​Birds – Mabamba Swamp

Philip Briggs
Expert
By Philip Briggs

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Uganda.

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Uganda.

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Bradt guidebook to Uganda.

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Uganda.

Mabamba Swamp’s proximity to Entebbe International Airport makes it a great starting point for visitors hoping to get to grips with Uganda’s birdlife. Typical African waterbirds range from the gorgeous purple swamphen and dainty African jacana to the outsized goliath heron and magnificent African fish eagle. Parrots, hornbills, turacos and raptors fly overhead, while colorful weavers and widowbirds nest in the reeds. Best of all, with a bit of luck, you’ll get to see the shoebill, a bizarre swamp-dweller that tops the wish list of many experienced African bird-watchers.

Notable Birds in Mabamba Swamp
› ‹
African jacana
Common
African pygmy goose
Common
Blue-cheeked bee-eater
Common
Osprey
Common
Shoebill
Common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

Facts & Figures

Birds in Mabamba Swamp
Bird Species
300+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Mabamba Swamp is worth visiting at any time. Birdlife is prolific year-round, and the odds of a shoebill sighting are always pretty good. That said, August to September and December to February are the most ideal months to visit. During the nesting season of June and July, shoebills tend to stay deeper in the swamp and are less frequently seen. The wettest months are March to May and October to November, which increases the possibility of your excursion into the swamp being spoilt by rain.

Want To Visit Mabamba Swamp?

49 Mabamba Swamp Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Mabamba Swamp
Bird Species
300+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr