds, and insects.

Reproduction; these birds are monogamous and mate for life. The female lays 2-4 eggs which are incubated for around 30-35 days.

Chicks take another 70-100 days to fledge. They remain dependent on their parents until the next breeding season.

The Saddle-billed Stork is one of the unique birds in Uganda and is spotted in the Albert Delta area in Murchison park.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Ciconiidae

151. Black Stork
152. Abdim’s Stork
153. African Woolly-necked Stork
154. Marabou Stork
155. Yellow-billed Stork

J. Order; SULIFORMES

J.I. Family; Anhingidae

J.I. (156) African Darter (Anhinga rufa)

The African Darter is sometimes known as the snake bird that breeds in Sub-saharan Africa and Iraq.

This water bird is non-migratory and its population status is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; the African Darter has a very long neck with males having glossy black with white streaking. Females and immatures are browner.

They have a thin white lateral neck stripe against a rufous background color. Their pointed bill prevents confusion with cormorants.

Behavior; this bird swims with only its S-shaped neck out. It is mostly seen singly drying its feathers along the water shores since it does not have oil on its feathers like others cormorants.

It dives into the water to get prey on fish.

Habitat; the African Darter likes inhabiting freshwater areas like swamps, rivers, and lakes.

Feeding; it is a carnivore bird and mostly feasts on fish and other small aquatic animals.

Reproduction; the reproduction process of the bird is unclear, however it nests with herons and egrets. Females lay 3-6 eggs.

The African Darter is spotted in the Albert Delta area or around the Paraa area in Murchison Falls National Park.

J.II. Family; Phalacrocoracidae

J.II (157) Long-tailed Cormorant (Microcarbo africanus)

The Long-tailed Cormorant is also known as the Long-tailed Cormorant that breeds much in Africa.

This bird is non-migratory though it makes nomadic movements. Its population is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; the bird is all black with a green gloss in the breeding season. It has a long tail with silvery wing converts.

It has a short head crest and a red or yellow face patch with a yellow bill. Non-breeding adults and juveniles are browner with white bellies.

This is a small cormorant with a body length between 50-55cm and its wing span is about 80-90cm.

Habitat; The Long-tailed Cormorant inhabits freshwater swamps and wetlands where it can easily collect food.

Feeding; this bird is carnivorous and mainly feeds on fish. However, it can as well feast on frogs and other aquatic animals.

Reproduction; the breeding of this bird is not so clear but they lay 3-4 eggs in hidden nests in trees covered by tall grasses.

The Long-tailed Cormorant is sighted in the Albert Delta area in Murchison park.

J.II (158) Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)

The Great Cormorant is formerly known as the Great-black Cormorant across the Northern Hemisphere.

This bird is a migrant spending its winter days in Africa. It is not endangered or vulnerable as its population status is stable. According to IUCN, the bird species is least concern.

Identification; The Great Cormorant is not big having a white patch on the throat and lacks a crest. During breeding, adults show a circular white patch on the flanks.

Immatures have contrasting white bellies with white underparts in all plumages. Their feet are webbed enabling them to swim.

Weight; males typically are larger than females. Their weight range is about 1.5-5.3 kg.

Habitat; this bird likes inhabiting freshwater wetland areas and swamps. They as well live on the rocks near rivers and lakes.

Feeding; Great Cormorants are carnivores and feed on fish that is got when diving.

Reproduction; females lay 3-5 pale blue eggs that are incubated for around 28-31 days.

In Murchison Falls National Park, Great Cormorants are can be spotted in the Albert Delta area or if lucky around the Paraa area.

K. Order; BUCEROTIFORMES

K.I. Family; Bucorvidae

K.I. (159) Abyssinian Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus abyssinicus)

The Abyssinian Ground Hornbill is also called the Northern Ground Hornbill. This terrestrial lovely hornbill is the 2^nd largest African hornbill after the Southern Ground Hornbill.

It breeds in Sub-sahara Africa and it is not migratory. According to IUCN, the bird population is Vulnerable as a few are still living.

Identification; the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill holds a black plumage, though has some white primary feathers only visible when in flight.

It has a long black bill which has a red patch at its base and a short open-ended black casque on top.

Males have a patch of bare blue skin around the eyes and an inflatable red patch of bare skin on the neck and throat. Females have bare skin which is dark blue.

Though nearly similar to the Southern Ground Hornbill, it’s identified by its blue facial skin.

Weight and size; the bird has a body length of about 90-110cm and a height of 90-100cm. Their body weight is approximately 4kg.

Behavior; the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill is seen in pairs or small family parties. This bird can move for about 11km looking for food.

They have territories of about 2-100 square miles and are more active during the day.

Habitat; this beautiful bird lives in dry open savannah grasslands.

Feeding; Abyssinian Ground Hornbill is omnivorous and feeds on tortoises, lizards, snakes, birds, spiders, beetles, and caterpillars. They also take carrion, some fruits, seeds, and groundnuts

Reproduction; females lay 1-2 eggs in 5 days. The incubation of each egg is between 37-41 days. The male is only responsible for providing food for the incubating female.

One chick usually hatches first then the other like 4 days before and the last one to hatch may die of hunger.

The remaining chick will then grow and leave the nest when it is around 80-90 days.

On your birding tour in Uganda Murchison falls national park, the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill is spotted in the Buligi game area.

K.II. Family; Bucerotidae

K.II. (160) Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill (Bycanistes subcylindricus)

The Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill is also known as the Grey-cheeked Hornbill. This species breeds in Africa and it is not migratory.

This bird species is assessed as least concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Identification; it is a large black and white hornbill. It’s easily identified by its enormous blackish bill with a large casque on top.

Males have relatively large black and white bills while females are smaller.

In flight, they show a broad white patch at the back of the wing and a black tail with white sides.

Similar to the White-thighed Hornbill, but has a black center to the tail, black wingtips plus a darker bill and casque.

Size and weight; The Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill has a body length of 60-70 cm and a wing span of about 70-96 cm.

Males weigh between 1 kg and 1.5 kg, the females weigh between 1 kg and 1.25 kg.

Behavior; this bird is commonly seen in pairs and shows emotions by uplifting its feathers on the heady forming a crown.

Habitat; this bird inhabits savannah wooded areas.

Feeding; the diet of the bird consists mainly of figs, fruits & insects.

On your birding tour in Uganda Murchison falls national park, the Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill is spotted in the Buligi game area.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Bucerotidae

161. Crowned Hornbill
162. African Grey Hornbill
163. Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbill
164. Northern Red-billed Hornbill

Other birds in the order of Bucerotiformes

K.III. Family; Phoeniculidae

165. Green Woodhoopoe
166. Black Scimitarbill
167. Abyssinian Scimitarbill

K.IV. Family; Upupidae

168. Eurasian Hoopoe

M. Order; MUSOPHAGIFORMES

M.I. Family; Musophagidae

M.I. (169) Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata)

The Great Blue Turaco is a bird species in the family of Musophagidae. This bird mostly breeds in the African tropical rainforest.

This bird is not endangered as its population status is least concern according to IUCN. It is not migratory as well.

Identification; Unquestionably, the Great Blue Turaco is one of the most attractive birds in Uganda.

It has a tall black crest, a red-and-yellow bill plus black bars at the end of the tail. It has grey-blue upper parts, a white chin, a yellow-green lower breast, and a yellow belly darkening to chestnut brown posteriorly.

Size and weight; this bird has a body length of 70-76 cm and weighs about 800-1,231 g.

Behavior; The Great Blue Turaco is gregarious, with birds forming small troops of six or seven individuals

Habitat; This bird likes inhabiting rainforests.

Feeding; the bird feeds on leaves, and flowers, as well as the fruits of many plant species

Reproduction; females lay 2-3 greenish-white eggs which are incubated by both parents for about 29-31days.

On your Uganda birding tour in Murchison park, you can spot it on nature walks in the Budongo forest.

M.I. (170) Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae)  

The Ross’s Turaco is a handsome purple turaco of the family Musophagidae also known as Lady Ross’s Turaco.

This bird is not a migrant and its population status is stable. According to IUCN, this bird is least concern.

It’s one of the most beautiful and unmistakable birds in Uganda Murchison falls national park.

Identification; It has a purple plumage and holds a vivid yellow bill and face, as well as a puffy red crest.

In flight, it exhibits a vibrant color of crimson wing patches just like all the other turacos.

Habitat; It’s commonly spotted within forest margins and forests.

Feeding; the bird species is largely frugivorous as it mostly feeds on fruits, flowers, and leaves of different plant species.

Reproduction; The Ross’s Turaco is monogamous as it mates for life. Females lay 2-3 eggs which are incubated for about 25 days.

Chicks remain dependent on their parents for around 4-7 weeks until they fledge. They reach their sexual maturity in one year.

M.I. (171) Bare-faced Go-away Bird (Corythaixoides personatus)

The Bare-faced Go-away Bird is a beautiful bird in the family of Musophagidae native to the Afro tropics.

It is non-migratory and its population is stable as it is assessed as least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; this bird is gray with a bushy crest and mostly has a white head and breast. The face and eyes are all black with a long tail and beak.

Both sexes of this bird species look similar other than the female’s green beak.

Behavior; this bird is noisy and restless and usually moves singly or in groups.

Habitat; the Bare-faced Go-away Bird likes inhabiting moist savanna, woodland, and gardens.

Feeding; it feeds on fruits, leaves, and seeds.

Reproduction; the reproduction process of the bird is unclear however, it lays 2-3 eggs.

When on your bird watching safaris, the Bare-faced Go-away Bird can be spotted in the northern sector of the Buligi game area in Murchison falls park.

M.I. (172) Eastern Plantain-eater (Crinifer zonurus)              

The Eastern Plantain-eater is also known as the Eastern Grey Plantin-eater breeding mostly in tropical east Africa.

This large turaco bird is not endangered or vulnerable as its population is stable. According to IUCN, the birds’ population is least concern.

It is not a migratory bird.

Identification; The Eastern Plantain-eater is a common grey Turaco with a long tail and bushy crest.

While in flight, this bird displays white bars on the outer wing and white sides to the tail.

The Eastern Plantain-eater can be confused in shape with the White-bellied go-away-bird. However, it’s distinguished by its darker belly and yellowish bill.

Habitat; These birds are commonly found in savannas, and woodlands, mostly in small groups.

Feeding; this bird feeds on fruits, flowers, and seeds.

Reproduction; the reproduction of this bird species is unclear however it is known for laying 2 or 3 eggs. It lays the eggs in tree platform nests.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the Eastern Plantain-eater is spotted within the Buligi plains.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Musophagidae

173. Black-billed Turaco
174. White-crested Turaco

N. Order; CUCULIFORMES

N.I. Family; Cuculidae

N.I. (175) Blue-headed coucal

N.I. (176) White browed coucal

N.I. (177) African emerald cuckoo

N.I. (178) Great spotted Cuckoo

Other Birds In The Family Of Cuculidae

O. Order; CAPRIMULGIFORMES

O.I. Family; Caprimulgidae

O.I. (190) Pennant-winged Nightjar (Caprimulgus vexillarius)

The Pennant-winged Nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family of Caprimulgidae. This spacious bird breeds in Africa and it’s an intra-African migrant.

Its population is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; males are characteristic in having a broad white band over the black primaries. The males as well acquire a striking 2^nd primary feather during the breeding season.

These pennant feathers grow to greater lengths in the next years twice the body length. They then drop off immediately after the completion of the breeding.

Behavior; they are most active during late evenings and at early sunrise. They drink water while they fly on top of water surfaces. They move in groups.

Habitat; The Pennant-winged Nightjar inhabits moist savannah areas and broadleaved woodlands.

Feeding; the species feeds on insects flying and beetles.

Reproduction; Breeding takes place from spring to early summer while south of the equator. Males usually separate from their territories to attract passing females.

Laying eggs coincides with the full moon. In mid-summer, most birds start returning to the northern hemisphere.

When birding in Uganda Murchison Falls National Park, the Pennant-winged Nightjar is spotted at the top of the falls. This species is usually along the Tebito track in the late evenings.

O.I. (191) Long-tailed Nightjar (Caprimulgus climacurus)    

The Long-tailed Nightjar is a small bird in the family of Caprimulgidae. This bird only breeds in Africa and its population is stable as it is least concern.

It is an intra-Africa migrant.

Identification; it has a very long tail. The plumage of this bird depends geographically, it is rufous-brown or gray-brown though dark brown locally.

It has a large pale mark on the outer wing and along the sides of the tail. Males are mostly white and bluff in females. Non-breeding birds can have a shorter though still elongated tail.

Feeding; the bird feeds on insects in the air.

Habitat; it inhabits areas where trees litter the ground, in weeds and bushes providing suitable conditions matching its color.

In Murchison falls park, the Long-tailed Nightjar is seen at the Tebito track at top of the falls and around the Paraa area.

O.I. (192) Standard-winged Nightjar (Caprimulgus longipennis)  

The Standard–winged Nightjar is a nocturnal bird that breeds in Africa. It intra-migrates in Africa.

Its population is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; Adult males have a bizarre and unusual wing ornament during the breeding season. It consists of a central flight feather on each wing much longer than the bird’s body.

In flight, this bird makes the impression of two bats chasing after it. When roosting during the day, this bird is grey with a browner collar. It has a short tail and lacks white in the wings or tail.

Behavior; this small bird flies at dusk and most often at sundown. It spends most of its day time roosting on the grounds.

Habitat; The Standard–winged Nightjar inhabits Savannah, broadleaf woodland, forest clearings, and open fields.

Feeding; the bird feeds on insects that are flying in the air.

Reproduction; The bird’s reproduction is unclear but it lays 2 elongated eggs on the bare ground, not in nests.

When on your Uganda bird watching safari in Murchison falls, the Standard–winged Nightjar is spotted in the Paraa area and along the Albert Nile swamps.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Caprimulgidae

193. Fiery-necked Nightjar
194. Swamp Nightjar
195. Plain Nightjar
196. Slender-tailed Nightjar
197. Square-tailed Nightjar

More Birds In The Order Of Caprimulgiformes

O.II. Family; Apodidae

P. Order; CORACIIFORMES

P.I. Family; Alcedinidae

P.I. (208) Giant Kingfisher (Megaceryle Maxima)

The Giant Kingfisher is an amazing bird breeding in Africa. This bird is not a migrant and its population is stable.

According to IUCN, the bird species’ population is least concern.

Identification; it is the largest Kingfisher species in Africa (about 42- 46cm long). It’s easily identified by its large bushy crest, a large black bill, and fine white spots on the black upper parts.

Males have a chestnut breast band while females have a white-spotted black breast band and a chestnut belly.

Behavior; they always move in pairs. They are quiet birds as they take quite some time to make a sound.

Habitat; they are always seen up on trees or poles near freshwater rivers, swamps, wetlands, and lakes.

Feeding; the Giant Kingfisher is a carnivore bird that mostly feeds on fish. It as well feeds on frogs and crabs from water.

Reproduction; the reproduction of this bird species is unclear, however, it lays around 3 eggs.

On your Uganda birding trip in Murchison park, you can spot the Giant Kingfisher around Lake Albert Nile delta. The best way to see this bird is when on a boat cruise that goes to the Abert Delta.

P.I. (209) Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis Cristata)

The Malachite Kingfisher is a river kingfisher that breeds widely in Africa. It is not a migrant except for seasonal movements related to climate.

This bird is not endangered nor Vulnerable as its population status is stable (Least Concern).

Identification; A Malachite Kingfisher is a relatively small Kingfisher, about 13cm in length. This lovely colored kingfisher holds a short black crest with blue feathers.

It’s much noticed by its vivid orange underparts and the blue upper parts. Note the white patches on its throat and rear neck sides and the bright red legs, plus a reddish-orange bill.

Behavior; It is usually seen in pairs. It sits motionless for long periods before diving into the water to snatch its prey.

Habitat; the bird is commonly found almost in habitats near water, such as lakes, rivers, streams, and rice gardens.

Feeding; Malachite Kingfisher is carnivores and feeds on fish and aquatic birds.

Reproduction; this bird breeds in burrows chambered in tree holes. Females lay 3-4 eggs which are placed on the litter of fish bones.

In Murchison Falls National Park, this bird is hardly missed in the Paraa area.

P.I. (210) Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle Rudis)

The Pied Kingfisher is a small water kingfisher that breeds in Africa and Asia. This bird is non-migratory.

Its population is stable as it is assessed by IUCN as least concern for the red list endangered species.

Identification; The Pied Kingfisher is a lovely species of Kingfisher easily identified by its black and white striped plumage.

It has a short, bushy crest and silky dark bill. Males are double banded across the breast and females have a single gorget that’s usually broken in the middle.

Behavior; They’re commonly seen resting in small groups or pairs and commonly hovering over clear water before diving for fish.

Habitat; the bird is commonly found almost in habitats near water, such as swamps, lakes, rivers, and streams.

Feeding; the Pied Kingfisher is a carnivore and mainly feasts on fish and aquatic insects.

Reproduction; this bird is a bit funny, it reproduces co-operatively with other non-breeding birds from an earlier brood assisting parents. It may as well reproduce unrelated older birds.

The Pied Kingfisher is more spotted in the Paraa region, especially on a boat cruise to the Nile delta.

Other Birds In The Family Of Alcedinidae

211. Shining-blue Kingfisher
212. African Pygmy Kingfisher
213. Grey-headed Kingfisher
214. Woodland Kingfisher
215. Blue-breasted Kingfisher
216. Striped Kingfisher

P.II. Family; Meropidae

P.II. (217) Red-throated Bee-eater (Merops bulocki)      

The Red-throated Bee-eater is a nice-looking species of bird in the family Meropidae.

It mostly breeds in tropical Africa and it’s non-migratory. Its population status is stable as it is least concern.

Identification; this pretty bee-eater is identified from other bee-eaters by its red throat. It has a black face mask, green upper parts, and a pale orange breast.

Please, also note the bright blue under tail coverts and thighs.

In flight, they show cinnamon underwings with a trailing black edge.

Habitat; they’re often found in savanna habitats, usually near water, in small groups. These birds nest in tunnels along cliffs.

Feeding; The Red-throated Bee-eater feeds on honey bees and stingless bees as well as other insects.

On your birding safaris in Uganda Murchison Falls NP, the bird species is spotted at the Nyamusika cliff towards the falls.

The best way to see them is by boarding a thrilling Nile boat cruise to the bottom of the Murchison falls.

P.II. (218) Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater (Merops oreobates)

The Cinnamon-Chested Bee-eater is a smaller bee-eater breeding in East Africa.

This bird is non-migratory and its population is stable (Least Concern). It’s not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; The Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater is a medium-sized impressive bird with rich rufous underparts.

This bee-eater holds a green head, upperparts, and tail while its throat. It has a yellow chin, separated by the black strike from the cinnamon-brown breast.

Their tail base is yellow and features a white tip on the blackish tail when seen from the front.

Though much similar to the Little and Blue-breasted bee-eaters, these birds are much bigger and richly colored below.

Habitat;  These birds are usually spotted in woodlands, in small flocks, resting high in visible places.

Feeding; The Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater diet consists of honey bees, moths, butterflies beetles, and other insects.

On your Uganda birding holiday in Murchison falls park, they can be spotted within the Paraa area. Also, it is possible to spot the bird within the Buligi game area.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Meropidae

P.III. Family; Coraciidae

P.III. (228) European Roller (Coracias garrulous)

The European Roller is a beautiful bird that mostly breeds in Europe. Its population status is stable as it is not endangered or vulnerable.

This bird is a long-distance migrant as it spends its winter season in Africa.

Identification; The European Roller is a colorful stocky bird with vivid blue overall, a warm brown back, and a crow-like bill.

Juviles have a duller plumage.

Behavior; this bird vomits a foul-smelling orange liquid onto itself to deter a predator. The smell also warns the parents on their return to the nest.

This roller species is usually spotted singly or in small flocks, resting on visible tree branches.

Habitat; this bird dwells in a wide variety of environments however, it avoids treeless plains.

It’s mostly spotted in open savannas having scattered trees with wooded perches.

Feeding; It feeds mostly on large insects such as grasshoppers.

Reproduction; females lay 2-6 white smooth eggs at intervals of 2 or 3 days. They are incubated by both parents for about 17-19 days before they hatch. Chicks usually fledge after 26 or 27 days.

The chicks first bread when they are two years old.

In Murchison Falls National Park, it can be spotted within the Buligi plains.

P.III. (229) Abyssinian Roller (Coracias abyssinicus)

The Abyssinian Roller is also known as the Senegal Roller. It breeds in tropical Africa.

They are short migrants flying further south after the wet season. Their population is stable as it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; An Abyssinian Roller is a slim lovely bird having a distinct brown back and the rest of its plumage blue.

Note its long outer tail feathers. While in flight, its gorgeous wings are half dark blue and half pale blue.

It can be easily identified from the Lilac-breasted roller by the blue throat.

Also, it’s separated from the much similar European roller, however, distinguished by its dark blue rather than a black outer wing.

Behavior; these birds perch on trees, and posts whilst watching for large insects and small rodents. They are fearless as they can fly into the smoke of a forest fire to catch disturbed invertebrates.

They as well dive and roll at humans and other intruders.

Habitat; this nice-looking bird is mostly found in open dry savanna, often spotted singly or in pairs.

Feeding; the Abyssinian Roller feeds on insects and small invertebrates.

Reproduction; Their reproduction is unclear however, they nest in tree holes where they lay 3- 6 eggs.

On your Murchison falls safari in Uganda, it can be spotted within the Buligi plains.

P.III. (230) Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)

The Lilac-breasted Roller is a small good looking bird that breeds in Sub-saharan Africa.

This bird is non-migratory and it is not endangered or vulnerable. Its population status is just stable.

Identification; A Lilac-breasted Roller is an attractive unmistakable chunky. It is a large-headed bird having a prominent lilac breast, spring-green crown, and rusty cheeks.

Behavior; This bird has an amazing display while in flight which includes, side-to-side rolling thus, its name.

They are usually spotted alone or in pairs, perched visibly on tree tops.

Habitat; These birds mostly prefer open woodlands and savannas of treeless areas.

Feeding; the diet of this bird consists of arthropods and small vertebrates like ground-dwelling insects.

Reproduction; the Lilac-breasted Roller lays 3-4 eggs in a breeding season which are incubated by both parents for about 22- 24 days.

Chicks fledge for 19 days.

On your Uganda birding trip in Murchison falls park,  it can be spotted within Buligi plains.

Other Birds In The Family Of Coraciidae

237. Broad-billed Roller

Q. Order; PICIFORMES

Q.I. Family; Lybiidae

Q.I. (231) Double-toothed Barbet (Lybius bidentatus)    

The Double-toothed Barbet is a nice-looking bird breeding in tropical Africa. This bird is non-migratory and its population status is not endangered as it is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification; this barbet has a black and red coloring with a large bill that is off-white. The skin around its eye is yellow.

It is black on the top side of its body with a patch of white feathers on its back. Its breast is red with a white patch on both sides.

Females have lines of black feathers on the white side patch. Juveniles are duller with dark grey feathers.

Behaviors; Double-toothed Barbets are seen in pairs or small family groups. They are territorial with big spaces.

This bird roosts communally as all birds in a group roost in the same hole. Usually, those in pairs will both defend their nesting hole. These holes are usually 46 cm deep.

Habitat; Double-toothed Barbets inhabit dense woodlands and occupy forests as well as gardens.

Feeding; the bird feeds on fruits and seeds.

Breeding; Breeding of the barbet species happens year-round. Females lay 2-4 white eggs which are incubated for 13 days.

Chicks are fed by both parents and after 37-39 days they fledge.

The Double-toothed Barbet in Murchison park is spotted in the Paraa area and the northern sector in the Buligi area.

Q.I. (232) Red-fronted Barbet (Tricholaema diademata)

The Red-fronted Barbet is an attractive bird that breeds in East Africa. This bird is not endangered as its population is stable.

It’s not migratory.

Identification; It is a medium-sized black-and-white barbet.

Note its bright red patch above the bill, and the white eyebrow and breast. Juveniles don’t have the red patch above the bill.

This bird can be confused with the Spot-flanked and Black-throated Barbets, however, easily distinguished by the absence of a black throat patch.

The amount of spotting on the underparts varies geographically.

Habitat; This beautiful bird is commonly spotted within dry woodlands and savannas.

Feeding; The Red-fronted Barbet feeds on fruits and seeds.

It is spotted within the woodlands in the Paraa area while on your Murchison falls safari

Q.I. (233) Black-billed Barbet (Lybius guifsobalito)

The Black-billed Barbet is a stunning bird of the Lybiidae family that breeds in the Afrotropical realm.

This bird is non-migratory and its population status is stable as it is least concern according to IUCN.

Identification;  It’s a black barbet of modest size with a distinct crimson head. This bird has visible pale margins on its wing feathers which are visible with close inspection.

The beak is rather strong and black, the featherless skin of the face is gray, and the eyes are reddish brown.

It’s much similar to the Red-faced barbet but, their range differs and can be identified by its more extensive red on the head.

Habitat; They’re commonly found in pairs or small flocks often at moderate elevations in woodlands, and scrubs.

In Murchison park Uganda, the Black-billed Barbet is spotted within the woodlands in Paraa and also in the Buligi area.

Other birds In Murchison Falls National Park from the family Lybiidae

234. Red-and-yellow Barbet
235. D’Arnaud’s Barbet
236. Yellow-throated Tinkerbird
237. Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird
238. Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird
239. Spot-flanked Barbet
240. White-headed Barbet
241. Black-breasted Barbet

Q.II. Family; Picidae

Q.II. (242) African Gray Woodpecker (Chloropicus goertae)

The African Grey Woodpecker is a small bird in the woodpecker family of Picidae. This bird breeds only in Sub-saharan Africa and equatorial Africa.

It’s non-migratory and it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; it is a mid-sized woodpecker with a yellow-green back and gray underparts. Males have a red crown and plain gray females. They usually show a small orange or a bright red patch on their belly.

It’s slightly similar to the Mountain Gray Woodpecker. However, it is distinguished by the barring on the wing and undertail and the lack of a large, deep red belly patch.

It has a body length of 20 cm.

Behavior; this bird regularly taps and drums and makes a loud and fast call peet-peet-peet-peet.

Habitat; The African Grey Woodpecker inhabits savannas, woodland, gardens, mangroves, and forest edges.

Feeding; this bird is an insectivore, it is seen trapping insects near its hole tree.

Reproduction; its reproduction is unclear however it is known that it lays 2-4 eggs in tree holes.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the African Grey Woodpecker is both in the southern and northern sectors. It cannot be missed in the Paraa area and Buligi game area. It can as well be spotted in the Budongo forest.

Q.II. (243) Brown-eared Woodpecker (Campethera caroli)

The Brown-eared Woodpecker is a  dark, medium-sized woodpecker breeding in Africa’s tropical rainforests.

This bird is non-migratory. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated its conservation status as being of least concern.

Identification; this bird is mostly dark olive green having a unique glossy-brown ear patch. Its underparts are heavily marked with yellowish spots.

Males have a small red patch on the back of the head while females do not have it. Their long beak is bluish-grey, the legs are olive, and the iris chestnut

Behavior; it is a shy bird and mostly moves singly.

Habitat; The Brown-eared Woodpecker inhabits dense tropical forests, riverine forests, and more open locations with grassy woodland.

Feeding; This bird feeds on insects like ants and other small invertebrates.

When on your birding tour in Murchison park, the Brown-eared Woodpecker is spotted in the Budongo forest.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Picidae

244. Eurasian Wryneck
245. Cardinal Woodpecker
246. Nubian Woodpecker
247. Other birds in the order of Piciformes

Q.III. Family; Indicatoridae

248. Lesser Honeyguide
249. Greater Honeyguide

R. Order; PASSERIFORMES

R.I. Family; Buphagidae     

R.I. (250) Red-billed Oxpecker (Buphagus erythrorynchus)  

The Red-billed Oxpecker is a beautiful bulbul-sized brown passerine bird breeding in Sub-saharan Africa.

This bird is not migratory and it’s not endangered or vulnerable as its population status is stable.

Identification; It has a bright red bill and red eyes surrounded by a fleshy yellow wattle. They as well have a pale black-light brownish plumage.

Juveniles don’t have a bright bills and eye coloration.

Though a little similar to the Yellow-billed oxpeckers, the Red-billed Oxpecker has a bright red bill

Behavior; they move in small groups and usually follow herds of animals in the park.

Habitat; On Uganda safaris, these birds are commonly spotted in savannas.

Feeding; the Red-billed Oxpecker is carnivorous. It gleans ticks, and mites plus goes ahead to peck directly from a mammal’s wounds.

They can be spotted within the Paraa region, perched on resting animals on the river banks.

The Red-billed Oxpeckers are as well spotted in the northern sector of the park on herds of buffaloes during game drives.

R.I. (251) Yellow-billed Oxpecker (Buphagus africanus)

The Yellow-billed Oxpecker is a gorgeous passerine bird in the family Buphagidae. This bird breeds in savannas and Sub-saharan Africa.

It is not a migratory bird and it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Their name arises from their custom of perching on large wild mammals such as buffaloes, and antelopes, eating arthropod parasites.

Identification; They’ve brown upperparts and heads, buff underparts, and a pale rump. They have yellow bills at the base and red at the tip and have strong feet.

Though similar to Red-billed Oxpeckers, Red-billed Oxpeckers have a red bill, a yellow eye wattle, and a dark rump.

Habitat; the Yellow-billed Oxpecker in habits in savannah areas where there are herds of animals to feed on.

Feeding; their best food is blood. They can peck directly from a mammal’s wounds until blood flows and mammals can no longer tolerate them.

The Yellow-billed Oxpecker is spotted pecking on Buffaloes in the Paraa region along the Nile banks. It is as well spotted in the Buligi area during safari game drives.

R.II. Family; Malaconotidae

R.II. (252) Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri)

The Papyrus Gonolek is a beautiful bird species in the family Malaconotidae breeding in East Africa.

This bird is non-migratory and it is nearly threatened because of the destruction of swamps.

Identification; It’s a handsome black and red medium-sized bush shrike with a yellow crown.

Its upper parts, the wings & tail are black except for a broad white bar on the wings. The breast and upper belly are vivid orange crimson, and the lower belly is whitish.

Behavior; this bird is observed usually singly or in pairs flying occasionally from one papyrus to another.

Habitat; the Papyrus Gonolek is restricted in Papyrus swamps.

Feeding; its diet is made up of insects like ants and beetles. It as well feeds on snails and fruits.

On your birding safari in Uganda Murchison Falls NP, it can be spotted in the Nile delta area.

R.II. (253) Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster) 

The Black-headed Gonolek is a magnificent bird species in the family of Malaconotidae.

This bird breeds in tropical Africa and it is not a migrant. Its population is stable as it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; this beautiful bushshrike is identified easily by its shining red and black.

Though similar to the Papyrus Gonolek, the Black-headed Gonolek has an all-black head lacking a yellow crown.

Habitat;  It mostly dwells in dry savanna, tropical moist shrubs, and seasonally flooded lowland areas.

Feeding; the Black-headed Gonolek feeds on insects like ants and other small invertebrates.

On your Uganda birding tour in Murchison park, it can be spotted while on a game drive in the scenic Buligi game area.

It can as well be spotted in the Nile Delta area.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Malaconotidae

R.III. Family; Corvidae

R.III. (273) Piapiac (Ptilostomus afer)       

The Piapiac is a lovely African bird in the Crow family, the only member of the genus Ptilostomus.

It’s non-migratory and its population is stable as it is not endangered or vulnerable.

Identification; this exceptional slender and magpie-like bird has a long narrowing tail and a chunky bill.

Adults have a glossy black plumage with black heavy bills, black legs, and feet plus a purplish Irish with a bluish-purple outer ring.

Juveniles have black-tipped pink bills.

Behavior; they move in flocks with over 10 individuals.

Habitat; this bird inhabits savanna areas, cultivated lands, or areas with fields or pastures.

They’re mostly spotted in groups riding on the back of the mammal or perched on treetops.

Feeding; the Piapiac feeds on insects and other invertebrates.

Reproduction; the breeding of the Piapiac is unclear though they nest in palm trees where the female lays eggs between March and April.

They are pale blue or greenish-blue with a few brown blotches.

The Piapiac is spotted as you are on game drives in the Buligi game expanse in Murchison park.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Corvidae

274. Pied Crow Corvus albus
275. Fan-tailed Raven

R.IV. Family; Muscicapidae

R.IV. (276) Swamp Flycatcher (Muscicapa aquatic)

The Swamp Flycatcher is a small bird in the family of Muscicapidae. It’s a breeding bird in tropical Africa.

This bird’s population is stable and it is not endangered. It is not a migratory bird.

Identification; this bird is chunky brown with a white throat and brown chest band. In the eastern part range, birds show a lot of contrast on the underparts whereas those in the west are duller.

Habitant; it inhabits papyrus swamps, marshes, riverbanks, and lakeshores.

Feeding; this bird mostly feeds on insects from swamps.

The Swamp Flycatcher is spotted along the Victoria Nile in the Paraa area and the Nile Albert Delta area in Murchison park.

R.IV. (277) Silver bird (Melaenornis semipartitus)

The Silver bird is an Old World flycatcher native to Eastern Africa. It’s not a migrant and its population is stable (least concern) as it is not endangered.

Identification; A Silver bird is a nice-looking unique Flycatcher having gorgeous orange underparts and silver-grey upper parts.

Juveniles are buff and grey, without orange, and are covered in a complex scalloped marking plumage.

Habitat; this spectacular bird is mostly spotted in savannah and open woodlands on the thorn trees.

On your birding safari in Murchison falls, it can be encountered within the Buligi plains.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Muscicapidae

R.V. Family; Motacillidae

R.V. (301) African Pied Wagtail (Motacilla aguimp)      

The African Pied Wagtail is also known as the African Wagtail. It is a striking species of bird in the family Motacillidae.

This bird breeds in tropical Africa and it is non-migratory. It’s not endangered as its population status is stable.

Identification; this bird is black-and-white showing a bold white eyebrow and wing panels plus a broad black throat patch. Juveniles are brownish.

Habitat; they’re usually spotted in pairs and family groups, living in a range of habitats, including around humans plus watersides.

Feeding; It usually runs on the ground foraging for insects, usually wagging its tail up and down in an amazing motion.

Reproduction; African Pied Wagtails start breeding before the rainy season. Usually, they breed for six months.

Females lay 3-6 eggs which are incubated solely by her but parenting is for both parents.

African Pied Wagtails can be spotted in the Paraa area in Murchison Falls National Park.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Motacillidae

302. Western Yellow Wagtail
303. African Pipit
304. Long-billed Pipit
305. Plain-backed Pipit
306. Tree Pipit
307. Yellow-throated Longclaw
308. White-rumped Seedeater

R.VI. Family; Viduidae

R.VI. (309) Pin-tailed Whydah (Vidua macroura)   

A Pin-tailed whydah is a small gorgeous songbird with an exclusive pennant-like tail in breeding males. This bird breeds most in Africa and is non-migratory.

Their population status is stable as they are not threatened.

Identification; Males are easily identified by their black backs and crown plus a very long black tail.

Their wings are dark brown with white patches and have white underparts plus a short orange-pink bill.

Females don’t have a long tail extension, they’ve streaked brown upperparts, and white underparts with buff flanks. They as well have a buff black face pattern however, they hold an orange-pink bill.

Behavior; Males are territorial and can have several females in their group.

Habitat; they like inhabiting savannah grasslands and scrubs.

Feeding; the Pin-tailed Whydah is an insectivore and mostly feeds on insects.

Reproduction; this bird is a brood parasite as it lays 2-4 eggs in the nests of finches. However, it doesn’t destroy the eggs of the host like the common Cuckoo.

The eggs look alike though the Pin-tailed Whydahs’ is a bit bigger.

On your bird watching safari in Murchison falls, the bird is spotted in the Buligi game area during game drives.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Viduidae

310. Village Indigobird

R.VII. Family; Ploceidae

R.VII. (311) Speckle-fronted Weaver (Sporopipes frontalis)

The Speckle-fronted Weaver is a small bird in the family of Ploceidae. This bird breeds in Africa and it is not migratory.

Its population status is stable.

Identification; it is a small, unique sparrow-like weaver. They have a crown that is black with white speckles.

Their backs on the neck and collar are pale rufous and their face shows a black moustache stripe.

Habitat; they inhabit dry or moist savanna and woodland in small flocks.

In Murchison Falls National Park, the Speckle-fronted Weaver is spotted in the Paraa area and Buligi game area.

R.VII. (312) White-browed Sparrow-Weaver (Plocepasser mahali)       

The White-browed Sparrow Weaver is a small bird in the weaver family endemic in Africa.

This bird is not a migrant and not endangered as its population status is stable.

Identification; this bird has a white eyebrow stripe and a white rump which is visible in flight. Males have a black bill whereas females’ bill is horn colored or light gray.

The bill for juveniles is pinkish brown

Behavior; The White-browed Sparrow Weaver stays in groups of and waived U-shaped nests where they roost or breed.

Habitat; they inhabit dry or moist savanna and woodland.

The White-browed Sparrow Weaver is spotted in the Paraa area and Buligi game area in Murchison Falls National Park.

R.VII. (313) Northern Red Bishop (Euplectes franciscanus)   

The Northern Red Bishop also known as the Orange Bishop is a small passerine bird in the family Ploceidae.

This amazing bird is not migratory and its population status is stable as it is not endangered.

Identification; Breeding males have a black face and crown with brown wings and long reddish-orange upper tail converts.

Nonbreeding males and females are distinguished from similar Black-winged Bishop by smaller size and bill. And the Yellow-crowned Bishop by buffier coloration and more limited streaking on the chest.

Habitat; this bird inhabits agricultural areas and edges of marshes.

Behavior; the Northern Red Bishop moves in flocks and roosts together.

Feeding; they feed on grass feeds and insects.

Reproduction; Females lay 2-5 white eggs which are incubated by the mother solely as the male provides food.

Chicks fledge when are about 27-30 days.

The Northern Red Bishop is spotted in the Paraa area and the Buligi game expanse in Murchison park.

R.VII. (314) Yellow Bishop (Euplectes capensis)

The Yellow Bishop is a small bird also known as Cape Bishop, Cape Widow, or Yellow-rumped Widow. It is a resident in Africa.

The bird is not migratory and its population status is stable.

Identification; it is a chunky and large-billed bishop. Males show yellow shoulders and rump in all plumages.

However, the black in breeding plumage and streaky brown in non-breeding plumage.

The female is brown and heavily streaked below, without yellow highlights.

Behavior; In the breeding season the Yellow Bishop are usually solitary or in pairs. Non-breeding bishops form flocks and are mixed with other bird species.

Habitat; they are found in grasslands, open woodland, and in cultivated farmlands.

Feeding; the Yellow Bishop feeds on seeds, grains, and some insects.

On your birding tour in Uganda Murchison Falls NP, this bird is spotted in the Paraa area and the Buligi game area.

Other Birds In Murchison Falls National Park In The Family Of Ploceidae

Other Birds in the Order of Passeriformes

R.VIII. Family; Nectariniidae

R.IX. Family; Campephagidae

354. Black Cuckooshrike
355. Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike

R.X. Family; Oriolidae

356. African Black-headed Oriole

R.XI. Family; Platysteiridae

357. Brown-throated Wattle-eye
358. Chinspot Batis
359. Western Black-headed Batis

R.XII. Family; Vangidae

360. White Helmetshrike

R.XIII. family; Dicruridae

361. Fork-tailed Drongo

R.XIV. Family; Laniidae

R.XV. Family; Hyliotidae

373. Yellow-bellied Hyliota

R.XVI. Family; Stenostiridae

374. African Blue Flycatcher

R.XVII. Family; Paridae

375. White-shouldered Black-Tit

R.XVIII. Family; Alaudidae

376. Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark
377. Rufous-naped Lark
378. Flappet Lark
379. White-tailed Lark
380. Sun Lark

R.XIX. Family; Nicatoridae

381. Northern Crombec
382. Red-faced Crombec

R.XX. Family; Cisticolidae

R.XXI. Family; Acrocephalidae

R.XXII. Family; Locustellidae

410. Highland Rush Warbler

R.XXIII. Family; Hirundinidae

R.XXIX. Family; Pycnonotidae

425. Yellow-throated Greenbul
426. Yellow-whiskered Greenbul
427. Little Greenbul
428. Leaf-love
429. Common Bulbul

R.XXX. Family; Phylloscopidae

430. Willow Warbler

R.XXXI. Family; Sylviidae

431. Brown Parisoma

R.XXXII. Family; Zosteropidae

432. Common Whitethroat
433. Green White-eye

R.XXXIII. Family; Leiothrichidae

434. Brown Babbler
435. Arrow-marked Babbler
436. Dusky Babbler

R.XXXIV. Family; Leiothrichidae

R.XXXV. Family; Estrildidae

R.XXXVI. Family; Passeridae

468. Shelley’s Rufous Sparrow
469. Northern Grey-headed Sparrow
470. Chestnut Sparrow

R.XXXVII. Family; Fringillidae

471. White-rumped Seedeater
472. Yellow-fronted Canary
473. White-bellied Canary
474. Brimstone Canary

R.XXXVIII. Family; Emberizidae

475. Brown-rumped Bunting
476. Cabanis’s Bunting
477. Golden-breasted Bunting
478. Cinnamon-breasted Bunting

R.XXXVIX. Family; Leiothrichidae

479. Brown Babbler

480 Arrow-marked Babbler

481. Dusky Babbler

S. Order; FALCONIFORMES

S.I. Family; Falconidae

T. Order; PSITTACIFORMES

T.I. Family; Psittaculidae

492. Red-headed Lovebird
493. Ring-necked Parakeet

T.II. Family; Psittacidae

494. Meyer’s Parrot

U. Order; COLIIFORMES

U.I. Family; Coliidae

495. Speckled Mousebird
496. Blue-naped Mousebird

V. Order; COLUMBIFORMES

V.I. Family; Columbidae

Murchison Falls National Park is indeed a birders’ haven for those on Uganda birdwatching safaris.

These birds are phenomenal and unique in their way. The prehistoric-looking Shoebill and many un rare water birds are present in the park.

This park receives migrant birds from November to April. If you are a birder, then you shouldn’t miss the opportunity of seeing birds in Murchison falls park on your birding tour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What Is The Most Sought-After Bird In Murchison Falls National Park?

The Shoebill is the most sought-after bird in Murchison Falls National Park by birders on Uganda birdwatching safaris.

This amazing bird is spotted in the Nile Albert delta area. A 4-5 hour delta boat launch is the best way of seeing this bird.

2. How Many Species Of Birds Are There In Murchison Falls?

Murchison falls park is one of the best birdwatching areas in Uganda with over 556 bird species.

Uganda birding safaris in the park are memorable as you get to see Water birds, Savannah birds, and forest-related birds.

This park has the big five birds that can be spotted which is not so common in the other bird watching areas.

3. Where To Spot Birds In Murchison Falls National Park?

While on your Uganda birding tour in Murchison park, there are various bird watching areas you cannot miss to visit.

The Nile Albert Delta area is the most rewarding place. It’s where you can spot the rare Shoebill and other water-associated birds which are not seen easily anywhere else.

The Buligi game area in the northern sector of the park is rewarding with savannah and woodland birds. The best way to see birds in this area is through game drives when on your Uganda safari.

Budongo Forest is another ideal place to see birds in Murchison Falls National Park. This forest has over 360 bird species with 60 of those being West or Central African birds.

It is the only place in Uganda and East Africa to spot the Yellow Footed Flycatcher and Puvel’s Illadopsis.

The other place is Rabongo forest which is only one hour away from Paraa. This place has suitable trails for bird lovers during Uganda birding tours in the forest.

Birds in Rabongo forest are almost the same as those in Budongo forest.

For unforgettable birding safari in Uganda, all those places should be combined when in Murchison park.

4. What Are The Big Five Birds In Murchison Falls National Park?

Murchison Falls National Park has the big five birds you can enjoy when birding in Uganda.

The big five birds are;

1. Shoebill
2. Grey Crowned Cranes
3. Great Blue Turaco
4. Long Crested Eagle
5. Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill

1. What Is The Best Time Of The Day To See Birds In Murchison Falls National Park?

Birds in Murchison Falls National Park can be seen all day though the best time is in the morning and evening.

This is when the birds are most active. They are sighted leaving their nests in the morning to feed and returning in the evening.

6. What Is The Best Season Of The Year To See Birds In Murchison Falls National Park?

Birds in Murchison falls national park are sighted all year throughout. However, the best time for Uganda birding safaris in the park is after the rainy seasons.

This is from December to March and from June to August. The rain is little during this time leading to successful Uganda birding tours.

In the wet season, the rain may be heavy and harsh causing delays in seeing birds and also making the trails slippery. Since Murchison park has murram roads, they may as well flood and be forced not to visit some birdwatching areas in the park.

However, migratory birds are in the park from November to April.

7. What To Wear For A Uganda Birding Safari In Murchison Falls National Park?

There is specific wear you need to put on when going bird watching in Murchison Falls National Park.

This wear depends on the day’s weather conditions. It may be cold or hot, so choose to mind that.

This is what you can wear;

1. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
2. Comfortable hiking shoes
3. A hat
4. Sunglasses

Long-sleeved shirts and trousers; this wear will protect you from small biting insects and can as well keep you warm when it’s cold.

Avoid putting on bright colors during your birding tours like white as birds relate to danger. Brown and khaki are recommended.

Comfortable shoes; shoes will protect your feet from getting damaged by fallen tree branches. They will also keep you stable on slippery trails.

Ahat or cap; this will protect your head from the direct hot sunlight rays since it covers your entire head.

Sunglasses; you are advised to always put on polarized sunglasses to reduce the glare of the sun. This will protect your eyes from the strong sunlight rays.

8. What To Carry For A Uganda Birdwatching Safari In Murchison Falls National Park?

When birding in Uganda Murchison Falls National Park, there are essential items you need to carry.

These items will contribute to successful birdwatching safaris in the park.

Essential items to carry include;

1. A pair of Binoculars
2. A field guide (bird guidebook)
3. Notebook and pen
4. Camera
5. Water bottle
6. Backpack or a waist bag
7. Insect repellent
8. Sunscreen
9. Poncho or rain jacket

A pair of binoculars; is the primary essential item one should have for a birding tour in Murchison park.

It will help you zoom in on birds that are at a far distance for you to get clear viewings. Binoculars with a magnification between 7x and 10x are highly recommended for birding.

A field guide (bird guidebook); this guide has full information concerning birds. It will give you ultimate data in that you get to know about the bird in full detail.

Notebook and pen; a notebook is where you will record your findings about a bird and a pen is used in writing.

Camera; A camera will help you capture birds in their natural habitats for future remembrance or reference. This Camera should be at least between 200-500mm focal length range for clear capturing.

Water bottle; a water bottle should be carried and filled with water to keep you hydrated during bird watching.

Backpack or waist bag; this is where you will keep your other essential items like a notebook, sunscreen, insect repellent, and many others.

Insect repellent; this will protect you from dangerous insects biting you which may infect you with diseases. An insect repellent will keep them away.

Sunscreen; Always carry sunscreen that you will smear on your body to protect your skin from direct sunlight. The sun may damage your skin.

Poncho or rain jacket; this will protect you from getting wet from rain when on your birdwatching safaris in the park.

9. What Is The Importance Of Birds In Murchison Falls National Park?

Have you ever imagined a country or a world without birds? Birds play an important role in the world’s ecosystem.

This may be direct or direct like they play an important role in food production. So birds have an essential role in the functioning of the world and should be conserved.

These are some of the importance of birds.

Birds play an important role in Environmental conservation and this is how;

• They Are Nature Cleaners

Birds especially scavengers feed on dead decaying animals which may lead to the spread of diseases from bacteria.

If a dog or rat dies it may spread rabies but vultures will eat the dead animal indirectly preventing the spread.

• Birds Disperse Seeds In Different Places

After birds have eaten fruit, they fly away to other areas where they dispose off the seeds in their droppings.

This brings up the growth of plants in the ecosystem that have been destroyed creating more habitats for wildlife.

Birds are the main seed dispersers in the entire world.

• Birds Pollinate Plants

Not only bees or butterflies pollinate plants, but also birds especially nectar eaters also play this role.

Through this process, it’s when we humans and other wildlife get food to feed on. How strange is this!!

• Birds Play A Big Role In Tourism

Did you know that the most selling tourist attraction on average worldwide now are birds?

Many tourists move a thousand miles to go explore birds in their natural habitats. Some of the birds are endangered and live in specific areas of countries. So for you to see them you need to travel and pay a small fee.

Like the Shoebill, it’s almost on every bird lover’s bucket list. Many birders have come to Uganda specifically for this bird.

• Birds Are Cultural Emblems

Birds work as cultural emblems, like in Uganda, the Baganda tribe takes some of the birds to be their totems.

This totem is to be respected and protected in that you cannot kill or eat it. You are not supposed to marry someone from the same clan/totem.

Some of the birds that are totems in the Baganda tribe are;

1. Cattle Egret ( Nyonyi Nyange)
2. Pied Crow (Nnamung’oona)
3. Grey Crowned Crane (Ng’aali)
4. Fire Finch (Kasanke)
5. Nakinsige
6. Birds Boost Science Research

New species of birds are being discovered every day. Research has to be made on the new species like habitations, feeding, breeding, and distribution.