Birding at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park | Birding safari | Bird-watching safariĀ
Birding enthusiasts will find Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda to be a captivating destination with its diverse avian population. The park’s unique location and varied habitats make it an excellent spot for bird-watching. Here’s some information about birding at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Avian Diversity
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to over 180 bird species. The park’s diverse habitats, including montane forests, bamboo zones, and Afro-alpine moorlands, support a wide range of birdlife.
Unique Species
The park offers opportunities to spot several sought-after bird species, including the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, Rwenzori Batis, Dusky Crimsonwing, Olive Pigeon, and Archer’s Robin-Chat. These unique and endemic species are a delight for birders.
Birding Hotspots
The various trails and habitats within the park provide excellent birding opportunities. Some recommended hotspots for birding include the Garama Cave area, Sabinyo Gorge, and the bamboo zone. The park’s knowledgeable guides can help identify and locate bird species throughout your birding expedition.
Best Time for Birding
Bird watching can be enjoyed year-round in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. However, the dry seasons (December to February and June to September) are often considered the best times for birding as the birds are more active and the forest trails are easier to navigate.
Guided Birding Walks
To enhance your birding experience, it’s recommended to engage a knowledgeable birding guide or join a guided birding walk. The park rangers and local guides have extensive knowledge of the bird species and their habitats, increasing your chances of spotting and identifying a wide variety of birds.
Conservation and Ethics
When birding in the park, it’s important to follow ethical guidelines to minimize disturbance to the birds and their habitats. Respect the park’s rules, maintain a safe distance from the birds, and refrain from any actions that could disrupt their natural behavior.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a unique blend of birding opportunities along with its famous gorilla and golden monkey tracking experiences. Birders can enjoy the park’s natural beauty, encounter rare and endemic species, and contribute to the conservation of the park’s avian population.