Community Based Birding Tourism and Local Initiatives
Community-based birding tourism and local initiatives represent a dynamic intersection of conservation, sustainable tourism, and community development. As more people become interested in birdwatching as a recreational activity, communities around the world are capitalizing on their avian biodiversity. To create opportunities for both conservation and economic growth.
Budongo forest
Budongo forest is a beautiful tropical rainforest adjacent to Murchison Falls National Park. Within the tropical rainforest, lies a University Research Station that is responsible for conservation education in the surrounding communities. As well as research into the forest and its inhabitants.
Budongo is home to several tropical animals including our closest relative, the chimpanzees. Visitors can track the chimpanzees for a half-day with a full hour to spend in their presence or enjoy a full day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience.
The forest is also a superb bird watching destination with popular sightings at The Royal Mile and Busingiro. The species to look out for include; the White-thighed Hornbill, Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, Yellow-browed Camaroptera and also many seasonal butterflies. Expert site guides are always available to help the birders make the most of their visit.
The Royal Mile was once a leisure area for the Kings of Bunyoro-Kitara kingdom, a local guide will share some of the history and culture of the area. The nearby Masindi Town offers Tourist activities such as local walks and a mango farm visit.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a community initiative that is located near Kibale Forest National Park. Established to protect a local swamp and its surrounding environment, it is also a great example of a Community-Based Approach to natural resource management.
The sanctuary a paradise for birders with a checklist of about 200 species. Tourists can take guided nature walks around the swamp and also visit the community around to participate in activities like local food preparation, engaging in local culture as well as the health and education benefits of the project.
Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch
Rhinos wiped out in Uganda in the 1980s but the rhino re-introduction project at Ziwa made a return for these magnificent creatures. The Sanctuary is located North of Kampala along Gulu-Highway in Nakasongola district.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a collaboration between Rhino Fund Uganda and Uganda Wildlife Authority, is home to southern white rhinos alongside other wildlife including bush buck, pangolins, aardvark and also the much sought-after Shoebill Stork.
Other birds spotted at the sanctuary include; Grey-Crowned Crane, African Fish Eagle, Pied Kingfisher, African Jacana, African Grey Hornbill, Marabou Stork, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Red-Billed Oxpeckers, White Egret among others.
The sanctuary creates conservation awarenesses among communities especially in schools and host volunteers engaging in research activities.
Tourists can discover more about the rhinos and also the sanctuary’s conservation works during rhino tracking experience. This usually takes between 1 ½ and 2 hours with small groups led by rangers to view these animals. Visitors to the sanctuary can also enjoy a spot of lunch, bird watching and also nature walks.
Nature Uganda
Nature Uganda is the leading conservation organization and Uganda’s Birdlife International partner. It champions the protection and conservation of birds and their habitats including the Mabamba Wetland which is home of the famous Shoebill Stork.
Nature Uganda has taken a lead in the protection of wetlands designated as, “of international importance”. It also helps to organize the annual Big Birding Day with a 24 hour bird watching contest which is held in National parks, wildlife reserves, homes and also schools across the country.
Botanical Gardens
Besides the fact that it holds an exceptional position as one of the Country’s tourist attractions, the Botanical Gardens Entebbe are also known as the National Botanical Gardens of Uganda. These gardens are situated in Entebbe municipality, they are adored by Tourists and the locals due to their irresistible charm!
The Entebbe Botanical gardens are an exceptional birder’s paradise and suitable for birding adventures. As you move through the gardens, you will be welcomed by the sweet melodies from the birds around you. There are about 115 bird species that inhabit the gardens and they include; the black headed Gonolek, common squaco, black headed gull, red chested sun birds, swamp fly catcher, yellow billed duck, pied King fishers, long tailed Cormorant, giant king fishers, African open billed stork, orange weavers, black headed heron, the Verreaux’s eagle owl (Africa’s largest owl) and many others. As you head out for your birding adventure, it is advisable to have a pair of binoculars and an ornithology book with you for a much better experience.