Birding in Lake Mburo National Park – A Hidden Gem for Avian Enthusiasts

Lake Mburo National Park is one of Uganda’s most underrated birding destinations, offering a mosaic of habitats and a surprising diversity of birdlife. Located in western Uganda, this compact park spans just 370 square kilometers but boasts more than 350 recorded bird species. With its rolling savannahs, acacia woodlands, wetlands, and lakeshores, Lake Mburo offers a perfect combination of scenery and species for novice and expert birders alike.

A Haven for Acacia-Associated Birds

Lake Mburo National Park is one of the few protected areas in Uganda dominated by acacia woodland, making it a haven for dry-country birds. The open savannahs and scattered trees provide an ideal environment for species such as the red-headed lovebird, bare-faced go-away bird, white-headed barbet, and black-bellied bustard. The striking lilac-breasted roller and the blue-naped mousebird are also frequently seen flitting between acacia trees or perched on thorny branches.

The park is also a reliable spot for spotting the elusive and vividly colored African finfoot along the lake’s edges. It’s one of the best places in Uganda to observe this secretive bird, particularly on a boat ride across Lake Mburo.

Wetland and Lakeshore Birds

The park’s numerous wetlands and lakes, especially the shores of Lake Mburo itself, attract a large variety of aquatic birds. African fish eagles often soar overhead or perch on tree branches, scanning for prey below the water’s surface. African jacanas tiptoe gracefully across lily pads, while pied kingfishers hover and dive with precision.

You’re also likely to see malachite kingfishers, black crakes, African darters, and the occasional saddle-billed stork. These wetlands provide year-round water sources, making them ideal for birdlife especially during the dry season when birds concentrate around available water bodies.

Grassland and Woodland Birds

The rolling grassy hills and woodlands support a healthy population of ground-dwelling and tree-perching bird species. Look out for the white-winged tit, long-tailed cisticola, grey crowned crane (Uganda’s national bird), and rufous-naped lark. In the morning hours, the park becomes a concert hall of melodious calls, with birds such as the yellow-throated longclaw and African grey hornbill adding their voices to the wild chorus.

Birdwatchers will find the lark plains and termite mounds particularly rewarding, as they provide excellent vantage points for spotting bustards, courser species, and even the occasional martial eagle soaring high above.

Boat Safaris and Nature Walks for Birding

One of the best ways to explore the birdlife in Lake Mburo National Park is by combining a boat safari with guided nature walks. The tranquil boat rides on Lake Mburo offer up-close encounters with aquatic birds and excellent opportunities for photography, especially during early morning or late afternoon light.

Guided bird walks, especially around the salt lick area or Rubanga Forest, allow visitors to explore bird habitats on foot. Rubanga Forest, although small, is dense with birdlife, including forest specialists like the green pigeon, Narina trogon, and shoebill stork in nearby swampy fringes if you’re lucky.