Wildlife in Murchison falls National park

Discovering the Diverse Wildlife of Murchison Falls National Park: A Haven for Birds and Primates

Overview of Murchison Falls National Park:

Wildlife in Murchison falls National park — Spanning a vast 3,893 square kilometers, Murchison Falls National Park stands as Uganda’s largest national park. This sprawling sanctuary, bisected by the majestic Victoria Nile, unfolds over a distance of approximately 115 kilometers from East to West. The park is renowned for the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where the Nile’s waters cascade through a narrow gorge, a mere 7 meters wide, before plunging an impressive 43 meters.

Geographical Insights:

Situated in the districts of Buliisa, Nwoya, Kiryandongo, and Masindi, Murchison Falls National Park is in proximity to the Kibanda area, about 72 kilometers away. Accessible by road, this region lies approximately 283 kilometers northwest of Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda.

Wildlife in Murchison falls National park:

Within the Murchison Falls Conservation Area and Bugondo Forest Reserve, an incredible array of wildlife thrives. A diverse mammalian population, encompassing 76 species, shares this habitat, including Uganda’s largest congregation of Nile crocodiles. The park also hosts an avian spectacle, boasting 450 bird species, ranging from various water birds to the elusive and rare Shoebill stork. Budongo’s 59 “restricted range” species, such as the dwarf Kingfisher, Goliath heron, White-thighed hornbill, and Great blue Turaco, contribute to the rich biodiversity.

Lion Conservation Unit and Giraffe Relocation:

Recognized as a Lion Conservation Unit since 2005, Murchison Falls National Park safeguards these majestic predators. Giraffes, particularly the Rothschild’s Giraffe, find refuge here, with a population of around 1,500. In a conservation effort, 37 Rothschild’s Giraffes were translocated from the north to the south side of the Nile River in 2016-2017, enriching the park’s giraffe population.

Encounter with Big Game:

The park proudly hosts the “Big Five,” featuring immense herds of buffaloes and elephants, stealthy leopards, and a thriving lion population. Unique to Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley, giraffes add to the park’s allure. Regularly spotted along game tracks are Jackson’s hartebeest, bushbucks, Uganda kob, waterbucks, and warthogs. Crocodiles, hippos, and various visiting wildlife gather along the riverbanks.

Primate Haven:

Murchison Falls National Park provides a habitat for diverse primates. Olive baboons frequent roadsides, and caution is advised to keep car windows and doors closed to prevent unexpected lunch guests! Blue and red-tailed monkeys, along with black-and-white colobus, thrive in the forested sectors. The savannah-dwelling patas monkey, unique to this park and Kidepo Valley, adds to the primate diversity. Kaniyo Pabidi and Budongo Forests are home to around 800 chimpanzees.

Avian Extravaganza:

The park’s varied habitats support a vibrant avian community, with 451 bird species documented. This diverse list includes the iconic Shoebill Stork, the colossal Goliath Heron, and elegant Grey Crowned Cranes—Uganda’s national bird. Along the Nile’s banks, sightings include the Blue-headed Coucal, Swamp Flycatcher, Squacco Heron, African Jacana, and many more.

In essence, Murchison Falls National Park unfolds as a haven where the symphony of wildlife, from big game to vibrant birds and playful primates, harmonizes with the natural beauty of the landscape. Exploring this extraordinary ecosystem promises an enriching safari experience.