Bird Species in Mabamba Swamp
Which bird species are found in Mabamba Swamp? Mabamba swamp is located in central Uganda on Lake Victoria. This wetland is also considered to be an international master site. This area is known for the shoe bill, a popular bird species usually seen in the area. Other several bird species are typically seen in the area also. The wetland is home to over 300 bird species which travelers encounter during their visit to this wetland. Travelers encounter these species through canoes. The area is also considered to be an important birding area for travelers who are interested to know the bird species in the area. The swamp covers a total area of about 2424 hectares. The bird species are usually seen around the swamp-vegetated areas of the park. During the birding, travelers are recommended to follow the sustainable birding habits.
Which bird species are in the Mabamba wetland?
While in the Mabamba wetland, there are several bird species that travelers encounter during their birding safaris. Bird species in Mabamba Wetland are about 300 in number which travelers encounter. Some of these bird species in the area include the shoebill stork, swamp flycatcher, hadada ibis, red-eyed dove, pied kingfisher, gull-billed tern, grey parrot, brown parrot, white-faced whistling, saddle-billed stork, and many others.
What to carry during the birding in the Mabamba wetland?
While planning birding safaris to the Mabamba wetland, there are several things to pack for the safari and they include a pair of binoculars, a light rain jacket, long-sleeved shirts, a water bottle to keep hydrated, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellents, and many others.
Are there any rare or endangered bird species in Mabamba Wetland?
While in the Mabamba wetland for birding, there are also endangered species in this area and these species are under threat of extinction. These species are 4 in number and they can only be seen around the area. These species include; papyrus gonolek, blue shallow, pallid harrier, and white wingled warbler. These species are seen around the Mashes around the swamp.
Is the Mabamba wetland a good spot for the shoe bill tracking?
While in the Mabamba wetland, shoe bill tracking is one of the great activities to see the shoe bills around the area. The shoe bills are one of the endangered species found in this area. Travelers track the shoe bills using canoes to track the shoe bills and they are usually seen around the mashes of the swamp and vegetated areas.
Are there migratory bird species in the Mabamba wetland?
While in the Mabamba wetland, several migratory bird species are encountered by travelers during their safaris to Uganda. These bird species are usually in the area for a short time and then return to their areas. The migratory bird species usually come from Asia, Europe, and some parts of Africa. They usually come for breeding and mating. The bird species include the European bee-eater, African paradise flycatcher, whitethroats, garden warbler, ospreys, and many others.
Are there self-guided birding tours in the Mabamba wetland?
While in the Mabamba wetland, there are no self-guided birding tours and it is recommended to have a local guide of the area. The use of the local guides will help you to have a relaxed and well-planned experience on the safari. The spotting of the birds will be easy since most local guides know the different sounds of the birds. Also, the use of local guides is cost-saving.
Is it safe to go for bird watching in the Mabamba wetland?
Yes, it is safe for travelers to go for bird watching in the Mabamba wetland. During the birding watching in the wetland, travelers are supposed to have life jackets, first aid kits, compasses, and many others.
What other activities can travelers engage in during the safari away from birding?
Birding is not only the activity available in the area but other activities are also available in the park and they include;
Sport fishing
This is a sports activity that is available in the area where travelers engage in the activity to catch fish for the locals. Fishing is one of the activities which the locals engage in as a source of income. The fish types that are usually caught include; Talapia, lungfish, and mudfish which are the favorite food for the shoe bills also.
Canoeing
This is one of the exciting activities around the area which is done using the dug-out canoes. This activity is usually organized for travelers going for birding, fishing, and transferring to the local communities.
Community tours
The community tours take you through the communities around the wetland. During the community visit, travelers learn more about the lifestyle of the locals. In the community, travelers will engage in the markets to buy locally-made crafts.
How to get to the Mabamba wetland?
The wetland can be accessed by both road and water transport. Using the water transport, travelers board a boat ride from Entebbe which will take you to the area. On arrival in the area, you will get to the canoe and then engage in the activity. While using the road, you take a two-hour drive to reach Kasenge which is the nearest village to the area. The drive will take you to the Kampala Entebbe highway.
Where to stay during the Mabamba wetland birding tour?
While on the birding tour in the Mabamba wetland, there are several accommodation facilities that travelers can choose to stay in during the tour. These accommodation facilities are based in Entebbe. They range from midrange to luxury and budget facilities. They include the Via Hotel, Lake Victoria Serena Hotel, Karibu Guest House, Grand Golf Hotel, and many others. Travelers are also recommended to book in time to ensure availability during the safari.
What is the best time to go birding in the Mabamba wetland?
The Mabamba wetland is open for travelers throughout the year. The best time is during the dry season June to September and December to February is the best time to see the birds since the area is more dry and clear. Also in the wet season, the birding can be done since the area is hosting some of the migratory birds.
