The Birds of Murchison Falls National Park.

The biggest national park in Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park, is a popular spot for birding in addition to being a sanctuary for large wildlife. The park is home to more than 450 different kinds of birds, making it one of Uganda’s most abundant birdwatching locations.

For both resident and migratory birds, its varied habitats—which include open savannah, riverine woods, marshes, and forests—create the perfect environment.

Murchison Falls National Park provides outstanding birding possibilities, showcasing famous African birds as well as uncommon and unique species. A deeper look at some of the amazing birds you could see while visiting this famous park is provided here.

Famous Murchison Falls Birds

Because they are rare, beautiful, or exhibit intriguing behavior, many bird species are regarded as must-sees at Murchison Falls.

The shoebill stork is an uncommon bird that is often seen in the park’s Nile Delta region, making it one of the most sought-after species by birdwatchers.

With its enormous, shoe-shaped beak and astonishing size, this bird has a prehistoric appearance. It is well-known for its calm, statue-like posture while it waits for fish.

African Fish Eagle, One of Africa’s most recognizable birds, the African fish eagle is distinguished by its white head and unique cry. It is often seen hunting fish and sometimes small animals from its perch along the Nile.

Goliath Heron, The world’s biggest heron species, the Goliath heron, is often seen along the banks of the Nile. As it waits for fish, this heron, with its reddish-brown and gray plumage, is a sight to see.

Gray-crowned Crane, The marshes and grasslands around Murchison Falls are home to Uganda’s national bird, the gray-crowned crane. Visitors find it to be a breathtaking sight with its golden “crown” of feathers and elegant motions.

Nile Delta Specialties and Water Birds

Numerous water birds that flourish in and around the ecology of the Nile River may be seen in abundance along the river and its delta.

Pied Kingfisher, Known for its hover-and-dive hunting technique, this little, black-and-white kingfisher is often seen near rivers where it captures prey. In Murchison Falls, it is among the most prevalent kingfishers.

African Jacana, This aquatic bird, which is distinguished by its long toes and claws, is often seen strolling elegantly on floating plants. It is a common sight because of its unique behavior and chestnut and black plumage.

big water birds known as Great White and Pink-backed Pelicans are often seen in the vicinity of the Nile Delta, where they congregate in big flocks to catch fish. Pelicans are renowned for their coordinated hunting techniques and magnificent beaks.

African Skimmer, The African skimmer skims the water’s surface in search of fish thanks to its distinctive bill structure. It gives birding in the delta region a dynamic touch and is most often seen at dark or morning.

Malachite Kingfisher, This little but amazing kingfisher is characterized by its iridescent orange and blue plumage. Photographers love it, and it often appears along the riverbanks.

Raptors and Birds of Savannah

The savannah regions of Murchison Falls National Park are perfect for game drives and birding since they are home to a variety of raptors and ground-dwelling birds.

Secretary Bird, This tall, long-legged predator is renowned for both its distinctive look and its hunting style, which involves using its strong legs to stomp on victims. It often occurs on open grasslands.

Martial Eagle, One of Africa’s biggest eagles, the martial eagle is a superb hunter with a stunning black and light plumage pattern. It may be spotted looking for prey while perched above trees.

Bateleur Eagle, Common in the park’s savannah, the bateleur eagle is distinguished by its short tail and characteristic “rolling” flight. It often glides low over the grasslands in pursuit of birds and small animals.

Northern Carmine Bee-eater, Often seen in the park’s wide spaces, the northern carmine bee-eater is distinguished by its vivid red and blue hues. It performs an acrobatic act by capturing insects in midair.

Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, This big, ground-dwelling hornbill, which has a red neck and a black body, is often seen moving in couples or small groups over the grasslands.

Woodland and Forest Birds

Additionally, Murchison Falls has wooded regions, especially in Budongo Forest Reserve and close to the Nile, which attract a variety of forest bird species, including a variety of colorful and melodic birds.

African Grey Parrot A favorite among birdwatchers, the African grey parrot is renowned for its intellect and capacity for sound imitation. It lives in the park’s wooded sections, such as Budongo Forest, and eats seeds and fruits there.

Blue Turaco: Often observed in the park’s wooded areas, this eye-catching blue-green bird has a yellow face and red eyes. It is a sight to remember because of its vivid colors and distinctive cry.

Yellow-throated Leaflove, Known for its melodic voice, this little, greenish bird with a yellow neck is often spotted in the park’s woodlands close to water sources.

Having white legs Hornbill, This big, vibrant bird, which lives in forests and is often seen consuming fruits and insects, has black plumage and white thighs.

The Chocolate-backed Kingfisher is a stunning kingfisher with blue wings and a deep brown back that may be seen in the park’s woodland and forested sections. It is well-known for its timid demeanor and gentle, trilling sound.

Birds of Migration

To further enhance its already remarkable variety, Murchison Falls National Park also draws migratory birds, particularly from Asia and Europe. As they travel to the park’s warmer environment, these birds are most visible from November to April.

A huge, black raptor that migrates from Europe, the Eurasian Marsh Harrier is often seen soaring low over marshes in pursuit of prey.

The Common Sandpiper is a migratory shorebird that is often seen along the banks of the Nile. It is tiny and thin. It is immediately recognized by its distinctive bobbing motion.

Barn Swallow, The barn swallow, which is migratory from Europe and Asia and comes to the park in great numbers to feast on insects, is distinguished by its forked tail and elegant flight.

Osprey, Common along the Nile, the osprey is a migratory raptor that specializes on fish hunting. It is a sight to see because of its spectacular dives to capture fish.

Large raptors, graceful waterbirds, vibrant woodland inhabitants, and uncommon species like the shoebill may all be seen at Murchison Falls National Park, which is a veritable birdwatcher’s dream.

The park’s breathtaking scenery and abundant variety provide a distinctive setting for birdwatching, making it a memorable experience for both nature lovers and birdwatchers.