Uganda - Rockjumper Birding Tours

Rockjumper Birding Tours’ 

Uganda 

21 st January – 5 th February 2002 

Kenya and Tanzania have traditionally been considered Africa’s top birding countries, with trip lists regularly 

exceeding 600 species. Most trips to tiny Uganda record between 400 and 500 bird species, modest totals by 

comparison. However these trips have almost always run during the southern winter when Palaearctic migrants 

are scarce or absent. After boasting for years that we could run a Uganda tour that cracked the 600 species 

barrier, we decided to "put our money where our mouth is" and scheduled a RBT Uganda tour for February 

2002 . Our trip total of 629 species in 16 days reflects the immense potential of this African birding Mecca. 

Whilst our focus was still the rich endemic avifauna of the Albertine Rift and the spectacular papyrus 

specialties, including the incomparable Shoebill, our tour participants were also treated to vast numbers of 

migrants from Eurasia and the northern Sahelian savannas. A million Sand Martins, half a million Yellow 

Wagtails of five races, and the world’s most extravagant nightjar, Standard-winged, were but some of the avian 

spectacles that vindicated our decision to run the tour at this time. The rest are detailed below… Read and weep, 

or contact the RBT office for details of our next Uganda departures. 

Annotated List of Bird Species recorded 

Whilst the list order is that of Sibley and Monroe, taxonomy and nomenclature follows the new definitive 

guidebook to the region “Field Guide to the Birds of East Africa” by Terry Stevenson and John Fanshawe, 2002, 

T & AD Poyser Ltd, London. 

An asterisk (*) indicates an Albertine Rift endemic species. 

Crested Francolin Peliperdix sephaena 

This bantam-like bird, first recorded in Lake Mburo NP, was commonly encountered in savanna habitat 

throughout the trip. 

Nahan's Francolin Pternistes nahani 

A covey of these secretive francolins was seen spectacularly well as they trotted down a forest trail off the 

“Royal Mile” in Budongo Forest, surely one of the highlights of a superb day’s birding! 

Heuglin's Francolin Pternistes icterorhynchus 

Commonly heard, with small numbers seen, in Murchison Falls NP. 

Scaly Francolin Pternistes squamatus 

Exceptional sightings of this usually reclusive francolin, with a total of four pairs watched feeding along the 

road through Maramagambo Forest, Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Red-necked Spurfowl Pternistes afer 

The most commonly recorded francolin on the trip, with large numbers in savanna throughout. 

Handsome Francolin* Pternistes nobilis 

This Albertine Rift endemic was heard in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris 

Common and ubiquitous, Helmeted Guineafowl were first encountered at the roadside en route to Lake Mburo 

NP.

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Crested Guineafowl Guttera pucherani 

Flocks of these “fowls on a Bad Hair Day” were found in the lower part of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

White-faced Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna viduata 

Amazingly, this widespread and familiar duck was seen only in Queen Elizabeth NP, where a flock of 8 were 

found at Lake Kikorongo on our last morning in the park and a further pair in Mabamba Swamp. 

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus 

Another common waterfowl, first seen en route to Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with numerous others at wetlands 

in Murchison Falls NP and, especially, Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis 

A small group of five at the roadside wetland en route to Lake Mburo NP, with a singleton in Murchison Falls 

NP were our only encounters. 

Knob-billed (Comb) Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos 

Three flew over the road en route to Lake Mburo NP, with more satisfactory views of feeding and roosting 

groups in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

African Pygmy-goose Nettapus auritus 

Four of these attractive, little geese were found on our last day’s Shoebill excursion to Mabamba Swamp. 

Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata 

A total of six at the roadside wetland en route to Lake Mburo NP and a dozen in Mabamba Swamp. 

Garganey Anas querquedula 

Two eclipse-plumaged individuals were found at Katwe Lake in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota 

Four at the roadside wetland en route to Lake Mburo NP, with a further eleven near Lake Kikorongo in Queen 

Elizabeth NP. 

Common (Kurrichane/Small) Buttonquail Turnix sylvatica 

A pair of these diminutive quails was seen superbly along the Channel Track in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Black-rumped Buttonquail Turnix nana 

A scarce species, with a single sighting of a bird flushed from the roadside in the Ishasha sector of Queen 

Elizabeth NP. 

Scaly-throated Honeyguide Indicator variegatus 

The distinctive, rising trill of this widespread, forest honeyguide was heard on several occasions in Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP, although the bird was never seen. 

Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator 

A brief fly-by in Ishasha, with others heard around Mweya and excellent views in Murchison Falls NP, where a 

number attempted to guide us to honey! 

Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor 

Rockjumper Birding Tours Uganda 2002 Trip Report 

“The Best of African Birding” 

www.rockjumper.co.za

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The characteristic “twinking” of this bird was first heard around Mweya, with sightings of singles near Lake 

Kikorongo and at the roadside from Masindi to Kampala. 

Thick-billed Honeyguide Indicator conirostris 

The forest equivalent of the Lesser Honeyguide, with one calling and scoped near the Mubwindi Swamp in 

Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Willcocks's Honeyguide Indicator willcocksi 

Excellent sightings of no fewer than three individuals of this scarce bird: first along the Waterfall Trail near 

Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with others in Kibale Forest NP. 

(Western) Least Honeyguide Indicator exilis 

Two encountered along the Mubwindi Swamp Trail, Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Cassin's Honeybird (Honeyguide) Prodotiscus insignis 

One at the roadside between Ruhiza and Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with more satisfactory sightings in 

Kibale Forest NP (4 birds) and Mabira Forest. 

Nubian Woodpecker Campethera nubica 

The common savanna woodpecker in Uganda, this bird’s ringing calls were frequently heard in Lake Mburo NP, 

Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Tullberg's (Fine-banded) Woodpecker Campethera tullbergi 

A handsome, finely barred woodpecker, first seen at Ruhiza, with subsequent encounters at Buhoma and in 

Kibale Forest NP. 

Buff-spotted Woodpecker Campethera nivosa 

A bird scoped at close quarters in Mabira Forest was our only encounter with this fairly common forest 

woodpecker. 

Brown-eared Woodpecker Campethera caroli 

Amazingly, this relatively common forest-dwelling woodpecker was found only twice, in Mabira. 

Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens 

A common savanna bird, first seen near Ishasha, with subsequent encounters around Mweya and in Murchison 

Falls NP. 

Yellow-crested (Golden-crowned) Woodpecker Dendropicos xantholophus 

This large forest woodpecker (with the almost invisible yellow crest!) was first seen at “The Neck” in Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP, with others in Kibale Forest NP and, especially, Mabira. 

Elliot's Woodpecker Dendropicos elliotii 

A male of this fine bird was scoped above Ruhizha, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with numerous others seen in 

mixed feeding flocks at Buhoma and in Kibale Forest NP. 

Grey Woodpecker Dendropicos goertae 

First found in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, with another near Lake Kikorongo and others in 

Murchison Falls NP. 

Olive Woodpecker Dendropicos griseocephalus 




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One seen on our Mubwindi Swamp hike at Ruhizha, with another heard on the drive to Buhoma, Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP. 

Brown-backed Woodpecker Picoides (Dendropicos) obsoletus 

At least 3 individuals of this often scarce and elusive species were found with mixed feeding flocks in the 

recently burnt woodland above Murchison Falls. 

Grey-throated Barbet Gymnobucco bonapartei 

The barbet with the nose tuft and the toy-trumpet call. First found above Ruhizha, with good numbers in all 

forest habitats thereafter (especially numerous in Kibale Forest NP, where over 50 were seen in a day near 

Kanyanchu). 

Speckled Tinkerbird Pogoniulus scolopaceus 

A scruffy, ubiquitous bird in lower altitude forest in Uganda, where its purring call is one of the common 

background sounds. First scoped at “The Neck” in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, and commonly seen in Kibale 

Forest NP and along the Royal Mile in Budongo. 

Western (Green-) Tinkerbird Pogoniulus coryphaeus 

This tiny tinkerbird was heard near Ruhizha, with a co-operative pair located near our camp in Buhoma, Bwindi 


Yellow-throated Tinkerbird Pogoniulus subsulphureus 

Similar to its more familiar yellow-rumped cousin but with a contrastingly yellow throat and a more rapid tempo 

to its “tinking”, this forest barbet was seen at close quarters on the Waterfall Trail in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, 

when a pair responded vigorously to tape playback. Numerous others were found in Kibale Forest NP and at 

Mabira Forest. 

Yellow (Golden) -rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus 

A ubiquitous bird in Uganda, occurring in savanna and forest throughout. Although it was only heard on our 

first day, large numbers were seen and heard daily for the remainder of the trip (except north of the Nile in 

Murchison Falls NP, where they are replaced by Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird). 

Red-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus pusillus 

A single sighting, on the Butiaba Escarpment near Budongo. 

Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus 

A savanna species heard in Lake Mburo NP but first seen in Ishasha and around Mweya, with small numbers in 


Yellow-spotted Barbet Buccanodon duchaillui 

An elegant forest barbet with a beautiful purring call, small numbers were found at all forest localities, with 

maximal numbers at fruiting figs in Kibale Forest NP. 

Hairy-breasted Barbet Tricholaema hirsuta 

This unkempt-looking bird was first seen at Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with small numbers at all other 

forest sites. 

Spot-flanked Barbet Tricholaema lacrymosa 




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A northern savanna species whose calls and behaviour reminded Southern African birders of Acacia Pied 

Barbet, this bird was commonly heard in Lake Mburo NP, with large numbers seen in Ishasha and around 


White-headed Barbet Lybius leucocephalus 

We found unusually high numbers of this spottily distributed and often elusive barbet, first near Ishasha in 

Queen Elizabeth NP and subsequently on the drive from Masindi to Jinja. 

Black-billed Barbet Lybius guifsobalito 

A dapper-looking bird that was frequently encountered in the dry northern savanna areas from the Butiaba 

Escarpment onwards, and especially numerous north of the Nile. 

Double-toothed Barbet Lybius bidentatus 

A spectacular barbet that is delightfully common in moist savanna, overgrown cultivation and gardens in 

Uganda. First found at the roadside en route to Lake Mburo NP. 

Yellow-billed Barbet Trachyphonus purpuratus 

Another magnificent forest barbet, heard in all the western forests and finally seen well on our last morning in 


Crowned Hornbill Tockus alboterminatus 

Common and widespread in moister habitats across the country, we found small numbers at the roadside on our 

first day, with peak numbers in Maramagambo Forest in Queen Elizabeth NP, Kibale Forest NP and Budongo 

Forest. 

African Pied Hornbill Tockus fasciatus 

Much more localised than its similar crowned cousin and with white tail edges (rather than tail tips), we found a 

pair at the roadside on our first day. 

African Grey Hornbill Tockus nasutus 

The common savanna hornbill in Uganda, with one seen in Lake Mburo NP, a few in Queen Elizabeth NP and 

large numbers on the drier northern part of the tour. 

Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill Ceratogymna subcylindricus 

Another spectacular bird that is delightfully common, this species was seen in large numbers almost daily, 

starting with a large flock in the gardens of the hotel in Entebbe. 

White-thighed Hornbill Ceratogymna [cylindricus] albotibialis 

Common only in Budongo Forest, where we located small numbers near Kaniyo Pabidi and more than 25 along 

the Royal Mile. 

Abyssinian (Northern) Ground-Hornbill Bucorvus abyssinicus 

A few family groups of these stately, though somewhat grotesque-looking, birds were found foraging in burnt 

areas north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

African Hoopoe Upupa africana 

This characteristic bird was found only in the vicinity of Murchison Falls, with singletons on 3 days. 

Green (Red-billed) Woodhoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus 

A group of three in Lake Mburo NP was our only record of this widespread African bird. 




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White-headed Woodhoopoe Phoeniculus bollei 

A characterful forest bird, with good numbers found around Ruhizha and Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, 

and smaller numbers in Kibale Forest NP. 

Forest Woodhoopoe Phoeniculus castaneiceps 

A relatively scarce bird, with a group of 4 in Mabira Forest our only sighting. 

Black Scimitar-bill (~ Woodhoopoe) Rhinopomastus aterrimus 

Small numbers were found in savanna north of the Nile. Very similar to the next species, which it replaces in 

the Sahelian savanna north of the Equator. 

Common (Greater) Scimitar-bill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas 

Another widespread and familiar African bird that we encountered commonly in Lake Mburo NP, with smaller 

numbers in the savanna of Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Narina Trogon Apaloderma narina 

The guttural hooting of this magnificent bird was heard at all forest sites, with one seen at close quarters along 

the trail to Mubwindi Swamp in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Bar-tailed Trogon Apaloderma vittatum 

We enjoyed an incredible 8 sightings of this beautiful bird in the lower parts of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinica 

A single individual was found near the top of Murchison Falls. 

Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata 

Good numbers of this familiar savanna bird were seen at the roadside on our first day. 

Broad-billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus 

The common roller of moist, open country throughout Uganda, with numerous roadside birds on our first day 

and many thereafter. 

Blue-throated Roller Eurystomus gularis 

Replaces Broad-billed Roller in closed forest environments and first seen displaying above the canopy near 

Buhoma, with subsequent scope views in Kibale Forest NP and Budongo Forest. 

Shining Blue Kingfisher Alcedo quadribrachys 

An elusive bird that made a brief appearance for some in Kibale Forest NP. 

Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata 

The common, small kingfisher of aquatic habitats, with a few found at the roadside on the first day but maximal 

numbers seen on our launch cruises in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

African Pygmy Kingfisher Ispidina (Ceyx) picta 

This beautiful, little bird was seen in small numbers in savanna habitat throughout. 

African Dwarf Kingfisher Ispidina (Ceyx) lecontei 

Another elusive forest kingfisher that showed itself all too briefly, with one seen along the Royal Mile in 

Budongo Forest. 




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Chocolate-backed Kingfisher Halcyon badia 

A bird every bit as resplendent as its evocative call, we enjoyed scope views of three along the Royal Mile in 


Grey-headed (Chestnut-bellied) Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala 

First seen in Queen Elizabeth NP and wonderfully common in savanna thereafter. 

Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis 

One of the characteristic sounds of moist African savanna, this bird was first seen in our hotel gardens at 

Entebbe and remained a familiar sight and sound for the rest of the trip. 

Blue-breasted Kingfisher Halcyon malimbica 

This forest equivalent of the Woodland Kingfisher was heard in Kibale Forest NP but first seen along the Royal 

Mile in Budongo Forest. 

Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti 

Rather more drab than its spectacular cousins, this small, terrestrial kingfisher was commonly encountered in 

the savanna of Lake Mburo NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima 

One sighting of this giant of the kingfisher world, along the Nile below Murchison Falls. 

Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis 

The world’s commonest kingfisher was seen in large numbers in wetlands throughout, but seemed especially 

conspicuous on the launch cruises along the Kazinga Channel and Nile. 

Black Bee-eater Merops gularis 

A truly magnificent forest bee-eater with a most unlikely colour combination, we found pairs and family groups 

first at “The Neck” in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with subsequent encounters around Buhoma and, especially, in 


Red-throated Bee-eater Merops bulocki 

The northern equivalent of the more familiar White-fronted Bee-eater and every bit as beautiful, large numbers 

were found near Butiaba and along the Nile. 

Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus 

The most widespread and familiar of a suite of look-alike bee-eaters in Uganda, we found them first in Lake 

Mburo NP, with maximal numbers in Murchison Falls NP. 

Blue-breasted (White-cheeked) Bee-eater Merops variegatus 

Slightly larger and with a preference for fringes of papyrus beds, this bird was seen first at the roadside on our 

first day, with many more in Queen Elizabeth NP and, especially, Murchison Falls NP. 

Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater Merops oreobates 

The largest of the three and favouring forest fringes at higher altitudes, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eaters were 

abundant around Ruhizha in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with small numbers also seen on the borders of Kibale 

Forest NP. 

Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus 




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An elegant bee-eater of dry savanna, we found large numbers north of the Nile. 

White-throated Bee-eater Merops albicollis 

Small flocks of this migratory species, which breed in the Sahelian savanna but winter in the Equatorial forests, 

were found throughout the trip, with our first sighting at the roadside on the first day and maximal numbers in 

Maramagambo Forest. 

Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus 

Another migrant, though typically found in larger flocks in the vicinity of water. A few on our first day, with 

large flocks especially conspicuous in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

European Bee-eater Merops apiaster 

Scattered flocks were found in savanna throughout the trip. 

Northern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicus 

Another magnificent bee-eater, usually split from the Carmine Bee-eater of the southern savannas, we found 

small numbers in the vicinity of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP, with an unusual record earlier in the trip of a 

single bird near Mweya in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus 

A contender for commonest bird of the trip, with large numbers recorded daily. 

Blue-naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus 

The fast-flying, savanna cousin of Speckled Mousebird and sporting a most unlikely blue patch on its nape, we 

found this species first in Lake Mburo NP, with good numbers thereafter (especially numerous in Queen 

Elizabeth NP, where over a hundred daily). 

Black-and-white (Jacobin) Cuckoo Oxylophus jacobinus 

A single sighting, by Jim Jr., of an individual on the Butiaba Escarpment. 

Levaillant's (African Striped) Cuckoo Oxylophus levaillantii 

A total of four birds in Lake Mburo NP, with unusual records of others in open forest habitats in Bwindi 


Red-chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius 

Small numbers of this familiar bird, heard almost daily throughout the trip, were seen in savanna in Lake Mburo 

NP, with further sightings in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Queen Elizabeth NP and Budongo Forest. 

Black Cuckoo Cuculus clamosus 

The “I’m so saAAD!” call of this bird was regularly heard in the western forests, though the species was only 

finally seen in Mabira Forest. 

African Cuckoo Cuculus gularis 

One calling bird was seen in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx mechowi 

The most commonly heard and widespread of the three long-tailed cuckoos in Uganda, we managed excellent 

scope views in both Kibale Forest NP and Mabira Forest. 

Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx olivinus 




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As difficult as the others to see well, we enjoyed excellent scope views along the Mubwindi Swamp Trail in 

Bwindi Impenetrable NP and again in Kibale Forest NP. 

Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx montanus 

Heard only in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with superb scope views of a calling bird along the Mubwindi Swamp 

Trail. 

Klaas's Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas 

A brood parasite favouring the cup nests of woodland birds, this species was first seen in Lake Mburo NP, with 

numerous sightings in open habitats thereafter. 

African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus 

Generally more shy and less common than its congeners, we had cripplingly good scope views of magnificent 

males in both Kibale Forest NP and Budongo Forest. 

Diederik Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius 

This widespread African bird was found in good numbers on our first day. Favours closed nests (and therefore 

often conspicuous around weaver colonies). 

Yellowbill (Green Coucal) Ceuthmochares aereus 

This peculiar, malkoha-like cuckoo was first seen near Buhoma, with many more in other western forests. 

Black Coucal Centropus grillii 

Singletons in marshy grassland in Queen Elizabeth NP and north of the Nile at Murchison Falls NP. 

Blue-headed Coucal Centropus monachus 

This large coucal was first seen in roadside papyrus en route to Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with small numbers 

seen below Buhoma and others heard in wetlands elsewhere. 

Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis 

First seen at the roadside en route to Mweya, with others on the drive to Murchison Falls NP and in the park 

itself. 

White-browed Coucal Centropus superciliosus 

The commonest coucal in Uganda, and across much of Eastern Africa, with maximal numbers recorded on our 

drives from Bwindi to Mweya and Kibale to Murchison Falls. 

(African) Grey Parrot Psittacus erithacus 

Four flew across the road on our first day in Uganda, with more satisfactory views of flocks in Kibale, Budongo 

and Mabira forests. So much better to see them in the wild! 

Brown-necked (Grey-headed) Parrot Poicephalus [robustus] suahelicus 

Small numbers were seen daily flying to or from roosts near Ruhizha. 

Brown (Meyer's) Parrot Poicephalus meyeri 

The common parrot of moister savanna and woodland in the southern part of Uganda, we found at least 10 on 

our first day’s drive, with smaller numbers near Mabira Forest. 

Red-headed Lovebird Agapornis pullarius 




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A lovely, little parrot that we saw superbly well in Lake Mburo NP, when a flock perched at eye-level, with a 

male fanning his tail and displaying to a female. Also recorded in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Scarce Swift Schoutedenapus myoptilus 

Small numbers seen over Ruhizha. 

Mottled Spinetail Telacanthura ussheri 

Never common, we recorded small numbers over Budongo, including an individual watched drinking from a 

pond. 

Sabine's Spinetail Rhaphidura sabini 

The “uncommon” forest spinetail that was seen in large numbers in Kibale, Budongo and Mabira forests. 

Cassin's Spinetail Neafrapus cassini 

Usually the commoner of the two similar forest spinetails, we had to wait until Mabira to observe this unstablelooking 

species. 

African Palm-Swift Cypsiurus parvus 

Plentiful around palms throughout, and hence especially numerous in the Borassus palm savanna north of the 

Nile. 

Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba 

First seen in small numbers over Ruhizha, this massive swift was also encountered at Buhoma and in Kibale 

Forest NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Mottled Swift Tachymarptis aequatorialis 

Six of these large, brown swifts were recorded near “The Neck” in Bwindi Impenetrable. 

Eurasian (Common) Swift Apus apus 

Four of these migratory swifts were seen heading north over Ishasha, with further flocks in Murchison Falls NP. 

Little Swift Apus affinis 

The common urban swift, with large numbers found in towns throughout. 

White-rumped Swift Apus caffer 

Fork-tailed and with a sickle-shaped (rather than square) white rump, we found this species first at Mweya, with 

especially good sightings of low-flying birds at Budongo. 

Black-billed Turaco Tauraco schuettii 

The common turaco of Uganda forests, we had numerous encounters with this beautiful bird from Ruhizha 

onwards. 

White-crested Turaco Tauraco leucolophus 

Often considered the most beautiful turaco of all, this magnificent creature was scoped in Murchison Falls NP 

and seen again at the roadside between Masindi and Kampala. 

Ross's Turaco Musophaga rossae 

Another stellar turaco, first found at the roadside on the first day, with especially memorable sightings in 

fruiting figs in Ishasha. 




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Bare-faced Go-away-bird Corythaixoides personatus 

A bizarre bird with enormous character, we found at least twenty in Lake Mburo NP, with another pair in dry 

savanna in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Eastern Grey Plantain-eater Crinifer zonurus 

This floppy-winged bird with a maniacal call is the essence of moist woodland in Uganda and we saw large 

numbers throughout. 

Great Blue Turaco Corythaeola cristata 

Arguably one of Africa’s most spectacular birds, this huge frugivore is wonderfully common in Uganda and we 

found good numbers almost daily. 

(Northern) White-faced Scops-Owl Otus leucotis 

Some authorities e.g. Clements split this attractive owl from Southern White-faced Owl on account of its 

strange, pigeon-like call. It was first seen after dark along the road north of Masindi, with another finally lured 

into view in the hotel garden at Masindi. 

Verreaux's (Giant/Milky) Eagle-Owl Bubo lacteus 

A pair of these huge owls (with somewhat incongruous pink eye-lids) was seen at dusk near Mweya Safari 

Lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

African Wood Owl Strix woodfordii 

Heard nightly in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with a pair lured into view at the Gorilla Forest Camp at Buhoma. 

Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum 

One on the edge of Lake Mburo NP at dusk was our only sighting of this widespread savanna species, although 

one was also heard on the Butiaba Escarpment. 

Red-chested Owlet Glaucidium tephronotum 

This forest owlet was heard on numerous occasions near Buhoma and in Kibale Forest NP but was, 

frustratingly, never seen! 

Ruwenzori Nightjar ARE Caprimulgus [poliocephalus] ruwenzorii 

One flushed from the road on our night drive at Ruhizha, with many others heard at dawn and dusk around our 

camp. 

Swamp (White-tailed/Natal) Nightjar Caprimulgus natalensis 

A wonderful flight view of a female that flushed from her nest in dry grassland in Ishasha, leaving her two 

recently hatched fledglings concealed in the grass. 

Long-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus climacurus 

One of the highlights of our night drive above the falls in Murchison Falls NP, where both a female and an 

impressive male were seen at close quarters. 

Slender-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus clarus 

An impressive nightjar found on our night drive in Murchison Falls NP, though somewhat eclipsed by the other 

sightings of the drive. 

Square-tailed (Mozambique/Gabon) Nightjar Caprimulgus fossii 

Three of these widespread African nightjars were found along the Channel Track in Queen Elizabeth NP. 




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Standard-winged Nightjar Macrodipteryx longipennis 

We ended with at least 10 males of this nocturnal mega-bird, both at dawn and on our night drive in Murchison 

Falls NP but the image of that first male, his standards fluttering behind him like drongos behind a raptor, is the 

one that will remain with all of us forever. 

Pennant-winged Nightjar Macrodipteryx vexillarius 

A single male, strangely in full plumage, was seen at dusk on our first evening in Murchison Falls NP. 

Rock Dove (Feral Pigeon) Columba livia 

Common in Kampala and other larger towns. 

Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea 

Small numbers seen in Kampala and along the roadside to Bwindi were our only records of this widespread 

African pigeon. 

Afep Pigeon Columba unicincta 

This plump, forest pigeon was found in good numbers in Kibale Forest NP. 

African Olive (Rameron) Pigeon Columba arquatrix 

A widespread, African forest pigeon encountered only in the higher parts of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

White-naped Pigeon Columba albinucha 

One of the star attractions of Kibale Forest NP, where we had a number of fly-overs and a wonderful scope view 

of a lone individual sunning itself at dawn near the park HQ. 

Western Bronze-naped Pigeon Columba iriditorques 

A compact, elusive canopy-dweller, far more often heard than seen, we had to content ourselves with 5 fly-bys 

in the lower parts of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Lemon (Cinnamon) Dove Aplopelia larvata 

Another elusive forest columbid, favouring undergrowth rather than the canopy. We found 2 individuals in 


Laughing (Palm) Dove Streptopelia senegalensis 

A widespread, familiar species recorded in large numbers daily. 

African Mourning (Collared-) Dove Streptopelia decipiens 

Another fairly common savanna dove, with its distinctive call being a regular background sound from Mweya 

(Queen Elizabeth NP) northwards. 

Vinaceous Dove Streptopelia vinacea 

This richly marked dove replaces the much more widespread Ring-necked Dove as the common savanna dove in 

the drier areas along the Nile, and is most easily separated from that species by its call. 

Ring-necked (Cape Turtle) Dove Streptopelia capicola 

Common in open savanna in the southern parts of the country, with large numbers from our first day onwards. 

Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata 




- 13 - 

Probably Uganda’s commonest dove, inhabiting a wide range of moist woodland and forest habitats, with large 

numbers daily throughout the trip. 

Black-billed Wood-Dove Turtur abyssinicus 

The common wood-dove of the dry, northern savanna around Murchison Falls NP, with our first records coming 

from the Butiaba Escarpment. 

Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove Turtur chalcospilos 

In Uganda, this familiar woodland dove is restricted to the southern and eastern savannas, and we found them 

only in Lake Mburo NP. 

Blue-spotted Wood-Dove Turtur afer 

Uganda’s most widespread wood-dove and commonly recorded on almost every day of the tour. Its stuttering, 

down-scale hooting characteristically ends abruptly (rather than tailing off like the similar Emerald-spotted and 

Tambourine doves). 

Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistria 

The forest equivalent of the wood-doves, and therefore widespread and common in Uganda, we saw small 

numbers on most tour days (with many more heard daily). 

Namaqua Dove Oena capensis 

A local bird in Uganda, with a pair seen in the dry savanna south of Murchison Falls NP. 

Bruce's Green-Pigeon Treron waalia 

A total of 8 of these handsome birds was found unexpectedly on our drive from Masindi to Kampala (taking to 

1000 Joyce’s total number of birds seen in Africa!). 

African Green-Pigeon Treron calva 

Another common pigeon in Uganda, their distinctive lime-yellow bodies were frequently seen perched atop 

roadside trees throughout the tour, with peak numbers at fruiting figs in Kibale Forest NP. 

Black-bellied Bustard (Korhaan) Eupodotis melanogaster 

This widespread African bustard favours moist grasslands and was first seen in Queen Elizabeth NP, with 

singles daily around Murchison Falls NP. 

Grey (Southern) Crowned-Crane Balearica regulorum 

Uganda’s handsome national bird is delightfully common throughout the country, with our initial encounter at 

the roadside just outside of Kampala on our first morning and a peak number of over 80 birds (including 

dancing couples) seen around Kabale town. 

White-spotted Flufftail Sarothrura pulchra 

This secretive, forest rallid’s hooting call was heard on the first morning of the trip but the bird was not seen 

until the last morning, in Mabira Forest, when we enjoyed exceptional views of 2 males stalking through the 

forest undergrowth. 

Buff-spotted Flufftail Sarothrura elegans 

Another forest phantom that was heard at Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with a single female seen crossing 

the track. 

Red-chested Flufftail Sarothrura rufa 




- 14 - 

Despite vigorous response to tape playback at a roadside marsh near Buhoma, this marsh-dwelling “pygmycrake” 

refused to emerge from cover. It was again heard in Mabamba Swamp on the last day of the tour. 

African Water (Kaffir/Cape) Rail Rallus caerulescens 

Distant calling birds at the roadside marsh near Lake Mburo NP on our first day were our only records of this 

elusive species. 

African Crake Crecopsis egregia 

Small numbers of this handsome species were seen daily in the moist savanna of Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra 

Africa’s common wetland crake, we recorded them first at the roadside marsh on our first day, with small 

numbers at wetlands elsewhere on the trip and peak totals on our launch cruises on the Kazinga Channel and the 

Victoria Nile. 

Purple Swamphen (Gallinule) Porphyrio porphyrio 

This usually common rallid is strangely scarce in Uganda, with only single sightings at the roadside marsh on 

our first day and in Mabamba Swamp. 

Allen's (Lesser) Gallinule Porphyrio (Porphyrula) alleni 

An adult and an immature of this handsome bird (a close relative of the Purple Gallinule of the New World) 

were found at the roadside marsh near Lake Mburo NP. 

(Common) Moorhen Gallinula chloropus 

Another normally common rallid that is relatively scarce in Uganda, with our only sightings (of 6 birds) coming 

from the same roadside marsh as the Allen’s Gallinule. 

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago 

Good numbers were flushed along the fringes of the now famous roadside marsh, with smaller numbers studied 

at close quarters along the shores of Lake Edward (where they had to dodge the bathing elephants) and the 

Victoria Nile. 

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa 

A single sighting of this Palaearctic migrant, at a wetland near the Entebbe Airport. 

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus 

One individual at the above wetland near the Entebbe Airport. 

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis 

A fairly common Palaearctic wader, with small numbers in wetlands around Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 

As common as the Marsh Sandpiper, and recorded in similar numbers in similar areas. 

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 

This Palaearctic migrant was first found at the Lake Mburo roadside marsh, with small numbers also in 

wetlands in Queen Elizabeth NP and along the Victoria Nile. 

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola 

The commonest Palaearctic migrant wader, with small numbers in all wetland areas. 




- 15 - 

Common Sandpiper Tringa (Actitis) hypoleucos 

First found on the shores of Lake Mburo, with small numbers at most wetland sites throughout the trip. 

Little Stint Calidris minuta 

Large numbers were found at Katwe Lake, along the Kazinga Channel and at Lake Kikorongo in Queen 

Elizabeth NP. 

Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii 

A single individual in wetlands near the Entebbe Airport. 

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea 

Small numbers at Katwe Lake and around Lake Kikorongo, Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Ruff Philomachus pugnax 

Small numbers around the shores of wetlands in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Greater Painted-snipe Rostratula benghalensis 

A single female was seen with the Temminck’s Stint near the Entebbe Airport. A male was seen at very close 

quarters on the last day of the tour in the Entebbe Wildlife Sanctuary. 

African Jacana Actophilornis africanus 

A widespread and characteristic wader, conspicuous in wetlands throughout the tour. First found at the roadside 

marsh near Lake Mburo NP, with peak numbers in the Queen Elizabeth NP wetlands. 

Senegal Thick-knee Burhinus senegalensis 

The commonest thick-knee along the Victoria Nile, with a total of 15 birds seen on the game drive and boat 

cruise. 

Water Thick-knee (Dikkop) Burhinus vermiculatus 

Very common at the edges of wetlands in Queen Elizabeth NP, with over 80 seen in a day and especially close 

views of groups dodging the bathing elephants at Lake Edward. 

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus 

This characteristic wader was found in good numbers at Katwe Lake, with a few along the Nile in Murchison 

Falls NP. 

(Pied) Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta 

A total of 6 of these familiar Old World waders were seen at Katwe Lake, Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula 

Small numbers around wetlands in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Kittlitz's Plover Charadrius pecuarius 

Good numbers around wetlands in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus 

A single individual, of the inland race, was found at Lake Kikorongo, Queen Elizabeth. 




- 16 - 

Caspian Plover Charadrius asiaticus 

Two of these Palearctic migrants were found at the edge of Lake Kikorongo, with a further 3 north of the Nile in 


Long-toed Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus crassirostris 

Six of these elegant waders were found at wetlands on our first day, with small numbers also in Queen Elizabeth 

NP and a peak of 12 on our cruise on the Victoria Nile. 

Spur-winged Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus spinosus 

The northern counterpart of the familiar Blacksmith Lapwing, these vociferous birds were common and 

conspicuous in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Black-headed Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus tectus 

A relatively uncommon, dry country lapwing that we recorded in small numbers north of the Nile in Murchison 

Falls NP. 

Wattled Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus senegallus 

This grassland-dwelling lapwing was found in small numbers throughout the trip, with our first coming from the 

roadside outside of Kampala and peak numbers (25) in the moist grasslands of Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Senegal (Lesser Black-winged) Lapwing Vanellus lugubris 

A lapwing of burnt or heavily grazed grassland, we recorded 6 on our first day of the trip in Lake Mburo NP, 

with large flocks encountered in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Crowned Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus coronatus 

Three were found at the roadside between Mbarara and Bwindi, but especially common in the dry grassland of 

Queen Elizabeth NP (though greatly outnumbered by the previous species). 

Temminck's Courser Cursorius temminckii 

A total of 7 of these dapper waders were found in dry grassland in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Collared (Red-winged) Pratincole Glareola pratincola 

The common pratincole of wetland margins, first encountered in Queen Elizabeth NP (where a total of almost 

100 in a single flock at Lake Kikorongo), with small numbers north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Black-winged Pratincole Glareola nordmanni 

At least three of these Palaearctic migrants were seen hawking over grasslands north of the Nile in Murchison 

Falls NP. 

Rock Pratincole Glareola nuchalis 

A common denizen of rapids in the Victoria Nile, where at least 20 were present around Murchison Falls. 

African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris 

One of Africa’s most elegant birds, we found enormous roosts along the Kazinga Channel (300+) in Queen 

Elizabeth NP and the Nile (400+) in Murchison Falls NP. 

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus 

A roost of 100+ was found at Katwe Lake in Queen Elizabeth NP, where they outnumbered the following 

species in the ratio of about 2:1. 




- 17 - 

Heuglin's Gull Larus heuglini 

Recently split from Lesser Black-backed Gull, the status of this form in East Africa is still poorly understood. 

However, we found at least 50 of these birds, including 3 pale-backed individuals, in a mixed gull roost at Lake 

Katwe. 

Grey-headed Gull Larus cirrocephalus 

A few individuals of this most widespread African gull were found along the Kazinga Channel, with larger 

numbers at Lake Katwe, Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Common Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus 

A large roost near the Entebbe Airport. 

Slender-billed Gull Larus genei 

Small numbers of this elegant bird, which has a range centering on the Middle East, were present in a mixed 

gull roost near Entebbe Airport. 

Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica 

A single individual of this cosmopolitan species on our first day, with huge flocks (1500+) along the Kazinga 

Channel. We also recorded 2 feeding over grassland in Murchison Falls NP and 200+ in Mabamba Swamp. 

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus 

Small numbers in the mixed gull-tern roost at Entebbe Airport. 

White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus 

Enormous flocks (2000+) were found along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP, with smaller numbers 

on Lake Albert and along the Nile. A flock of 3000+ was also seen in Mabamba Swamp. 

Osprey Pandion haliaetus 

Single individuals of this familiar raptor on two days in Queen Elizabeth NP, with a total of 6 along the Nile in 


European Honey-Buzzard Pernis apivorus 

One, of the typical barred morph, seen soaring over montane forest below Ruhizha, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, 

with a second bird (also of the barred morph) seen perched at the roadside near Kibale Forest NP. 

Black-shouldered (-winged) Kite Elanus caeruleus 

Another well-known raptor seen in good numbers daily in open habitats, with highest totals from the Murchison 

Falls NP area. 

Black (Yellow-billed) Kite Milvus [migrans] parasitus 

This ubiquitous, fork-tailed raptor was found in large numbers throughout, and is especially common around 

human habitation. All birds seen were of the resident, yellow-billed African races. 

African Fish-Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer 

A familiar bird whose ringing call is one of the archetypal sounds of Africa, we recorded good numbers around 

wetlands throughout the tour, with tame pairs along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP being 

especially memorable. 

Palm-nut Vulture Gypohierax angolensis 




- 18 - 

One of these handsome vultures was seen briefly on our first morning, with more satisfactory sightings (of 10+ 

individuals) in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus 

The common vulture around human habitation, with large numbers recorded near Kampala at the beginning and 

the end of the trip. 

African White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus 

The common vulture in savanna areas, we recorded large numbers in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls 

NP. 

Rüppell's Griffon Vulture Gyps rueppellii 

Small numbers (a total of 10) in Queen Elizabeth NP and in the Murchison Falls NP area. 

Lappet-faced Vulture Torgos tracheliotus 

Four of these largest of vultures were recorded in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

White-headed Vulture Trigonoceps occipitalis 

Two in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, with a further 3 north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Short-toed Snake-Eagle Circaetus gallicus 

A very scarce Palaearctic migrant recorded on 2 occasions: the first at the roadside just outside of Kampala on 

our first morning, and the second above the falls in Murchison Falls NP. 

Black-chested (breasted) Snake-Eagle Circaetus [gallicus] pectoralis 

By far the commonest of the three (sub-) species in the Circaetus gallicus super-species in Uganda, we recorded 

singles between Mbarara and Bwindi, and in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Beaudouin's Snake-Eagle Circaetus [gallicus] beaudouini 

Two individuals of this uncommon raptor were found at a grass fire between Ishasha and Mweya, Queen 

Elizabeth NP. 

Brown Snake-Eagle Circaetus cinereus 

The commonest snake-eagle in Uganda, we recorded our first at the roadside on our first morning, with singles 

on four occasions in savanna elsewhere on the tour. 

Western Banded Snake-Eagle Circaetus cinerascens 

Superb sightings of a perched bird at Entebbe Botanical Gardens and a single soaring bird was also seen outside 

of Kampala. 

Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus 

The “tightrope-walker” of the raptor world is a handsome species that we found on our first day in Lake Mburo 

NP, with large numbers in the savanna parks of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. 

Eurasian (Western) Marsh-Harrier Circus aeruginosus 

A common migrant to Uganda, with good numbers over wetlands throughout and a peak over the extensive 

reedbeds along the Nile (100+ in a day). 

African Marsh-Harrier Circus ranivorus 




- 19 - 

Outnumbered by its migratory cousin, we recorded small numbers of this widespread African harrier, first in 

Lake Mburo NP, with others in the Murchison Falls NP area. 

Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus 

At least 12 females and immatures of this migrant were found at their evening roost in Murchison Falls NP, with 

2 resplendent adult males seen over grassland the following day. 

Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus 

Generally less common than Pallid Harrier in Uganda, we nevertheless recorded 3 males and a few females, the 

first between Mbarara and Bwindi and the balance over grassland in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls 

NP. 

African Harrier-Hawk (Gymnogene) Polyboroides typus 

A distinctive raptor recorded first between Ruhizha and Buhoma, with 3 in a day in Queen Elizabeth NP and 

singles in Murchison Falls NP. 

Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus 

Two at the roadside on our first day, with a further 7 scattered sightings for the rest of the trip. 

Dark Chanting-Goshawk Melierax metabates 

Three in Murchison Falls NP and another two at the roadside between Masindi and Kampala. 

Gabar Goshawk Micronisus (Melierax) gabar 

Two birds, one of them melanistic, in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, with another between Masindi 

and Kampala. 

African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro 

This widespread, forest Accipiter was first seen displaying over Buhoma, and seen or heard in most forest parks. 

Shikra (Little Banded Goshawk) Accipiter badius 

The most commonly recorded Accipiter in Uganda, we enjoyed excellent roadside views on our first day, with a 

total of 20+ scattered sightings for the remainder of the trip. 

Little Sparrowhawk Accipiter minullus 

One tiny male seen in Queen Elizabeth NP and another in Murchison Falls NP. 

Ovambo Sparrowhawk Accipiter ovampensis 

One extremely rare melanistic individual of this uncommon raptor was seen perched north of the Nile in 


Great (Black) Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus 

Brief views of this huge Accipiter at the roadside between Mbarara and Bwindi, and near Buhoma, and a superb 

scope sighting of a vocalising immature in Mabira Forest. 

Common (Steppe) Buzzard Buteo buteo 

Strangely, this common Palaearctic raptor was first seen only in Queen Elizabeth NP, with large numbers 

coming from the Murchison Falls NP area. 

Mountain Buzzard Buteo oreophilus 

Good numbers daily in the Bwindi area. 




- 20 - 

Augur Buzzard Buteo augur 

A handsome buzzard that is pleasantly common in the mountainous, south-western corner of Uganda, we 

recorded a single bird on our first day and 10+ daily in the Ruhizha area. 

Grasshopper Buzzard Butastur rufipennis 

Extensive bush fires in the Murchison Falls NP area had brought about an irruption of this migratory species, 

and we enjoyed superb sightings of almost 40 individuals over 3 days. 

Lesser Spotted Eagle Aquila pomarina 

Two individuals of this brown eagle with “stove-pipe” legs were recorded in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax 

Strangely, this usually common brown eagle was recorded only twice, in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison 

Falls NP. 

Wahlberg's Eagle Aquila wahlbergi 

Uganda’s commonest brown eagle, we recorded 6 on our first day, with small numbers daily in open country 

throughout the trip. 

Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus 

First recorded at the Butiaba Escarpment, with another two in Murchison Falls NP. 

Ayres's Hawk-Eagle Hieraaetus ayresii 

Two of these heavily streaked eagles were seen soaring over Mabira Forest. 

Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus 

A bizarre record of an adult soaring over montane forest on the Mubwindi Swamp hike, with others in more 

typical habitat in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis 

A very common raptor in Uganda, with 10+ daily in moist woodland habitats. 

Cassin's Hawk-Eagle Spizaetus africanus 

Three individuals seen soaring over Bwindi, with a further sighting in Mabira Forest. 

African Crowned (~ Hawk-) Eagle Stephanoaetus coronatus 

This impressive raptor was first found soaring over Buhoma, with another pair seen along the Royal Mile in 

Budongo. 

Common (Rock) Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 

This widespread, familiar raptor was first seen at the roadside on our first morning, with 3 further records at 

scattered sites elsewhere on the trip. 

Grey Kestrel Falco ardosiaceus 

Three at the roadside on our first day and regularly recorded in open country throughout the trip. 

Red-necked Falcon Falco chicquera 

A single sighting of this dashing raptor on the Butiaba Escarpment. 




- 21 - 

(Western) Red-footed Falcon Falco amurensis 

An immature female of this species, which is a rare straggler to Uganda, was found north of the Nile in 


Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo 

A large feeding flock (20+) was studied over Mbarara town, with small numbers also in Murchison Falls NP. 

African Hobby Falco cuvierii 

A handsome falcon first seen at the roadside between Kampala and Mbarara. We also obtained superb scope 

views of a pair at Ruhizha, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, and a single at Jinja on the last day of the tour. 

Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus 

Not common in Uganda, with our only sighting coming from the Butiaba area. 

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 

One spotlighted while hunting bats at the top of the falls in Murchison Falls NP. 

African Darter Anhinga rufa 

Only along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP, where a total of 11 recorded. 

Long-tailed (Reed) Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus 

The common cormorant of Africa yet strangely scarce in Uganda, we recorded a colony on Lake Edward (50+) 

and single bird along the Nile. 

Great (White-breasted) Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 

A large roost (250+) was found on our Kazinga Channel boat cruise. 

Little Egret Egretta garzetta 

Common in wetlands throughout, with our first sighting outside of Kampala and a maximum of 30+ daily in 

Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Intermediate (Yellow-billed) Egret Egretta (Mesophoyx) intermedia 

Generally the least common of the three white, aquatic egrets: two in Lake Mburo NP were our first, with 10 at 

wetlands in Queen Elizabeth NP and 3 along the Nile. 

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 

A well-known, widespread heron, first at the roadside on our first morning, with 40+ daily in Queen Elizabeth 

NP and good numbers along the Nile. 

Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala 

Uganda’s commonest heron, we recorded it daily in large numbers (peaks of 60+ daily). 

Goliath Heron Ardea goliath 

A spectacular bird first seen in Lake Mburo NP, with 10 in Queen Elizabeth NP and 20+ along the Nile. 

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea 

Another widespread bird, first seen at the roadside on our first day, with small numbers over wetlands in Queen 

Elizabeth NP and a maximum of 20+ along the Nile. 

Great (White) Egret Casmerodius (Egretta) albus 




- 22 - 

Fairly common in Uganda, with 10+ daily at most wetland sites. 

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis 

Ubiquitous, conspicuous and regularly seen accompanying herds of antelope, Cape Buffalo or Elephants in the 

parks. 

Common Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides 

Small numbers at the roadside on our first morning, with peak totals from wetlands in Queen Elizabeth NP 

(80+) and along the Nile (30+). 

Rufous-bellied Heron Ardeola rufiventris 

A scarce species in Uganda and usually confined the wetlands around Lake Kyoga, we recorded 4 individuals at 

the roadside wetland near Lake Mburo NP. 

Striated (Green-backed) Heron Butorides striatus 

Strangely uncommon in Uganda, we recorded 2 in Lake Mburo NP, with the only other records from the Nile. 

Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax nycticorax 

Singles in flight at dawn at Mweya and in Fort Portal. 

Hamerkop Scopus umbretta 

This bizarre bird, forming a monotypic family endemic to Africa, is pleasantly common throughout Uganda, 

with our first sightings from the roadside on our first morning and peak numbers in the wetlands around Mweya. 

Lesser Flamingo Phoenicopterus minor 

A single, lonely individual was scoped in the centre of one of the crater lakes in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus 

A total of 5 of these cosmopolitan birds, from wetlands in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash 

Another typical sound of moist areas in Africa, Hadadas were found daily in large numbers (20+ daily). 

Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus 

Another common ibis in Uganda, we recorded it first at the roadside on our first day, with peak numbers from 

the marshy areas near Kabale town and Murchison Falls NP. 

African Spoonbill Platalea alba 

This distinctive bird was found only in Queen Elizabeth NP, with a total of 22 seen. 

Shoebill Balaeniceps rex 

The essence of Uganda, we found a total of three of these incredible birds: one soaring over the road on our first 

morning, and two at Mabamba Swamp on our last day. 

Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus 

Only 6 of these widespread pelicans were recorded, along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens 

A common bird in Uganda, regularly nesting at the roadside, we found over 70 on our first day and good 

numbers at wetlands elsewhere. 




- 23 - 

Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis 

First seen at a roadside wetland on our first morning, with small numbers also in wetlands in Queen Elizabeth 

NP. 

African Open-billed Stork Anastomus lamelligerus 

A common bird in Uganda, this freshwater mussel specialist was encountered in large numbers on our first day 

and around wetlands elsewhere on the trip. 

Abdim's Stork Ciconia abdimii 

Three of these intra-African migrants were seen soaring with vultures above Queen Elizabeth NP, with large 

flocks found in the Murchison Falls NP area. 

Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus 

A relatively scarce stork in Uganda, with a pair found in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP and a 

singleton seen along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis 

This magnificent bird was seen on our first day, with 4 found at wetlands near Lake Mburo NP, and a total of 9 

others at scattered localities (primarily Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP) during the remainder of 

the trip. 

Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus 

A very common and conspicuous bird in Uganda, where it has become commensal with man in many areas. 

Peak numbers of 200+ in the Queen Elizabeth NP, Murchison Falls NP and even in downtown Kampala, where 

they nest atop ornamental trees in the city gardens! 

African Broadbill Smithornis capensis 

The strange purring call of this reclusive bird was heard only once, near Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Red-tailed (Isabelline) Shrike Lanius isabellinus 

A total of 6 of this Palaearctic migrant species was recorded in open savanna north of the Nile in Murchison 

Falls NP. 

Grey-backed Fiscal Lanius excubitoroides 

Uganda’s commonest fiscal, occupying a variety of moist woodland habitats. First recorded at the roadside on 

our first morning, and daily at savanna sites for the rest of the trip (peak numbers of 50+ daily in Queen 

Elizabeth NP). 

Mackinnon's Shrike Lanius mackinnoni 

The forest-edge fiscal in Uganda, first seen at the roadside between Mbarara and Ruhizha, with small numbers 

daily in the Bwindi area. 

Common Fiscal Lanius collaris 

Not as common as elsewhere in Africa, though nevertheless seen daily in savanna habitats, with our first records 

from the roadside near Mbarara and peak numbers around Mweya in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator 

A dapper Palaearctic migrant recorded in small numbers (6) in open Acacia savanna north of the Nile in 





- 24 - 

Yellow-billed Shrike Corvinella corvina 

This unusual, gregarious shrike with abundant character was first found in Murchison Falls NP, when a small 

group flew across the road near Sambiya River Lodge, with another garrulous party encountered at the roadside 

near Kampala. 

Piapiac Ptilostomus afer 

A bizarre corvid (with character to rival the Yellow-billed Shrike) that was first seen at the base of the Butiaba 

Escarpment, with 50+ daily in the dry parts of Murchison Falls and 40+ between Masindi and Kampala. During 

the course of the trip, they were seen riding on the backs of Elephant, Hippopotamus, Cape Buffalo, Defassa 

Waterbuck and a variety of domestic animals! 

Pied Crow Corvus albus 

A common and familiar crow, recorded in good numbers on our first day and on all the road trips thereafter. 

White-necked Raven Corvus albicollis 

Restricted to mountainous areas in Uganda, with our only sightings coming from the Ruhizha area (5 in total). 

African Golden-Oriole Oriolus auratus 

A single bird was recorded by Daniel near the Sambiya River Lodge at Murchison Falls. 

Western Black-headed Oriole Oriolus brachyrhynchus 

First seen in the lower part of Bwindi Impenetrable NP, this common forest oriole was subsequently recorded in 

good numbers in the other medium-altitude western forests (though with many more heard than seen). 

African (Eastern) Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus 

Replaces the above species in savanna habitat, but by no means a common bird in Uganda, with 2 in Lake 

Mburo NP, a single in Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP and another at the roadside between Mbarara and 

Kampala. 

Montane (Black-tailed) Oriole Oriolus percivali 

This common denizen of montane forests was recorded daily around Ruhizha, with 10+ seen on the hike to 

Mubwindi Swamp. 

White-breasted Cuckooshrike Coracina pectoralis 

Two of these handsome birds were found in mixed feeding flocks in broad-leafed woodland above Murchison 

Falls. 

Grey Cuckooshrike Coracina caesia 

Another common bird in montane forests, we recorded 10+ daily in the higher parts of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Petit's Cuckoo-shrike Campephaga petiti 

An uncommon forest cuckoo-shrike that we recorded first at “The Neck” in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with 

small numbers also near Buhoma and in Kibale Forest NP. 

Black Cuckoo-shrike Campephaga flava 

This familiar species of southern savannas is relatively uncommon in Uganda, with our only records (4 in total) 

from Lake Mburo NP. 

Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike Campephaga phoenicea 




- 25 - 

The northern equivalent of Black Cuckoo-shrike, we recorded 6 in Murchison Falls NP. 

Purple-throated Cuckoo-shrike Campephaga quiscalina 

Another scarce forest cuckoo-shrike, with our only sightings coming on our last morning of the trip, at Mabira 

Forest. 

Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis 

A familiar, ubiquitous bird seen first at the roadside near Kampala and almost daily in open habitats for the 

remainder of the trip (though seemingly scarce further north). 

Velvet-mantled Drongo Dicrurus modestus 

This recently split forest equivalent of the Fork-tailed Drongo was first seen near Buhoma, with larger numbers 

in Kibale Forest NP. 

Chestnut-capped Flycatcher Erythrocercus mccallii 

A snappy-looking, sprightly flycatcher recorded at its only East African site, Budongo. 

African Blue-Flycatcher Elminia longicauda 

Another lively bird, which constantly fans and wags its tail, we recorded it first in the lower parts of Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP, with others at the roadside near Fort Portal and an unusual record of a single bird in a mixed 

feeding flock in dry broad-leafed woodland above Murchison Falls. 

White-tailed Blue-Flycatcher Elminia albicauda 

The montane equivalent of the above species in Uganda, we recorded it commonly in the Ruhizha area (with 12 

seen on our hike to Mubwindi Swamp). 

Dusky Crested-Flycatcher (Monarch) Elminia (Trochocercus) nigromitratus 

A single sighting at Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable NP was our only record of this retiring flycatcher of forest 

undergrowth. 

White-bellied Crested-Flycatcher (Monarch) Elminia (Trochocercus) albiventris 

Slightly more conspicuous than Dusky Crested-Flycatcher, we found one near Mubwindi Swamp and a total of 

5 near Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Blue-headed Crested-Flycatcher (Monarch) Trochocercus nitens 

Another shy forest flycatcher, but with a strange Glaucidium owlet-like call, of which we found three, all in 


Red-bellied (Black-headed) Paradise-Flycatcher Terpsiphone rufiventer 

First seen near Mubwindi Swamp, another near Buhoma and heard in KFNP, but the bulk of our sightings came 

from Mabira Forest (where 3+ recorded daily). 

African Paradise-Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis 

A handsome bird recorded in good numbers daily in wooded habitats, with notable sightings of no less than 5 

white-phase males in a day in Murchison Falls NP. 

Brubru Nilaus afer 

Another widespread African savanna bird that is relatively uncommon in Uganda, and we saw only 4 

individuals (one daily in the Murchison Falls NP area), with others heard at Lake Mburo NP and in Queen 

Elizabeth NP. 




- 26 - 

Northern Puffback Dryoscopus gambensis 

Uganda’s common puffback, we recorded it first in Lake Mburo NP, with small numbers also in Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP, Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Pink-footed Puffback Dryoscopus angolensis 

Never common, we recorded unusually high numbers of this forest puffback in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, first at 

“The Neck” and with a maximum of 6 in a day near Buhoma. 

Marsh Tchagra Tchagra minuta 

Our first sighting of this diminutive tchagra was in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, with small 

numbers in damp grassland further north in the park, at the edge of Kibale Forest NP and in the vicinity of the 

Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegala 

The most widely distributed tchagra, we saw (and especially heard) large numbers daily in all open areas, with 

peak totals in the drier northern savanna of Murchison Falls NP. 

Brown-crowned (-headed) Tchagra Tchagra australis 

More common than Black-crowned Tchagra in the more moist south-western parts of the country, we recorded 

5+ daily between Buhoma and Kibale Forest NP (with smaller numbers elsewhere). 

Lühder's Bushshrike Laniarius luehderi 

A handsome shrike heard in the upper parts of Bwindi Impenetrable NP before being seen, in small numbers, 

around Buhoma, with further sightings coming from Kibale. 

Tropical Boubou Laniarius aethiopicus 

A widespread shrike commonly heard and significantly less often seen, we recorded them almost daily in moist 

savanna habitats. 

Black-headed Gonolek Laniarius erythrogaster 

A brilliantly coloured bush-shrike that is delightfully common in savanna parts of Uganda, with our first 

sightings coming from the roadside on our first day and peak totals (20+ daily) from the Queen Elizabeth NP 

and Murchison Falls NP. 

Papyrus Gonolek Laniarius mufumbiri 

The swamp equivalent of the Black-headed Gonolek (and one of Uganda’s papyrus specialties), we saw one 

briefly in Lake Mburo NP before enjoying exceptional, close-up views at a roadside papyrus swamp near 

Kabale (with many others heard, but not seen, at wetlands elsewhere on the trip). 

Sooty Boubou Laniarius leucorhynchus 

Two of these skulking, forest bush-shrikes were coaxed from cover in Mabira Forest. 

Mountain Black Boubou Laniarius [fulleborni] poensis 

A single bird was seen on our first afternoon at Ruhizha, with many more heard daily in Bwindi Impenetrable 

NP thereafter. 

Bocage's (Grey-green) Bushshrike Telophorus bocagei 

Small numbers of this handsome shrike were recorded at lower altitudes in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with 

another two at Kibale Forest NP. 




- 27 - 

Sulphur-breasted (Orange-breasted) Bushshrike Telophorus sulfureopectus 

Another widespread African savanna species that is relatively uncommon in Uganda, with singletons seen in 

Lake Mburo NP and near Kabale, a total of 5 in Queen Elizabeth NP and another 2 in Murchison Falls NP. 

Many-colored Bushshrike Telophorus multicolor 

An uncommon bush-shrike first seen near Buhoma, with another sighting in Kibale Forest NP. 

Doherty's Bushshrike Telophorus dohertyi 

The eye-level view of this bird on our first afternoon at Ruhizha was one of the highlights of Bwindi, with a 

further 3 seen and many more heard. 

Lagden's Bushshrike Malaconotus lagdeni 

Arguably the star sighting of our hike to Mubwindi Swamp, we were eventually afforded excellent views of a 

bird that initially seemed never to perch in the open! 

Grey-headed Bushshrike Malaconotus blanchoti 

Two distant birds were heard near Sambiya River Lodge in Murchison Falls NP. 

African Shrike-flycatcher Megabias (Bias) flammulatus 

Four of these large, tail-wagging forest flycatchers were found along the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest. 

Black-and-white (Vanga) Shrike-flycatcher Bias musicus 

A characterful, hammer-headed flycatcher that we found in small numbers in moist country throughout the trip, 

with our first sighting at the roadside outside of Kampala on our first morning. 

Rwenzori Batis* Batis diops 

An Albertine Rift endemic that was common around Ruhizha in Bwindi Impenetrable. 

Chinspot Batis Batis molitor 

The most widespread African batis, and common in the southern part of the country, we found it first in Lake 

Mburo NP, with large numbers also in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Black-headed Batis Batis minor 

Largely replacing Chinspot Batis in the northern savanna of Uganda, we found this species first in the Ishasha 

sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, with large numbers daily (10+ peak) also in Murchison Falls NP. 

Brown-throated (Common) Wattle-eye Platysteira cyanea 

By far the most commonly encountered wattle-eye in Uganda, with good numbers in moist woodland and at 

forest edge throughout. Especially conspicuous around Gorilla Forest Camp at Buhoma. 

Chestnut Wattle-eye Dyaphorophyia (Platysteira) castanea 

One snappy pair of these forest wattle-eyes performed well near Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with an 

impressive total of 10 in a day in Kibale Forest NP and smaller numbers at Mabira Forest. 

Jameson's Wattle-eye Dyaphorophyia [blissetti] jamesoni 

We found a magnificent male on the Royal Mile and an even more co-operative pair at Mabira Forest the 

following day… SCOPE views of a Jameson’s Wattle-eye! Surely one of the most handsome of all Uganda’s 

forest birds. 




- 28 - 

Rufous Flycatcher-Thrush (Fraser's Ant-Thrush) Neocossyphus fraseri 

The distinctive whistle of this rufous, forest thrush, one of the background sounds in many western Ugandan 

forests, was first heard at Buhoma, though the bird was only seen at Kibale Forest NP and in Budongo Forest 

(superb scope views at both sites). 

White-tailed Ant-Thrush Neocossyphus poensis 

This skulking undergrowth dweller was seen only at Buhoma, where 4 birds were scoped at the edge of the 

track. 

Kivu Ground-Thrush* Zoothera [piaggiae] tanganjicae 

An Albertine Rift endemic heard on two occasions at Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

African Thrush Turdus pelios 

Uganda’s most common thrush, we found it in the hotel gardens on our first morning, with peak numbers on the 

drive from Mbarara to Ruhizha and smaller numbers in moist woodland and forest elsewhere on the trip. 

(Northern) Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus 

In Uganda, restricted to higher altitudes, with our only records (6) coming from the Ruhizha area in Bwindi 


Red-throated Alethe* Alethe poliophrys 

One of the most handsome Albertine Rift endemics, we found a total of 8 of these beautiful forest thrushes 

along the track at Buhoma. 

Fire-crested Alethe Alethe diademata 

Heard in Kibale NP and Budongo Forest, but seen only once: a perched bird in Mabira Forest on our last 

morning. 

Silverbird Empidornis semipartitus 

This beautiful flycatcher with chestnut underparts was pleasantly common north of the Nile in Murchison Falls 

NP, with 15+ recorded on the Pakuba Track. 

Pale (Mouse-coloured/Pallid) Flycatcher Bradornis (Malaenornis) pallidus 

All our records came from the Murchison Falls NP, with a singleton north of the Nile and three in broad-leafed 

woodland above the falls. 

White-eyed Slaty-Flycatcher Melaenornis (Dioptrornis) fischeri 

Birds of the race toruensis, which LACKS a white eye-ring (!), were common in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with 

10+ seen daily. 

Northern (Western) Black-Flycatcher Melaenornis edolioides 

First recorded in savanna near the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, and especially common around 

Mweya, where 20+ were recorded in a day. 

Yellow-eyed Black-Flycatcher* Melaenornis ardesiacus 

One of the most easily seen of the Albertine Rift Endemics, we found 6 on the hike to Mubwindi Swamp and 

another 4 near Buhoma (at the lower limit of this species’ altitudinal range). 

Fraser's (African) Forest-Flycatcher Fraseria ocreata 

A large, noisy flycatcher that was conspicuous along the Royal Mile in Budongo, with 10+ seen. 




- 29 - 

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 

A single individual of this common Palaearctic migrant was seen by Daniel north of the Nile in Murchison 

Falls. 

Sooty Flycatcher Muscicapa infuscata 

A swallow-like bird often seen perched in groups on dead snags high above the forest canopy, with our first 

records near Buhoma (8 in total) and a further 18 recorded in Kibale Forest NP. 

Swamp Flycatcher Muscicapa aquatica 

A common denizen of swamp edges throughout southern Uganda, with our first records from the roadside near 

Kampala and peak totals of 20+ daily in Queen Elizabeth NP, where especially tame individuals hawked over 

our lunch tables at Mweya. 

Chapin's Flycatcher* Muscicapa lendu 

A rare Albertine Rift Endemic that we found near Buhoma, with a total of 5 sightings (of at least 4 individuals). 

African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta 

A very common inhabitant of moist woodland and forest, first seen near Kampala and especially frequent in 

Bwindi Impenetrable NP, where 20+ daily were found in the Ruhiza and Kitahurira areas. 

Dusky-blue Flycatcher Muscicapa comitata 

A quiet, inconspicuous bird that we found in small numbers at Buhoma and in Kibale Forest NP. 

Cassin's Grey Flycatcher Muscicapa cassini 

A sprightly bird restricted to the vicinity of water, often hawking insects directly above it, we found a pair along 

the river at “The Neck” in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with further sightings (on 2 days) in Kibale Forest NP. 

Ashy (Blue-grey) Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens 

This widespread woodland denizen was first seen near Ruhizha, with another pair above Mubwindi Swamp and 

at least 3 at forest edge at Budongo. 

Grey-throated (Tit-) Flycatcher Myioparus griseigularis 

Two of this active species, which replaces the next in the forest interior, were seen near Buhoma, with another 

seen in Kibale Forest NP and others heard along the Royal Mile. 

Lead-coloured (Grey Tit-/Fantailed) Flycatcher Myioparus plumbeus 

Seen only on our first day, in Lake Mburo NP, but heard on numerous occasions in moist woodland elsewhere 

on the tour. 

Semi-collared Flycatcher Ficedula semitorquata 

A single individual of this migratory flycatcher was seen on the hike to Mubwindi Swamp at Ruhizha. 

(White-starred) Starred Robin Pogonocichla stellata 

We found this widespread robin of Afro-montane forest only in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with a total of 11 

birds seen (spread between Ruhizha and Buhoma). 

Forest Robin Stiphrornis erythrothorax 

Heard at close quarters along the Royal Mile in Budongo, but finally seen only in Mabira on our last morning, 

when one was “herded” into view! 




- 30 - 

Equatorial Akalat Sheppardia aequatorialis 

A fairly common, though somewhat retiring denizen of the forest undergrowth near Buhoma, we heard it on 

numerous occasions but saw it only twice. 

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos 

One individual, of the warm brown nominate race, was seen in riverside thicket along the Nile in Murchison 

Falls NP. 

White-bellied Robin-Chat Cossypha (Cossyphicula) roberti 

This akalat-like bird with a robin-chat-like voice was seen on two occasions near Buhoma in Bwindi 


Archer's Robin-Chat (~ Ground-Robin)* Cossypha archeri 

An Albertine Rift Endemic that is common at higher altitudes in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with 2 seen fleetingly 

along the road above Ruhizha and another scoped whilst singing on the hike to Mubwindi Swamp. 

Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat Cossypha cyanocampter 

A skulking forest robin that was only heard, in Mabira Forest. 

Heuglin's (White-browed) Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini 

The crescendo calls of this handsome bird were amongst the dominant sounds of the dawn chorus in woodland 

throughout the trip. We recorded them first in Lake Mburo NP, with peak numbers (50+ in a day) coming from 

the Mweya area in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Red-capped (Natal) Robin-Chat Cossypha natalensis 

A relatively localised bird in Uganda, with the characteristic “see-saw” call notes heard only in Maramagambo 

Forest, Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Snowy-(crowned) headed Robin-Chat Cossypha niveicapilla 

Amazingly, this usually common bird was not encountered until Mabira, when at least 3 birds were seen 

hopping on the lawns around the main office. 

Spotted Morning-Thrush (Palm Thrush) Cichladusa guttata 

Another beautiful songster, recorded only in the vicinity of Murchison Falls NP, with 10+ daily. 

Brown-backed Scrub-Robin Cercotrichas hartlaubi 

A pair were found at the roadside below Ruhizha, at the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with others found in 

the vicinity of Buhoma (on two days). 

White-browed (Red-backed) Scrub-Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys 

This widespread African scrub-robin was first seen in Lake Mburo NP, with scattered records in drier woodland 

elsewhere on the trip. 

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus 

A single bird was seen in Entebbe by Adam and Erling prior to the arrival of the main tour group, with another 

female found at the roadside between Masindi and Kampala. 

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 




- 31 - 

Good numbers of this Palaearctic migrant were recorded in open country throughout the trip, with our first at 

the roadside near Lake Mburo NP and peak numbers (50+ daily) in the savanna parks of Queen Elizabeth and 

Murchison Falls. 

Common (African) Stonechat Saxicola [torquata] axillarus 

This widespread and familiar bird, almost certainly specifically distinct from the Eurasian migrant, Common 

Stonechat, is common only in the higher parts of Uganda, with our first records from the south-western 

highlands near Kabale (8 in total) and small numbers also in the vicinity of Kibale Forest NP. 

Northern (European) Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe 

Another familiar European species, we recorded them only in Murchison Falls NP (23 in total). 

Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellinus 

Greatly outnumbered by its congener, we found only 2 birds, both north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Sooty Chat Myrmecocichla nigra 

Distinctive and ubiquitous, Sooty Chats were first found at the roadside just outside of Kampala, with peak 

numbers (20+ daily) in the grassland parts of Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

White-fronted Black-Chat Myrmecocichla albifrons 

This scarce species was found north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP, with a single co-operative male perching 

in roadside Acacia. 

(Mocking) Cliff-Chat Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris 

A relatively local bird in Uganda, we found our only pair on the Albertine Rift Escarpment near Butiaba. 

Stuhlmann's Starling Poeoptera stuhlmanni 

The smallest red-winged starling, we found our first flock on the hike to Mubwindi Swamp, with others around 

Buhoma and at Kibale Forest NP. 

Narrow-tailed Starling Poeoptera lugubris 

The long-tailed counterpart of Stuhlmann’s and often found in similar areas, we encountered our first near 

Mubwindi Swamp, with peak numbers (50+) over Buhoma and large numbers (10+ daily) also in Kibale Forest 

NP. 

Waller's Starling Onychognathus walleri 

The commonest starling in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, where we found 15+ daily. 

Chestnut-winged Starling Onychognathus fulgidus 

A scarce species of western Ugandan forests, we encountered a single flock of 5 birds, in Kibale Forest NP. 

Slender-billed Starling Onychognathus tenuirostris 

A long-tailed counterpart to Waller’s, we recorded our first above Ruhizha, with a total of 25+ (3 flocks) 

between The Neck and Buhoma and pairs near both Buhoma and Kibale. 

Purple-headed (Glossy-) Starling Hylopsar (Lamprotornis) purpureiceps 

Our first record of this widespread Ugandan forest starling was of a flock that flew over the road in Mpanga 

Forest near Kampala, with more satisfying views in Kibale Forest NP (80+) and Budongo Forest. 

Bronze-tailed (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis chalcurus 




- 32 - 

After many, MANY stops for Blue-eared Starlings, we eventually located a pair of these at times elusive 

woodland starlings at the edge of Budongo, only to find numerous others at the roadside between Masindi and 

Kampala (30+). 

Greater Blue-eared (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus 

Our first records of this widespread African starling came from Lake Mburo NP (50+), with others from 

woodland elsewhere on the trip (50+ between Masindi and Kampala). 

Lesser Blue-eared (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis chloropterus 

Common only in the drier northern savanna, we recorded our first large flocks on the Butiaba Escarpment, with 

others in and around Murchison Falls NP. 

Splendid (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis splendidus 

This spectacular, large starling is wonderfully common in moist woodland throughout the southern part of the 

country, with our first records coming from within Kampala on our first morning and peak numbers from Kibale 

Forest NP (30+ in a day). 

Ruppell's Long-tailed (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis purpuropterus 

This ubiquitous bird is Uganda’s commonest starling and its loud calls were a regular component of the dawn 

choruses we heard throughout the trip. First seen in our hotel gardens in Entebbe (10+), with 30+ daily on all 

drive days. 

Sharpe's Starling Pholia (Cinnyricinclus) sharpii 

A localised and elusive bird of montane forests in Uganda, with our only sightings (2) coming from the Ruhizha 

side of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Violet-backed (Plum-coloured/Amethyst) Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster 

A perennial favourite, this exquisite bird was seen briefly on our first day, in Lake Mburo NP, with larger 

numbers in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP and, especially, Kibale Forest NP. 

Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea 

An eruptive species that we found on only two occasions, with a flock of 60+ near Lake Kikorongo in Queen 

Elizabeth NP and a smaller group of 10 birds south of Murchison Falls NP. 

Yellow-billed Oxpecker Buphagus africanus 

Over 50 of these distinctive birds, the only oxpecker species in south-western Uganda, were found around 

ungulate herds in Lake Mburo NP on our first day, with 20+ daily also in Queen Elizabeth NP and smaller 

numbers in Murchison Falls NP. 

White-shouldered (Black) Tit Parus [leucomelas] guineensis 

Recently split from the southern White-winged (Northern Black) Tit, we first found an individual of this species 

with a mixed feeding flock in dry woodland above Murchison Falls, and subsequently located another pair along 

the road south towards Masindi. 

Dusky Tit Parus funereus 

The common forest tit in Uganda, with our first records coming from the vicinity of the Mubwindi Swamp in 

Bwindi Impenetrable NP, and small numbers also around Buhoma, and in Kibale Forest NP and Budongo 

Forest. 

Stripe-breasted Tit* Parus fasciiventer 




- 33 - 

A total of 7 individuals of this handsome Albertine Rift endemic were found over 3 days around Ruhizha in 


Sand Martin (Bank Swallow) Riparia riparia 

Although we recorded good numbers of this common and familiar hirundine on our first morning and in open 

country throughout the trip, our most spectacular sightings came from Queen Elizabeth NP, where migrating 

flocks (25,000 on one day) were an almost constant sight (and sound). 

Plain (Brown-throated) Martin Riparia paludicola 

Considerably outnumbered on our trip by the above species, we found them first in the open country around 

Kabale, with peak numbers (200+ in a day) along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Banded Martin Riparia cincta 

One of these large martins was seen at the roadside near Kampala on our first day, with another in Queen 

Elizabeth NP and a more prolonged sighting of 3 individuals perched adjacent to the Northern Carmine Beeeaters 

north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Rock Martin Hirundo fuligula 

Over twenty of these dark swallows were found in the highland country between Mbarara and Ruhizha on our 

second day, with others in Queen Elizabeth NP and the Butiaba Escarpment. 

Barn (European) Swallow Hirundo rustica 

Outnumbered only by Sand Martins on our trip, this familiar bird was recorded almost daily in large numbers 

(peaks of 2000+ in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP). 

Angola Swallow Hirundo angolensis 

Another very common hirundine in Uganda, we found our first roosting after dark at Entebbe Airport on arrival, 

with more satisfying views of hundreds the following day (and thousands for the rest of the trip). 

Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii 

Two along the Kazinga Channel were our first of the trip, with larger numbers conspicuous along the Nile in 


Lesser Striped-Swallow Hirundo abyssinica 

A widespread African swallow that is very common in Uganda, with 10+ at the roadside on our first day and 

peak numbers of 100+ daily in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Rufous-chested (Red-breasted) Swallow Hirundo semirufa 

This large, handsome swallow was seen at close quarters on our first day, near Lake Mburo NP, with 50+ in 

Queen Elizabeth NP and smaller numbers in Murchison Falls NP. 

Mosque Swallow Hirundo senegalensis 

A single at the roadside on our first day, with 6 between Buhoma and Mweya and over 10 between Murchison 

Falls NP and Masindi. 

Red-rumped Swallow Hirundo daurica 

Plentiful only in the moist, highland areas of south-western Uganda, we recorded 20+ between Mbarara and 

Ruhizha and smaller numbers elsewhere on the trip. 

Common (Northern) House-Martin Delichon urbica 




- 34 - 

A single record of this common Eurasian breeder, by Daniel in Murchison Falls NP. 

White-headed Saw-wing Psalidoprocne albiceps 

This elegant bird was seen first in Lake Mburo NP, with small numbers also in Bwindi Impenetrable NP and 

Queen Elizabeth NP and peak totals of 30+ daily around Budongo. 

Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne [pristoptera] holomelas 

Outnumbers the above species in most of the higher altitude sites in Uganda, with 20+ daily in the southwestern 

highlands. 

Common (Dark-capped/Black-eyed) Bulbul Pycnonotus [barbatus] tricolor 

An ubiquitous species and one of the few birds to be recorded on every day of the trip, with numerous daily 

tallies in excess of 200 individuals. 

Shelley's Greenbul Andropadus masukuensis 

Only four of these attractive birds, which regularly forage in the manner of nuthatches, were encountered, all in 

the vicinity of Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Little Greenbul Andropadus virens 

Along with Yellow-whiskered, the commonest greenbul in lower altitude forest in Uganda, though much more 

commonly heard than seen. First seen near Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with small numbers seen at all 

other subsequent forest sites. 

Little Grey Greenbul Andropadus gracilis 

Only a single sighting of this confusing greenbul, near Buhoma. 

Cameroon Sombre (Plain) Greenbul Andropadus curvirostris 

Heard frequently at Buhoma, seen briefly in Kibale Forest NP and commonly encountered along the Royal Mile 

in Budongo. 

Slender-billed Greenbul Andropadus gracilirostris 

A common greenbul of forest canopy, we saw them first around Ruhizha, with small numbers at all other forest 

sites on the trip. 

Yellow-whiskered Greenbul Andropadus latirostris 

A common greenbul of forest undergrowth and mid-storey, with over 30 birds seen in Bwindi Impenetrable NP 

alone and small numbers at all other forested sites. 

(Western) Mountain Greenbul Andropadus [nigriceps] kikuyuensis 

A conspicuous and attractive bird of highland forests that we found in large numbers (50+) in the upper sections 

of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Honeyguide Greenbul Baeopogon indicator 

The querulous calls of this canopy-dwelling greenbul are common sounds in lower altitude forest throughout 

Uganda, with our first sighting at The Neck in Bwindi Impenetrable NP and many others in Kibale Forest NP. 

Spotted Greenbul Ixonotus guttatus 

Noisy flocks of this delightful bird were seen along the Royal Mile in Budongo, one of only two known East 

African sites for this species. 




- 35 - 

Yellow-throated Greenbul (Leaflove) Chlorocichla flavicollis 

A common denizen of thickets and forest edge, its babbler-like calls were frequently heard throughout the trip, 

with our first sighting at the roadside near Kampala. 

Joyful Greenbul Chlorocichla laetissima 

A strangely local greenbul in Uganda, we found it only in Kibale Forest NP, where it is a common resident at 

higher altitudes (with 20+ seen in an afternoon). 

Toro Olive-Greenbul Phyllastrephus hypochloris 

Another confusing greenbul that usually makes matters worse by remaining in thick cover, we found a pair at 

The Neck in Bwindi Impenetrable NP and another 3 in Mabira Forest. 

Yellow-streaked Greenbul Phyllastrephus flavostriatus 

A common greenbul of highland forest in Uganda, we recorded 20+ individuals around Ruhizha, with many 

seen wing-flicking. 

White-throated Greenbul Phyllastrephus albigularis 

Heard in Kibale Forest NP, this attractive bird was first seen along the Royal Mile in Budongo (6), with small 

numbers also at Mabira Forest. 

Icterine Greenbul Phyllastrephus icterinus 

This diminutive forest greenbul was seen only near Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable (4). 

Red-tailed (Common) Bristlebill Bleda syndactyla 

The quiet, purring calls of this attractive greenbul were commonly heard at all forest sites on the trip, with our 

first sighting near Buhoma and small numbers seen also in Kibale Forest NP, Budongo Forest and at Mabira. 

Western (Yellow-spotted) Nicator Nicator chloris 

A single individual flashed across the road on our first afternoon in Kibale Forest NP, with more satisfying 

views along the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest and at Mabira. 

Red-tailed Greenbul Criniger calurus 

One of the most handsome of all greenbuls and a relatively common forest bird throughout Uganda, we saw 

good numbers (10+ daily) around Buhoma, along the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest and at Mabira. 

Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops 

The most commonly recorded cisticola on our trip, its strident calls were heard almost daily, with our first 

sighting at the roadside near Kampala. 

Singing Cisticola Cisticola cantans 

First seen at the roadside near Kampala, with small numbers in moist habitats elsewhere on the trip (though 

greatly outnumbered by the previous species). 

Whistling Cisticola Cisticola lateralis 

At least four individuals were seen in Lake Mburo NP on our first day, with others heard in woodland in Queen 

Elizabeth NP. 

Trilling Cisticola Cisticola woosnami 

The strange, quavering call of this common woodland cisticola was frequently heard in Lake Mburo NP and 

Queen Elizabeth NP, with many also seen, especially in the Ishasha area. 




- 36 - 

Chubb's Cisticola Cisticola chubbi 

Another noisy cisticola with wonderful duetting songs, we found good numbers in Bwindi Impenetrable NP 

(10+ daily) and smaller numbers around Kibale Forest NP. 

Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chinianus 

A common and conspicuous denizen of drier Acacia savanna in the northern part of the country, we found 10+ 

daily around Murchison Falls NP (with 40+ north of the Nile). 

Winding (Greater Black-backed) Cisticola Cisticola galactotes 

The commonest wetland cisticola in Uganda, its winding song was heard issuing from reedbeds, papyrus 

swamps and damp grassland throughout the trip. First seen at the roadside on our first day, with peak numbers 

(10) along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Carruthers's Cisticola Cisticola carruthersi 

Replaces Winding in the centre of papyrus swamps and hence less frequently encountered. We nevertheless saw 

small numbers at Mubwindi Swamp, at the Kazinga Channel crossing (displaying at eye-level) and around 

Kikorongo Swamps in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Stout Cisticola Cisticola robustus 

Similar to but considerably less commonly encountered than the following species, we found only two 

individuals, in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Croaking (Striped) Cisticola Cisticola natalensis 

A common denizen of moist grassland throughout, our first record came from Lake Mburo NP, with peak 

numbers in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Siffling (Short-winged) Cisticola Cisticola brachypterus 

A small, nondescript and frequently encountered warbler of open, bushy areas, with our first sighting at the 

roadside on our first day and peak totals (20+ daily) in Murchison Falls NP. 

Foxy Cisticola Cisticola troglodytes 

This handsome bird of dry Acacia savanna was seen only on the Butiaba Escarpment. 

Zitting (Fan-tailed) Cisticola Cisticola juncidis 

The world’s most widespread cisticola is common in Uganda and we found small numbers in grassland 

throughout, with our first at the roadside near Kampala. 

Black-backed (Black-necked Cloud) Cisticola Cisticola eximius 

In Uganda, restricted to dry grassland north of the Nile, where it is fairly common. We saw 20+ on the Pakuba 

Track. 

Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava 

Another noisy and familiar African warbler, we found large numbers almost daily, with 10+ on our first day’s 

drive. 

White-chinned Prinia Prinia (Schistolais) leucopogon 

Two at the roadside near Kampala were our first sightings, with larger numbers at forest edge in Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP and Kibale Forest NP. 




- 37 - 

Banded Prinia Prinia bairdii 

This snappy-looking but at times skulking prinia was recorded only in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with a total of 

20+ seen. 

Red-winged Warbler Heliolais erythroptera 

A widespread African warbler of local distribution in Uganda, we found small numbers only in dry woodland 

above Murchison Falls. 

Red-winged Grey Warbler Drymocichla incana 

Another warbler largely restricted to Murchison Falls NP, we found small numbers (9) in thicker woodland 

along the Nile. 

Buff-bellied Warbler Phyllolais pulchella 

A relatively common inhabitant of the canopy of Acacia woodland, we found parties in the Ishasha sector of 

Queen Elizabeth NP and in Murchison Falls NP. 

Collared (Rwenzori) Apalis* Apalis ruwenzorii 

A beautiful Albertine Rift endemic that we found only in the montane forest around Ruhizha (5 seen). 

Black-throated Apalis Apalis jacksoni 

One of the commonest forest apalises in Uganda, we found good numbers (6+ daily) in Bwindi Impenetrable NP 

and along the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest. 

Masked Apalis Apalis binotata 

In Uganda, largely restricted to Kibale Forest NP, where we found 8 in an afternoon in the higher altitude, 

northern part of the park. 

Mountain Masked (Black-faced) Apalis* Apalis personata 

Another Albertine Rift endemic restricted to the south-western corner of the country, we found a total of 22 

individuals around Ruhizha in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida 

This widespread, woodland apalis is relatively scarce in Uganda, with our only sightings coming from the 

Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP (2) and north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Buff-throated Apalis Apalis rufogularis 

A relatively common resident of the canopy of lower altitude forest in Uganda, with our first sightings near 

Buhoma and others from Kibale Forest NP, the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest and Mabira Forest. 

Chestnut-throated Apalis Apalis porphyrolaema 

The commonest apalis in montane forest, with its “ringing telephone” call frequently heard, we recorded 10+ 

daily around Ruhizha in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Grey Apalis Apalis cinerea 

Two along the trail to Mubwindi Swamp were our first, with 20+ around Buhoma and others heard at lower 

altitude forest sites elsewhere on the trip. 

Grey-capped Warbler Eminia lepida 

This snappy-looking bird was seen in the hotel gardens on our first morning in Uganda, and regularly 

encountered throughout the remainder of the trip. 




- 38 - 

Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata 

The bleating calls of this common bird were heard in moist wooded habitat throughout Uganda, with our first 

sighting from the roadside near Kampala. 

Yellow-browed Camaroptera Camaroptera superciliaris 

This handsome warbler was seen briefly along the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, but most memorably seen at 

Mabira Forest, where a pair hopped about at the edge of the forest and displayed their blue throat patches for the 

scope. 

Olive-green Camaroptera Camaroptera chloronota 

Another skulking camaroptera, its piercing calls were heard at all lower altitude forest sites, with singles seen at 

Buhoma and Mabira. 

Grauer's Warbler* Graueria vittata 

An unusual, barred warbler (with a Scaly-throated Honeyguide-like call) that we found only at Ruhizha (1) and 

Buhoma (2). 

African Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis 

The only white-eye in Uganda is common in wooded habitat throughout, with over 10 seen on the first day’s 

drive. 

White-winged (Swamp-/Scrub-) Warbler Bradypterus carpalis 

First heard calling from the papyrus in Lake Mburo NP, we had absolutely superb views of a pair in a roadside 

marsh between Mbarara and Ruhizha the following day. 

Grauer's Rush- (Swamp-/Scrub-) Warbler* Bradypterus graueri 

Three individuals of this localised species, which is restricted to a handful of marshes in the Albertine Rift, were 

seen in Mubwindi Swamp in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Evergreen Forest Warbler Bradypterus lopezi 

In Uganda, restricted to the montane forests of the south-west. We heard only one individual, near Ruhizha in 


Cinnamon Bracken-Warbler Bradypterus cinnamomeus 

We battled to see this usually responsive warbler, but were finally rewarded with 7 sightings in the Ruhizha 

area. 

Black-faced Rufous Warbler Bathmocercus rufus 

The “reversing truck” call of this beautiful warbler was commonly heard at lower altitudes in Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP, with a total of 7 seen near Buhoma and others heard in Kibale Forest NP. 

African Moustached (Grass-) Warbler Melocichla mentalis 

David’s bogey bird was heard frequently at the roadside on the first two days of tour, with small numbers seen 

in moist grassland from Ishasha northwards. 

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 

Small numbers of this common Palaearctic migrant were seen in waterside vegetation near Entebbe. 

Eurasian Reed-Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus 




- 39 - 

The commonest migrant Acrocephalus warbler in Uganda, we heard it in wetlands throughout, with small 

numbers seen in Queen Elizabeth NP and outside Murchison Falls NP. 

Great Reed-Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus 

A single bird was seen in waterside vegetation near Entebbe and a further two in the same vicinity on the last 

day of the tour. 

Greater Swamp-Warbler Acrocephalus rufescens 

Commonly heard calling in papyrus swamps, with brief views along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Lesser Swamp- (Cape Reed) Warbler Acrocephalus gracilirostris 

Small numbers were seen in Queen Elizabeth NP, with our first sighting at the Kazinga Channel crossing. 

Olivaceous Warbler Hippolais pallida 

The commonest Hippolais warbler in Uganda, with a total of 5 sightings in Murchison Falls NP. 

Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina 

A single sighting in dry woodland in Murchison Falls NP. 

Dark-capped Yellow (Flycatcher-) Warbler Chloropeta natalensis 

Encountered on a number of occasions in damp vegetation throughout the trip, though seen only fleetingly, near 

Buhoma and in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Mountain Yellow (Flycatcher-) Warbler Chloropeta similis 

This beautiful songster was commonly found in the montane forest around Ruhizha, with a total of 10 birds 

seen. 

Green-backed Eremomela Eremomela [pusilla] canescens 

Although it was first seen on the Butiaba Escarpment, this warbler was plentiful only in Murchison Falls NP, 

where over 30 were seen north of the Nile. 

Rufous- (Brown-) crowned Eremomela Eremomela badiceps 

Local in Uganda, we found this attractive bird only on the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, where the species is 

relatively common (20+ in a day). 

Green Crombec Sylvietta virens 

The commonest and most widespread forest crombec, though small and inconspicuous (except by call). We 

heard the species almost daily at all forest sites, though it was seen only in Budongo Forest (Kaniyo Pabidi) and 


Lemon-bellied Crombec Sylvietta denti 

This uncommon bird, only recently recorded for the first time in East Africa, was found along the Royal Mile in 


White-browed Crombec Sylvietta leucophrys 

We found this attractive crombec only at lower altitudes in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, where a total of 6 were 

seen. 

Northern Crombec Sylvietta brachyura 




- 40 - 

The common crombec of dry Acacia woodland in Uganda, we found 3 in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth 

NP and another 3 on the Butiaba Escarpment. 

Red-faced Crombec Sylvietta whytii 

Replaces the above species in broad-leaved woodland, with our only sightings from mixed feeding flocks near 

the top of Murchison Falls. 

Neumann's (Short-tailed) Warbler* Hemitesia neumanni 

One of Bwindi Impenetrable NP’s star birds, we glimpsed one and finally saw another of these avian gems after 

a protracted stalk through the undergrowth near Buhoma. 

Yellow Longbill Macrosphenus flavicans 

A calling bird was heard tantalisingly close along the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, but refused to show itself. 

Grey Longbill Macrosphenus concolor 

Unlike its larger congener, this diminutive warbler responded briskly to tape playback and was well seen on the 

Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, with others heard in Mabira Forest. 

Green Hylia Hylia prasina 

Its “HEE-lia!” call was one of the common background sounds at all the lower altitude forest sites on the tour, 

with our first sighting from Kibale Forest NP and another 2 seen along the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest. 

Red-faced Woodland-Warbler* Phylloscopus laetus 

One of the commonest Albertine Rift endemics, we found over 50 in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, where the 

species occurs at all altitudes. 

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 

Uganda’s commonest migrant Phylloscopus warbler was seen in small numbers virtually daily, with 10 on our 

first day’s drive alone. 

Yellow-bellied Hyliota Hyliota flavigaster 

A single bird was found amongst a mixed species feeding flock in broad-leafed woodland above Murchison 

Falls. 

Broad-tailed Warbler (Fan-tailed Grassbird) Schoenicola brevirostris 

A total of 7 individuals of this unusual bird, which is widely yet spottily distributed across Sub-Saharan Africa 

(and India, if considered conspecific with Fan-tailed Grassbird), were found in the moist grassland near Mweya 

in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Scaly-breasted Illadopsis Illadopsis albipectus 

This forest understorey skulker was heard in both Bwindi Impenetrable NP and Kibale Forest NP, and seen 

briefly in Budongo, before being seen at close quarters in Mabira Forest. 

Puvel's Illadopsis Illadopsis puveli 

In East Africa, still known only from Kaniyo Pabidi in Budongo, where we were rewarded with phenomenal 

scope views within minutes of entering the forest. 

Brown Illadopsis Illadopsis fulvescens 

Although it was fairly commonly heard in lower altitude forest, this babbler was only seen on a single occasion, 

in Kibale Forest NP. 




- 41 - 

Mountain Illadopsis Illadopsis pyrrhoptera 

Commonly heard at all altitudes in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with 2 birds seen above Ruhizha. 

African (Ruwenzori) Hill-Babbler Pseudoalcippe [abyssinica] atriceps 

Another skulking forest babbler seen only at Bwindi Impenetrable NP, where a total of 4 were seen above 

Ruhizha and others heard at Buhoma. This form is endemic to the Albertine Rift and is almost certainly 

specifically distinct from eastern birds. 

Grey-chested Illadopsis Kakamega poliothorax 

This exquisite bird was heard near the Mubwindi Swamp and finally seen along the track at Buhoma, in Bwindi 


Black-lored (Sharpe's Pied-) Babbler Turdoides sharpei 

The commonest babbler in Uganda, we recorded over 20 in Lake Mburo NP, with flocks conspicuous by their 

vocalisations in woodland elsewhere on the trip (especially in Queen Elizabeth NP). 

Brown Babbler Turdoides plebejus 

A distant sighting of 3 birds at the roadside near Mbarara was our first of the trip, with more satisfying views in 

Kibale Forest NP, Murchison Falls NP (10+), Budongo Forest and Mabira Forest. 

Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii 

This widespread African woodland babbler was common only in Queen Elizabeth NP, where 10+ were seen 

daily. 

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 

A single female near the entrance to Bwindi Impenetrable NP, another below Ruhizha and a male near Buhoma 

were our only sightings of this relatively common Palaearctic warbler. 

White-tailed (~ Bush) Lark Mirafra albicauda 

This uncommon and localised bird, typically found in grassland on “black cotton soils” was found only in 

Queen Elizabeth NP (a total of 6), with our first sighting north of Ishasha. 

Rufous-naped Lark Mirafra africana 

A familiar bird of moist grassland throughout East Africa, we found 10+ daily in suitable habitat in Lake Mburo 

NP and Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Flappet Lark Mirafra rufocinnamomea 

Uganda’s most widespread lark, with our first sightings in Lake Mburo NP and small numbers daily in Queen 

Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP (peak total of 30+ north of the Nile). 

Red-capped Lark Calandrella [brachydactyla] cinerea 

10+ were recorded daily in burnt grassland in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Grey-headed Sunbird Anthreptes axillaris 

A single bird was studied at close quarters on the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, with another 2 found in 


Western Violet-backed Sunbird Anthreptes longuemarei 




- 42 - 

A single male was found on the Butiaba Escarpment, with a further 6 encountered in broad-leafed woodland 

above Murchison Falls. 

Green (Grey-chinned) Sunbird Anthreptes (rectirostris) tephrolaema 

A small yet relatively conspicuous sunbird, we found 3 - 8 daily at all lower altitude forest sites. 

Collared Sunbird Anthreptes collaris 

The commonest Anthreptes sunbird in Uganda, we recorded good numbers almost daily throughout the tour. 

Pygmy Sunbird Anthreptes platurus 

Three beautiful males of this dry country sunbird were amongst the special finds of our morning’s birding above 

Murchison Falls. 

Little Green (Little Olive) Sunbird Nectarinia seimundi 

A relatively nondescript yet common sunbird of forest canopy and edges, we found a pair nest-building near our 

lunch stop at The Neck in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with small numbers almost daily at all other lower altitude 

forest sites. 

(Western) Olive Sunbird Nectarinia obscura 

Its distinctive call was heard daily in all lower altitude forests, with our first sighting near Buhoma and small 

numbers seen elsewhere. 

(Ruwenzori ~) Blue-headed Sunbird* Nectarinia alinae 

Over 20 of these handsome endemics were found in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, where they were slightly more 

common at higher altitudes. 

Green-headed Sunbird Nectarinia verticalis 

Six at the roadside between Mbarara and Ruhizha were our first sightings of this large sunbird, with small 

numbers at other lower altitude forest sites. 

Blue-throated Brown Sunbird Nectarinia cyanolaema 

Two on the Waterfall trail and another 6 near Kanyanchu in Kibale Forest NP (including a pair nesting near the 

park office). 

Scarlet-chested Sunbird Nectarinia senegalensis 

A common bird in Uganda, we recorded it almost daily, with peak numbers of 20+ per day in open woodland 

habitats. 

Variable (Yellow-bellied) Sunbird Nectarinia venusta 

A fine male was found at the roadside on our first day, with a peak of 30+ encountered between Ruhizha and 

Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Orange-tufted Sunbird Nectarinia bouvieri 

Only a single sighting of this local species, in the hotel gardens in Entebbe. 

Northern Double-collared Sunbird Nectarinia preussi 

The common sunbird of forest edge at Ruhizha, where over 40 individuals were recorded in three days. 

Olive-bellied Sunbird Nectarinia chloropygia 




- 43 - 

Prefers lower altitude forest and thus more widespread in Uganda than the above species, with our first records 

at the roadside near Kampala and peak numbers of 10+ daily around Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Tiny Sunbird Nectarinia minulla 

Two males of these diminutive species were found along the Waterfall Trail near Buhoma in Bwindi 


Regal Sunbird* Nectarinia regia 

One of the highlights of Ruhizha, with 20+ seen, including a number of co-operative, scope-posing males. 

Copper (Coppery) Sunbird Nectarinia cuprea 

A total of twelve birds were found at the roadside between Kampala and Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with only 2 

further sightings for the remainder of the trip. 

Purple-breasted Sunbird* Nectarinia purpureiventris 

A brief sighting of a pair near the Mubwindi Swamp, with far more satisfying views of feeding and singing 

birds between Ruhizha and Buhoma. Voted Bird of the Day by all! 

Bronze Sunbird Nectarinia kilimensis 

The commonest long-tailed sunbird in Uganda, with 10+ seen between Mbarara and Ruhizha, 10+ daily at forest 

edge near Buhoma and small numbers near Kibale Forest NP. 

Red-chested Sunbird Nectarinia erythrocerca 

The common long-tailed sunbird of wetland edges, with our first sightings coming from Entebbe and peak daily 

totals of 20+ in Queen Elizabeth NP (where males were conspicuous around Mweya Lodge). 

Marico Sunbird Nectarinia mariquensis 

Common only in the Lake Victoria basin, with numerous encounters at the roadside on our first day. 

Purple-banded Sunbird Nectarinia bifasciata 

A single male in Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP and another two along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP 

were our only sightings of this widespread species. 

Superb Sunbird Nectarinia superba 

A pair of these spectacular sunbirds was seen briefly at the roadside near Kampala on our first day, with superb 

scope views (3 in total) near Buhoma. 

Beautiful Sunbird Nectarinia pulchella 

This exquisite sunbird is common only in the drier northern savanna around Murchison Falls NP, where a total 

of 20 was recorded over three days. 

(Kenya) Rufous-Sparrow Passer [motitensis] rufocinctus 

Localised in western Uganda, where it occurs only north of the Nile. We found at least 15 birds along the 

Pakuba Track in Murchison Falls NP. 

(Northern) Grey-headed Sparrow Passer griseus 

Uganda’s commonest sparrow is plentiful throughout. 




- 44 - 

African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp 

A common and familiar African bird that we found in good numbers virtually daily. 

Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis 

In Uganda, restricted to the highland areas of the south-west, where we found 2+ daily between Mbarara and 

Buhoma. 

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava 

Vast numbers of these Palaearctic migrants were found in open country throughout Uganda, with peak totals of 

2000+ daily in the Mweya area. 

Mountain (Long-tailed) Wagtail Motacilla clara 

Single birds were found feeding along forest streams on 4 occasions: The Neck in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, at 

Buhoma, and twice in Kibale Forest NP. 

Yellow-throated Longclaw Macronyx croceus 

This meadowlark-like bird is a very common denizen of open habitat in Uganda, with small numbers recorded 

daily throughout. 

Grassland (African/Grassveld) Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus 

A pair at the roadside near Kabale were our first of the trip, with larger numbers in the grasslands of Queen 

Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Plain-backed Pipit Anthus leucophrys 

Grass fires in Queen Elizabeth NP had attracted vast numbers (50+ in a day near Ishasha) of these large, 

uniform pipits, with another 2 in Murchison Falls NP. 

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis 

We found over 20 of these Palaearctic migrants following the Albertine Rift northwards on migration at the 

Butiaba Escarpment. 

Speckle-fronted Weaver Sporopipes frontalis 

Common only north of the Nile, where we found over 30 along the Pakuba Track. 

Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser superciliosus 

A total of 18 of these relatively uncommon birds was found in dry savanna in the vicinity of Murchison Falls 

NP. 

Baglafecht Weaver Ploceus baglafecht 

A common weaver of open habitats in Uganda, with our first records in the hotel gardens in Entebbe and peak 

numbers (20 – 30 daily) around Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Slender-billed Weaver Ploceus pelzelni 

Plentiful around wetlands, we found 10 on our first day, with especially large numbers around Mweya (100 

daily), where birds often hopped about the lunch tables. 

Little Weaver Ploceus luteolus 

A woodland weaver first found in Lake Mburo NP, with far larger numbers in Murchison Falls NP (25+). 

Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius 




- 45 - 

This widespread African weaver was encountered only in the savanna parks of Lake Mburo and Queen 

Elizabeth. 

Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis 

A common weaver of moist woodland and forest edge in southern Uganda, we found them first at the roadside 

near Kampala, with small numbers also at lower altitude in Bwindi Impenetrable NP and in Maramagambo 

Forest in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Black-necked Weaver Ploceus nigricollis 

A snappy-looking weaver of forest edge that we recorded in small numbers at all lower altitude forest sites, 

from roadside forest on the first day through all the western forests to Mabira. 

Black-billed Weaver Ploceus melanogaster 

Another dapper bird of forest fringes, we recorded them only around Buhoma and in Kibale Forest NP. 

Strange Weaver* Ploceus alienus 

This Albertine Rift endemic is not common, with our only records being of 4 birds near Mubwindi Swamp in 


Holub's (Large) Golden-Weaver Ploceus xanthops 

A large, richly coloured weaver of moist grassland and reedbeds, we found 4 at the roadside on our first day and 

small numbers elsewhere in the west (including 10 on the drive from Buhoma to Mweya). 

Orange Weaver Ploceus aurantius 

A beautiful bird largely restricted to the wetlands of the Lake Victoria basin, we found small numbers around 

Entebbe, including colonies nesting in the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. 

Northern Brown-throated Weaver Ploceus castanops 

The first bird we saw on stepping into the hotel gardens (10+), with a single bird at Mweya and another sighting 

in the Entebbe Wildlife Centre on our last day. 

Vitelline Masked-Weaver Ploceus [velatus] vitellinus 

A total of 31 eclipse-plumaged birds were seen over 2 days in Murchison Falls NP. 

Black-headed (Spotted-backed/Village) Weaver Ploceus cucullatus 

One of Uganda’s most conspicuous birds, with large colonies found in many towns. First seen in our hotel 

gardens in Entebbe, with peak numbers of 100+ daily on many travel days. 

Vieillot's Black Weaver Ploceus nigerrimus 

Rivals the above for title of commonest Ugandan weaver, with our first sighting near Kabale and numerous 

huge colonies around wetlands, especially in the west (500+ near Maramagambo Forest in Queen Elizabeth 

NP). 

Weyns's Weaver Ploceus weynsi 

A single at forest edge near Kampala was our first sighting, with more satisfying views of nomadic flocks in 

Maramagambo and Mabira forests. 

Yellow-backed Weaver Ploceus melanocephalus 




- 46 - 

Another common weaver of wetlands throughout Uganda, we found them first in Lake Mburo NP, with 

especially large concentrations in Queen Elizabeth NP (where many fed around the dining tables at Mweya), 

along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP and around Lake Victoria (100+ daily). 

Jackson's Golden-backed Weaver Ploceus jacksoni 

Greatly outnumbered by the above species, and restricted to the Lake Victoria Basin. First seen in wetlands near 

Entebbe, and small numbers found breeding at Entebbe Botanical Gardens on the last day of the tour. 

Yellow-mantled Weaver Ploceus tricolor 

A single female of this scarce forest weaver was found near the park office in Kibale. 

Dark-backed (Forest) Weaver Ploceus bicolor 

A localised bird in Uganda, we recorded only 2 individuals, in the higher altitude northern part of Kibale Forest 

NP. 

Brown-capped Weaver Ploceus insignis 

We recorded small numbers (2 – 10 daily) of this handsome forest weaver, which often feeds in the manner of a 

nuthatch, in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with another 10+ in the higher altitude part of Kibale Forest NP. 

Compact Weaver Pachyphantes superciliosus 

After endless searches through flocks of non-breeding weavers, we finally located a group of 8 eclipseplumaged 

birds in rank vegetation south of the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest. 

Red-headed Malimbe Malimbus rubricollis 

The only common malimbe in Uganda, with our first sightings from the lower altitude parts of Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP (4 daily) and a peak daily total (12) from Kibale Forest NP. 

Red-headed Weaver Anaplectes rubriceps 

This widespread, woodland weaver is relatively scarce in Uganda, with our only sightings coming from broadleafed 

woodland above Murchison Falls, where 4 individuals were found in mixed species feeding flocks. 

Cardinal Quelea Quelea cardinalis 

At least 40 birds were found in rank vegetation south of the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, with huge flocks of 

non-breeding queleas in the Butiaba wetlands probably also this species. 

Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea 

We found the “African avian locust” on our first day, in Lake Mburo NP (50+), with peak numbers of 100+ 

daily in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Black Bishop Euplectes gierowii 

Three fine breeding males of this handsome bird were found near Buhoma, with another two in similar habitat 

on our drive towards Ishasha three days later. 

Black-winged (Fire-crowned) Red Bishop Euplectes hordeaceus 

Strangely, our first records of this relatively common Euplectes came from the Murchison Falls area, where over 

60 were found north of the Nile. 

Southern Red (Orange) Bishop Euplectes orix 

This common and widespread bishop, restricted to the southern part of Uganda, was first seen at the roadside 

between Mbarara and Ruhizha (6 in total), with a total of 11 birds over two days in the Mweya area. 




- 47 - 

Yellow Bishop (Yellow-rumped/Cape Widow) Euplectes capensis 

On our birding loop, largely confined to the south-western highlands, where we found 6 in the vicinity of 

Kabale, another 6 between Ruhizha and Buhoma, and a lone bird on our drive out of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Fan-tailed (Red-shouldered) Widowbird Euplectes axillaris 

The most widespread Ugandan widowbird, we found them commonly at the roadside on our first day and in 

many other wetland areas throughout the remainder of the trip. 

Yellow-mantled (-backed) Widowbird Euplectes macrourus 

At least 30 of these handsome widowbirds (of the nominate southern race) were seen in roadside wetlands 

between Kampala and Lake Mburo NP, with a single eclipse-plumaged individual of what we believe to have 

been the northern macrocercus race (often elevated to full species status as Yellow-shouldered Widowbird) near 


White-winged Widowbird Euplectes albonotatus 

A single eclipse-plumaged male in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP was our only record of this 

widespread widowbird of moist Acacia savanna. 

Red-collared Widowbird Euplectes ardens 

We found a total of 6 individuals, including 2 breeding plumaged males, in rank overgrown cultivation south of 

the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Hartlaub's Marsh Widowbird Euplectes hartlaubi 

Eclipse-plumaged flocks (26 in total) of this large widowbird were present in wetlands between Masindi and 

Kampala. 

Grosbeak (Thick-billed) Weaver Amblyospiza albifrons 

A common bird in Uganda, with our first sightings at the roadside near Kampala and large flocks feeding in 

forest at Maramagambo (30+) and Kibale Forest NP (200+ in a day), amongst other wetland and forest sites. 

White-breasted Negrofinch Nigrita fusconota 

The descending song of this negrofinch was heard in all lower altitude forests, with our first sightings from The 

Neck in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, a further 6 seen in Kibale Forest NP and 10+ daily in Budongo and Mabira 

forests. 

Grey-headed Negrofinch Nigrita canicapilla 

Even more common than its congener, we found small numbers daily at all forest sites, with our initial sightings 

coming from roadside forest near Kampala and daily totals of 10+ from Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Kibale Forest 

NP, Budongo Forest and Mabira Forest. 

Grey-headed Oliveback Nesocharis capistrata 

An uncommon, elusive but exceptionally beautiful seedeater that we found only below Murchison Falls, with 

three birds seen feeding on a flowering creeper in riparian forest. 

Red- (Crimson-) winged Pytilia Pytilia phoenicoptera 

Another scarce and attractive seedeater that we found feeding alongside the oliveback below Murchison Falls (6 

in total). 

Green-winged Pytilia (Melba Finch) Pytilia melba 




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Generally the most widespread pytilia across Africa, though never common in Uganda, where our only records 

came from the Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth NP (1) and the Butiaba Escarpment (2). 

Green-backed Twinspot Mandingoa nitidula 

This usually elusive seedeater was seen superbly well along the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, where over 15 

were repeatedly scoped as they foraged in short grass at the roadside (one of Erling’s “Crater Birds” taken care 

of!). 

Dusky Crimson-wing* Cryptospiza jacksoni 

Another handsome yet elusive denizen of montane forest that we found only in the vicinity of Ruhizha, where a 

total of 8 were seen. 

Black-bellied Seedcracker Pyrenestes ostrinus 

This enormous-billed bird was first seen near the river crossing in Kibale Forest NP, where a female and an 

immature responded briskly to spishing, and another male seen flying across the road in Mabira. 

Red-headed Bluebill Spermophaga ruficapilla 

Also found first near Kanyanchu in Kibale Forest NP, where a female was watched feeding in the forest canopy, 

with more prolonged views of a male at the roadside the following day. 

Brown Twinspot Clytospiza monteiri 

Most common in rank vegetation in the northern part of the tour, we found a total of 6 birds in the vicinity of 

Masindi, with magnificent views of perched pairs south of the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest. 

Dusky Twinspot Euschistospiza cinereovinacea 

In Uganda, a scarce species restricted to higher altitudes in the south-west of the country, with our only sighting 

from the roadside below Ruhizha. 

Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala 

By far Uganda’s most regularly recorded firefinch, and often common around rural homesteads, we found it 

daily in open habitats, with peak numbers of 100+ daily in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Black-bellied Firefinch Lagonosticta rara 

A large firefinch that we found only in rank roadside vegetation in the vicinity of Masindi, where they 

sometimes fed in the company of Brown Twinspots. A total of 7, including 4 males, was seen. 

African (Blue-billed) Firefinch Lagonosticta rubricata 

Another widespread bird in Africa, though largely restricted to moist south, where we found a single male, 

between Ruhizha and Buhoma. 

Red-cheeked Cordonbleu Uraeginthus bengalus 

A common bird of savanna throughout Uganda, with over 10 in and around Lake Mburo NP on our first day and 

a peak total of 100+ north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Yellow-bellied Waxbill (East African Swee) Estrilda [melanotos] quartinia 

We found small parties of this attractive bird only at the roadside below Ruhizha. 

Fawn-breasted Waxbill Estrilda paludicola 




- 49 - 

Three at the roadside south of Maramagambo Forest in Queen Elizabeth NP were our first sightings, with small 

numbers also found north of Fort Portal and, especially, in the vicinity of Budongo Forest, where 14 were seen 

over two days. 

Crimson-rumped Waxbill Estrilda rhodopyga 

First seen at the roadside north of Kaniyo Pabidi, where a party of at least 6 birds fed alongside mannikins, with 

a further 6 watched feeding on seeding grasses between Busingiro and the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest. 

Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild 

Plentiful in waterside habitat throughout Uganda, with our first records (10+) at the roadside near Lake Mburo 

NP and peak totals of 20+ daily in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Black-crowned Waxbill Estrilda nonnula 

An attractive waxbill that greatly outnumbers the following species in Uganda, occurring at forest edges at all 

altitudes. First found at the roadside between Kabale and Ruhizha, with small numbers at scattered sites 

elsewhere (20+ around Buhoma). 

Black-headed (Kandt's) Waxbill Estrilda atricapilla 

In Uganda, restricted to montane forest, with our only sightings (total of 6 over two days) from the vicinity of 

Ruhizha in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Zebra (Orange-breasted) Waxbill Amandava subflava 

A pair of these beautiful birds was seen in flight over the reedbeds at Lake Kikorongo in Queen Elizabeth NP, 

with another 10+ found in waterside vegetation on the shores of Lake Albert near Butiaba. 

Bronze Munia (Mannikin) Spermestes (Lonchura) cucullata 

Ubiquitous in moist habitats throughout Uganda, with 10+ at the roadside on our first day and peak totals of 

100+ between Buhoma and Mweya. 

Black-and-white Munia (Mannikin) Spermestes (Lonchura) bicolor 

Almost as regularly recorded as, though usually outnumbered by, the above species, we found 15+ on our first 

day and small numbers daily in moist, open habitats. A peak total of 40 were seen between Murchison Falls NP 

and Kaniyo Pabidi. 

Village Indigobird (Steel-blue Widow-finch) Vidua chalybeata 

This brood parasite of Red-billed Firefinch is a plentiful bird that we probably overlooked in the north, where 

birds were in eclipse plumage. We found at least 6 individuals (including 4 breeding plumaged males) near 

Kabale, with a further 7 found in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura 

This familiar bird, which usually parasitises Common Waxbills, is widespread and common throughout Uganda, 

with 20+ on our first day alone. Smaller numbers on the northern part of our loop reflect the fact that birds in 

the north of the country were not breeding at the time of our visit. 

Yellow-crowned (Cape) Canary Serinus canicollis 

A common bird in open country below Ruhizha, where over 20 were seen issuing their jangling songs from the 

treetops. 




- 50 - 

African (Western) Citril Serinus citrinelloides 

Widespread but never very common in moist habitat in Uganda (usually where Yellow-fronted Canaries are 

scarce or absent), with our first sightings coming from the roadside between Mbarara and Ruhizha, a further 20+ 

seen in open country between Ruhizha and Buhoma and small numbers and scattered sites elsewhere on the trip. 

Black-throated (Southern Yellow-rumped) Seedeater Serinus atrogularis 

In Uganda, found only in open country in the south-western highlands, we found a total of 11 birds over two 

days. 

Yellow-fronted (-eyed) Canary Serinus mozambicus 

The commonest canary in Uganda and found daily in open country at lower altitudes, with our first pair at the 

roadside near Kampala and peak totals (10+ daily) from Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP. 

Brimstone (Bully) Canary Serinus sulphuratus 

This large canary was seen only in the south-west, with our first pair at the roadside near Lake Mburo NP, small 

numbers around Bwindi Impenetrable NP and, especially, in the Euphorbia thicket savanna around Mweya in 

Queen Elizabeth NP, where the species is conspicuous (20+ in a day). 

Streaky Seedeater Serinus striolatus 

A common bird of highland forest edges, with 20+ seen at the roadside between Kabale and Ruhizha and at 

least 30 found on the drive from Ruhizha down to Buhoma. 

Thick-billed Seedeater Serinus burtoni 

Another canary that is common in and around Bwindi Impenetrable NP, where we found at least 40 birds over 6 

days. 

Cinnamon-breasted Rock Bunting Emberiza tahapisi 

Our only tour records of this widely distributed bunting came from the Butiaba Escarpment, where the species is 

conspicuous (20+ seen in a few hours). 

African Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris 

This bushveld bird is remarkably scarce in Uganda (by comparison with savanna further south and east in 

Africa), with our only records from the 3 savanna parks of Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth (where 8 of the total 

14 were found) and Murchison Falls. 

Brown-rumped Bunting Emberiza affinis 

An uncommon bird of dry woodland, reaching the southern edge of its range in the vicinity of Murchison Falls 

NP, where we found a single individual in open Acacia north of the Nile and another two in broad-leaved 

woodland around Sambiya River Lodge. 

Annotated List of Mammal Species recorded 

Taxonomy and nomenclature follows ‘The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals” by Jonathan Kingdon, 

Academic Press, 1997. 

Font usage is as follows: Large Bold denotes an Order 

Bold italics denotes a Family 

Bold alone denotes a Genus 

Italics alone denotes a Species Scientific Name 




Primates 

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Normal font denotes a Species English Name 

Pan Chimpanzees 

Pan troglodytes Chimpanzee 

Although it was heard daily around Buhoma, our closest relative was first seen only in Kibale Forest NP (6 in 

total), with an even more memorable encounter with over 20 individuals at a fruiting fig tree on the Royal Mile 

in Budongo Forest. 

Gorilla Gorillas 

Gorilla gorilla beringei Mountain Gorilla 

Both the M group and the H group of habituated gorillas were visited on our first day at Buhoma, in Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP, with only the H group being visited on the second day. Despite the treks being long and hard, 

the experience of sitting with these forest giants made it all worth it! 

Colobidae Colobid monkeys 

Procolobus Red Colobi 

Procolobus oustaleti Central African Red Colobus 

We found numerous groups (50+ individuals in total) of these relatively scruffy-looking monkeys in the higher 

part of Kibale Forest NP, with smaller numbers encountered on our chimp-tracking near Kanyanchu the 

following morning. Like all colobi, they feed primarily on leaves, with this species favouring the newer, more 

tender foliage. 

Colobus Pied Colobi 

Colobus guereza Guereza Colobus 

This mature-leaf folivore, arguably the most beautiful of all monkeys, is delightfully common in Uganda and we 

found healthy populations in all the western forests, with our first sightings from the roadside between Ruhizha 

and Buhoma and peak numbers (50+ daily) in Kibale Forest NP and Budongo Forest. 

Cercopithecidae Cheek-pouch monkeys 

Papio Baboons 

Papio anubis Olive Baboon 

This familiar primate, also known as the Anubis Baboon, occurs widely in Uganda, preferring woodland and 

forest edge. Troops were regularly encountered at the roadside throughout the trip, from small numbers on our 

first morning to the peak totals of 50+ daily in the western savanna parks of Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison 

Falls NP. 

Lophocebus Baboon-Mangabeys 

Lophocebus albigena Grey-cheeked Mangabey 

This dark, forest-dwelling primate, the males of which sport an unusual cape of hair on their mantles, was found 

only in Kibale Forest NP, where a total of 11 individuals were found over two days. 

Cercopithecinae Guenons and allies 

Chlorocebus (Cercopithecus) Savannah Monkeys 

Chlorocebus tantalus Tantalus 

Chlorocebus pygerythrus Vervet 

The savanna monkeys are, with the Papio baboons, the most widely distributed primates in Africa, inhabiting 

woodland and savanna habitats throughout the continent. In Uganda, two (sub)species hybridise broadly across 




- 52 - 

the centre of the country, though individuals north of the Nile appear to be almost pure Tantalus and those 

around the shores of Lake Victoria pure Vervet. 

Cercopithecus Guenons 

Cercopithecus lhoesti L'Hoest's Monkey 

This handsome guenon prefers highland forest and was seen daily around our camp at Buhoma in Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP, with another large group found along the main road in Kibale Forest NP. 

Cercopithecus mitis Gentle Monkey (Blue Monkey) A fairly common 

monkey that is far more frequently heard than seen, we glimpsed our first near Ruhizha in Bwindi Impenetrable 

NP, with more satisfactory sightings of groups in Kibale Forest NP (4) and along the Royal Mile in Budongo 

Forest (10 in total). 

Cercopithecus ascanius Red-tailed Monkey 

The smallest and most strikingly patterned Ugandan guenon is also the most commonly encountered, occurring 

in forest throughout the country. Our first records came from the roadside on our first day, with peak totals of 

50+ and 30+ in Kibale Forest NP and Budongo Forest respectively. 

Loridae Lorisids 

Perodicticus Pottos 

Perodicticus potto Potto 

One of the star finds of our spotlighting excursion in Kibale Forest NP, this nocturnal, gum-eating prosimian is 

a rarely seen (though actually fairly common) denizen of forest canopy across the tropical forest belt of Central 

Africa. 

Galagonidae Galagos or Bushbabies 

Galagoides Dwarf Galagos 

Galagoides demidoff Demidoff's galago 

One individual was seen briefly above Ruhizha in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, with a far more satisfactory 

sighting on our spotlighting excursion in Kibale Forest NP. 

Galagoides thomasi Thomas's galago 

A slow-moving counterpart of the above species, though similar in general appearance, we found two on our 

night drive in Kibale Forest NP. 

Chiroptera Bats 

Pteropodidae Old World Fruit Bats 

Eidolon Straw-coloured Fruit Bats 

Eidolon helvum Straw-coloured Fruit Bat At least 10 

individuals of this handsome bat were spotlighted flying over Ruhizha in Bwindi Impenetrable NP. 

Hypsignathus Hammer Bat 

Hypsignathus monstrosus Hammer Bat 

Another highlight of the Kibale Night Drive, with two males seen and many others heard. The males of this 

species, the largest bat in Africa, boast an enormous protuberance on their snouts that amplifies their honking 

calls, which they use to attract females to their territorial fruiting tree (a clear example of prostitution in the 

animal world). 




- 53 - 

Lavia Yellow-winged Bats 

Lavia frons Yellow-winged Bat 

This beautiful animal was found on a number of occasions in the thicket savannas of Queen Elizabeth NP and 


Insectivora Insectivores 

Rhynchocyoninae Giant Elephant Shrews 

Rhynchocyon Giant Elephant Shrews 

Rhynchocyon cirnei Chequered Elephant Shrew A single brief 

sighting, on the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest. 

Lagomorpha Hares 

Leporidae Hares and Rabbits 

Poelagus Uganda Grass-hares 

Poelagus marjorita Uganda Grass-hare 

We found a total of 4 individuals, all in the vicinity of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Rodentia Rodents 

Sciuridae Squirrels 

Xerus Ground Squirrels 

Xerus erythropus Striped Ground Squirrel 

Fairly common in the drier northern savanna around Murchison Falls NP, where a total of 11 were seen. 

Funisciurus Rope Squirrels 

Funisciurus carruthersi Carruther's Mountain Squirrel 

A fairly nondescript forest squirrel that we found only on the hike to Mubwindi Swamp. 

Paraxerus Bush Squirrels 

Paraxerus alexandri Alexander's Dwarf Squirrel 

This diminutive species was the most commonly recorded squirrel on the trail to Mubwindi Swamp, with others 

seen at the roadside the following day. 

Paraxerus boehmi Boehm's Squirrel 

Similar to the above but obviously striped and prefers lower altitude forest, where it is common. Our first 

sightings came from woodland below Ruhizha, with a peak number of 8 found along the Royal Mile in Budongo 

Forest. 

Heliosciurus Sun Squirrels 

Heliosciurus ruwenzorii Ruwenzori Sun Squirrel 

A fairly large squirrel with a heavily banded tail that we found commonly around Ruhizha in Bwindi 

Impenetrable NP, with a total of 13 seen. 

Muridae Murid rats and mice 

Cricetomys Giant Pouched Rats 

Cricetomys gambianus Gambian Giant Pouched Rat A large rat 

seen peering out of his hole in a disused termite mound along the road above the falls in Murchison Falls NP. 




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Mastomys Multimammate Mice 

Mastomys sp. Multimammate Mouse One near Mweya, 

Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Carnivora Carnivores 

Herpestidae Mongooses 

Herpestes Typical Mongooses 

Herpestes ichneumon Ichneumon (Egyptian) Mongoose 

Three of these large, grey mongooses were found in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Herpestes sanguinea Slender Mongoose 

A frequently recorded mongoose usually seen trotting across the road with its black-tipped tail held low and 

curled upwards only at the tip. A total of 5 individuals over 4 days in the savanna parks of Queen Elizabeth NP 

and Murchison Falls NP. 

Helogale Dwarf Mongooses 

Helogale parvula Dwarf Mongoose 

In Uganda, restricted to the southern savanna of the Serengeti system, with our only sighting in Lake Mburo NP 

(a family group of 7). 

Mungos Banded Mongooses 

Mungos mungo Banded Mongoose 

These characterful creatures are common around Mweya, Queen Elizabeth NP (11 seen), with another 8 seen in 


Atilax Marsh Mongoose 

Atilax paludinosus Marsh Mongoose 

One of these shaggy mongooses was seen briefly along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Hyaenidae Hyaenas 

Crocuta Spotted Hyaenas 

Crocuta crocuta Spotted Hyaena 

Heard after dark at Mweya Lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP but unfortunately never seen! 

Viverridae Genets and Civets 

Genetta Genets 

Genetta genetta Common Genet 

One of these widely occurring viverrids was spotlighted near Sambiya River Lodge in Murchison Falls NP. 

Genetta servalina Servaline Genet 

Another star finding of our Kibale Night Drive, we enjoyed unobstructed views of this gorgeous animal 

climbing through the forest midstorey. 

Felidae Cats 

Panthera Big Cats 

Panthera leo Lion 

Two were seen in Queen Elizabeth NP, a lioness right in the camp and a huge maned lion below the lodge 

which we managed to see as a result of his far-carrying roars. 




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Panthera pardus Leopard 

We enjoyed an incredible 3 sightings of this reclusive cat: two sightings of the same female with her Warthog 

kill near Mweya Lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP, and another female draped over a horizontal limb in an Acacia 

north of the Nile in Murchison Falls. 

Proboscidea Proboscids 

Elephantidae Elephants 

Loxodonta African Elephant 

Loxodonta africana African Elephant 

Elephants were common and conspicuous in the savanna parks of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls (150+ 

in each), with numerous close encounters with drinking, bathing and feeding individuals. 

Perissodactyla Odd-toed Ungulates 

Equidae Horses 

Equus Horses 

Equus burchelli Burchell’s Zebra 

Another animal restricted to the southern savanna and therefore, in Uganda, to Lake Mburo NP, where we found 

it commonly on our first afternoon of the trip. 

Artiodactyla Even-toed Ungulates 

Hippopotamidae Hippopotamuses 

Hippopotamus Hippopotamus 

Hippopotamus amphibius Hippopotamus 

Uganda is arguably the best place in Africa to see and photograph hippos, with habituated groups lounging 

around on the banks of the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP and the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Over 

450 individuals were seen during the course of our trip. 

Suidae Old World Pigs 

Hylochoerus Giant Hog 

Hylochoerus meinertzhageni Giant Hog 

For many, the star mammalian attraction of Queen Elizabeth NP, where family groups may be seen walking 

about in open thicket savanna. We recorded an amazing 45 individuals over three days around Mweya. 

Phacochoerus Warthogs 

Phacochoerus africanus Common Warthog 

Another familiar savanna animal that we found in suitable habitat throughout, with our first sightings in Lake 

Mburo NP and especially tame individuals around our Mweya Lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Giraffidae Giraffe 

Giraffa Giraffe 

Giraffa camelopardalis Giraffe 

A total of 6, of the well-marked “Rothschild’s” race, were found north of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. 

Bovidae Horned Ungulates 

Syncerus African Buffalo 

Syncerus caffer African Buffalo 




- 56 - 

First found in Lake Mburo NP, though our most memorable encounters came from the Ishasha sector of Queen 

Elizabeth NP, where numerous herds exceeded 200 individuals and our total count exceeded 1000. Groups 

feeding along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP were especially photogenic. 

Taurotragus Eland 

Taurotragus oryx Eland 

A scarce animal in Uganda, we found 3 in Lake Mburo NP (its only site in the country). 

Tragelaphus Nyalas, Kudus and Bushbucks 

Tragelaphus scriptus Bushbuck 

Bushbuck are fairly common across Uganda, occupying habitats ranging from closed forest to fairly open 

thicket savanna. We recorded 14 over 6 days in the savanna parks of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. 

Cephalophus Forest Duikers 

Cephalophus nigrifrons Black-fronted Duiker 

This is the handsome, red duiker that we watched on the road in Bwindi Impenetrable NP (not Rwenzori Red 

Duiker as we believed at the time; the latter is endemic to the Rwenzori Mountains). 

Ourebia Oribi 

Ourebia ourebi Oribi 

Amazingly common in the drier northern savanna of Murchison Falls NP, where we found 100+ in a day north 

of the Nile, though our first sighting came from Lake Mburo. 

Redunca Reedbucks 

Redunca redunca Bohor Reedbuck 

Four of these nondescript antelope were found near Lake Kikorongo in Queen Elizabeth. 

Kobus Kobs and Waterbucks 

Kobus kob thomasi Uganda Kob 

A handsome antelope that is ubiquitous in the moist savanna grasslands of western Uganda, being particularly 

conspicuous in the lekking grounds of the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP (a total of 400+ in half a day) 

and along the Kisenyi Track in Queen Elizabeth NP (estimated 2000+ seen in a day). 

Kobus ellipsiprymnus Defassa Waterbuck 

In smaller aggregations than its congener, though nevertheless numerous, we found this large antelope first in 

Lake Mburo NP, with peak tallies of 50+ daily from the savanna parks of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. 

Aepyceros Impala 

Aepyceros melampus Impala 

This most familiar of antelope is another southern savanna “special”, with our only records coming from Lake 

Mburo NP, where it is common. 

Damaliscus Bontebok and Topi 

Damaliscus lunatus Topi (Tsessebe) 

Fairly common in the southern part of the country, with our first sightings from Lake Mburo NP and a total of 

70 seen in Queen Elizabeth NP. 

Alcelaphus Kongoni 

Alcelaphus buselaphus Kongoni (Jackson's Hartebeest) 




- 57 - 

Replaces the Topi in the drier savanna of Murchison Falls NP, where we found over 100 in a day north of the 

Nile.

Uganda - Rockjumper Birding Tours

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