Bird Watching in Murchison Falls National Park

Bird Watching in Murchison Falls National Park

Bird Watching in Murchison Falls National Park: Located in northeastern Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is the largest conservation area in the country and is recognized as one of the premier birding locations in Uganda. The park is well-known for Murchison Falls, created when the Victoria Nile squeezes through a narrow rocky gorge, forming the world’s most powerful waterfalls.

Home to more than 460 bird species, the park features forest birds, savannah birds, migratory birds, and aquatic birds. Birding opportunities in Murchison Falls National Park include boat cruises on the Nile Delta or near the base of the falls, as well as guided nature walks in Budongo and Rabongo forests and other activities. The bird species checklist for Murchison Falls National Park comprises the majestic and rare shoebill stork, spur-winged lapwing, malachite kingfisher, papyrus gonolek, Egyptian goose, grey heron, hadada ibis, double-toothed barbet, long-crested eagle, blue-breasted kingfisher, white-thighed hornbill, various flycatchers, palm-nut vulture, great cormorant, rock pranticole, little stint, little egret, African darter, common ringed plover, red-throated bee-eater, African open-billed stork, red-chested cuckoo, black-crowned tchagra, cassin’s hawk eagle, Pel’s fishing owl, green-winged ptyilia, Abyssinian ground hornbill, helmeted guinea fowl, secretary bird, purple heron, Egyptian vulture, Senegal thick-knee, nightjars, marabou stork, black-headed lapwing, and black-bellied bustard, among many others.

Places to View Birds in Murchison Falls National Park

Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest ranks among the premier birding spots in Murchison Falls National Park and hosts over 360 bird species, including two endemics: the yellow-footed flycatcher and Puvel’s illadopsis. Other bird species to look for during a nature walk include the black-eared ground thrush, cassin’s eagle, cassin’s spine-tail, chestnut-capped flycatcher, brown twin-spot, crested guinea fowl, crowned eagle, Ituri batis, olive-breasted greenbul, and many others.

Lake Albert Delta

In the southwestern part of Murchison Falls National Park lies Lake Albert Delta, where the Victoria Nile flows into Lake Albert. This delta is home to a range of birds that can be found tucked away in shrubs and the vegetation on the water’s surface. Species that can be spotted include grey heron, shoebill stork, woodpeckers, kingfishers, geese, ducks, francolins, warblers, and many additional birds that can be seen during a boat cruise to the base of the falls.

Near Paraa and Red Chilli

Paraa Safari Lodge is another excellent location for birdwatchers within Murchison Falls National Park. The vegetation surrounding the Paraa and Red Chilli lodges attracts many bird species, which can be easily seen from the comfort of your lodge.

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest 

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest also serves as a fantastic birding location within Murchison Falls National Park. Positioned in the park’s southern area, this forest is home to species such as white-thighed hornbill, Puvel’s illadopsis, yellow-footed flycatcher, and Ituri batis. These birds are easily spotted during forest nature walks.

Best Time for Birding in Murchison Falls National Park & What to Carry 

Murchison Falls National Park is a birding haven that boasts over 450 documented bird species, including some of Uganda’s most sought-after birds like the shoebill stork, Abyssinian ground hornbill, Goliath heron, and various migratory and endemic species. Regardless of your experience level, whether you’re an avid birder or a curious beginner, Murchison offers an unforgettable experience.

Regardless of the season, birding in Murchison Falls is enjoyable year-round; however, the best times are during the dry seasons: December through February and from June to early September. During these months, birds are more active, visibility improves, and access to birding hotspots such as the Nile Delta, Buligi Game Tracks, and Kaniyo Pabidi Forest is easier due to drier roads.

For those especially interested in migratory species, the ideal time to visit is between November and April. This timeframe coincides with the arrival of Palearctic migrants from Europe and Asia, enhancing the diversity of available sightings.

What to Bring on Your Birding Safari | Bird Watching in Murchison Falls

To maximize your birding experience in Murchison Falls, ensure you are well-prepared with the following items: 

• Binoculars: These are crucial for observing birds from afar. Opt for high-quality, lightweight options.
• Field Guidebook: A bird guide specific to East Africa or Uganda will assist in identifying species on the go.
• Notebook or Birding App: Useful for documenting sightings and behaviors.
• Camera with Zoom Lens: While optional, this is excellent for taking close-up photos without disturbing birds.
• Wide-brimmed Hat & Sunscreen: Essential for shielding yourself from the intense African sun.
• Long-sleeved Clothing: Lightweight yet protective attire against insects and sunlight.
• Insect Repellent: Tsetse flies and mosquitoes are prevalent in the area.
• Reusable Water Bottle & Snacks: Birding can entail extended hours in the field.