Uganda is the top birding destination in Africa. It has several species that cannot be easily seen anywhere in Africa. There are many bird watching spots which make it a rich country for birds. There are more than 1010 species of birds and a visit to Uganda will be a great experience. Uganda’s national parks are home to various species of birds. As you keep an eye on the birds, you will see an abundance of wildlife that will make your birding safari an adventure. The best time to see the birds is usually early in the morning and late at night.
Murchison Falls National Park is located in the northwestern part of Uganda, surrounded by Lake Albert. It is the largest national park in Uganda with several species of birds. Common species seen include secretarybirds, red-necked hawk, blue-breasted bee, sacred ibis, long-toed lapwing, black-headed whistling duck, grosbeak, and many others.
The Lake Mburo National Park is a privileged destination that will allow you to observe all kinds of birds in any corner of the park. It is home to many birds because it has a larger wetland that is surrounded by Lake Mburo. Birds to see include the yellow-billed oxpecker, white-winged warbler, ground hornbill, green-backed woodpecker, and others.
Budongo Forest is located in the western part of Uganda. It occupies an area of about 793 km2. It is a top spot for bird watching in Uganda with so many rare species that you would love to see. Bird watching activities usually take place in the early morning. During this time you will see the early risers and it will be a great experience. As you walk through the thick forest, you will see birds of all colors and some with their young. Examples of birds found in Budongo include the Singing Cistotail, the Grey-headed Oliveback, and the Black-billed Barbet. Busingiro is another exciting bird watching spot that you must visit.
Semliki National Park is located in the southwestern part of Uganda. It is clearly seen at the base of the Rwenzori Mountains. Semliki has rare species of birds including the Yellow-throated Nicater, Grey-throated Rail, Black-throated Coucal and the Congo Serpent Eagle. Bird watchers who have visited Semlike have enjoyed touring the best viewing area where birds can be seen easily.
The Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in the western part of Uganda and is an amazing place for bird watching. Its vegetation ranges from savannah to lowland forests. The park has over 600 species of birds and is the largest area in East Africa that is well protected. Several birds discovered in the park are known as prominent birds of East Africa and are a must-see for all bird lovers in Africa. Be sure to visit the famous bird watching spots in Queen Elizabeth National Park, including Mweya Peninsula, Maramagambo Forest, Kazinga Channel, Kasenyi Area, Ishasha Sector and many others.
The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated on the edge of the Western Rift Valley and is surrounded by the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Virunga National Park. It covers an area of approximately 331 square kilometers of dense forest. Bwindi is the haven for bird watchers. It has more than 348 species of birds, including Albertine rift endemics such as White Blue Monarch, Dusky Crimson Wing, Wilcock’s Honey-guide, Short-tailed Warbler, Rusty-faced forestry Warbler, Bar-tailed Trogon, Warbler porridge and many others. An enthusiastic bird watcher can see more than 100 species of birds in one day. The best birding spots in Bwindi include Buhoma and Ruhija. Let your dream come true when you visit Uganda for bird watching.