Top Places To See Shoebill Storks In Uganda
Scientifically known as Balaeniceps rex, shoebill storks are whale-headed storks that always make it to the checklist of every birder in Uganda. These are one of the most sought-after birds and you don’t have to be an enthusiastic bird watcher or ornithologist to be thrilled at the first sight of these beautiful birds.
These wading birds are always spotted within the Tropical marshes/wetlands of Tropical East African in the Great Lakes region. They have whale heads and shoe-shaped bills with shark hooks, darkish plumage, short necks, and long legs (typical of storks). Shoebill storks are somewhat aggressive hence have few predators although their eggs and chicks are sometimes eaten by nest predators like snakes. Their diet usually comprises baby crocodiles, small animals, frogs, lungfish, turtles, and snails.
Uganda is one of the few homes of these critically endangered in the East African region and they are found in the following places;
Mabamba Wetland
Mabamba, one of the largest wetlands surrounding Lake Victoria is one of the top places to see shoebill storks in Uganda. About 45 kilometers from Kampala, this area can be reached from Entebbe, by a traditional motorized boat or canoe trip. For this area, these Storks are tracked by a canoe ride conducted in the morning or evening but also expect other Papyrus and waterbird species such as cattle egrets, kingfishers, African jacana, saddle-billed storks, Papyrus canary, and many others.
Murchison falls National Park
The shoebill storks in Murchison falls National Park are found along the Lake Albert Delta Ramsar wetland made up of the Nile River from Murchison falls to a small section of Lake Albert. These storks can be spotted during the early morning Delta Cruise but also expect to see the long-tailed Cormorants, Grey-crowned cranes, white-faced whistling duck, Papyrus gonolek, African darter, African fish eagles, and many others. This boat cruise will also offer views of the Nile crocodiles and Hippos.
Semliki National Park
Another unmissable shoebill stork viewing destination in Uganda is Semliki National Park, set within the western side of the country. They are common along the southern shores of Lake Albert and are regarded as bird lovers’ must-see attractions.
Lake Mburo National Park
Located in western Uganda about 4 hours drive from Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is another amazing spot for seeing shoebill storks in Uganda. They can be seen within wetlands along the Lake and this is during the boat cruise. While in the company of professional guides, you will identify these beautiful storks on the shores and nearby wetland in addition to the African fish eagles, Pied and Malachite kingfishers, pelicans, Papyrus gonolek, and many others.
Lugogo wetland, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Lugogo is a 10-square kilometer wetland within Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and another spectacular home to the vulnerable shoebill storks. Shoebill tracking trips in this area begin as early as 7:00 am and are done on wooden canoes. Not only are you guaranteed shoebill stork views but also sunrise over the wetland with other wetland bird species such as Palmnut vultures, speckled-breasted woodpecker, Giant kingfishers, and many others. Visitors looking for endless views of the shoebill storks can add Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary trip to Murchison falls National Park.
The Makanaga Bay
Although not as popular as Mabamba Wetland, Makanaga Bay is also on the shores of Lake Victoria and is also an excellent spot to see Shoebill storks in Uganda. It can be reached from Entebbe or Kampala by canoe ride with most tours conducted in the morning. Make sure to be in the company of a local guide with chances of spotting other numerous wetland bird species. You will also learn about the history of the area but more especially numerous shoebill storks.
Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC)
Uganda Wildlife Education Center (formerly Entebbe Zoo) is a rescue center for orphaned animals, one of which is the shoebill storks. This Center is found on the shores of Lake Victoria in Entebbe and also shelters other beautiful bird species such as peacocks, cattle egrets, and many others.
Ishasha sector Queen Elizabeth National Park
Most travellers know the Ishasha sector for the tree-climbing lions but it is also another top place to see shoebill storks in Uganda. They can be tracked or spotted along the wetland-fringed Lake Edward shores. Other top places to see shoebill storks in Uganda are Lutembe Bay, Lwera Swamp, Kyabakuza Swamp, and many others.
Besides the shoebill storks, other stork species in Uganda include Marabou storks, open-billed storks, Saddle-billed storks, and yellow-billed storks among others.
