Birds in Murchison Falls National Park

Birds in Murchison Falls National Park : Murchison Falls National Park is the largest in size compared to all the other Ugandan national parks and represents a distinctive picturesque area. Located in the north western region of the country, this unique park occupies an area of over 3,800 square kilometers, with diversified biosphere that has proved to be a haven to many wild lives especially the flying creatures. Bird lovers are rewarded at Murchison Falls since 450 bird species have been identified in this park most of which are endemics.

The varied ecosystems of the park hence a variety of wetland, riverine forests, open country and woodlands offer numerous chances of seeing all manners of birds, both common and uncommon.

Murchison Falls National Park remains one of the most famous bird watchers’ paradise or paradises in the entire of Africa. Some of the geographical attributes that the park comprises include the stunning Murchison falls through which the necklace River Nile compresses to push through as a fall. This mighty river is a life line to the park and supports the diverse biological systems, it also creates a paradox that positively influences birding.

Murchison Falls National Park consist of a series of undulating plateau of which most parts are covered by savannah acacia woodlands with some considerable portions of Riverine forests that offer diverse habitats for birds. Due to the fact that the park is located in Albertine Rift Valley, enjoys the tropical climate and is also densely populated by avian producing aiding the many resident and migrant birds. This park is of importance to bird diversity in Uganda due to the diverse ecosystems existing in the area and the availability of the Nile River.

Birding experience in Murchison Falls National Park

This park comprises a variety of bird habitats that include areas that support different bird species that are well-adapted to the park. This makes the birding experience here even more interesting because it covers wetland, savannah plains, woodlands and even some forests.

 Riverine and Wetland Habitats: There is the Nile River which makes a considerable feature in the park and the surrounded wetlands are suitable for water birds. The Shoebill, perhaps the most popular bird due to the numerous documentaries made about it is usually located in the papyrus swamps near the Nile Delta. Other aquatic birds to mention include the African jacana, the yellow billed stork and the stylish Malachite king fisher with its flashes of blue and green as it zips across the water.

Savannah Plains: Savannahs offer habitat to numerous bird species ranging from large species that preferentially inhabit the ground and boosted with small bright Passerines. Here bird lovers will be able to watch the large Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, which is often seen walking about on the savannah. Among birds of prey seen gliding and soaring high in the skies some of the birds include the Grasshopper Buzzard and Swallow tailed Kite. Also, the savannah is featured by colonies of the bright Black headed Lapwing and the orange combination of the Northern Carmine Bee eater.

 Woodlands and Forested Areas: The habitats available in the Park include woodland and forest which support a number of birds of forest dwelling and migrant bird species. Among the special birds, some that can be found in these areas include; White thighed Hornbill, Chocolate backed Kingfisher, and the African Grey Parrot. In the two or three months of migration, the forests and woodlands are relatively active as one or several bands of bird migrants from Europe and the northern part of Africa stop to rest or breed.

All of these habitats afford birders an opportunity to view species that are restricted to particular habitats within the ecosystem. From the serious majestic birds of prey seen flying over the expansive grasslands to the graceful small birds singing as they move from one tree to another in Murchison Falls National Park, you find a rich blend of bird life.

This park contains must see bird species including:-

The Shoebill: Often referred to as one of the most elusive birds along with looking like it has existed from prehistoric times, the Shoebill is a must-see bird for most bird enthusiasts. This giant sized, blue grey feathered beauty with a shoe shaped bill prefers the wetlands around the Nile Delta area. These birds are most times seen standing still around water grounds with their long legs tucked still in the water waiting to strike prey which include fish and frogs. Owing to a marvelous build and rather quirky conduct, they are unforgettable to come across.

African Fish Eagle: The African Fish eagle is known as the “Voice of Africa” due to its loud call and is seen frequently along the banks of the Nile. This raptor has white head, chestnut colored body and sharp claws used in fishing for fish. Just to watch these eagles dive to pick a fish from the surface of the water is breathtaking.

Goliath Heron: The Goliath Heron is one of the biggest herons in the world by height with a mean height of more than 1.5 meters. This magnificent bird is partially built to live close to the river and it spends a lot of time along the river seeking its prey.

Grey Crowned Crane: This is considered Uganda’s national bird because of the grace and beauty that can be easily associated with the bird. Featuring long legs and neck and a crown of golden feathers this crane can be considered graceful and intriguing. These birds are usually found in twos or small groups, especially in savannah and are known to perform dancing round the clock especially during breeding periods.

The Park also has a variety of other bird species some of which include; the Saddle billed Stork that is easily identified by its black and white plumage and bright red and yellow bill.

The Malachite Kingfisher which has the elegance and sheen of a kingfisher and the Black headed Lapwing which has a distinct black head really enhance bird watching. Murchison Falls National Park gives either the professional birder or the casual nature enthusiast, some exciting view of birds.

Best Times to Visit Murchison Falls National Park

Bird watching undertaken in Murchison Falls National Park at any time of the year but is most successful in the dry seasons of December to February and June to September.