Bird Watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Bird Watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Guaranteed Adventure on Safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, a top place for bird-watching tours. The National Park was named after Queen Elizabeth II, in honor of her coronation in the early 1950s. This enchanting safari park covers an area of approximately 1,978 square kilometers (764 square miles). The park is filled with picturesque landscapes, diverse wildlife, and plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Bird Watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the top experiences that you shouldn’t miss while in Uganda since the park hosts a vibrant number of bird species.

Bird Watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park – The Park is a fantastic destination for bird-watching enthusiasts. With over 600 species of birds recorded, the park offers diverse habitats that attract a wide variety of bird species. Our top birding safari packages will allow you to experience bird watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park and perhaps add other top experiences like wildlife viewing, nature walks, and trekking among others. Book your Uganda birding safari with Acacia Safaris Limited and experience thrilling moments in the wilderness.

Checklist of birds in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Here are some notable birds to look out for in Queen Elizabeth National Park:

1. African Fish Eagle

This iconic raptor is one to look out for on your birding safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park and can be seen along the park’s waterways, including the Kazinga Channel and the various lakes. Its distinctive call and impressive hunting skills make it a favorite for sighting among birdwatchers.

2. African Skimmer

Can be spotted near the Kazinga Channel, African Skimmers are known for their unique feeding behavior. They “skim” the water surface with their lower mandibles to catch small fish. Spotting them in action is a thrilling experience.

3. Great Blue Turaco

The Great Blue Turaco is such a beautiful bird with its vibrant blue plumage and red crest. It is commonly spotted in the forested areas of the park. Famous for its vocalizations and can often be heard before it is seen.

4. Grey-headed Kingfisher

The Grey-headed Kingfisher is a magnificent sight with its unique plumage, which includes a turquoise body and a bright orange beak. They can be found near water bodies, patiently waiting for their fishy meals.

5. African Grey Hornbill

Easily recognized by its black and white plumage and large red bill, the African Grey Hornbill is a common bird in Queen Elizabeth National Park. They can be spotted as they fly between trees or perch on branches.

6. Shoebill Stork

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best places in Uganda to spot the rare and elusive Shoebill Stork. With its distinctive bill shape and unique appearance, this prehistoric-looking bird is a top sighting for many birdwatchers.

7. Red-throated Bee-eater

These small, colorful birds can be found in the park’s woodland and savanna areas. Their vibrant plumage, with shades of green, blue, and red, is a sight to behold.

8. Martial Eagle

Known for its incredible size and strength, the Martial Eagle is the largest eagle in Africa. With its wide wingspan and powerful beak, it is a formidable predator. You will be delighted to spot them as they soar in the skies or perched on tree tops.

9. African Finfoot

This secretive aquatic bird can be found along the park’s waterways, particularly in the dense vegetation near the Kazinga Channel. To spot this elusive species, you will need to keep your eyes widely open and you will see it as it skulks among the reeds.

10. African Harrier-Hawk

These birds of prey are known for their distinctive facial appearance, with bare skin around the eyes and a double-jointed leg that helps them navigate through branches. They can often be spotted in the park’s woodland areas.

For the ultimate bird-watching experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park, we advise our clients to bring with them binoculars. Our knowledgeable birding guide will help you locate and identify the various species that you will come across. Book your Uganda Birding safari with us.

Other top things to combine with your birding safari in Queen Elizabeth

Wildlife viewing  

Of course, as you travel through the park looking for different bird species, you will come across different wildlife species as well. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife species, making it one of the most biodiverse reserves in Africa. Combining your bird-watching tour with wildlife safaris will just make your visit amazing. You will enjoy viewing top species like African elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species.

Top areas to visit in Queen Elizabeth National Park – where to spot wildlife and bird life

1. Mweya Peninsula

The Mweya Peninsula is a beautiful area within the park that offers stunning views of the park, Kazinga Channel, and Lake Edward. This area is one of the best to visit for sightings of wildlife species, especially the big game – and also one of the best to spot some amazing bird species. There are several accommodation options available here, including lodges and campsites.

2. Ishasha Sector:

This Sector is located in the southern part of the park and is known for its tree-climbing lions. For any big cat lover, this is one of the top places you shouldn’t miss out on when planning your trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Lions are regularly spotted lounging on tree branches, providing an exciting viewing experience for visitors – ready to pounce on the Uganda Kob that usually grazes beneath.

3. Kyambura Gorge

The Kyambura Gorge is home to a habituated community of chimpanzees. Visitors can embark on chimpanzee tracking expeditions, trekking through the dense forest, and observing these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.

4. Kazinga Channel

The park is bisected by the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward. Boat safaris along the channel offer opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and various bird species in close proximity.