Red Throated Alethe in Uganda

Exploring the Red-Throated Alethe in Uganda – Discovering Albertine Rift Endemics

The Red-Throated Alethe in Uganda, a captivating species of bird that resembles the Fire-Crested Alethe, sets itself apart with its darker head and distinctive red throat. This splendid avian creature is one of the Albertine Rift endemics, found in the enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. The Red-Throated Alethe prefers to grace observers with its presence at altitudes ranging from 1500 meters to 2400 meters above sea level.

Encountering the Red-Throated Alethe in its natural habitat demands the expertise of highly experienced local site guides. These guides possess an intimate knowledge of the bird’s feeding habits, breeding patterns, and movement within the region.

Bird enthusiasts seeking the Red-Throated Alethe in Uganda can find it with relative ease in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, specifically in the Buhoma area. This elusive bird frequents the numerous trails of Buhoma, making appearances during both nature walks and gorilla tracking activities in the forest. Birdwatchers are encouraged to keep a keen eye out for the Red-Throated Alethe. Exploring the waterfall trail in Buhoma offers a promising opportunity to spot this remarkable bird. Morning and evening sightings are more likely, so avid birdwatchers may opt to embark on early morning excursions and return late in the evening. Packing a lunch and ample drinking water for the day is advisable.

During the wet season, when red ants become abundant, the Red-Throated Alethe may venture to feed in the self-guided trail and near the visitor’s center.

The Red-Throated Alethe is a resident of montane forests and can be observed throughout the year. Adult Red-Throated Alethes exhibit a brown back, greyish-white underbelly, pink legs, and a dark head adorned with a greyish supercilium. Juvenile Red-Throated Alethes, on the other hand, have a brown body with speckled patterns.

For more information about birding safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, we invite you to contact Trek Africa Expeditions. We can provide you with the services of an experienced bird guide in Uganda and share insights about the best time to visit the park for a truly rewarding birdwatching experience.