Birding in Murchison Falls is a special activity that allows tourists to enjoy and connect with nature while seeing different types of birds. Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s best places for bird lovers, with over 450 bird species recorded, including both common and rare birds.
Birds in the park can be seen in the riverine forests, Savannah grasslands, and wetlands. Tourists can watch birds while walking, on a boat trip, or during a game drive. All these options provide great chances to see birds in their natural homes.
One of the most famous birds in the park is the shoebill stork, also called the whale-headed stork. It is easy to recognize because of its big, shoe-shaped bill and tall body, which makes it interesting for bird watchers.
Other bird species in the park include:
- African darter
- Giant kingfisher
- Osprey
- Long-toed plover
- Grey-headed kingfisher
- Verreaux’s dove
- Black-headed lapwing
- Abyssinian ground hornbill
- Rock pratincole
- Yellow-fronted tinkerbird
- Black-billed barbet
- Long-tailed nightjar
- Weaver birds
- Yellow-billed stork
- Martial eagle
- Blue-headed coucal
- Swamp flycatcher
- Goliath heron
- African jacana
- Secretary bird
- Red-throated bee-eater
- African quailfinch
- Squacco heron
- White-browed sparrow-weaver
- Senegal thick-knee
There are many good birding spots inside Murchison Falls National Park. These include:
Birding in Budongo Forest
Budongo Forest is home to over 350 bird species. Tourists can see them during guided nature walks. The forest has two special species that are found only in this region: the yellow-footed flycatcher and Puvel’s illadopsis.
Birding in the Lake Albert Delta
This is where the Nile River flows into Lake Albert. It is located in the southwestern part of the park and is a good place to see birds during a boat cruise.
Birding near Paraa & Red Chilli
Birds can also be spotted around the shrubs near Paraa Safari Lodge and Red Chilli Rest Camp.
Birding in Kaniyo-Pabidi Forest
This forest is in the southern part of the park and is another good birding area. Birds found here include the Ituri batis, white-thighed hornbill, and yellow-footed flycatcher. A guided nature walk is the best way to spot these birds.
When planning a birding trip to Murchison Falls, tourists should consider the best time to visit. The dry seasons: from June to August and December to February are the best times, as the weather is good and many birds can be seen.
Visitors are advised to bring comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, insect repellent, a camera, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and a backpack.
Some of the budget and mid-range accommodations available include Murchison Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge, and Murchison Tree House by Geo Lodges.
Birding in Murchison Falls is not just about seeing birds. It’s also a chance to enjoy the peace and beauty of nature.
