Uganda Birding Safari

Embark on an extraordinary journey with our Uganda Birding Safaris to experience the thrill of encountering rare and exotic bird species in their natural habitat. With over 1090 bird species, including endemics and human-introduced species, Uganda stands as one of the top birding destinations globally. The diverse landscape, ranging from forests to wetlands, savannah plains, and mountains, provides a habitat for an array of bird species. Here are the top 10 bird species to explore on your birding safari in Uganda:

1. Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex):
   • Native to East Africa, the shoebill stork is an endangered species.
   • Best spotted at Mabamba Wetland on the edge of Lake Victoria.
   • Strict regulations now protect them, allowing their population to multiply.
2. Standard-winged Nightjar (Caprimulgus longipennis):
   • A spectacular nocturnal bird found in Uganda.
   • Males display distinctive wing ornaments during the breeding season.
   • Best observed at Murchison Falls National Park.
3. Flamingos:
   • Extremely rare in Uganda, with only two individuals observed.
   • Found around Lake Munyanyange in the Katwe Area of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
4. Shelley’s Crimson-wing:
   • Resides in the Albertine rift along the Uganda, DRC, and Rwanda borders.
   • Found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Rwenzori Mountain Ranges, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
5. Grey-crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum):
   • Uganda’s national bird, also known as the Crested crane.
   • Found in swamps and surrounding damp grasslands of Uganda.
6. Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi):
   • Sought-after bird species with a magnificent appearance.
   • Found in Kibale Forest National Park during the summer months of June to August.
7. African Green Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri):
   • Also known as Grauer’s Broadbill, known for its vivid colors.
   • Found in the Umubwindi swamp of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
8. Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata):
   • One of the largest turacos, with a primarily grey-blue plumage.
   • Spotted in Kibale Forest National Park.
9. Eastern Grey Plantain Eater (Crinifer zonurus):
   • Large grey turaco-like bird with a vivid yellow beak.
   • Seen in Murchison Falls National Park, Semuliki Wildlife Reserve, and around Entebbe.
10. Black-breasted Barbet (Lybius rolleti):
    • Found in various locations, including Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Best Places for Bird Watching in Uganda:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:
   • Home to over 360 bird species, including Albertine rift endemics.
2. Semuliki Wildlife Reserve:
   • Ideal for forest birding, especially Congo-biome species.
3. Kibale Forest National Park:
   • Hosts over 339 bird species, including the sought-after green-breasted pitta.
4. Kidepo Valley National Park:
   • Second-largest population of bird species in Uganda.
5. Lake Mburo National Park:
   • Boasts over 313 bird species in well-developed acacia woodlands.
6. Murchison Falls National Park:
   • Largest national park in Uganda, ranked as the ninth greatest birding destination in Africa.

Best Time for Bird Watching in Uganda:

• The dry seasons (December to January and June to August) are ideal for bird watching due to clear views and easier access to locations.
• Best months are September and May when there’s abundant food, attracting many bird species.

Conclusion:

With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, Uganda offers a unique and rewarding birding experience. Combine birdwatching with other activities like gorilla tracking, boat cruising, and nature walks for a comprehensive safari adventure with Steadfast Safaris.