Uganda birding

 

Uganda, officially the Republic of Uganda,is a landlocked country in East Africa. It is bordered to the east by Kenya, to the north by South Sudan, to the west by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to the south-west by Rwanda, and to the south by Tanzania. The southern part includes a substantial portion of Lake Victoria, shared with Kenya and Tanzania. Uganda is in the African Great Lakes region, lies within the Nilebasin, and has a varied equatorial climate. As of 2024, it has a population of 49.3 million, of whom 8.5 million live in the capital and largest city, Kampala. 

Uganda is named after the Buganda kingdom, which encompasses a large portion of the south, including Kampala, and whose language Luganda is widely spoken; the official language is English. The region was populated by various ethnic groups, before Bantu and Nilotic groups arrived around 3,000 years ago. These groups established influential kingdoms such as the Empire of Kitara. The arrival of Arab traders in the 1830s and British explorers in the late 19th century marked the beginning of foreign influence. The British established the Protectorate of Uganda in 1894, setting the stage for future political dynamics. Uganda gained independence in 1962, with Milton Obote as the first prime minister. The 1966 Mengo Crisismarked a significant conflict with the Buganda kingdom, as well as the country's conversion from a parliamentary system to a presidential system. Idi Amin's military coup in 1971 led to a brutal regime characterized by mass killings and economic decline, until his overthrow in 1979.

Best Places For Birdwatching In Uganda

Uganda is a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting a diverse array of avian species across its varied landscapes. Popular birding hotspots include Kibale Forest National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Specific sites like Mabamba Swamp are renowned for their Shoebill Stork sightings. 

Explore Uganda’s diverse birdlife with a carefully curated itinerary that covers wetlands, savannahs, and dense forests. This birding expedition promises sightings of rare and endemic species in some of Uganda's most iconic locations. From Mabamba to Murchison Falls National Park then Kibale Forest National Park.

Uganda  Recommended for 7DAY trip
Start	Entebbe (Day 1)
Day 2	Mabamba Swamp
Day 3-4	Murchison Falls NP
Day 5-7	Kibale NP (Chimps)
End	Entebbe (Day 7)

Entebbe

Entebbe is a town on a peninsula in Lake Victoria, in Central Uganda. Area beaches include busy Lido Beach, near Entebbe International Airport. The lakeside Uganda Wildlife Education Centre protects native animals in wetland, forest and savanna habitats. Nearby, Entebbe Botanical Garden has diverse plants, birds and monkeys. Also close by is the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which protects orphaned chimps.

Entebbe: Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Tracking Boat Tour cross Lake Victoria

Excellent birding at Mabamba Swamp, just an hour from Entebbe

Uganda is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world and one of the best places in Africa to enjoy bird watching. There are many sites to explore and spot rare species, with birding at Mabamba Swamp offering a particularly rewarding experience.

Mabamba Swamp is just over an hour’s drive from the busy town of Entebbe, and the same distance from Kampala. A tranquil area of wetland on the shores of Lake Victoria, it is renowned for its variety and abundance of birds and offers plenty of viewing and photography opportunities.

Enjoy a birdwatching trip to Mabamba Swamp from Entebbe. Cross Lake Victoria and spot the rare Shoebill Stork among 200+ bird species in one of Uganda’s top birding hotspots.

The shoebill

A visit to Mabamba Swamp (where several pairs of shoebills can be seen) is very special indeed. What’s more, because of its close proximity to Entebbe and Kampala, birding at Mabamba Swamp is a convenient choice for those who want to maximise time spent enjoying birdlife. It’s no surprise that it’s a popular choice for bird watchers who want to experience an excellent few hours of birding within easy reach.

It’s usually a good idea to try and visit in the morning, when shoebills mainly hunt for food. The extensive papyrus swamp has a labyrinth of channels and lagoons. Visitors must navigate through lily pads and papyrus to get closer to the birds.

What else is there to see when birding at Mabamba Swamp?

Mabamba Swamp is also home to the following:

• Lesser Jacana
• Papyrus Gonolek
• Orange weaver
• Black Egret
• Black Crake
• Black-faced Rufous Warbler
• Goliath heron

Lesser jacana

Very small and generally uncommon jacana. Adults show rufous on the crown, breast sides, rump, and tail. Juveniles are duller. Most distinctive in flight, when the white trailing edge to the wing is revealed. Found in thickly vegetated wetlands, especially those with waterlilies. Seems to move around in response to changing water levels. Call is a quick, hooting series. Often confused with immature African Jacana, but smaller and with a shorter bill that never shows any blue. Easily separated in flight by the white stripe at the back of the wing and the pale patches on top of the wing.

Papyrus gonolek

Boldly patterned black-and-red bushshrike with a yellow crown and pale eyes. The duller immature has orange underparts and a gray crown. Found in papyrus swamps, where it skulks with great skill. The male gives ringing “chonk” or “chuwee” notes, often in rapid-fire or up-and-down series. The female gives a low ratcheting call which is sometimes given in a duet alongside the male’s vocalizations. Similar to Black-headed Gonolek, but has a yellow crown and a white wingbar.

Orange weaver

A medium-sized weaver with a long, relatively slim bill. Male is mostly bright yellow with an orange throat and black lores. The female is much duller, greenish-yellow with a white belly. The eye color of both sexes can be whitish or red, and the bill can be mostly pinkish or black. A colonial nester that is found around wetlands, including lakes, rivers, and swamps. Similar to Holub’s Golden-Weaver, but smaller and slimmer-billed. Female can be confused with several other female and non-breeding male weavers, but is usually found in association with the more distinctive males. Vocalizations are typical of weavers: “chet” notes and a sizzling “radio static” song.

Black heron

Chunky, mid-sized, blackish heron. The bill and legs are black and the feet are yellow. Found mainly in freshwater and brackish wetlands, though occasionally on saltwater. Famous for its “umbrella” feeding technique in which it hunts for food inside of its own spread and curled wings. Similar to the dark morph of other egret species, but smaller, shorter-necked, and without a pale patch at the base of the bill.

Black crake

A small, pudgy, blackish waterbird with reddish eyes, a yellowish bill, and diagnostic pink-red legs. The immature is browner, with duller legs and bill. It scuttles along the edges of swamps and other water bodies, preferring reedbeds and emergent vegetation to forage on, sometimes quite boldly. Like most crakes, it walks tentatively with its head lowered, picking and probing for insects, plant matter, and other food. The distinctive call is an odd, wheezy bubbling and chattering “cheeew-t-t-t-t treeew, t-t-t-t-t-treew”.

Goliath heron

This enormous heron stands 1.5 meters tall and has a robust, dagger-like bill. The immature has rustier upperwings than the adult. Its flight is ponderous and labored. Goliath Heron inhabits large rivers, marshes, estuaries, and mangroves, hunting for large fish and other animals, stabbing them with an open bill. It has a distinct, barking “kowoork” call that can be heard from up to 2 km away. Purple Heron has similar plumage, but Goliath Heron is twice the size, has a much larger bill, and has a rufous (not blackish) top of the head.

Black-faced rufous warbler

Unusual and handsome forest-dwelling warbler. Males are mostly rufous, and females olive-gray, but both show a black face mask that continues down the center of the underparts. Skulks in the thick undergrowth of humid forest. The male sings a long series of high, penetrating whistles which can sound like a truck backing up. He is sometimes accompanied by low “trr” calls from the female.

Double-toothed barbet at Entebbe, Uganda

Nile Delta and Murchison Falls National Park:

The Nile River, a vital waterway for Uganda, flows from Lake Victoria near Jinja, then through Lake Kyoga, and eventually empties into Lake Albert. A significant portion of the White Nile's journey in Uganda, known as the Victoria Nile, is characterized by rapids and waterfalls, creating opportunities for adventure tourism like whitewater rafting. The Nile-Lake Albert Delta, a Ramsar site, is a rich biodiversity hotspot, especially for birdlife, and is also known for its diverse wildlife. 

Saddle-billed Stork

Shoebill, Secretary Bird, Abyssinian Roller and Ground Hornbill, Pied Kingfishers, Red-throated Bee-eaters, Goliath Heron, Saddle-billed Stork, Sacred Ibis, Fulvous Whistling-Duck, Water Thick-knee, Senegal Thick-knee, Black-headed Lapwing and the Long-toed Lapwing.

Little Bittern, Osprey, Red-necked Falcon, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Vinaceous Dove and Grosbeak Weaver. Other specials include Buff-bellied Warbler, Bar-breasted Firefinch, Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird, Red-winged Grey Warbler, Spotted Morning-Thrush, Marabou Stork and the Red-throated Bee-eater.

Birding in Uganda's Nile River is a popular activity, offering numerous opportunities to spot various bird species. The Nile River attracts a wide variety of birds, and birding can be done through boat cruises, kayak trips, and nature walks along the riverbanks. 

Birding In Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is a fantastic destination for bird watching, offering a diverse range of species year-round. The best time for birding is during the dry season (December-February and June-September) when the weather is more favorable and wildlife is concentrated around water sources. Migratory birds are also present from November to April. 

For those keen on spotting migratory birds, the wet season (from March to May and October to November) is also a good time to visit, as many migratory species flock to Uganda’s wetlands. During this time, the park is lush, and you may encounter rare migrant species that make their way to the park during these months.

Woodland kingfisher

Malachite kingfisher

Located in the northwestern part of Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is not only famous for its stunning waterfall and diverse wildlife but also for its incredible bird-watching opportunities. Home to over 450 bird species, this park is a haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a beginner, Murchison Falls offers an unforgettable experience with its varied ecosystems, from savannahs to wetlands, ensuring you’ll spot both common and rare bird species.

Why Murchison Falls is a Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Murchison Falls National Park is one of the most biodiverse parks in Uganda, and its rich birdlife is one of its biggest draws. The park’s varied landscapes, including Savannah grasslands, tropical forests, and wetlands, create diverse habitats that attract a wide range of bird species.

• Wetlands and Rivers: The Nile River, which flows through the park, provides an ideal environment for waterbirds such as kingfishers, egrets, and cormorants. The Delta area is especially renowned for its birding opportunities, where you can find birds like the Papyrus gonolek and the white-winged tern.
• Savannah: The park’s open savannahs are home to numerous raptors, ground birds, and large species like Secretary Birds and Hornbills. It’s also a good place to spot Bustards and Weavers.
• Woodlands and Forests: The forest zones of Murchison Falls, such as Budongo Forestand Kaniyo Pabidi, are perfect for spotting forest-dwelling species like Blue Turacos and Grey-crowned Cranes. These areas are also great for Woodpeckers and sunbirds

The secretarybird or secretary bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) is a large bird of preythat is endemic to Africa. It is mostly terrestrial, spending most of its time on the ground, and is usually found in the open grasslands and savanna of the sub-Saharan region. John Frederick Miller described the species in 1779. A member of the order Accipitriformes, which also includes many other diurnal birds of prey such as eagles, hawks, kites, vultures, and harriers, it is placed in its own family, Sagittariidae.

Hartlaub's bustard
A medium-sized, long-legged, long-necked bustard. The male has a striking black face pattern and a black line down the neck that connects to the black belly. The female is much plainer. In flight, shows a mostly white wing and a black rump. An uncommon species of grassland and savanna. Male is similar to male Black-bellied Bustard, but separated by blacker face with a cleaner white mark on the cheek. Females are very similar, but Hartlaub’s has a pale line down the faintly speckled neck. In flight, Hartlaub’s also shows less black in the wing and a black rump. The male Hartlaub’s gives a click, a pop, and a moan, which sometimes precede a display flight in which he jumps up into the air and then parachutes down.

Grey-crowned crane

African gray woodpecker

The Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, also known as Stuhlmann's Sunbird, is considered a standout sunbird in Uganda due to its vibrant colors and unique features. This species, particularly the male, is known for its sparkling green and scarlet plumage, as well as distinctive yellow shoulder tufts. 

Regal SunbirdCinnyris regius

Bwindi-Impenetrable NP--Ruhija, Western

Tiny Sunbird

The smallest member of a group of frustratingly similar double-collared sunbirds that co-occur in African forests. Often encountered near forest edges and in forest clearings, and sometimes even in villages and gardens. 

Top Birdwatching Spots in Murchison Falls National Park

The park has several key birdwatching hotspots where you can see a wide range of species:

• The Nile River and Delta: The river itself and its delta area offer some of the best birding, with easy access to wetland species and migratory birds. The Murchison Falls is also a must-see, offering views of waterbirds and raptors in flight.
• Kaniyo Pabidi Forest: A great place for spotting forest species, such as Chimpanzee, as well as birds like Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill and Piping Hornbill.
• Budongo Forest Reserve: Known for its birding trails, Budongo has a variety of forest bird species, including Nahan’s Partridge, Brown-chested Lapwing, and the rare African Grey Parrot.
• Paraa Lodge Area: Near the park entrance, this area provides great opportunities to spot species like Vultures and Pelecanus.

The chimpanzee (/tʃɪmpænˈzi/; Pan troglodytes), also simply known as the chimp, is a species of great ape native to the forests and savannahs of tropical Africa. It has four confirmed subspecies and a fifth proposed one. When its close relative the bonobowas more commonly known as the pygmy chimpanzee, this species was often called the common chimpanzee or the robust chimpanzee. The chimpanzee and the bonobo are the only species in the genus Pan. Evidence from fossils and DNA sequencing shows that Pan is a sister taxon to the human lineage and is thus humans' closest living relative.

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

This forest is found in the south of the Murchison Falls conservation area. The Kaniyo Pabidi forest pushes over an expanse of approximately 8 km within the middle of Kichumbanyobo gate. The Kaniyo Pabidi forest is a good-looking natural forest covered majorly by huge mahogany trees plus ironwood trees. Guests who visit this forest an opportunity to track the impressive chimpanzee and other species of primates which are also residents within the mahogany trees there. This forest is also a habitant for quite a number of species of birds such as the yellow-footed flycatcher, the Ituri batis and the white thighed hornbill. Several guests enjoy taking nature walks within these forests, although Rabongo forest offers the finest and the best experiences. The Birdlife within this area is very plentiful with a diversity of species among which are; Puvel’s Illaposis (found in no other place throughout the whole of East Africa) the Chocolate Backed Kingfisher and the White thighed Hornbill. It harbours primates such as; olive baboons, black and white colobus and blue monkeys and habituated chimp group which can be tracked. The mammals that can be found in this forest include; elephants, buffaloes, lions and leopards. For bird watchers, encounter several bird species here like: the white thighed hornbill, purels illadopsis which is found nowhere else in East Africa, the chocolate backed king fisher etc.

Black-and-white-casqued hornbill

Big, spectacular, black-and-white hornbill. The males have a large black-and-white bill, and females a much smaller all-dark one. In flight, shows a broad white patch at the back of the wing and a black tail with white sides. Found in thick forest and adjacent areas of lush woodland and cultivation. Usually in pairs or small groups. The loud calls are honking and yapping notes that are often given in a quick series. Similar to White-thighed and Brown-cheeked Hornbills, but has a black center to the tail, and the wingtips are black. Also has a darker bill and casque than those species

Piping Hornbill

The Budongo Forest

Reserve

The Budongo Forest is an important East African forest. This is because it is a particularly well-studied area and was, in the past, well-known for its mahogany.

Brown-chested lapwing

Recorded from Budongo are more than 360 bird species (such as Nahan's Partridge Ptilopachus nahani), plant species such as Senna spectabilis (white barked senna) tree, 20 species of amphibians some 292 butterflies, 130 moths, 465 trees, and 24 mammals (of which nine are primates and others include buffaloes, bush elephants, Uganda kobs, jackals).About 600 chimpanzees are estimated to stay in the forest.Classified as a moist semi-deciduous medium-altitude forest, Budongo supports various species of tree, the most impressive being, large buttressed giant mahoganies that have been left unfelled and now stand up to 60 metres (200 ft) tall. 

Nahan's partridge

The bird checklist includes 60 west or central African bird species known from fewer than five locations in East Africa. Yellow-footed flycatcher, often associated with ironwood trees, has not been recorded elsewhere in Uganda, while Ituri batis, lemon-bellied crombec, white-thighed hornbill, black-eared ground thrush and chestnut-capped flycatcher are known from only one other East African forest. Chimpanzee tracking has become an activity popular with eco-tourists, necessitating behavioural guidelines for visitors in order to avoid undue disturbance of both animals and forest. Trails have been cut criss-crossing the forest, initially to ease access for research workers and since then used by Eco-tourists, forest animals and poachers.

Black-eared ground thrush

Grey parrot

Large gray parrot with a white face and red tail. The tail is bright red in most of the range, but brick red in the western part of the range. Main habitat is lowland and mid-elevation forest, but will sometimes also use gallery forest, secondary forest, mangroves, and cultivated areas, especially oil palm. Found in pairs or small groups. Very similar to Timneh Parrot, but little or no overlap in range, and separated by the bright red rather than brick red tail, as well as the black rather than pinkish top of the bill.Gives a wide variety of loud vocalizations including whistles, bell-like notes, and screeches.

Kibale Forest National Park Uganda Safaris

Situated in the western part of Uganda, Kibale National Park is famous for being a home to primates; in fact, it has the highest number of chimpanzees per square kilometre in Africa. However, this tropical rainforest is also an ornithologist’s dream come true. With over 370 recorded bird species including rarities that are found nowhere else on earth, it should be visited by every Uganda-bound birder during their safari.

Most people go to Kibale because they want to trek habituated chimpanzees through its verdant jungles but amongst other reasons why you should incorporate this park into your Uganda tour itinerary is its amazing avian diversity. The mosaic nature of different habitats ranging from thick primary forest through wetlands and grasslands ensures that there are many birds which can only be described as breathtaking thereby attracting both casual wildlife lovers and serious birdwatchers alike who may never want to leave the place once they set foot there.

Crimson-rumped Waxbill

Scarlet-chested sunbird

The forests in the park are abundant and thick, so they provide a good environment for various kinds of birds that can hardly be seen elsewhere. The different forest strata at Kibale from the ground to the high canopy host an amazing number of species. No matter whether you are hiking through undergrowth or scanning treetops, you will meet lots of interesting birds.

Great blue torako in Kibali np.

Among its avian residents sits one very famous feathered creature – the Green-breasted Pitta. Possessing bright green feathers with hints of yellow, black and red on them this beautiful birdie is wanted by every ornithologist. In terms of reliability for East Africa, Kibale might just be where you should go if hoping to catch sight this sought-after beauty. However it’s not only about green-breasted pittas but also all other gems waiting to be found during Uganda Birding Safari at Kibale.

Green-breasted pitta

A spectacular short-tailed upright bird with a distinctive bottle-green breast, a black-and-buff head, a white throat, a scarlet belly, and shiny blue-spotted wings and rump. A scarce resident of dense lowland forest, usually skulking in pairs in leaf litter on the forest floor. Breeding birds call and display in the canopy. Most often found when giving a di-syllabic “brrr-rrrt” wing drum display as the male hops up, lasting less than a second; also gives a bell-like whistled “huuu” call. African Pitta is similar to Green-breasted but has a warm buffy breast.

Bar-tailed Trogon

Broad-tailed paradise whydah

Lays its eggs in the nests of Orange-winged Pytilia. The distinctive breeding male has a long, broad tail. Non-breeding males and females are nondescript sparrow-like birds with striped heads and pale underparts. Found in broadleaf woodland, mainly miombo. Most records are of the conspicuous and easily identified breeding-plumaged males. Mimics the inconspicuous vocalizations of its host Orange-winged Pytilia. Breeding male is similar to Eastern Paradise-Whydah, but has a shorter and broader tail, and darker buff and rufous coloration on the nape and breast. Non-breeding male and female are very similar to Eastern, but have a paler bill and lack strong “comma” marks on the cheek. Also similar to female and non-breeding male indigobirds, but large

Bigodi Wetland

The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is an fascinating area, located in Magombe swamp. this area is recognized for a extensive array of biodiversity among which are several primates species like the red colobus monkey, baboon, black & white colobus monkey, blue monkey grey cheeked, mangabey, vervet monkey, red tailed monkey and the L’Hoest monkey. Additional Mammals such as chimpanzees, Sitatunga, mongooses, bush pigs, otters plus bush bucks, also visit this swamp coming from the adjacent Kibale National Park.

The Bigodi is a paradise for bird watchers. Actually skilled birders can spot up to fifty new species on a bird list. Today, 138 species of bird have been recognized within the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Oamong the major bird species within the sanctuary is the grand Blue Turaco.

Great blue turaco

The great blue turaco is the sole member of the subfamily Corythaeolinae within the turaco family. Its closest relatives are the go-away birds and plantain eaters of the genus Crinifer. The common ancestor of both diverged from the ancestor of all other turaco species.

Ross’s Turaco

this swamp is supports more than 200 species of birds, among which is the most well-known bird – Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola Cristata). The swamp is administered by the Kibale Association for Rural and Environmental Development (Kafred), and it actually benefits greatly from the adjacent Kibale National Park, since there are a number of primates such as the chimpanzees that occasionally visit the swamp, adding on the diversity of wild animals that tourists see within the Bigodi.

Black-billed Turaco

Black-and-white-casqued hornbill

Its name “Bigodi” was derived from a local Rutooro word, “kugodya”, that means ‘to walk tiredly / wearily’. It is supposed that when visitors reached the Bigodi swamp on foot, they actually were at all times too tired to go on and visit the jungle; and for this reason they decided to rest there.

Narina trogon

A spectacular, mostly iridescent-metallic-green bird, with a scarlet belly, broad yellow bill, and white under tail. The face and throat of the male are green, while the females’ are dirty gray-brown. It sits upright and still in the canopy of riverine and lowland forest, watching for insect prey, then flying fast and directly to catch it. During the breeding season, its soft, deep, throaty “huooo-huooo” call makes it much easier to find. The similar Bare-cheeked Trogon differs by having a face with a large bare yellow skin patches that extend from cheek to bill--not small blue-green spots. Bar-tailed Trogon has a heavily-barred undertail and prefers montane forest above 900 m.

Speckled mousebird at Bwindi NP, Uganda

Extra more place to spot extra birds

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most popular savanna park in Uganda and the best place to see lions including the Tree Climbing lions making it the perfect destination for a Uganda Wildlife Safari. It prides in a great diversity of habitats that include: lakes, savannah grasslands, forests and wetlands that serve as home to the biggest variety of large mammals in the country.

For all visitors that desire to have an up close encounter with the wild fauna in Africa, then a research trip is something I greatly recommend as it will be worth the experience and a very rewarding adventure. This actually is a new and exceptional experience that offers visitors an opportunity to actively directly participate in keeping an eye on not only a number of exotic birds but different mammals as well that live within this park. Normally this is done using locator – devices and gain knowledge of habituation calls, in addition to monitoring the weather, their behavior as well as the surroundings. The finds are added to the databases of the researchers, hence contributing very important information to the general understanding of Africa’s wildlife ecology in particular that in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and assisting to conserve this amazing ecosystem.

The tree climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park 

Birdwatching In Queen Elizabeth, Birding Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National park boosts in an excess of 550 species of birds that have actually made it a charming destination for guests that love watching birds. The park is situated in Rukungiri district in southwestern Uganda covering a total land area of 1978 sq km. It sits at an altitude of 900 meters on the adjacent Lake Edward up to 1845 meters at the peak of the western Rift Valley’s – eastern Escarpment. It has a home of average altitude – moist semi-deciduous forest, rivine bush-land, moist thicket and riparian forest. Among the bird habitats offered within this national park are Open woodlands, rivers, open grassland, lakes seasonal as well as permanent swamps.

There are several aquatic birds such as the White-faced Whistling, Spur-winged Plovers, Squacco Heron, Fish Eagle, Pink and white backed Pelicans, Long tailed Cormorants, African Jacana, Yellow backed Weavers, open-billed Stork, Water-Thick knee, Pied kingfishers, Wattled Plovers, the Black Crake and the Knob-billed Ducks along the impressive Kazinga Channel in the park.

Pink and white backed Pelicans

Water thick-knee

A tall, dome-headed, plover-like bird with large, yellow eyes. Mostly brownish in color, it has a grayish wing panel that is bordered above with a narrow white bar. This thick-knee never wanders far from permanent water. It is crepuscular and nocturnal; early evenings are often punctuated by its distinctive, high-pitched, piping calls that speed up then slow down. The similar Senegal Thick-knee differs by having a gray wing panel bordered above with a black bar only. Spotted Thick-knee lacks the wing panel and has spots rather than streaks on the back.

Long tailed Cormorants
Present in the park are numerous water birds, woodland and forest dwellers in the Maramagambo Forest, 54 raptors and various migratory species. Key species include the Martial Eagle, Black-rumped Buttonquail, African Skimmer, Chapin’s Flycatcher, Pinkbacked Pelican, African Broadbill, Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, Black Bee-eater, Whitetailed Lark, White-winged Warbler, Papyrus Gonolek, Papyrus Canary, Corncrake, Lesser and Greater Flamingo, Shoebill and Bar-tailed Godwit.

Knob-billed Ducks

Maramagambo Forest

The Maramagambo Forest is one of the unique treasures that travelers should not miss while on a Uganda safari through Queen Elizabeth National Park. A lush contrast to the sprawling plains of Kasenyi and Ishasha, the Maramagambo Forest in the center of the park offers a very different experience for visitors

Lots of Things to See

Buzzing with primates, including L’Hoest’s, red-tailed, vervet and black and white colobus monkeys, chimpanzees and baboons, the forest is also alive with numerous bird species including the rare Forest 

Rwenzori Turaco

Bird watching

Birding in one of the best and rewarding safari experience offered in Maramagambo Forest. The birds to spot out at Maramagambo Forest include bat hawk, African green pigeon, Ross’s turaco, Rwenzori turaco, white napped pigeons, sulphur breasted bush shrike, dark caped yellow warblers, fawn breasted wax bill, forest flycatchers a mention but a few.The other exciting activity to do around Maramagambo forest is Kayaking at the Kyasanduka Crater One can visit the ‘cormorant house’, a large tree in the forest that has been turned white by the birds that roost in it at night.

fawn breasted wax bill

sulphur breasted bush shrike

Lake Mburo

A visit to the Lake Mburo National Park is often included on safari itineraries because it offers the sweeping vistas of the typical savannah habitat, and it is also the only protected area in the country with impala and Burchell’s zebra. Lake Mburo offers the quintessential African safari experience. One feels that at any moment, Hemingway may join you for a gin and tonic around the campfire.

LAKE MBURO’S CALL OF THE WILD

The birds are the jewels in Lake Mburo’s crown. With over 300 bird species recorded here, many associated with the acacia and water habitats in the park, this is a birder’s dream come true.  Birds adorn the trees like Christmas decorations, tiny dots of colour and chirp. Lake Mburo has given many a birdwatcher their first exciting glimpse of the elusive African finfoot with its bright red, big feet or the sighting of the brown-chested lapwing that arrives in November to hang out on the zebra trails.

African finfoot

 A dark, elongated, duck-like, aquatic bird with neon orange bill and legs. The back and underparts are variably spotted and barred. The throat is gray in the male and white in the female. It swims slow and low in the water with its tail held on the surface. This secretive bird moves in pairs on perennial rivers, swamps, and quiet clear backwaters, foraging under overhanging cover for invertebrates, frogs, and fish. The short, thick neck and bright-colored bill and feet differentiate it from darters and cormorants.

Lake Mburo’s history explains why it has remained a sanctuary of wilderness. Before it became a protected area, it was known for the culture of pastoralists who roamed its plains and hills as the “Karo Kurungi” (translated as “beautiful land”). The culture of the Banyankole Bahima people has been instrumental in preserving its beauty. Part of this is that the Bahima believed that the beauty of their Ankole cattle depended on preserving the pastoral beauty of the ancestral lands of Karo Kurungi. Ankole cattle, a breed of Sanga long-horned cattle, are well-adapted to living on sparse forage and minimal water and provide meat and very rich milk. The Bahima believed they had been charged with the care of the Ankole and that their cattle’s success depended on the land remaining beautiful – and thus unfarmed, uncropped and unfenced. This prevented other factions of the Banyankole – the Bahinda and Bairu farming class – from turning Karo Karungi into a production landscape of farms and

Bwindi 

Impenetrable Natinal Park

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, covering 32,092 ha, is one of the largest areas in East Africa which still has Afromontane lowland forest extending to well within the montane forest belt. Located on the eastern edge of the Albertine Rift Valley and believed to be a Pleistocene refugium, the property is a biodiversity hotspot with

possibly the greatest number of tree species for its altitude in East Africa. It is also host to a rich fauna including a number of endemic butterflies and one of the richest mammalian assemblages in Africa. Home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, the property represents a conservation frontline as an isolated forest of outstanding biological richness surrounded by an agricultural landscape supporting one of the highest rural population densities in tropical Africa. Community benefits arising from the mountain gorilla and other ecotourism may be the only hope for the future conservation of this unique site.

Birds of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s premier destinations for bird watching, drawing ornithologists and birding enthusiasts worldwide. The forest houses an impressive number of Albertine Rift endemics, species found only in this part of Africa. Notable examples include the African green broadbill, Grauer’s swamp warbler, and Shelley’s crimsonwing—species that are highly sought after by birders. Regional endemics add to the park’s specialised appeal, such as the handsome francolin, Doherty’s bushshrike, and the blue-headed sunbird. These endemics are supported by Bwindi’s dense vegetation, diverse altitudes, and abundant food sources, which create a critical refuge for species under pressure elsewhere due to habitat loss.

Shelley’s crimsonwing

Shelley’s crimsonwing – no photos in natural habitat

There is no known photograph of a live Shelley’s crimsonwing other than a few caught during biodiversity netting surveys. Cryptospiza shelleyi is a species of forest finch occurring in the highland forests of the Albertine Rift in East Africa. It is classified as ‘endangered’ by due to habitat loss and is likely to have a small, severely fragmented and declining population.

Handsome Francolin

Doherty’s bushshrike

Large, chunky brown francolin with a red bill and bare red skin around the eye. Found in montane forest, forest edge, and bamboo. Often in pairs. Reclusive, but will emerge onto roads and paths, especially early and late in the day. The call alternates lower “kroo” notes with higher “kreek” notes. Also gives simpler raspy single notes and series. Similar to Scaly Francolin, but larger and richer brown, with red bare skin around the eye.

Beautiful bird with an olive back, red throat and forehead, yellow belly, and black chest band. There is a rare morph in which the red is replaced with yellow. Found in the undergrowth of montane forest. Skulking bird that is most often located by voice: a perky “chuwit-chuwit-chuwit.” Range does not overlap with the similar Four-colored Bushshrike.

Blue-headed Sunbird

In addition to its resident species, Bwindi provides a temporary home to various migratory birds that visit the park during specific times of the year. Several migratory species from Europe and Asia can be observed between November and April. These include the black kite, common cuckoo, and barn swallow. The influx of migratory birds enriches the birding experience and underscores the park’s role as a vital stopover in the African-Eurasian flyway.

Moroto

Mount Moroto is an ancient volcano whose name means “westward mountain” to the Karamojong people, signifying the mountain they initially saw when settling in this remote corner of

Karamoja’s bird habitat is Unique for Uganda

They favour an impressive collection of the Somali-Masai biome bird species. Birding this area is a whole new adventure for one who has only covered the traditional Uganda birding tour that traverses the central, southwestern and western parts of the country. While exploring Mountain Moroto’s southern rocky slopes, acacia and broad-leaved woodlands, we added a couple of incredible birds that included the Orange River (Archer’s) Francolin, Wahlberg’s Honeyguide, Grey Wren-warbler, Uncommon Hemprich’s Hornbill and The restricted-range African

Orange River (Archer’s) Francolin

Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park, revered as ‘The True Birders’ Haven’ within Africa’s last lowland tropical rainforest.

Semuliki National Park, revered as ‘The True Birders’ Haven’ within Africa’s last lowland tropical rainforest. With a staggering 441 recorded bird species, the park offers an exceptional opportunity to encounter species that cross over from the Congo and Virunga, Africa’s first national park known for its exceptional biodiversity and housing critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Of course, Albertine endemics will be our target along with many others regional species. Notably the Black-Casqued Wattled, Piping, and Red-billed Dwarf Hornbills, White-crested Hornbill, Nkulengu Rail, Blue Swallow, White-throated Blue Swallow, and an array of other captivating birds like the Swamp Palm Bulbul, Spotted Greenbul, and Abyssinian Ground Thrush, making this a thrilling destination for avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

crested malimbe 

• Semuliki National Park is home to about 40% of Uganda's total bird species and 66% of its forest bird species. 

The Kirumia Trail, a 13km path through the forest, is a prime location for birdwatching, offering sightings of species like the White-crested hornbill and Yellow-throated Nicator.

My Conclusion is a week is not enough for all of birds

The top ten Birds of Uganda (Most sought after on birding trips in Uganda)

1.Shoebill 2.Green Breasted Pitta 3.Rwenzori Turaco 4.African Green Broadbill 5.Brown-chested Lapwing 6.Jameson’s Antpecker 7.Nahan’s Francolin 8.Black Bee-eater 9.Karamoja Apalis 10.Puvel’s Illadopsis

Mgahinga Gorilla NP, Western, Uganda

Rwenzori turaco

Atypical and beautiful multi-colored turaco. Like other turacos, shows large crimson wing patches in flight. Found in montane forest and secondary growth. Acts like a typical turaco, bouncing through the trees, and flying occasionally with short bursts of wingbeats and long glides. Found in pairs and sometimes small groups. Gives “kow” calls like other turacos, but also makes odd squirrel-like scolding calls and a 3-part “laser-gun” call.

Bwindi-Impenetrable NP--Mubwindi Swamp,
Western, Uganda

Grauer's broadbill       A unique dumpy green flycatcher-like broadbill with a buffy crown, a black eye-stripe, and a powder-blue throat and vent. Juvenile duller. A scarce resident found singly and in pairs in the lower canopy and at middle levels of primary Albertine Rift Forest between 1760 and 2500 meters of elevation, preferring the edges of clearings. Highly localized, occurring in two isolated populations in Bwindi (Uganda) and Itombwe/Kahuzi (Democratic Republic of Congo), and inexplicably absent from ideal intervening habitat. May join flocks, but inconspicuous unless calling its soft high-pitched tinny “tsit-tsit,” repeated multiple times, and a rapid “tseet-tsit-tsit-sit-sit-it-it” in flight.

Lake Mburo NP, Western, Uganda

Brown-chested lapwing

Large, long-legged upland shorebird. Note the rufous above the bill and below the gray hood. In flight, the top of the wing is black and brown, with a bold white stripe across the middle. Found in very open habitats including short grassland, recently burned areas, and lakeshores. Nomadic and migratory species that is generally uncommon. Often found in small flocks. Call is a high-pitched “chit-chit-chit.”

Bwindi-Impenetrable Forest
NP--Entrance Road, Western, Uganda

Jameson's antpecker

A small, slender-billed, warbler-like waxbill with pinkish-brown legs and different-looking sexes: the male has a red forehead, dull brown upperparts, and a rusty-chestnut face and underparts, while the female has a tawny-brown face and cheeks, pale buff underparts with scattered dark chevrons, and dull brown upperparts. Pairs and small groups forage by themselves or in mixed-species flocks, in the understory and middle levels of primary, secondary, and gallery forest, often near water. Eats insects, with a fondness for ants. Call is a high-pitched, downslurred “whseet.”

Kakum National Park, Central, Ghana 
(Bwindi-Impenetrable Forest NP--Buhoma, Western, Uganda)

Black bee-eater

A bee-eater of forest and forest edge that appears entirely black at a distance, but in good light shows a bright red throat and electric blue belly, undertail, and chest spots. Western birds have a black eye-line bordered in blue. Unmistakable when seen well. Call is a sharp “ji-lip!” that is not often heard.

Important to note is that Uganda has only two endemic bird species, that is, Fox’s Weaver and Karamoja Apalis.

Find the Fox’s weaver, 

Uganda’s only Endemic 

The rare Fox’s Weaver (Ploceus spekeoides) is Uganda’s only endemic bird. It is listed globally as a Near Threatened species. This bird’s preferred habitats are the papyrus-fringed lakes with nearby wooded grassland and seasonally flooded wetlands. These are common in the Eastern part of the country, including Lake Opeta, Bisina and sites towards Lira.

There have been reliable sightings of several nesting pairs in May 2018 near Lake Bisina by tour guides on a mission to find this elusive bird. This could be a sign that numbers are on the increase, although scientists are still carrying out research. Many ornithologists and bird watchers in Uganda long to see the Fox’s Weaver.

Looking for it is a challenge. You have to comb the wetlands and trudge through mud or floods – but when you find it, it is so rewarding!

The Karamoja Aparis in Uganda

The Karamoja apalis (Apalis karamojae) is a species of bird in the family Cisticolidae. It is endemic to Uganda.

               Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist shrubland with a particular preference for stands of whistling thorn Acacia drepanolobium. It is threatened by habitat loss.

Identification

A slender ash-gray apalis with a diagnostic striking white panel on the folded wing and two pairs of white outer tail feathers which are usually obvious on the dark tail. Upperparts are darker than underparts. Presumably resident in areas of semi-arid shrubland, particularly those with scattered thorn trees along dry watercourses. Pairs sing a long duet of chipped and warbled notes. The white wing panel easily separates this species from other long-tailed warbler-like birds in its range.

where we can found

The Karamoja Apalis (Apalis karamojae) is an East African endemic warbler primarily found in northeastern Uganda, northern Tanzania, and southern Kenya. In Uganda, it's concentrated in the Karamoja region, specifically areas like Kidepo Valley National Park, Mount Moroto, and Mount Napak. It's also been documented in the districts of Moroto and Napak. The bird prefers Acacia drepanolobium wooded grasslands

Finally

8 days Birding In Uganda (18 Oct to 25 Oct 2025)

Day 1 (18th Oct). Arrival at Entebbe International Airport and Drive to Botanical Gardens, Accommodation and Dinner at Egg Botanical

Egg Botanical Hotel

Berkeley Rd, Entebbe, Uganda tel:+256751573756

Day 2 (19th Oct). Visit Mabamba Swamp for Shoebill and transfer to Lake Mburo, Accommodation and Dinner at Hyena Hill Lodge.

Hyena Hill Lodge

Lake Mburo National Park

Sanga Gate Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda 
tel:+256751898014

Day 3 (20th Oct). Half Game Drive and transfer to Queen Elizabeth, Accommodation and Dinner at Bush Lodge

Queen Elisabeth Bush Lodge

Unnamed Rd, Katunguru, Uganda tel:+256312294894

Day 4 (21st Oct). Full Game drive at Queen Elizabeth and Do Kazinga channel, Accommodation and Dinner at Bush Lodge

Day 5 (22nd Oct). Drive to Semuliki No and afternoon birding, Accommodation and Dinner at UWA Bandas

National park bandas and campsite

Semuliki  Forest National Park features the Uganda Wildlife Authority  (UWA) managed Bandas and Campsite located at Bumaga, about 2.5km from Sempaya – a notable starting point for exploring the park and the nearby Semliki Game Reserve.

The Bandas and Campsite are a budget/downmarket safari accommodation option. Basic facilities are offered and meals are arranged on order, catering equipment is available for hire to those who want to do self-catering.

Day 6 ( 23rd Oct). Full birding in Semuliki Np. Accommodation and Dinner at UWA Bandas

Day 7 (24th Oct). Birding in Kibale NP for Green-breasted Pitta then transfer to Kampala. Accommodation and Dinner at ???

Day 8 (25th Oct). Kampala City and shopping before flight back.