Birding Uganda

Birds

Uganda is blessed to be the best birding destination in Africa with the Bwindi Impenetrable forest being the top ranked birding destination in Africa.

Uganda is among the finest birder’s paradise on the entire African continent.  The country has more than half of the total bird species in the whole of Africa so this has made it the wealthiest birding destination in Africa.  Just on the outskirts of Kampala the capital of Uganda, you can see close to 250 bird species in a single day. This is all credited to the wide variety of habitats available ranging from the spectacular shores of the large Lake Victoria to the verdant forests found in the Albertine Rift as well as the banks of the great River Nile. Despite the fact that Uganda has a single Endemic bird – the Fox’s Weaver, there are twenty three Albertine Endemics here and these are very challenging or even hardly seen in any other places. 

Among these endemic species are the Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Handsome Francolin, Dusky Crimsonwing, Rwenzori Turaco, Strange Weaver, Rwenzori Nightjar, Regal Sunbird, Dawrf Honeyguide, Blue headed Sunbird, African Green Broadbill, Red – faced Woodland Warbler, Purple breasted Sunbird, Red throated Alethe, Strip breasted Tit, Archer’s Robin Chat, Yellow eyed Black Flycatcher, Rwenzori Batis, Mountain Masked Apalis, Kivu Ground Thrush, Collared Apalis, Grauer’s Rush Warbler, Short tailed Warbler and Grauer’s Warbler.

The top 10 most sought after Bird species in Uganda include:
Shoebill, Purvell’s Illadopsis, African Green Broadbill,  Red-fronted Antpecker, Green-breasted Pitta, Ruwenzori Turaco, Nahan’s Francolin, Black Bee-eater, Brown-chested Plover and Karamoja Apalis.
Commonest birding habitats found in Uganda

Uganda the ‘Pearl of Africa’ being an equatorial country prides in rich fauna cover which has provided home to both the local and migrant bird species among which are:

Forests

Uganda has  over 700 demarcated forest reserves and a prominent area is the Abertine Rift region which supports over 35 species endemic to Uganda, DRC, Rwanda and Burundi. Other prominent forested areas are the Bwindi forest and the Mgahinga forest.

Wetlands

There is an approximated 30,000 sq km of wetlands dispersed through the country. These wetlands support more than 200 bird species among which are most sought after Shoebill as well as the African Skimmer, and the endemic Fox Weaver, the Papyrus Canary, Papyrus Yellow warbler, Papyrus Gonolek, and the White-winged Warbler and.

Savannahs

The savannahs range from the isolated, semi-dessert, arid thorn-scrub area of Karamoja in northeastern Uganda, to the fertile savannahs within the western arm of the rift valley. Over 600 bird species many of which are in Queen Elizabeth National Park haven been recorded in Uganda’s Savannah areas.

Bird Watching Gear while in Uganda

  • A pair of good binoculars
  • A birding book (optional)
  • A rain gear is mandatory (including a water proof jacket and hat) since the rains especially within the forested regions are unpredictable.
  • Strong hiking boots preferably if they are somewhat water proof
  • Sun screen lotion
  • Sun glasses to shelter you against the bright sun
  • Bottled water although this is normally provided by your tour company.

Uganda’s Top 5 Bird Species

1. Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex):

This prehistoric looking bird is very scarce but is sought out by many birders. It is a combination of both a pelican and a stork. It prefers to inhabit undisturbed swamps that are mostly associated with lungfish, its main meal, which it supplements with frogs. Although the female is smaller, bothBoth male and female look the same although the female is meant to be smaller. It can be seen in Mabamba swamps, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, the shores of Lake Victoria and other swamps.

2. African Green Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena):

This is a beautiful leaf-green bird (Broadbill) with a pale blue throat, upper breast and vent. Its crown is buff-green with dark streaks. The young ones are duller with green vent. This species is endemic to montane forest in the Albertine Rift and very uncommon in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest where it has only been recorded. At first, groups of 2-4 used to be seen in the upper levels of the forest undergrowth and in the lower canopy but now groups of up 14 birds have been recorded of recent. This species may join other mixed-species flocks, moving along branches as they feed.  Its call is a high pitched hissing rhythmical series that sound like sii-sii-sii-siiiiiii, the last note falling slightly then raising, given while perched, flying or feeding in a group as a contact call.

3. Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi):

This Pitta features shining colours, a whitish throat, green breast, red vent and sky-blue wing patches. It is a forest species that prefer staying in the interior and has been recorded in a good number of forests in western Uganda. It is known to call only at down and dusk and so not easily seen if you don’t know this, thus people think its uncommon.

4. African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis):

This is a blackish brown bird with white spots on the back, red bill and legs and a white line along the neck. Although it is a waterbird, it does not dive and so always feeding under over-hanging vegetation near the banks.

5. Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata):

This is a big and spectacular bird with ‘lipstick’. It is the only Turaco that does not show red in the wings as it flies. It has a yellow breast, chestnut vent, black tail band, yellow outer tail feathers and the rest of the body is blue. This is a common species in forests, and even urban areas that are well kept with good trees. One of their calls sound like water pouring from a gourd and when they start, they can go on for a very long period.

Albertine Rift Endemics

The Albertine Rift region is renowned for its high level of endemism. Key species to look out for include:

  • Shelley’s Crimsonwing
  • Rwenzori Turaco
  • Handsome Francolin
  • Dwarf Honeyguide

These birds are best spotted in the montane forests of Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, where the rich biodiversity creates a perfect habitat for these rare species.

Raptors and Birds of Prey

Uganda’s relief systems and outlay also house various raptors, making it a prime destination for enthusiasts interested in birds of prey. The country is home to over 60 species of raptors, including resident and migratory birds.

  • Martial Eagle: The most giant eagle in Africa, known for its impressive wingspan and powerful hunting abilities. It can be seen soaring above the savannas of Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks.
  • African Fish Eagle: Often seen near water bodies such as Lake Victoria and the Kazinga Channel, the African Fish Eagle’s distinctive call is synonymous with the African wilderness.
  • Crowned Eagle: A forest-dwelling raptor known for its strength and agility, capable of hunting prey as large as small antelopes. It is best spotted in the dense forests of Kibale and Bwindi.
  • Bateleur: Easily recognisable by its distinctive short tail and vivid colouration, this raptor often performs acrobatic flights over the savannas.
  • Palm-nut Vulture: Unique among raptors for its diet, which includes both carrion and the fruit of palm trees. It is commonly found along riverbanks and coastal areas.

Unique Migratory Birds in Uganda

Uganda’s position at the heart of Africa and its numerous ecosystems make it a significant stopover for migratory birds travelling between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Thousands of migratory birds make their way to Uganda each year, enriching the already impressive avifauna with a seasonal influx of species. These migratory birds, observed primarily from November to April, add to the country’s diversity and excitement of birdwatching.

Why Uganda Attracts Migratory Birds

Uganda’s varied habitats—including wetlands, grasslands, forests, and open savannas—provide abundant food, breeding sites, and shelter for migratory species. The country is part of the East African Flyway, a major migratory route from Europe and Western Asia to Southern Africa. This makes Uganda an essential refuge for birds escaping harsh winter conditions in the northern hemisphere.

Uganda’s wetlands, particularly around Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp, and the Kazinga Channel, serve as critical feeding grounds for waterbirds. Meanwhile, the open grasslands of parks like Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls attract migratory raptors and insectivorous species.

Key Migratory Birds to Watch For

  • European Bee-eater: These colourful, agile flyers arrive in Uganda from Europe, adding vibrant flashes of colour to the savannas and open woodlands. Their acrobatic hunting behaviour, as they catch insects mid-air, is a spectacle for birdwatchers.
  • Northern Wheatear: This small, ground-dwelling bird migrates thousands of kilometres from Europe and Asia to winter in Africa. It can be found in Uganda’s open grasslands and rocky terrains.
  • Common Cuckoo: Famous for its distinctive call and brood parasitism behaviour, this species migrates to Uganda to exploit the abundant insect population during the wet season.
  • White-winged Tern: These striking birds are commonly seen skimming the surface of Uganda’s lakes and wetlands with their black-and-white breeding plumage. During the non-breeding season, they form large flocks and can be observed feeding on insects and small fish.
  • Eurasian Hobby: This small, agile falcon migrates to Uganda to hunt insects, bats, and small birds. During the winter months, it is often seen darting through the skies of Uganda’s savannas and forest edges.

Wetland Migrants

Uganda’s extensive wetlands provide critical habitats for numerous migratory waterbirds. Some of the most commonly observed wetland migrants include:

  • Lesser Black-backed Gull: Found along the shores of lakes and rivers, especially during the northern winter months.
  • Common Greenshank: These long-legged waders are frequently spotted in shallow waters, mudflats, and riverbanks.
  • Wood Sandpiper: A regular visitor to Uganda’s wetlands, this slender, elegant bird can be seen probing the mud for invertebrates.

Raptors on the Move

Uganda also attracts several migratory raptors, adding extra excitement for birdwatchers. These birds of prey use Uganda as a stopover to rest and refuel before continuing their long migratory journeys.

  • Steppe Eagle: This large raptor migrates from the steppes of Central Asia to spend the winter in Africa, where it can be seen soaring over the savannas of Uganda.
  • Lesser Kestrel: A small falcon that migrates from Southern Europe and Central Asia. It often forms large flocks over grasslands and agricultural areas in Uganda.
  • Montagu’s Harrier: Known for its graceful flight, this harrier migrates from Europe and Asia, favouring Uganda’s open grasslands and agricultural fields.

Birdwatching Tours and Guides in Uganda

Uganda’s reputation as a premier birdwatching destination is bolstered by its well-developed network of professional birding guides and organised tours. Whether you are an experienced birder looking for rare endemics or a beginner eager to explore Uganda’s rich avian diversity, enlisting the help of a knowledgeable guide can significantly enhance your Uganda experience.

Benefits of Hiring a Local Birdwatching Guide

Local guides are invaluable when it comes to birdwatching in Uganda. They know intimately about the country’s diverse habitats, bird species, and the best spots for sightings. Some key advantages of hiring a local guide include:

  • Expert Identification: Uganda’s avifauna is incredibly diverse, with many species that can be difficult to identify, especially in dense forest environments. Guides are skilled in recognising birds by their calls, plumage, and behaviours.
  • Access to Hidden Locations: Local guides often know of less-frequented birding hotspots not commonly listed in guidebooks. This insider knowledge allows birdwatchers to maximise their chances of encountering rare and elusive species.
  • Ethical Birdwatching Practices: Professional guides are trained to adhere to responsible birdwatching principles, ensuring minimal disturbance to birds and their habitats. This is especially important when visiting sensitive areas like wetlands and nesting sites.