A Guide to bird watching in the Swamps and National Parks of Uganda

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Uganda is home the most diverse flora and fauna in the world. From its lush, vibrant jungles and rivers to its expansive national parks. But for bird watchers, a wide variety of over 1,000 native bird species, including some rare and endangered species, including the majestic Shoebill Stork to the colorful Ross’s Turaco, the skies of Uganda are filled with vibrant birds that one can spot on safari. The unique ecosystem in Uganda makes it an ideal spot for bird watching. Its combination of tropical forests, savannas, wetlands, and grasslands provide a wide variety of habitats for birds to call home, there are also a number of national parks where birds can find refuge from human activity. 10 National parks; 12 wildlife reserves; 5 community wildlife management areas; and 13 wildlife sanctuaries within the borders of Uganda, offer travelers ample opportunities to catch a glimpse at some of the world's most rare birds.

Bird Watching Hotspots include; Mabamba Wetland near Kampala - this area is known as one of Africa's best locations for spotting the shoebill storks! Queen Elizabeth National Park is another great location for bird lovers; it offers visitors sightings of over 600 different species of birds! Other top spots include Kibale Forest National Park (home to 13 primate species including chimpanzees), Mount Elgon (a great spot for high altitude avian species), Lake Mburo National Park (a great place to spot waterfowl), and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (home to 23 Albertine Rift endemics).

Others birds to look out for in Uganda
Ross’s Turaco

Another recognizable bird in Uganda is the Ross’s Turaco. This bright red and green bird can be found in forests throughout the country. Its diet consists mainly of fruit, berries, leaves, and insects. The Ross’s Turaco has an unmistakable call that sounds like “kreeeoooh” which makes it easy to identify even when it’s hidden away.

Grey-Capped Warbler

The Grey-Capped Warbler is a small songbird found across much of sub-Saharan Africa including Uganda. It has a grey head with white stripes along its back and wings as well as yellow underparts. The Grey-Capped Warbler forages for food on both land and water and feeds mainly on insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, spiders, ants, flies, wasps, moths, and dragonflies. Pack your binoculars and head off to the vibrant landscapes teeming with life—bird watching in the swamps and national parks of Uganda should be off your travel list this year!

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