Birds in Bigodi Wetland
All the birds in Bigodi Wetland also known as Magombe Swamp. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is one of the sanctuaries with a rich biodiversity and scenic beauty near the Kibale National Park. This sanctuary is located in the Magombe swamp and is home to multiple bird species. Bigodi Wetland started as a home to the great blue turaco and the area obtains its name from the local Rutooro word “Kugodya” which means “walking tiredly”. This was due to many travelers who usually come out of the swamp so tired resulting in the name Bigodi. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is about 4 kilometers away from the Kanyanchu Visitor Center which is the main gate and meeting point for travelers who do chimpanzee trekking.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a community-based project under the management of the community of the Kibale Association for Rural and Environmental Development (KAFRED). It was established in 1992 to support the eco-tourism enterprise of the area. The purpose of this sanctuary was to reduce poverty and protect the environment. This was to benefit the local communities. More so, the Bigodi sanctuary is made up of rich green vegetation which is comprised of wild palm trees, fig trees, papyrus, and many others. The community gets several raw materials to make the crafts which are sold to travelers as souvenirs.
Bigodi Wetland is home to several bird species which are cited during the visit to the sanctuary. There are over 135 bird species in this area. Bigodi Wetland is encountered by travelers through the nature walks through the gazetted trails of the sanctuary.
What are the bird species in Bigodi wetland?
Bigodi Wetland is home to over 138 bird species that travelers encounter during the safari. The bird species are encountered during the bird watching. The bird species in the sanctuary include the rare shoebill stork, black bee-eater, flycatchers, fluff tail, Abyssinian ground horn bill, crowned eagle, sunbird, black, bishop, African pitta, Apalis, tinker bird, western nectar, dusky crimson, cuckoos, and many others. However, the whole total area of the Magombe swamp is home to over 200 bird species.
What to pack for the birding safaris in the Bigodi wetland?
While in the Bigodi wetland for the birding tours, travelers need to know what to pack for the safari and this includes;
- Pair of binoculars and pointers
- Birding album
- Water bottle to keep you hydrated.
- Camera
- Rain jacket in case of rain during the birding
- Long pants
- Hiking boots
Are there bird-guiding safaris in the Bigodi Wetland?
Yes, in Bigodi Wetland, there are guided tours for the birding in Bigodi. The guided birding safaris are usually done by local guides who are usually based in the area. These guides in the area are professional guides who will you in finding several bird species situated in the sanctuary.
Can I see migratory bird species in Bigodi Wetland?
In Bigodi wetland, there are several migratory bird species which can be seen in the wetland. These bird species come for less time in the area and then go back to their areas. The migratory bird species in the wetland usually migrate from Europe, Asia, and some African countries. Usually, they come to the wetland for breeding and mating. These bird species usually depart back to their homes and they are always available for a short time in the area. Some of the bird species in the area include the garden warbler, great reed warbler, European rollers, Mash warblers, African paradise flycatcher, and many others.
Are there any waterbirds species in Bigodi Wetland?
Most of the Bigodi wetland area is covered by water and in this area, there are several water birds that travelers can encounter during the birding safaris in the wetland. These bird species include the grey heron, great egret, Hadada ibis, pied kingfisher, yellow-billed duck, Egyptian goose, African coot, and many others. These birds are usually situated in the areas of marshes, swamps, water lilies, and papyrus thickets.
Are there any rare or endangered bird species in Bigodi Wetland?
The Bigodi wetland is home to some of the endangered species which are only found in this area. It is considered that the area has about 6 endemic species and these include; the great blue turaco, shoe bill, white-winged warbler, papyrus canary, and many others.
What are other attractions that tourists can see in Bigodi wetland?
Bigodi Wetland is not only a bird sanctuary but also other attractions exist in the sanctuary and they include;
Wildlife viewing
While in the Bigodi wetland sanctuary, there is wildlife that can be seen during the nature walk around the sanctuary. Wildlife is categorized into amphibians, primates, reptiles, and mammals. Wildlife which is usually seen includes; sitatunga, bushbucks, red colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, black and white monkeys, and many others.
Cultural communities
While in the communities of the body, there are several communities of the Batooro and Bakiga which travelers on their Uganda safaris. These communities take you through the life experiences of the locals in the area. During the visit to the cultural communities, travelers will engage in different activities like coffee roasting, cultural dances, banana brewing, and many others. While in the community, you will also engage in the community projects which are started up through the revenues collected in the community visit. These projects include schools, hospitals, and community markets to buy local crafts.
How to get to Bigodi wetland to see birds?
The Bigodi wetland can be accessed by both road and air transport. While using road transport, travelers will take about 5 to 6 hours to reach the area through the Kampala–Fort Portal–Kamwenge highway. The distance is about 330 kilometers to reach the sanctuary. While using air transport, travelers will use the scheduled chartered flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Tooro Semuliki Airstrip to reach the park. Then you will be transferred to the sanctuary by road which will take about 2 hours to reach the sanctuary.
What is the best time to visit Bigodi Wetland to see birds?
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is open for travelers throughout the year. During the wet season September to November and March to May. This is the best season for travelers to engage in birding since during this time, migratory birds are always available for siting.
