Embark on an avian adventure with our guide to Birding in Uganda. Explore the diverse landscapes of this East African gem, where over 1,000 bird species await avid birdwatchers. Uganda stands as one of the world’s premier birding destinations, earning its reputation as the Pearl of Africa. Despite its modest size, the country boasts an astounding diversity of habitats that support over 1080 bird species, with three-quarters being resident. Uganda is a haven for 10 globally threatened species, 17 globally near-threatened species, and various Afrotropical migrant species. Positioned at the convergence of five biomes, Uganda showcases the Guinea-Congo Forest biome, Sudan-Guinea savanna biome, Somali-Masai biome, Lake Victoria biome, and the Afrotropical highlands biome, collectively harboring 50% of Africa’s birds and 11% of global species.
Prime Birding Spots in Uganda:
- Mabamba Bay Wetland:
- Home to the globally-threatened Shoebill, a sought-after species.
- Covers over 16,500 hectares of papyrus marshes.
- Ramsar site and IBA with 300+ bird species, including the papyrus gonolek.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park:
- Second-largest national park in Uganda with over 612 bird species.
- Diverse habitats: savannah grassland, acacia woodland, lakes, rivers, and swamps.
- Highlights include Spur-winged goose, Fish Eagle, Pink and white-backed Pelicans, and African Jacana.
- Lake Mburo National Park:
- Uganda’s smallest savannah national park with over 315 bird species.
- Varied habitats: seasonal and permanent swamps, lakes, acacia woodland, and savannah grassland.
- Notable species: African finfoot, Red-faced Barbet, Blue-spotted Wood Dove, and White-headed Barbet.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park:
- Famous for gorilla safaris and birding.
- Over 360 bird species, including 23 Albertine rift endemics.
- Key species: Grauer’s Broadbill, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Rwenzori Double-collared sunbird, and Rwenzori Turaco.
- Kibale Forest National Park:
- Home to over 375 recorded bird species.
- Highlights: Green-breasted pitta, African Wood owl, Black-faced Rufous Warbler, and Abyssinian Hill Babbler.
- Adjacent to Bigodi Wetland with over 170 bird species.
- Murchison Falls National Park:
- Uganda’s largest national park with approximately 451 bird species.
- Encompasses savannah birds, woodland birds, and water birds.
- Notable species: African fish Eagle, Shoebill stork, Silver Bird, and Grey-crowned Crane.
- Kidepo Valley National Park:
- Remote and attractive park in the Karamoja region.
- Over 475 recorded bird species, including Karamoja Apalis and Black Breasted Barbet.
- Impressive wildlife: lions, giraffes, elephants, and more.
- Mabira Forest Reserve:
- Nearest forest reserve to the capital city.
- Boasts over 315 bird records, including 74 Guinea-Congo Forest biome species.
- Key sightings: Nahan’s Francolin, Cassin’s Hawk-eagle, and Yellow-throated Tinkerbird.
Best Time for Birding in Uganda: While birding is enjoyable year-round, the optimal time is from late May through September when the heavy rains subside, making roads and trails more accessible. This period also sees an abundance of food for birds. Nesting seasons in major destinations like Bwindi and Mgahinga are in May and June. November to April is ideal for migratory species. Dry months from June to September and December to late February are the best for overall wildlife safaris.
Uganda’s birding safaris, facilitated by companies like Steadfast Safaris, promise a captivating journey through a land teeming with avian wonders, diverse landscapes, and vibrant wildlife.