Private Uganda Birds & Gorillas Trip Report

7th to 28th June 2014

Grauer’s Broadbill by David Hoddinott

Trip Report Compiled by Tour Leader: David Hoddinott

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Tour Summary

Uganda, the pearl of Africa as it is often referred to, is a remarkable country of astonishing diversity. Its small size, good road network and infrastructure, great food, the fact that it is friendly, peaceful and well geared for tourism, makes it a wonderful destination in which to bird and travel. Add a staggering bird list with over 1000 species, plus the added benefit of amazing wildlife including Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, tree- climbing Lions, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo and so much more, and it’s no wonder it’s rated as one of the top birding and wildlife countries in the world!

Our exciting adventure started off with a visit to Mabamba Swamp on the edge of the vast Lake Victoria. Cruising through the channels on a motorised canoe we enjoyed Yellow-billed Duck by David Hoddinott great sightings of Long-toed Lapwing and Lesser Jacana which showed particular well, the latter being a key target. No sign of a Shoebill unfortunately, but with numerous opportunities ahead we continued birding unperturbed. Other superb sightings that morning included the fabulous Great Blue Turaco, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, stunning perched Red-headed Lovebird, Grey- rumped Swallow and the localised Weyns’s Weaver.

Mabira Forest, our next port of call, was once again amazing! Even though it didn’t stop raining until 11: 30am on our full day in the forest, we still managed to see a vast majority of the specials including the shy Nahan’s Partridge, Afep Pigeon, Black-billed Turaco, dazzling male African Emerald Cuckoo, scarce Cassin’s Spinetail, Blue-breasted Kingfisher, African Pied African Dwarf Kingfisher by David Hoddinott Hornbill, Buff-spotted, Brown-eared and Yellow-crested Woodpeckers, elusive Jameson’s Wattle-eye, Lowland Sooty Boubou, Purple-throated Cuckooshrike, Toro Olive Greenbul, Yellow-lored Bristlebill and retiring Blue- shouldered Robin-Chat. We also enjoyed wonderful sightings of a family group of Grey-cheeked Mangabey.

Stopping at Luwero Swamp on the way north we notched up the desired targets of Cardinal Quelea and Marsh Widowbird, while en route to Masindi we enjoyed great Western Banded Snake Eagle, the smart White-crested Turaco, Grey-headed Kingfisher, White-headed Barbet Chimpanzee by David Hoddinott and Purple Starling.

Expectations were high the following morning as we headed off to the famous Royal Mile at Budongo Forest. This offers some of the best forest birding in Africa along with the most comfortable climate

Trip Report - Uganda 2014 3 you can imagine – and what’s more, it’s bug free! We were not to be disappointed and even before we reached the forest we were seeing a myriad of new species! A patch of scrub proved particularly rewarding and we soon found a pair of magnificent African Hawk-Eagle, Marsh and Brown-crowned Tchagras, Tropical Boubou, African Yellow Warbler, Brown Babbler, Bronze-tailed Starling, Brown-backed Scrub Robin singing its heart out, Copper Sunbird, Compact Weaver, handsome Black Bishop in full breeding plumage, Red-collared Widowbird, confiding Brown Twinspot, Fawn-breasted and beautiful Orange-breasted Waxbills, tricky Magpie Mannikin and Cabanis’s Bunting. Tearing ourselves away from this fabulous “hotspot” we entered the forest proper. Highlights of Northern White-faced Owl by David Hoddinott our day on the mile included a majestic perched Crowned Eagle, Dusky Long-tailed and Red-chested Cuckoos, the much-wanted Chocolate-backed and African Dwarf Kingfishers, White-thighed Hornbill, Willcock’s Honeyguide, tiny Lemon-bellied Crombec, Chestnut-capped Flycatcher, Uganda Woodland Warbler, pretty Black-capped Apalis, Yellow-browed and Olive-green Camaropteras, Rufous-crowned Eremomela, Fraser’s Rufous Thrush and Fraser’s Forest Flycatcher. The birds were almost outdone, however, by the incredible sightings we enjoyed of Chimpanzees out in the open at the edge of the mile and giving splendid views for a full twenty minutes! As if this wasn’t enough, that evening a delightful Northern White-faced Owl put on a great show as well – what a bonus!!

Our next destination was Murchison Falls National Park where we visited numerous sites within this fabulous reserve, the largest park in Uganda. Murchison Falls was most impressive due to a very full Nile, and the Nile boat Shoebill by David Hoddinott cruise was extremely rewarding including enjoying magnificent views of the great Shoebill, one of our main tour targets – and, indeed, a highlight of any tour to the region. The north bank games drives were full of action as usual, and even more so during our visit as there was an eruption of butterflies, which was a spectacular sight to behold! The Gulu area proved uneventful however, though our night drive in the park was particularly interesting with magnificent views of Crested Porcupine and Side-striped Jackal, along with Greyish Eagle-Owl and a nightjar feast. We encountered good numbers of Long-tailed, a few Slender-tailed, and an amazing 66 Pennant-winged including 37 males with full pennants – simply spectacular! Other notable sightings Northern Red Bishop by David Hoddinott during our time in the park included Heuglin’s Francolin, African Cuckoo-Hawk, Rüppell’s and Lappet-faced Vultures, Bateleur, majestic Martial Eagle, Dark Chanting Goshawk, Black-bellied Bustard, several Allen’s Gallinule, Spotted Thick-knee, Black-headed Lapwing, Rock Pratincole, smart African

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Skimmer, unusual Slender-billed Gull, Jacobin Cuckoo, Horus Swift, Swallow-tailed, Red-throated, Olive and Northern Carmine Bee-eaters, Black Scimitarbill, impressive Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Black-billed Barbet, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Brown-backed Woodpecker, White-shouldered Black Tit, Red-winged Warbler, Green-backed Eremomela, Yellow-bellied Hyliota, Silverbird, Spotted Palm Thrush, Beautiful Sunbird, Shelley’s Sparrow, Speckle-fronted Weaver, Northern Red Bishop, elusive Red-winged Pytilia, Quailfinch and Brown-rumped Bunting.

Our final visit to Budongo Forest yielded the highly sought-after Ituri Batis, which for a tiny canopy species gave superb views.

Our next destination was Kibale Forest. Our time here included time at the upper Sebitole section of the park as Crested Porcupine by David Hoddinott well as exploring a network of interior forest trails, forest streams and the productive Bigodi Swamp. This ensured a comprehensive coverage of the available habitats and enabled us to notch up a superb list of species. These included African Black Duck, a flock of Crested Guineafowl, Scaly Francolin en route, lovely Ayres’s Hawk-Eagle, striking male White-spotted Flufftail, Afep and the rare White-naped Pigeon, cracking Ross’s Turaco, Black Cuckoo, brief Shining- blue Kingfisher, Black Bee-eater, White-headed Wood Hoopoe, Cassin’s Honeybird, rare Speckle-breasted Woodpecker, highly desired Green-breasted Pitta (which after a great deal of persistence gave amazing scope views for 10 minutes whilst it displayed in front of us!), elusive Many-coloured Bushshrike, Papyrus Green-breasted Pitta by David Hoddinott Gonolek, Dusky Tit, Western Nicator, Joyful Greenbul, Lowland Masked Apalis, confiding Brown Illadopsis, Purple-headed and Narrow-tailed Starlings, Superb Sunbird and Dark-backed Weaver.

Leaving the rainforest behind, we next travelled to Queen Elizabeth National Park to enjoy the typical African savanna with its open grassland dotted with huge flat-topped Acacias, its famous Kazinga Channel boat trip, Crater Lakes and the added bonus of a plethora of mammals. During our explorations of this vast reserve we recorded many African Crake (a much sought-after rallid), a pair of Common Buttonquail skulking along a grassy track, cryptic Water Thick-knee nesting, the nomadic Senegal Lapwing and Temminck’s Courser, swamp loving Black Coucal, huge Verreaux’s Eagle- Heuglin’s Francolin by David Hoddinott Owl, Pearl-spotted Owlet showing its distinctive false eyes, Swamp and Square-tailed Nightjars, striking Black-headed Gonolek, localised White-tailed Lark, two over-wintering Sand Martins, elusive Fan-tailed Grassbird, a family group of Black-lored Babbler, delightful Swamp Flycatcher joining us for breakfast, Holub’s Golden Weaver and Southern Red

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Bishop, amongst a myriad of other species. Additional outstanding highlights included watching tree- climbing Lions at Ishasha, where we encountered a magnificent male in a large Sicamore Fig, and an extremely confiding Leopard on our late afternoon game drive.

Leaving the savanna we travelled back to the rainforests, this time to the fabulous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to virtually half the world’s Mountain Gorillas.

As it turned out, an excited group enjoyed a superb Grey Crowned Crane by David Hoddinott Mountain Gorilla experience, and we even lucked out with further sightings of these awesome primates during one of our birding excursions! At the lower altitude site of Buhoma notable sightings included Western Bronze-naped Pigeon – whizzing by at high speed, African Wood Owl at its day roost, Scarce Swift, five stunning Bar-tailed Trogons, dazzling Black Bee-eater, Elliot’s Woodpecker, displaying African Broadbill, Doherty’s Bushshrike, Ansorge’s and Cabanis’s Greenbuls, Leopard by David Hoddinott tiny White-browed Crombec, brief Neumann’s Warbler, Black-faced Rufous Warbler, Red-throated Alethe, Grey- winged Robin-Chat, Equatorial Akalat and Black-billed Weaver.

Moving on to the higher elevation site of Ruhija we added a plethora of Albertine Rift endemics and some interesting observations, including several Handsome Francolin, Crowned Eagle – an impressive pair perched at African Skimmer by David Hoddinott the Nek, confiding Lemon Dove – rarely encountered in Uganda, the shy Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo unexpectedly sitting out for all to enjoy, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, Western Tinkerbird, Yellow-billed Barbet seen at its recently excavated nest hole, Tullberg’s and Olive Woodpeckers, amazing Grauer’s Broadbill (this very rare species was yet another highlight of the trip!), Ruwenzori Batis, Mountain Oriole, the ever-busy White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, Stripe-breasted Tit, Grauer’s Warbler, Red- faced Woodland Warbler, Mountain Yellow Warbler, Tree-climbing Lion by David Hoddinott Carruthers’s Cisticola, Ruwenzori Apalis, Grauer’s

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Swamp Warbler, musical Sharpe’s Starling, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Archer’s Ground Robin, Blue-headed and cracking Regal Sunbird, Strange Weaver and Dusky Crimsonwing.

Tearing ourselves away from this amazing forest we headed back down to the lowlands of Lake Mburo National Park. During the drive there we made a few stops along the way and notched up some great birds including White-backed Duck, Red-billed and Hottentot Teals, White-winged Swamp Warbler and the scarce Papyrus Canary. Arriving at Lake Mburo, we found a number of additional great species in the form of White-backed Red-throated Alethe by David Hoddinott Night Heron, Rufous-bellied Heron, handsome Little Sparrowhawk, superb African Finfoot, African Rail showing well for all, nomadic Lesser Moorhen, Emerald-spotted Wood Dove, Bare-faced Go-away-bird, Black-shouldered Nightjar, localised Red-faced and Black-collared Barbets, White-winged Black Tit, tiny Grey Penduline Tit, Red-faced Crombec, Long-tailed Cisticola, Green- capped Eremomel a and the Mountain Gorilla by David Hoddinott beautiful Red-headed Weaver.

Our final destination was the Entebbe Botanical Gardens where we enjoyed a pleasant walk and notched up our target, the striking Orange Weaver.

African Finfoot by David Hoddinott This was a most remarkable adventure with a wonderful group of friendly, experienced and enthusiastic participants, but sadly it was time to say goodbye and we therefore travelled to the airport to catch our departure flights home. Thank you everyone for an awesome trip and I really look forward to sharing another memorable adventure with you all! Till next time…

(All photos were taken during this tour) White-backed Night Heron by David Hoddinott

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Annotated List of Birds recorded

Nomenclature and taxonomy follows the IOC 4.2 List of Please cite: Gill, F. and M. Wright. 2014. Birds of the World: Recommended English Names. Princeton NJ: Princeton University Press.

Total species recorded (including heard): 581

(ARE) indicates an Albertine Rift endemic species QENP = Queen Elizabeth National Park NP = National Park

Ducks, Geese and Swans Anatidae White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata One seen at Mabamba Wetland, and then good numbers were seen in Murchison Falls NP. White-backed Duck Thalassornis leuconotus We enjoyed great scope views of four at a roadside wetland en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo NP. Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis This large bird was first seen at Mabamba Wetland with a further sixteen alongside the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Knob-billed Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos A large flock of 32 was seen on the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus Fairly common and easily seen in Murchison Falls and QENP with smaller numbers in Lake Mburo NP African Black Duck Anas sparsa One of this handsome species was seen at Sebitole. Infrequently recorded in Uganda. Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata Quite common at Mabamba Wetland and several seen in Lake Mburo NP and at Entebbe Botanical Gardens Red-billed Teal Anas erythrorhyncha We had great scope views of two at a roadside wetland en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo NP. Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota We had great views of two at a roadside wetland en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo NP.

Guineafowl Numididae Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Recorded in a variety of savanna situations on the tour (e.g. Murchison, QENP, Lake Mburo). Crested Guineafowl Guttera pucherani We had good views of a flock in Kibale NP.

New World Quail Odontophoridae Nahan’s Partridge (Francolin) Ptilopachus nahani We had brief views of two at Mabira Forest.

Pheasants and Allies Phasianidae Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena

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Seen in small numbers in Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo NP’s Scaly Francolin Pternistis squamatus We had wonderful views of two near Sebitole and a further two seen briefly near Ishasha River. Heuglin's Francolin Pternistis icterorhynchus Several were seen very well in Murchison Falls NP. Handsome Francolin Pternistis nobilis We had wonderful views of three at Ruhija. Red-necked Spurfowl (Francolin) Pternistis afer Common in QENP and in Lake Mburo NP’s Harlequin Quail Coturnix delegorguei Four birds were seen briefly inn Murchison Falls NP, a leader only sighting.

Grebes Podicipedidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Three birds were seen at a roadside wetland en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo NP.

Storks Ciconiidae Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis We saw these on the Kazinga, and again at a roadside wetland en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo. African Openbill Anastomus lamelligerus This species was seen at most wetland associated locales beginning with the Entebbe area and peak numbers of a flock of 160 at Lake Mburo NP. Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia abdimii Three were seen near Masindi and a further three near Buhoma. White Stork Ciconia ciconia We enjoyed great views of one on the drive from Busingiro to Masindi. Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis One was seen at Mabamba Swamp and a further five on the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus We recorded this “beauty” throughout, both in urban situations and over savanna areas.

Ibises, Spoonbills Threskiornithidae African Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus Small numbers seen at scattered sites throughout the trip. Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash We saw this noisy bird quite frequently during the trip. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus Five were recorded on our Nile boat cruise in Murchison Falls NP. African Spoonbill Platalea alba We enjoyed great views of this bird on the Kazinga Channel.

Herons, Bitterns Ardeidae White-backed Night Heron Gorsachius leaconotus A beautiful pair was seen on Lake Mburo. Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax We saw one on the boat cruise on the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Striated Heron Butorides striata

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Seen on the Kazinga Channel and on Lake Mburo. NOTE: A polytypic and cosmopolitan superspecies with over 30 recognized forms. The IOC recognizes three full species, the North American Green Heron B. virescens, Galapagos Heron B. sundevalli and the most widespread nominate form that we recorded in Uganda. Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides Six seen at Mabamba Swamp, 10 on the Nile in Murchison Falls, with a further two seen along the Kazinga Channel Rufous-bellied Heron Ardeola rufiventris We enjoyed superb scope views of two in Lake Mburo NP. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Widespread and seen in wetland, grassland and savanna situations. NOTE: This group is split into 2 species by the IOC, the nominate Western Cattle Egret B. ibis and the Asian/Australasian Eastern Cattle Egret E. coromanda. This split is as yet not recognised by Clements. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Small numbers were seen alongside wetlands during the tour. Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala The terrestrial equivalent of the previous species, it was seen in open country, as well as at nesting colonies in tall trees in villages and towns. Goliath Heron Ardea goliath This monstrous bird (the world’s largest heron) was seen at Mabamba Swamp, on the Nile, Kazinga Channel and on Lake Mburo. Purple Heron Ardea purpurea We enjoyed a number of sightings including at Mabamba Swamp, on the Nile in Murchison Falls NP, and at Bigodi Swamp. NOTE: The Cape Verde Islands A. p. bournei is sometimes split off as Cape Verde Purple Heron or Bourne’s Heron. Great Egret Ardea alba We saw them at many sites including along the Nile in Murchison Falls, and then along the Kazinga. Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia We enjoyed good views of one on the Nile boat cruise in Murchison Falls NP. Little Egret Egretta garzetta We recorded them along Lake Victoria, the Nile at Jinja and then along the Kazinga Channel. NOTE: Clements lumps Little and Madagascar’s Dimorphic Egret E. dimorpha into a single species. This treatment is not widely accepted.

Hamerkop Scopidae Hamerkop Scopus umbretta Belonging to a monotypic family, we saw them frequently on the trip with fantastic sightings on the Kazinga Channel.

Shoebill Balaenicipitidae Shoebill Balaeniceps rex After missing this species at Mabamba Swamp we were delighted to find one in the Lake Albert delta during the Nile boat cruise. A truly magnificent species!

Pelicans Pelecanidae Great White Pelican Pelacanus onocrotalus One lonesome bird with Pink-backed Pelicans was seen at Lake Kikorongo. Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens

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Seen at a number of waterbodies, on the Nile at Jinja, Lake Albert, Kazinga Channel and Lake Mburo

Cormorants Phalacrocoracidae Reed (Long-tailed) Cormorant Microcarbo africanus Seen at Mabamba, alongside the Nile, Kazinga Channel and in Lake Mburo NP NOTE: The Clements common name for this species is Long-tailed Cormorant. White-breasted Cormorant Phalacrocorax lucidus Small numbers in Murchison Falls NP with peak numbers of 120 on the Kazinga Channel in QENP.

Anhingas, Darters Anhangidae African Darter Anhinga rufa Recorded on the Nile at Jinja, and then in decent numbers on our boat cruise on the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. NOTE: The IOC splits Darter A. melanogaster into 3 separate species, namely African Darter A. rufa, Oriental Darter A. melanogaster and Australasian Darter A. novaehollandiae. Clements does not yet recognise these splits.

Ospreys Pandionidae [Western] Osprey Pandion haliaetus One was seen flying along the Nile near Jinja.

Kites Hawks & Eagles Accipitridae Black-winged (-shouldered) Kite Elanus caeruleus Seen en route to Mabamba Swamp and in Murchison Falls NP. NOTE: The Clements common name for this species is Black-shouldered Kite. African Harrier-Hawk (Gymnogene) Polyboroides typus Seen frequently with good sightings in Murchison Falls NP and in Queen Elizabeth NP Palm-nut Vulture Gypohierax angolensis Several were recorded at scattered sites throughout the trip with a peak number of 8 in Queen Elizabeth NP. African Cuckoo-Hawk Aviceda cuculoides After a quick fly-by on our first morning, we had a perched bird the following morning that showed very well. Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus Seen in the vicinity of Kampala and in Jinja. (African) White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus We saw them in Murchison Falls and in Queen Elizabeth NP. Rüppell’s Vulture Gyps rueppellii We had wonderful views of fifteen in Murchison Falls NP. Lappet-faced Vulture Torgos tracheliotus A pair was seen in Murchison Falls NP and one in Queen Elizabeth NP. Brown Snake Eagle Circaetus cinereus Seen well in Murchison, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo NP’s Western Banded Snake Eagle Circaetus cinerascens Our first sighting was superb views of one near the Kafu Ranches and a further three were seen in Queen Elizabeth NP. NOTE: The Clements common name for this species is Banded Snake-Eagle. Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus This fantastic savanna raptor was seen in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo NP’s.

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Crowned Eagle Stephanoaetus coronatus One bird was seen superbly well as it perched in full view at the Royal Mile, Budongo and a further two were seen soaring at the Nek, Bwindi NP. Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus We had great views of a juvenile in Murchison Falls, another in QENP and finally one leaving Lake Mburo NP. Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis Small numbers were seen regularly throughout the trip. Wahlberg’s Eagle Hieraaetus wahlbergi We recorded this species at scattered locales throughout the trip including near Mabamba Swamp, Luwero Swamp and en route from Masindi to Kibale. Ayres’s Hawk-Eagle Hieraaetus ayresii A soaring bird was seen at Sebitole and another along the Ishasha Road. Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax One was seen in Queen Elizabeth NP. African Hawk-Eagle Aquila spilogaster We enjoyed great scope views of a pair near the Royal Mile, Budongo Forest and a further pair was seen at the Butiaba Escarpment. Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus In some areas, a very common raptor, with many birds seen including 10 birds during the drive from Kibale to Queen Elizabeth NP. Gabar Goshawk Micronisus gabar One was seen exceptionally well in Murchison Falls NP and another during the drive from Ruhija to Lake Mburo NP. Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabates Two birds were seen in Murchison Falls NP. Shikra (Little Banded Goshawk) Accipiter badius We enjoyed a good sighting of one in Murchison Falls NP. NOTE: We recorded the Northern Shikra A. b. sphenurus which some authorities consider distinct from the southern African Southern Shikra A. b. polyzonoides. These forms may also be split from the Asian nominate A. b. badius and other Asian forms. These splits are not widely recognised. Little Sparrowhawk Accipiter minullus We had superb views of one in Lake Mburo NP. Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus We had good views of one perched up at Sebitole another en route from Buhoma to Ruhija and a final sighting of one en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo NP. NOTE: The Clements common name for this species is Black Goshawk. African Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus We saw two at Mabamba Wetland. Yellow-billed Kite Milvus aegyptius We saw them in widespread areas throughout the trip. African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer A number of superb views of this species along waterbodies (e.g. Nile, Kazinga, Lake Mburo). Mountain Buzzard Buteo oreophilus We enjoyed superb views of three birds at Ruhija. Augur Buzzard Buteo augur Commonly seen in highland areas in the south-west of Uganda.

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Bustards Otididae Black-bellied Bustard Lissotis melanogaster Seen very well in Murchison Falls NP and again in Queen Elizabeth NP

Flufftails Sarothruridae White-spotted Flufftail Sarothrura pulchra This delightful species was seen at Bigodi Swamp, where a male showed particularly well. Red-chested Flufftail Sarothrura rufa Heard at Mubwindi Swamp.

Finfoots Heliornithidae African Finfoot Podica senegalensis A male, female and juvenile were seen at Lake Mburo NP, allowing for stunning views of this usually furtive species.

Rails, Crakes & Coots Rallidae African Rail Rallus caerulescens We had simply awesome views of this retiring species in Lake Mburo NP. African Crake Crex egregia An amazing 10 birds were seen very well in Queen Elizabeth NP. NOTE: Clements places this species in a different genus to IOC, namely Crecopsis. Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra Great views of this species along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP, and along the Kazinga Channel Allen’s Gallinule Gallinula alleni We enjoyed excellent views of 8 of this elusive species in flooded vegetation along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus We had good views of one at Mabamba Swamp and a further three at a roadside wetland en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo NP. Lesser Moorhen Gallinula angulata We had great views of one at Lake Mburo NP.

Cranes Gruidae Grey Crowned Crane Balearica regulorum Scattered sightings of Uganda’s National bird were enjoyed, with a few birds showing very well on our drive from Ruhija to Lake Mburo.

Buttonquail Turnicidae Common (Kurrichane) Buttonquail Turnix sylvaticus We had great views of two birds in Queen Elizabeth NP.

Thick-knees Burhinidae Senegal Thick-knee (Dikkop) Burhinus senegalensis We saw small numbers along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Water Thick-knee (Dikkop) Burhinus vermiculatus This was seen in QENP and then in Lake Mburo NP.

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Spotted Thick-knee (Dikkop) Burhinus capensis Four birds showed well on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP.

Stilts, Avocets Recurvirostridae Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus Four were seen at Lake Katwe near QENP.

Plovers Charadriidae Long-toed Lapwing Vanellus crassirostris Great views of these at Mabamba Wetland, and then along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Spur-winged Lapwing Vanellus spinosus A handsome bird, it was seen in Murchison Falls NP and in QENP. Black-headed Lapwing Vanellus tectus We had superb views of 8 in short grass areas on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Senegal Lapwing (Lesser Black-winged Plover) Vanellus lugubris Good numbers on burnt areas in the Kasenyi track in QENP, with further birds seen near Lake Mburo. Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus Eight were seen in QENP. African Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus Seen in Murchison Falls NP, QENP and Lake Mburo NP. Kittlitz's Plover Charadrius pecuarius Eights were seen along the Kazinga Channel, QENP. Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris One was seen at a flooded pan alongside the road as we left Lake Mburo NP.

Jacanas Jacanidae Lesser Jacana Microparra capensis We had wonderful views of two at Mabamba Swamp. African Jacana Actophilornis africanus Excellent views of this species were had on the Nile and in QENP.

Sandpipers, Snipes Scolopacidae Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia We saw two of this species on the Kazinga Channel, Queen Elizabeth NP. Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres We had wonderful views of two on the Kazinga Channel, Queen Elizabeth NP.

Coursers, Pratincoles Glareolidae Temminck's Courser Cursorius temminckii This delicate bird showed very well near Lake Katwe in Queen Elizabeth NP where we found six birds. Collared (Red-winged) Pratincole Glareola pratincola We saw large flocks on the Kasenyi track and along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP totalling 120 birds. Rock Pratincole Glareola nuchalis Excellent views of seven on the rocks at Murchison Falls.

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Gulls, Terns & Skimmers Laridae African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris A good sized flock of 75 was seen on a sandbar on the Nile in Murchison Falls NP and a small flock of 20 was seen along the Kazinga Channel. Slender-billed Gull Chroicocephalus genei We had superb views of 6 birds in the Lake Albert Delta during the Nile boat cruise. Grey-headed Gull Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus One was seen on Lake Victoria, two on the Nile in Murchison Falls NP and a further two seen along the Kazinga Channel. Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica A flock of 18 was seen on Lake Albert and a further 20 along the Kazinga Channel in QENP. White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus We saw a large flock of about 200 at Mabamba Swamp and a further fifteen along the Kazinga Channel.

Pigeons and Doves Columbidae Rock Dove Columba livia Seen in scattered urban areas during the tour. Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea These large pigeons were seen in a few towns during the tour. Afep Pigeon Columba unicincta We enjoyed very good views of this forest pigeon in Mabira Forest and a further four in Kibale NP. African Olive (Rameron) Pigeon Columba arquatrix We found small numbers daily in the Ruhija area of Bwindi Impenetrable NP. White-naped Pigeon Columba albinucha We had brief flight views of three at Sebitole. Western Bronze-naped Pigeon Columba iriditorques One bird seen in flight showing briefly at Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable NP Lemon Dove Columba larvata We had great views of one feeding at the edge of the road at Ruhija. (African) Mourning [Collared] Dove Streptopelia decipiens We saw up to fifty along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP, and then later several along the Kazinga Channel in QENP. Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata Commonly recorded during the trip. Ring-necked (Cape Turtle) Dove Streptopelia capicola Seen in QENP and in Lake Mburo NP. Its “work harder” (pre noon) and “drink lager” (post noon) calls were often heard in these parks. Vinaceous Dove Streptopelia vinacea Common in the Guinea Savanna in Murchison Falls NP. Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis Small numbers were seen in QENP. Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos Up to five seen daily in Lake Mburo NP. Black-billed Wood Dove Turtur abyssinicus We recorded this species on several occasions in Murchison Falls NP. Blue-spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer

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Scattered sightings in moist farmbush throughout the country Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistria A widespread forest species; it was first seen at Sebitole with further sightings along the Ishasha road. African Green Pigeon Treron calva This species was seen at scattered tall woodland and forest sites during the tour.

Turacos Musophagidae Great Blue Turaco Corythaeola cristata We were treated to a numerous superb views of this species, one of the world’s “great blue birds!” Black-billed Turaco Tauraco schuettii This species was first seen at Mabira Forest with further good sightings at Ruhija. White-crested Turaco Tauraco leucolophus One bird showed beautifully for us on the Kafu Ranches road. Ross's Turaco Musophaga rossae A few scattered birds were seen, including at Bigodi Swamp and in Lake Mburo NP. Bare-faced Go-away-bird Corythaixoides personatus We saw a few in Lake Mburo NP. Eastern (Grey) Plantain-eater Crinifer zonurus Seen (and more frequently heard) in moist farmbush areas throughout the tour.

Cuckoos Cuculidae Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis One was seen near Masindi with scattered sightings elsewhere. Blue-headed Coucal Centropus monachus Seen at Mabamba Swamp, as well as in Papyrus beds on the Nile while in Murchison Falls NP White-browed Coucal Centropus superciliosus Common in certain areas (e.g. QENP); it was initially seen in Murchison Falls NP. NOTE: Clements does not recognise the widely accepted split of the southern dark-browed Burchell’s Coucal C. burchelli from the northerly White-browed Coucal C. superciliosus which we recorded in Uganda. Black Coucal Centropus grillii At least four were seen in tall, moist grassland in QENP. Blue Malkoha (Yellowbill) Ceuthmochares aereus Seen on the Royal Mile in Kibale NP and at Buhoma Note: The IOC splits the complex into Green Malkoha, C. australis that occurs in East and Southern Africa and Blue Malkoha, C. aereus that we observed and occurs in East, West and Central Africa. Clements does not as yet accept this split. Levaillant’s Cuckoo Clamator levaillantii We enjoyed a great sighting along the Kafu Ranches road and a further two at Buhoma. Jacobin Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus We enjoyed wonderful views of two birds in Murchison Falls NP. Diederik Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius We found several in Murchison Falls NP. Klaas's Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas A male was seen en route to Mabamba Swamp and another in Murchison Falls NP. African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus A male was seen very well at Mabira Forest, another stunning male at Sebitole, and a further male near Mubwindi Swamp.

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Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx mechowi This notorious skulker was heard on many occasions and showed briefly at the Royal Mile. Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx olivinus We had brief flyover views of one at Buhoma. Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx montanus One individual showed particularly well at Ruhija Black Cuckoo Cuculus clamosus Heard on a few occasions (at Mabira Forest and Buhoma), and seen very well at Murro where we enjoyed good scope views. Red-chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius Superb views of this species on the Royal Mile and heard at many sites. African Cuckoo Cuculus gularis We had brief views of one flying through the acacia woodland on the Ishasha Road.

Typical Owls Strigidae Northern White-faced Owl Ptilopsis leucotis We had superb views of one at Masindi. Greyish Eagle-Owl Bubo cinerascens One bird showed briefly in Murchison Falls NP. Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl Bubo lacteus Excellent views of this one in Queen Elizabeth NP. African Wood Owl Strix woodfordii We enjoyed wonderful views of a pair roosting at Buhoma. Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum One bird showed very well for us on the Ishasha Road in Queen Elizabeth NP.

Nightjars Caprimulgidae Black-shouldered Nightjar Caprimulgus nigriscapularis We had great views of one in Lake Mburo NP. Swamp Nightjar Caprimulgus natalensis We had superb views of one in Queen Elizabeth NP. Long-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus climacurus Thirty birds were seen in Murchison Falls NP during our extended night drive. Slender-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus clarus We saw at least 8 during our Murchison Falls night drive. Square-tailed (Mozambique) Nightjar Caprimulgus fossii Excellent views of three on successive days in Queen Elizabeth NP. Pennant-winged Nightjar Macrodipteryx vexillarius Sensational views of a total of 66 birds, including 37 males in full breeding regalia, 21 sub-adult males and 8 females both in flight and on the road in Murchison Falls; incredible indeed!

Swifts Apodidae Scarce Swift Schoutedenapus myoptilus This highland swift was seen at Buhoma. Sabine’s Spinetail Rhaphidura sabini We recorded two at Mabira Forest, one at the Royal Mile and five at Busingiro. Cassin’s Spinetail Neafrapus cassini

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We had good views of one at Mabira Forest and another at Sebitole. African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus Commonly seen in the vicinity of palms throughout the tour. NOTE: The nominate African form of the Palm Swift is considered to be distinct from the Malagasy form C. p. gracilis by some authorities. IOC and Clements does not as yet recognise this split. Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba We enjoyed several sightings in Queen Elizabeth NP. Common Swift Apus apus Two birds were seen flying over Mabira Forest. African Black Swift Apus barbatus At least a dozen birds were seen at the road cuttings near Kabale town. Little Swift Apus affinis Seen at many scattered locales during the tour White-rumped Swift Apus caffer Recorded in small numbers at various sites throughout the trip.

Mousebirds Coliidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus Commonly seen in almost any wooded situation. Blue-naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus Seen in savanna areas, these fast-flying cousins if the previous species were seen near Masindi, in Murchison Falls NP and in QENP.

Trogons Trogonidae Narina Trogon Apaloderma narina We heard this species at four different forest sites. Bar-tailed Trogon Apaloderma vittatum Five birds including several stunning males were seen in the mossy forest at Buhoma.

Rollers Coraciidae Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata We saw this beauty several times along the road from Lake Mburo to Entebbe. Blue-throated Roller Eurystomus gularis We enjoyed stunning scope views of this rainforest associated-bird at Busingiro. Broad-billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus Seen in many open savanna situations throughout

Kingfishers Alcedinidae Chocolate-backed Kingfisher Halcyon badia We had excellent views of one along the Royal Mile. A fabulous bird! Grey-headed (-hooded) Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala Excellent views of these in Murchison Falls NP. Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti Widespread, and seen in a number of woodland situations including Murchison and Lake Mburo NP Blue-breasted Kingfisher Halcyon malimbica Initially seen at Mabira Forest, where we had great scope views, and another seen along the Royal Mile Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis

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We saw birds of the resident, nominate race throughout the country. African Dwarf Kingfisher Ispidina lecontei Two birds were seen on the Royal Mile, with some showing superbly! Africa’s smallest kingfisher. African Pygmy Kingfisher Ispidina picta Widespread and seen at in a variety of woodland and forest situations. Great views along the Royal Mile as well. Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata Excellent views of these along some of Uganda’s waterways (e.g. Mabamba Swamp, Kazinga Channel and Lake Mburo). Shining-blue Kingfisher Alcedo quadribrachys Great but very brief views of this shy beauty at Bigodi Swamp Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima Seen very well at a forest pond at Busingiro Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis Very common on large waterways (e.g. Nile, Kazinga etc).

Bee-eaters Meropidae Black Bee-eater Merops gularis Excellent views of this beauty at Kibale Forest, as well as Buhoma. Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus Fairly common in Murchison Falls NP. Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus Seen in Murchison Falls NP, Queen Elizabeth NP and in Lake Mburo NP Blue-breasted Bee-eater Merops variegatus This wetland associated bee-eater was seen at Mabamba Swamp where surprisingly only one juvenile was seen. Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater Merops oreobates Found in fairly high altitude areas; we saw them on a few occasions including great views near Ruhija. Red-throated Bee-eater Merops bulocki This stunner was seen on a number of occasions in Murchison Falls NP. White-throated Bee-eater Merops albicollis First seen at Mabira Forest, with several more sightings including great views in the Entebbe Botanical Gardens Olive (Madagascar) Bee-eater Merops superciliosus We saw several on the Nile in Murchison Falls NP and small numbers daily in QENP. Northern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicus These stunning birds were seen on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP.

Hoopoes Upupidae African Hoopoe Upupa africana We saw three birds near Lake Katwe in Queen Elizabeth NP.

Wood Hoopoes Phoeniculidae White-headed Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus bollei Good views of these at Sebitole, with further birds seen en route to Mubwindi Swamp. Green Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus Three were seen in Murchison Falls NP.

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Black Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus aterrimus We had fair views of two birds on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Common Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas We achieved good views in Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo NP.

Hornbills Bucerotidae Crowned Hornbill Tockus alboterminatus We saw them in vicinity of Entebbe, with further great views in Kibale Forest. African Pied Hornbill Tockus fasciatus Great views of this species at Mabira Forest. African Grey Hornbill Tockus nasutus Drier woodland and savanna at the Kafu Ranches, Murchison Falls NP and Lake Mburo produced views of this species. White-thighed Hornbill Bycanistes albotibialis Good views of this forest hornbill were had at the Royal Mile. Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill Bycanistes subcylindricus We first saw these at Entebbe, with further great views at many forest sites.

Ground Hornbills Bucorvidae Abyssinian Ground Hornbill Bucorvus abyssinicus Our first sighting was of a confiding female on the road near Kaniyo Pabidi, with further great views of several on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP.

African Barbets Lybiidae Grey-throated Barbet Gymnobucco bonapartei Initially seen at Mabira Forest with further views of a few birds in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A distinctive bird with its twin nasal tufts and “toy trumpet” call. Speckled Tinkerbird Pogoniulus scolopaceus This tinkerbird was first seen at Mabira, with more seen at the Royal Mile and Buhoma. Western Tinkerbird Pogoniulus coryphaea This elusive species was seen particularly well at Ruhija. Yellow-throated Tinkerbird Pogoniulus subsulphureus Initially seen at Mabira, we saw this species at scattered forest sites thereafter. Its yellow throat and moustachial stripes serve to distinguish it visually from the following species. Yellow (Golden)-rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus We enjoyed good sightings daily at both Buhoma and Ruhija. Possesses distinctive white moustachial stripes. Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus Seen in Murchison Falls NP, Murro and the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Yellow-spotted Barbet Buccanodon duchaillui This colourful rainforest barbet was seen at Mabira, Sebitole and Buhoma. Its soft purring call was often heard in rainforest situations. Hairy-breasted Barbet Tricholaema hirsuta ansorgii We enjoyed great views of four at Mabira Forest. Note: Some authorities split this species into Hairy-breasted Barbet T. hirsuta that occurs in West Africa and Streaky- throated Barbet T. flavipunctata that we observed and occurs in East and Central Africa. IOC and Clements do not accept this split (see Birds of Africa south of the Sahara by Ryan and Sinclair 2010). Spot-flanked Barbet Tricholaema lacrymosa

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This woodland inhabitant was seen on the Kazinga Channel boat trip, with further views in Lake Mburo NP. White-headed Barbet Lybius leucocephalus A handsome species; we recorded them on the Kafu Ranches road, as well as in Murchison Falls NP. Red-faced Barbet Lybius rubrifacies We had good views of this sought-after bird in Lake Mburo NP. It is wholly restricted to East Africa, and found only in south-western Uganda, northern Tanzania and in the east of Rwanda. Black-billed Barbet Lybius guifsobalito Superficially resembling the previous species, it was recorded in Murchison Falls NP. Double-toothed Barbet Lybius bidentatus We saw this large barbet very well in Jinja with scattered sightings elsewhere. Yellow-billed Barbet Trachyphonus purpuratus This large, colourful species was seen at Mabira Forest.

Honeyguides Indicatoridae Cassin’s Honeybird Prodotiscus insignis We had superb views of one at our lodge in Kibale NP and another at the Nek, Bwindi. Willcocks’s Honeyguide Indicator willcocksi Excellent views of this species at the Royal Mile and at Bigodi Wetland. Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor One bird was seen at our guesthouse in Entebbe.

Woodpeckers Picidae Nubian Woodpecker Campethera nubica Good views of this bird were had in Murchison Falls NP, and in Lake Mburo NP. Tullberg’s (Fine-banded) Woodpecker Campethera tullbergi This species was seen at Buhoma and at Ruhija. Buff-spotted Woodpecker Campethera nivosa We had great views of this species at Mabira Forest. Brown-eared Woodpecker Campethera caroli This species was seen at Mabira Forest and at Bigodi Swamp. Speckle-breasted Woodpecker Dendropicos poecilolaemus We had excellent views of a pair at Bigodi Wetland. This is a rare species thoughout its range! Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens This small species was seen in Murchison Falls NP and Lake Mburo NP. Yellow-crested (Golden-crowned) Woodpecker Dendropicos xantholophus Great views of this noisy species in Mabira Forest and at Busingiro Elliot’s Woodpecker Dendropicos elliotii Some excellent views of this species at Buhoma on successive days African Grey Woodpecker Dendropicos goertae This bird showed well near the Royal Mile and also in Murchison Falls NP. Olive Woodpecker Dendropicos griseocephalus One was seen on the Mubwindi Swamp walk. Brown-backed Woodpecker Dendropicos obsoletus Lovely views of a female in Murchison Falls NP.

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Falcons Falconidae Common (Eurasian) Kestrel Falco tinnunculus A bird of the resident rufescens race was seen in flight en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo. Grey Kestrel Falco ardosiaceus First seen near Mabira with further sightings in Murchison Falls NP Red-necked Falcon Falco chicquera Great views of one bird in Murchison Falls NP African Hobby Falco cuvierii We had superb views of one en route to Mabira Forest. Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus We had wonderful views of one at a roadside cutting after Kabale.

Parrots Psittacidae Red-headed Lovebird Agapornis pullarius We saw this species en route to Mabamba Swamp, near the Royal Mile and in Queen Elizabeth NP. Grey Parrot Psittacus erithacus These noisy and highly intelligent avians were first seen in Mabira Forest, with further great views near the Royal Mile and in the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Meyer's (Brown) Parrot Poicephalus meyeri Seen well at the Kafu Ranches, Murro and in Lake Mburo NP

Broadbills Eurylaimidae African Broadbill Smithornis capensis We enjoyed lovely views of a male at Buhoma. Grauer’s (African Green) Broadbill * ARE Pseudocalyptomena graueri We were treated to outstanding views of a pair of this species at Mubwindi Swamp. This Albertine Rift Endemic is one of Africa’s most sought-after birds.

Pittas Pittidae Green-breasted Pitta Pitta reichenowi Simply sensational views of a bird perched, AND displaying for 20 minutes! Certainly a tour highlight, and one of Kibale Forest’s greatest drawcards!

Wattle-eyes & Batises Platysteiridae African Shrike-flycatcher Megabyas flammulatus This species was seen in Mabira and at the Royal Mile. Strongly dimorphic, this species wags its tail sideways. Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher Bias musicus We saw this species at Mabira, with further superb views at Bigodi Swamp and at Buhoma. NOTE: An alternative common name for this species is Vanga Flycatcher. Ruwenzori Batis * ARE Batis diops We had very good views of this one at Ruhija. Chinspot Batis Batis molitor Seen at Ruhija (strange habitat for this species!), and later at Lake Mburo. Western Black-headed Batis Batis erlangeri We had good views of this species at Luwero Swamp, with further sightings in Murchison Falls NP. Ituri Batis Batis ituriensis

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Lovely views of this species at Busingiro after some hard work Chestnut Wattle-eye Dyaphorophyia castanea This bird was seen at Mabira Forest, the Royal Mile and at Buhoma. Brown-throated Wattl-eye Platysteira cyanea This handsome species was seen in Murchison Falls NP, with further views in Buhoma. Jameson's Wattle-eye Dyaphorophyia jamesoni Two birds were seen very well at Mabira Forest. NOTE: This species is sometimes lumped into the West African Red-cheeked Wattle-eye D. blissetti.

Helmetshrikes Prionopidae White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus We had lovely views of five in Murchison Falls NP. Birds here are of the curly crested cristatus race.

Bushshrikes Malaconotidae Grey-headed Bushshrike Malaconotus blanchoti This large bushshrike was heard on the Kafu Ranches. Many-coloured Bushshrike Chlorophoneus multicolor We enjoyed cracking views of one at Sebitole, another trip highlight. Bocage's Bushshrike Chlorophoneus bocagei We saw it at Mabira Forest, Bigodi, with more views in Buhoma. Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus One was seen in degraded woodland near Masindi and another at Murro. Doherty's Bushshrike Chlorophoneus dohertyi This gorgeous bird showed fairly well at Ruhija, with a total of two birds seen. Marsh Tchagra Bocagia minuta We had great views of one near the Royal Mile, a further two at Murro and one in Queen Elizabeth NP. Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis One was seen near the Royal Mile, one at Bigodi Swamp and at Buhoma. Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus We recorded two in Murchison Falls NP. Pink-footed Puffback Dryoscopus angolensis This species was seen on a few occasions in bird flocks at Buhoma. Northern Puffback Dryoscopus gambensis Seen at scattered sites during the tour. Initially recorded in Murchison Falls NP with further birds seen in seemingly atypical habitat in highland forest near Ruhija Lowland Sooty Boubou Laniarius leucorhynchus This skulky avian showed very well in Mabira Forest. Mountain Sooty Boubou Laniarius poensis One was seen briefly at Ruhija. Willard’s Sooty Boubou Laniarius willardi One was seen briefly at Buhoma. Lühder's Bushshrike Laniarius luehderi This interesting “boubou” was seen on a few occasions at Buhoma. Tropical Boubou Laniarius aethiopicus Two birds dueting allowed for lovely views in Lake Mburo NP. Papyrus Gonolek Laniarius mufumbiri Good views of this one near Kibale, what a beauty!

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Black-headed Gonolek Laniarius erythrogaster Also a handsome bird, it was seen at scattered woodland sites, with initial views in Entebbe. Brubru Nilaus afer This “cute” shrike was seen in Lake Mburo NP.

Cuckooshrikes Campephagidae Grey Cuckooshrike Coracina caesia Seen at several sites around Ruhija; an attractive bird despite its name. Black Cuckooshrike Campephaga flava We had great views of several in Acacia savanna in Lake Mburo NP. Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike Campephaga phoenicea A male was seen en route from Masindi to Murro. Petit's Cuckooshrike Campephaga petiti Excellent views of this species at both Sebitole and Buhoma. Purple-throated Cuckooshrike Campephaga quiscalina We saw this species in Mabira Forest.

Shrikes Laniidae Yellow-billed Shrike Corvinella corvina This Guinea Savanna inhabitant was seen in Murchison Falls NP. Mackinnon's Shrike (Fiscal) Lanius mackinnoni We saw them on forest edge and degraded woodland around Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, as well as on our Mubwindi Swamp walk. Grey-backed Fiscal Lanius excubitoroides The most common Lanius shrike on our route, and seen in moist savanna and farmbush throughout the tour. Northern (Common) Fiscal Lanius humeralis This species was seen at scattered sites on the trip. Less common than the previous species.

Orioles Oriolidae Western (Black-headed) Oriole Oriolus brachyrhynchus Excellent views of this bird on the Royal Mile and at Busingiro. Mountain (Black-tailed) Oriole Oriolus percivali Seen several times at Ruhija (African) Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus Seen along the Ishasha road and again in Lake Mburo NP

Drongos Dicruridae Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis Seen at many scattered savanna sites during the trip Velvet-mantled Drongo Dicrurus modestus Great views of this species at Mabira Forest

Monarch Monarchidae Red-bellied (Black-headed) Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone rufiventer This beauty was seen in Mabira Forest and along the Royal Mile. African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis

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We recorded them at scattered woodland and forest locales, with initial views at the Kafu Ranches.

Crows Corvidae Piapiac Ptilostomus afer This interesting bird was seen around Jinja, Masindi and in Murchison Falls NP, where we saw them attending to game animals (e.g. Warthog and Lake Chad Buffalo). Pied Crow Corvus albus Regularly recorded during the trip. White-necked Raven Corvus albicollis We saw this species at our lodge at Ruhija.

Fairy Flycatchers Stenostiridae African Blue Flycatcher Elminia longicauda We saw this species at Bigodi Wetland. White-tailed Blue Flycatcher Elminia albicauda This species was seen at Buhoma and Ruhija, Bwindi Impenetrable NP.

Tits Paridae White-shouldered Black Tit Melaniparus guineensis We had great views of several in Murchison Falls NP. White-winged Black Tit Melaniparus leucomelas Some lovely views of this one at Lake Mburo NP. Dusky Tit Melaniparus funereus Recorded in a mixed flock at Kibale NP and later at Buhoma Stripe-breasted Tit *ARE Melaniparus fasciiventer This species was seen at Ruhija, and on the Mubwindi Swamp walk.

Penduline Tits Remizidae Grey Penduline Tit Anthoscopus caroli We had good views of four birds in Lake Mburo NP.

Nicators Nicatoridae Western Nicator Nicator chloris This species was seen at Kibale NP and at Buhoma.

Larks Alaudidae Rufous-naped Lark Mirafra africana A widespread African lark, we saw this species en route to Mabamba Swamp and in QENP. Flappet Lark Mirafra rufocinnamomea This species was seen in Murchison Falls NP. White-tailed Lark Mirafra albicauda We were treated to good views of several in QENP. Red-capped Lark Calandrella cinerea Several were seen in QENP.

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Bulbuls Pycnonotidae Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor Seen virtually every day of the trip Note: A confusing genus, the birds we observed have been split by the IOC from Common Bulbul P. barbatus which is found further north in Africa. Clements does not yet recognise this split. Kakamega (Shelley’s) Greenbul Andropadus kakamegae We saw this species in a mixed flock at Buhoma. Note: A recent split from Shelley’s Greenbul A. masukuensis, which is restricted to the Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania and northern Malawi. Kakamega Greenbul is restricted to the Albertine Rift and a few scattered forest sites in East Africa, and named for the forest in western Kenya from which it was described. Olive-breasted (Mountain) Greenbul Andropadus nigriceps Great views of this species at Ruhija and on the Mubwindi Swamp walk. Note: The Mountain Greenbuls have recently been split into a number of species scattered in higher altitude forest patches across Africa. The birds we saw are endemic to the Albertine Rift and central Kenya. Slender-billed Greenbul Andropadus gracilirostris Encountered at a number of forest sites, with our first views at Mabira Forest Little Greenbul Andropadus virens Commonly recorded in farmbush and forest throughout the tour. Little Grey Greenbul Andropadus gracilis Good views of this species on the Royal Mile. Ansorge’s Greenbul Andropadus ansorgei We saw several at Buhoma. Plain (Cameroon Sombre) Greenbul Andropadus curvirostris This species showed well at several forests including the Royal Mile. Yellow-whiskered Greenbul Andropadus latirostris We saw this bird at Mabira and at Buhoma. Honeyguide Greenbul Baeopogon indicator Heard at many forest sites and seen well at Buhoma. Spotted Greenbul Ixonotus guttatus We heard these distinctive greenbuls on the Royal Mile. Nicknamed “sprinting greenbul” because of its habit of moving through the canopy at speed! Joyful Greenbul Chlorocichla laetissima A noisy and quite colourful greenbul; we had excellent views of a pair at Sebitole Forest. Yellow-throated Leaflove (Greenbul) Chlorocichla flavicollis Scattered views of this species, and seen in Murchison Falls, near Kibale and at Buhoma. Note: Birds in Uganda belong to the subspecies flavigula (also known as pallidigula). Toro Olive Greenbul Phyllastrephus hypochloris Very good views of this species at Mabira Forest. A scarce bird that is restricted to rainforest in East Africa. Named after the Toro region of western Uganda. Cabanis’s Greenbul Phyllastrephus cabanisi We saw these big greenbuls at the Nek. White-throated Greenbul Phyllastrephus albigularis These were seen at Mabira and on the Royal Mile. Yellow-streaked Greenbul Phyllastrephus flavostriatus These wing-flicking and tail wagging greenbuls were seen at Ruhija. Red-tailed Bristlebill Bleda syndactylus A skulky bird; one was seen in Mabira Forest and another at Buhoma. Yellow-lored Bristlebill Bleda notatus

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One bird was seen very well in Mabira Forest. Red-tailed Greenbul Criniger calurus Recorded at Mabira and Buhoma, where we saw quite a few of these birds with their white, puffy throats.

Swallows, Martins Hirundinidae White-headed Saw-wing Psalidoprocne albiceps These birds were seen at scattered lower altitude sites, with some exceptional views of perched views near Masindi. Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne holomelas We saw these on a number of occasions in the general vicinity of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. NOTE: The Black Saw-wing complex is sometimes split into eight full species with the Ugandan form being retained in P. holomelas. Grey-rumped Swallow Pseudhirundo griseopyga Good views of one en route to Mabamba Swamp. Brown-throated Martin Riparia paludicola We had great views of fifteen on the Kazinga Channel. Banded Martin Riparia cincta We recorded one en route to Mabamba Swamp and two in Queen Elizabeth NP. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica One was seen near Masindi. Much cleaner white underneath, with longer tail feathers and smaller red throat bordered with an incomplete dark breast band are features that serve to differentiate it from the following species. Angola Swallow Hirundo angolensis A widespread species that was seen on many occasions. Often seen in towns. Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii Good views of this swift little swallow in Murchison and Queen Elizabeth NP’s. Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula We saw these birds in Buhoma and Ruhija NOTE: This confusing polytypic complex is being reviewed for multi-species splitting. Within the African populations, three potential species exist. The southern African nominate form H. f. fuligula would remain as Rock Martin and the more northern populations would become Red-throated Rock Martin H. pusilla which is resident in Uganda. Palaearctic birds would become Pale Crag Martin H. obsolete. IOC and Clements do not as yet recognise any of these splits. Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica Seen at scattered locales throughout the tour. Red-breasted Swallow Cecropis semirufa Good views of these birds in Murchison Falls NP and at Lake Mburo NP. Mosque Swallow Cecropis senegalensis Seen in the first day en route to Mabamba, with further sightings near Masindi and in QENP. Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica These, with their square, black vents contrasting with pale rufous underparts were seen in QENP and at Ruhija.

Crombecs, African warblers Macrospenidae Moustached Grass Warbler Melocichla mentalis This vocal inhabitant of rank vegetation was seen at the Kafu Ranches and again in QENP. Yellow Longbill Macrosphenus flavicans We heard this species in Mabira Forest.

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Grey Longbill Macrosphenus concolor Good views of this species in Mabira Forest. Northern Crombec Sylvietta brachyura We saw one in Murchison Falls NP. Red-faced Crombec Sylvietta whytii We had superb views of two in Lake Mburo NP. Green Crombec Sylvietta virens We saw one which showed well in Kibale Forest. Lemon-bellied Crombec Sylvietta denti This species showed very well on the Royal Mile. White-browed Crombec Sylvietta leucophrys Seen well at Buhoma

Cettia Bush Warblers & Allies Cettiidae Neumann's (Short-tailed) Warbler * ARE Hemitesia neumanni Heard and seen briefly at Buhoma. A retiring bird that has become very difficult to see at Buhoma.

Yellow Flycatchers Erythrocercidae Chestnut-capped Flycatcher Erythrocercus mccallii Great views of this smart bird on the Royal Mile

Family Uncertain Incertae Sedis Grauer's Warbler * ARE Graueria vittata Lovely views of this skulker at Ruhija. Green Hylia Hylia prasina Recorded at Busingiro and Kibale Forest

Leaf Warblers & Allies Phylloscopidae Red-faced Woodland Warbler * ARE Phylloscopus laetus Good views were had of this species at Buhoma and Ruhija. Uganda Woodland Warbler Phylloscopus budongoensis Brief views of this difficult species that keeps high in the towering Budongo Forest canopy! We recorded one bird on the Royal Mile.

Reed Warblers & Allies Acrocephalidae Greater Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus rufescens One bird was seen at Mabamba Swamp and another seen briefly at Murro. Lesser Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus gracilirostris Good views of one on the Kazinga Channel. African (Dark-capped) Yellow Warbler Chloropeta natalensis Two birds were seen near the Royal Mile. Mountain Yellow Warbler Chloropeta similis Recorded on the Mubwindi Swamp walk and in Ruhija’s bamboo zone.

Grassbirds & Allies Megaluridae Little Rush Warbler Bradypterus baboecala

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This species was heard in Murchison Falls NP. White-winged Swamp Warbler Bradypterus carpalis Seen by all en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo Grauer’s Swamp Warbler * ARE Bradypterus graueri Brief views of this highly localised species at Mubwindi Swamp. Restricted to high altitude wetlands in the Albertine Rift, and very threatened by wetland drainage in this highly populated region. Cinnamon Bracken Warbler Bradypterus cinnamomeus Heard at Ruhija in dense undergrowth. Evergreen Forest Warbler Bradypterus lopezi Heard this species on the Mubwindi Swamp walk Fan-tailed Grassbird (Broad-tailed Warbler) Schoenicola brevirostris Excellent views of three of this species were seen in Queen Elizabeth NP.

Cisticolas & Allies Cisticolidae Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops Recorded en route to the Royal Mile and at Bigodi Swamp Singing Cisticola Cisticola cantans Good views of this one in rank vegetation on the Gulu/Pakwach road. Whistling Cisticola Cisticola lateralis We saw this avian at the Kafu Ranches. Trilling Cisticola Cisticola woosnami One was seen along the Kazinga Channel and a further one on the Ishasha road. Chubb's Cisticola Cisticola chubbi Recorded on a number of occasions in and around Bwindi Impenetrable NP. Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana A few “ratlers” were seen in Murchison Falls NP. Winding Cisticola Cisticola marginatus First seen at Mabamba Wetland, with further views along the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. NOTE: Some authorities split this widespread African species into five species; Winding Cisticola C. marginatus, which occurs in East, Central and West Africa (which we recorded). The other four species are Coastal Cisticola C. haematocephalus that occurs in coastal East Africa, Luapula Cisticola C. luapula occurring largely in Zambia, Rufous- winged Cisticola C. galactotes of coastal Southern Africa and Ethiopian Cisticola C. lugubris endemic to Ethiopia. IOC ratifies this split (however Clements does not as yet recognise these splits). Carruthers's Cisticola Cisticola carruthersi Excellent views of this bird en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo. Stout Cisticola Cisticola robustus We had good views of one in QENP. Croaking Cisticola Cisticola natalensis This species was seen on a few occasions in QENP. Short-winged (Siffling) Cisticola Cisticola brachypterus This small cisticola was seen en route to the Royal Mile, with more birds recorded in QENP. Foxy Cisticola Cisticola troglodytes A handsome and appropriately named cisticola, it was seen on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Long-tailed (Tabora) Cisticola Cisticola angusticaudus We saw this small, rufous-capped and long-tailed cisticola in Lake Mburo NP. Zitting (Fan-tailed) Cisticola Cisticola juncidis This species was seen on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP, and again in QENP.

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Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava These were seen on many occasions on the trip. Black-faced (Banded) Prinia Prinia bairdii A noisy bird that was seen on the Mubwindi Swamp walk. White-chinned Prinia Schistolais leucopogon Initially seen near Masindi, with a further views of this species at Bigodi, Buhoma and en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo. Red-winged Warbler Heliolais erythropterus Two birds were seen in Murchison Falls NP. Ruwenzori (Collared) Apalis * ARE Apalis ruwenzorii We saw them at Ruhija. NOTE: This species is sometimes lumped into Black-collared Apalis A. pulchra. Red-winged Grey Warbler Drymocichla incana This smart bird was seen in Murchison Falls NP. Buff-bellied Warbler Phyllolais pulchella Usually seen in association with Acacia trees; we saw three in Murchison Falls NP. Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida Recorded in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP’s. A woodland / savanna associated apalis. NOTE: This widespread polytypic African species is likely to be split into two or more species, with the central Ugandan form becoming Green-tailed Apalis A. caniceps. IOC and Clements do not as yet recognise this split. Lowland Masked Apalis Apalis binotata This species was seen very well at Sebitole; strangely localised in Uganda, despite seemingly large amounts of suitable rainforest. Mountain Masked Apalis * ARE Apalis personata We had good views of this species at Ruhija. Black-throated Apalis Apalis jacksoni Seen on a few occasions at Buhoma and Ruhija. Black-capped Apalis Apalis nigriceps We had great views of a male on the Royal Mile. Chestnut-throated Apalis Apalis porphyrolaema Montane forest in East Africa’s “ringing telephone” was seen on a few occasions at Ruhija. Buff-throated Apalis Apalis rufogularis We saw these at scattered forests through the tour, with our first sighting at Mabira. Grey Apalis Apalis cinerea Good views of this species at Buhoma. Grey-capped Warbler Eminia lepida A very vocal but skulky species; we had great views of this species in Murchison Falls NP. Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata We saw this widespread and noisy undergrowth species at Mabira amongst many forest sites. Yellow-browed Camaroptera Camaroptera superciliaris Good views of this one in Mabira Forest. Olive-green Camaroptera Camaroptera chloronota This species was seen along the Royal Mile and at Buhoma. Black-faced Rufous Warbler Bathmocercus rufus Superb views of this species, with both the male and female seen at Buhoma. A very handsome species indeed! Green-backed Eremomela Eremomela canescens This is a smart bird, and we had superb views of a few birds in Murchison Falls NP.

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Green-capped Eremomela Eremomela scotops We had good but brief views of one in Lake Mburo NP. Rufous-crowned Eremomela Eremomela badiceps We had good views of this canopy species at the Royal Mile. In East Africa, only found in forests in western Uganda.

Fulvettas, Ground Babblers Pellorneidae Scaly-breasted Illadopsis Illadopsis albipectus We heard this species at a number of forest sites. Puvel's Illadopsis Illadopsis puveli We had exceptional views of this bird at Kaniyo Pabidi. This is the only site in East Africa where it occurs. Brown Illadopsis Illadopsis fulvescens A single bird showed very well at Bigodi. Mountain Illadopsis Illadopsis pyrrhoptera A pair showed well at Ruhija.

Laughingthrushes Leiothrichidae Black-lored Babbler Turdoides sharpei We saw these birds on several occasions in QENP. Brown Babbler Turdoides plebejus This bird was seen well near the Royal Mile. Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii We saw this species in QENP.

Sylviid Babblers Sylviidae Ruwenzori Hill Babbler Pseudoalcippe atriceps This handsome bird with its uplifting call was seen on a number of occasions at Ruhija. NOTE: The black-headed Ruwenzori Hill Babbler that we saw in south-western Uganda, P. atriceps is sometimes split off from African Hill Babbler P. abyssinica. Although IOC accepts this split, Clements do not. This species has a very disjunct population, occurring in the Albertine Rift and in south-west Cameroon and north-eastern Nigeria. African Hill Babbler is distributed in East Africa from Zambia/Malawi to Eritrea.

White-eyes Zosteropidae African Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis Recorded fairly frequently in forested areas during the tour.

Dapple-throat & Allies Arcanatoridae Grey-chested Babbler (Illadopsis) Kakamega poliothorax David was fortunate to have brief views of one at Buhoma.

Hyliotas Hyliotidae Yellow-bellied Hyliota Hyliota flavigaster We had great views of two in Murchison Falls NP.

Starlings Sturnidae Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea

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A flock was seen as we left Queen Elizabeth NP, and later at least 30 seen daily in Lake Mburo NP. Purple-headed (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis purpureiceps A widespread rainforest starling, with our first views of this species at Mabira Forest and best views of several at Bigodi Swamp Greater Blue-eared (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus Eight were seen at Lake Mburo NP. Lesser Blue-eared (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis chloropterus Good views of these at the Kafu Ranches en route to Masindi. NOTE: This species complex is widely treated as two distinct species, the nominate group which we recorded in Uganda, remains as Lesser Blue-eared Starling and the southern broad-leaved woodland form becomes Miombo Blue-eared Starling L. elisabeth. IOC recognises this split (but Clements does not). Bronze-tailed (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis chalcurus This smart bird was seen near the Royal Mile. Splendid (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis splendidus We saw good numbers en route to Mabamba Wetland with scattered sightings elsewhere. Rüppell's (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis purpuroptera Commonly recorded in a variety of open-country habitats throughout the tour. Violet-backed (Plum-coloured) Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster This stunner was seen on a few occasions in Murchison Falls NP and along the Ishasha Road in Queen Elizabeth NP. Chestnut-winged Starling Onychognathus fulgidus We had good views of a pair at Sebitole, Kibale NP. Waller’s Starling Onychognathus walleri An excellent view of this species alongside the following bird at Buhoma, with a few good flocks seen on the Mubwindi Swamp walk as well. Stuhlmann's Starling Poeoptera stuhlmanni Four were seen at Sebitole, with better views of this species at Buhoma and Mubwindi Swamp. Narrow-tailed Starling Poeoptera lugubris Good views of this small, long-tailed starling at Sebitole and Buhoma. Sharpe’s Starling Poeoptera sharpii We had great views of at least eight birds at Ruhija.

Oxpeckers Buphagidae Yellow-billed Oxpecker Buphagus africanus Recorded in the presence of large game in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo NP’s.

Thrushes Turdidae Red-tailed Rufous (Ant-) Thrush Neocossyphus rufus gabunensis One bird was seen briefly at Kaniyo Pabidi, a leader only sighting. It was also heard in Kibale NP. White-tailed Rufous (Ant-) Thrush Neocossyphus poensis Seen briefly at Kibale NP and later we enjoyed wonderful views of one at Buhoma. Fraser's Rufous Thrush (Rufous Flycatcher-Thrush) Stizorhina fraseri One was seen in Mabira Forest, with further sightings on the Royal Mile and at Buhoma. African Thrush Turdus pelios Seen at a variety of woodland and forest edge sites throughout the tour. Abyssinian Thrush Turdus abyssinicus Seen a couple of times at Ruhija

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NOTE: This species, found in montane forest from northern Tanzania to northern Somalia, is a split from Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus, which is endemic to southern Africa.

Chats and Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae Fire-crested Alethe Alethe castanea Two showed briefly at Mabira Forest and another showed very well at Kaniyo Pabidi. NOTE: The Ugandan form is split from the nominate White-tailed Alethe of West Africa. IOC accepts this split. Brown-backed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas hartlaubi Seen en route to the Royal Mile where we enjoyed great views of one. Inhabits moister scrub than the following species. White-browed (Red-backed) Scrub Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys This species was seen in Murchison Falls NP, Queen Elizabeth NP and in Lake Mburo NP. A widespread African savanna inhabitant. Fraser’s (African) Forest Flycatcher Fraseria ocreata Good views of this species on the Royal Mile. Draws attention to itself with its noisy call, reminiscent of Velvet-mantled Drongo, and in East Africa, only found in rainforest in far western Uganda. Grey-throated Tit-Flycatcher Myioparus griseigularis Good sightings at Mabira Forest, Royal Mile and at Buhoma. Grey Tit-Flycatcher Myioparus plumbeus We saw this species at Murchison Falls NP, Bigodi Swamp with further views in Lake Mburo NP. The savanna equivalent of the previous species.

White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher Dioptrornis fischeri This species was seen on a few occasions around Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher * ARE Malaenornis ardesiacus We saw this bird on the Mubwindi Swamp walk. The eye is a pale-creamy colour, with the faintest yellow tint, certainly not the yellow the name suggests! Northern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis edolioides Good views of this species on the Kafu Ranches and in Queen Elizabeth NP. Southern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis pammelaina Quite restricted in range in Uganda, and found in the “southern” savannas; we saw it in Lake Mburo NP, where it is at the north of its range. Pale Flycatcher Bradornis pallidus A fairly large flycatcher that inhabits woodland; we saw it at the Kafu Ranches and in Murchison Falls Silverbird Empidornis semipartitus This handsome bird was fairly common in and around Murchison Falls NP. Ashy Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens We enjoyed great views of two at Busingiro Forest. Swamp Flycatcher Muscicapa aquatica Our best views of this species were of the confiding birds at Mweya Lodge with further sightings at Mabamba Swamp and Lake Mburo. Cassin's Flycatcher Muscicapa cassini Seen on a few streams, with best views of a pair in Kibale NP Chapin’s Flycatcher Muscicapa lendu We heard this localised species in the canopy at Buhoma. Near-endemic to the Albertine Rift forests, with an outlier population in Kakamega Forest, west Kenya. African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta

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We saw this species at Mabira Forest, and later around Buhoma and Ruhija, where it was fairly common. This race (pumilia) is quite different to those found in southern Africa! Dusky-blue Flycatcher Muscicapa comitata A few good views of these birds, first seen at Bigodi Swamp with further sightings in and around Buhoma, where the white eye-line contrasted well with the dark, “dusky-blue” body Sooty Flycatcher Muscicapa infuscata Good views of this species at the Royal Mile and again at Sebitole. Red-throated Alethe * ARE Pseudalethe poliophrys Good views of this species at Buhoma. White-bellied Robin-Chat Cossyphicula roberti This smart bird allowed for great views at Buhoma. Archer's Ground Robin (-Chat) * ARE Cossypha archeri Lovely views of this one with its harsh, grating song on the Mubwindi Swamp walk. Grey-winged Robin-Chat Cossypha polioptera This cutie was seen well at Buhoma. Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat Cossypha cyanocampter Seen by some at Mabira Forest White-browed (Heuglin's) Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini Common in QENP, and later seen in Lake Mburo NP as well. Red-capped Robin-Chat (Natal Robin) Cossypha natalensis This widespread African Robin-Chat was heard at the Royal Mile and at Buhoma. Snowy-crowned Robin-Chat Cossypha niveicapilla Good views of this species on the Kazinga Channel and at Buhoma. White-starred Robin Pogonocichla stellata We saw this species very well at Ruhija. (Eastern) Forest Robin Stiphrornis erythrothorax xanthogaster Superb views of this bird at Mabira Forest. NOTE: This widespread tropical genus was split into four species (previously accepted by IOC), which are variably distributed from east across to west Africa. Interestingly, a new species, Olive-backed Forest Robin Stiphrornis pyrrholaemus was discovered in Gabon, bringing the Stiphrornis genus to a total of five species. Recent genetic work however suggests all of these should be lumped, and this is the stance that IOC has taken, lumping all five! Equatorial Akalat Sheppardia aequatorialis We had superb views of one at Buhoma. Spotted Palm (Morning-) Thrush Cichladusa guttata We saw a few of this handsome species in and around Murchison Falls NP. A good mimic! African Stonechat Saxicola torquatus We saw a few of these in scrubby, open country near Sebitole and on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. NOTE: Many authorities (including Clements and the IOC) recognise the split of African S. torquatus and Common S. rubicola Stonechats (the latter a Palaearctic species), which is not followed by all authorities. Further splitting may occur in both groups including the highland Ethiopian form S. t. albofasciata that may become Ethiopian Stonechat. Sooty Chat Myrmecocichla nigra Common in more open, savanna type habitat. First seen en route to Mabamba Wetland. Familiar Chat Oenanthe familiaris

Sunbirds Nectariniidae Grey-headed Sunbird Deleornis axillaris A fairly atypical sunbird, which was seen at Mabira and Buhoma Western Violet-backed Sunbird Anthreptes longuemarei

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Good views of a pair en route to Kaniyo Pabidi. Little Green Sunbird Anthreptes seimundi This small, drab sunbird was seen at the Royal Mile and Buhoma. Grey-chinned (Green) Sunbird Anthreptes rectirostris Recorded at Mabira, Sebitole, the main section of Kibale Forest and at Buhoma. NOTE: This species is sometimes split into two forms, the eastern (including Ugandan) Grey-chinned Sunbird A. tephrolaemus and the nominate western Yellow-chinned Sunbird. This is not accepted by IOC Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris Commonly recorded in forest-edge and tall woodland. Green-headed Sunbird Cyanomitra verticalis Good views of this one in Bigodi and at Buhoma. Blue-throated Brown Sunbird Cyanomitra cyanolaema Excellent views of this species in Kibale NP. Blue-headed Sunbird * ARE Cyanomitra alinae Good views of this long-billed sunbird at Ruhija. Olive Sunbird Cyanomitra olivacea We had scattered views of this species at various forest sites. Often seen as it whizzes through the forest undergrowth! NOTE: The Olive Sunbird species complex has been split into two full species by Clements and some other authorities, namely the nominate Eastern Olive Sunbird C. olivacea and the form which we recorded in Uganda, Western Olive Sunbird. There has been a review of this split and several authorities are in doubt of the validity, which is based upon the presence, or lack there-of, of pectoral tufts in the females of the various forms within the complex. The IOC does not recognise this split. Green-throated Sunbird Chalcomitra rubescens This species was seen well on several occasions at Buhoma. Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis We saw this species in Entebbe (in the Boma gardens on the first morning), in and around Jinja, Bigodi wetland and Lake Mburo NP. Bronzy Sunbird Nectarinia kilimensis First seen near Sebitole, and later around Buhoma, where it was common. Olive-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris chloropygius We saw this forest edge sunbird in a number of areas, including near the Royal Mile and at Kaniyo Pabidi. Northern Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris reichenowi Common at Buhoma and Ruhija Regal Sunbird * ARE Cinnyris regius This stunner was seen on several occasions in Ruhija. Beautiful Sunbird Cinnyris pulchella Found in relatively dry country, and thus seen in Murchison Falls along the Bugungu Road. Marico Sunbird Cinnyris mariquensis After some effort we finally found one near Lake Mburo NP. NOTE: Some authorities split this complex into 2 full species. C. m. suahelica, which we recorded in Uganda would become Swahili Sunbird as opposed to the nominate form which would remain as Marico Sunbird. IOC and Clements do not as yet recognize this split. Red-chested Sunbird Cinnyris erythrocercus Common around Entebbe, Jinja and in QENP. Purple-banded Sunbird Cinnyris bifasciatus Great views of a male at our lodge near Kibale NP Superb Sunbird Cinnyris superbus

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A male and female were seen in Kibale NP. Variable Sunbird Cinnyris venustus A superb male was seen near the Royal Mile. Copper Sunbird Cinnyris cupreus Not uncommon in moist farmbush, with our first sightings of this species near the Royal Mile.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae White-browed Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser mahali We saw two of these on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser superciliosus Recorded in Murchison Falls NP and on the Bugungu Road. House Sparrow Passer domesticus Three were seen at a small town between Ruhija and Lake Mburo. Shelley’s (Rufous) Sparrow Passer shelleyi A few were seen in Whistling Thorn Acacia drepanolobium stands on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. NOTE: IOC now split this African sparrow into six species. Shelley’s Sparrow P. shelleyi that we observed occurs largely in Ethiopia, Great Sparrow P. motitensis occurs in southern Africa, Kenya Sparrow P. rufocinctus occurs in east Africa, Kordofan Sparrow P. cordofanicus occurs in Sudan, Socotra Sparrow P. insularis occurs is endemic to Socotra and Abd al- Kuri Sparrow P. hemileucus is endemic to Abd al-Kuri Island and the west of Socotra . Northern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer griseus Common around human settlements, and seen almost daily.

Weavers & Widowbirds Ploceidae Speckle-fronted Weaver Sporopipes frontalis Seen in Murchison Falls NP Thick-billed (Grosbeak) Weaver Amblyospiza albifrons Recorded at scattered forest sites; including good views at Sebitole and in Kibale NP. Baglafecht Weaver Ploceus baglafecht Initially seen near the Royal Mile, and then in the highlands, where it was fairly common. Slender-billed Weaver Ploceus pelzelni Very appropriately named, and seen at various wetland associated sites during the trip. Common in Queen Elizabeth NP Little Weaver Ploceus luteolus These were seen on the Kafu Ranches road, and in Murchison Falls NP. Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis This species was seen near Masindi with scattered sightings elsewhere. Black-necked Weaver Ploceus nigricollis We saw these birds at a number of forest and secondary forest sites; most common around Buhoma after our first views in Mabira Forest. Strange Weaver * ARE Ploceus alienus Excellent views of this species on the Mubwindi Swamp walk and at Ruhija. Black-billed Weaver Ploceus melanogaster This handsome weaver was seen at Buhoma. Holub's Golden Weaver Ploceus xanthops We saw these at a wetland in Queen Elizabeth NP. Orange Weaver Ploceus aurantius Three showed well in the Entebbe Botanical Gardens.

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Northern Brown-throated Weaver Ploceus castanops Seen at Mabamba Swamp, and at Lake Mburo. Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus ocularis Good views of these on the Ishasha road, QENP. Vitelline Masked Weaver Ploceus velatus Several birds were seen in Murchison Falls NP. Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus We saw this species on a number of occasions on the trip. Initially recorded on our Mabamba Swamp day. NOTE: This widespread African complex is a candidate for multi-species splitting and the subspecies P. c. bohndorffi which we recorded in Uganda will probably remain within the nominate Village Weaver P. cucullatus group. These splits are not as yet recognized by IOC or Clements. Vieillot's Black Weaver Ploceus nigerrimus Fairly widespread, and seen at scattered sites throughout the country. Good views at a nesting colony near Masindi. NOTE: The distinctive West African form of this weaver is sometimes split off as Black-and-chestnut Weaver P. castaneofuscus. Neither IOC nor Clements accepts this split. Weyns’s Weaver Ploceus weynsi We were very fortunate to have excellent views of this nomadic species en route to Mabamba Swamp. Black-headed (Yellow-backed) Weaver Ploceus melanocephalus Good numbers seen in Queen Elizabeth NP. (Jackson’s) Golden-backed Weaver Ploceus jacksoni Our best views were of several males in full breeding plumage at Luwero Swamp Yellow-mantled Weaver Ploceus tricolor We had good views of this species at Mabira Forest. Compact Weaver Ploceus superciliosus This species that favours rank grassland was seen en route to the Royal Mile, with further sightings in Queen Elizabeth NP. Dark-backed (Forest) Weaver Ploceus bicolor We had great views of two birds at Sebitole. Brown-capped Weaver Ploceus insignis Recorded at Buhoma and Ruhiza, works mossy trunks in a style very reminiscent of nuthatches Red-headed Malimbe Malimbus rubricollis First seen in Kibale Forest, with some fantastic views at Buhoma Red-headed Weaver Anaplectes rubriceps We had great views in Lake Mburo NP. Cardinal Quelea Quelea cardinalis We had wonderful views of small flocks at Luwero Swamp and near the Royal Mile. Red-headed Quelea Quelea erythrops We saw this species en route to the Royal Mile and at Murro. Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea The world’s most populous species was seen in on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP Black Bishop Euplectes gierowii Seen in rank vegetation near the Royal Mile, near Masindi and at Bigodi Wetland. Black-winged Red Bishop Euplectes hordeaceus We had great views of several males in full breeding plumage in Murchison Falls NP. Southern Red Bishop Euplectes orix We saw these on the Kasenyi Track in QENP.

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Northern Red Bishop Euplectes franciscanus These fantastically red birds (the males anyway!) were fairly common in the Murchison Falls area. Yellow Bishop (Yellow-rumped Widow) Euplectes capensis Some of us saw a non-breeding male near Ruhija. Fan-tailed (Red-shouldered) Widowbird Euplectes axillaris Recorded at Mabamba and Luwero Swamps Yellow-mantled Widowbird Euplectes macroura We saw this bird en route to the Royal Mile and then later near Masindi. Marsh Widowbird Euplectes hartlaubi We had very good views of this species at Luwero Swamp. Red-collared Widowbird Euplectes ardens A few were seen en route to the Royal Mile.

Waxbills & Allies Estrildidae White-breasted Nigrita (Negrofinch) Nigrita fusconotus Seen at a number of forests, with our first views at Mabira. Grey-headed Nigrita (Negrofinch) Nigrita canicapillus Its “hear ye, hear ye!” call was heard at most forest sites on the trip. First encountered at Mabira Forest. Grey-headed Oliveback Nesocharis capistrata We heard this species calling on the Gulu-Packwach road. Red-winged Pytilia Pytilia phoenicoptera We enjoyed great views of one in Murchison Falls NP. Dusky Crimsonwing * ARE Cryptospiza jacksoni We had good views of one on the Mubwindi Swamp walk and a further two at Ruhija. Black-bellied Seedcracker Pyrenestes ostrinus Seen by some in Mabira Forest. The subject of a number of scientific studies, it is a very interesting species as it exhibits non-sex related polymorphism, and is one of a handful of examples of disruptive selection in nature (see Clabaut et al. 2009, www.ioe.ucla.edu/ctr/research/polymorphisms.html). Red-headed Bluebill Spermophaga ruficapilla This stunner was seen at Mabira, Bigodi Swamp and at the Nek. Brown Twinspot Clytospiza monteiri We saw these birds en route to the Royal Mile and later at Murro. Black-bellied Firefinch Lagonosticta rara A male was seen near Lake Kikorongo. Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala The most common firefinch in Uganda. Seen at a number of sites, with it being common in QENP. African (Blue-billed) Firefinch Lagonosticta rubricata Good views of this species near the Royal Mile. Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Uraeginthus bengalus Our best views of this beautiful avian were in the Murchison area. Yellow-bellied Waxbill Estrilda quartinia Very good views of these birds in cultivated highlands outside of Ruhija. Fawn-breasted Waxbill Estrilda paludicola Rank grassland near the Royal Mile, near Masindi and in QENP. NOTE: The Ethiopian near-endemic E. ochrogaster is sometimes recognized as a distinct species, Abyssinian Waxbill. This split is recognised by the IOC. Black-rumped Waxbill Estrilda troglodytes We saw these in Murchison Falls NP.

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Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild Seen near Murchison Falls and in the Masindi area. Black-crowned Waxbill Estrilda nonnula Some saw this one near the Royal Mile with further sightings at Bigodi Swamp. Kandt’s Waxbill Estrilda kandti kandti One was seen at Mubwindi Swamp, a leader only sighting. Black-faced Quail-Finch Ortygospiza atricollis A pair was seen very well on the north bank of Murchison Falls NP. Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata A widespread species, commonly seen throughout. Black-and-white Mannikin Lonchura bicolor Scattered views of this handsome manikin, with good views at Luwero Swamp Magpie Mannikin Lonchura fringilloides Two birds were seen near the Royal Mile.

Indigobirds, Whydahs Viduidae Village Indigobird Vidua chalybeata Good views of this species on the Bugungu Road. Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura Frequently recorded on the former half of the tour.

Wagtails, Pipits Motacillidae Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis Recorded at Mabamba Swamp and again at Buhoma and Ruhija Mountain Wagtail Motacilla clara This species was heard at Buhoma. African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp Common, and seen on many occasions on the tour. Yellow-throated Longclaw Macronyx croceus We saw them at scattered grassland areas on the trip. First seen near Mabamba Swamp. African Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus Seen in small numbers in QENP NOTE: African pipit taxonomy is in rather a disarray and much further research is required in the phylogeny of this grouping. Several forms which are considered subspecies are likely to become full species in their own rights and several new forms are surely still to be described. The identification of two new species of pipits from an urban hockey field in Kimberley, South Africa, provides an excellent illustration regarding how little is known about African pipits and how little attention has been paid to them. Plain-backed Pipit Anthus leucophrys We recorded this bird in QENP. NOTE: A. l. goodsoni of central and south-west Kenya may be split off from the nominate group A. leucophrys. The Ugandan races we recorded would probably remain within the nominate complex. Neither IOC nor Clements accept this split.

Finches Fringillidae Oriole Finch Linurgus olivaceus A male was seen at Ruhija, a leader only sighting.

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Western Citril Crithagra frontalis We saw this species near the Royal Mile. NOTE: This complex is now split into three distinct species, the eastern Southern Citril C. hyposticta, the western Western Citril C. frontalis (which is the form occurring in Uganda) and the nominate African Citril C. citrinelloides. IOC and Clements recognize these splits. Papyrus Canary Crithagra koliensis We had great views of one en route from Ruhija to Lake Mburo. White-rumped Seedeater Crithagra leucopygia This one showed well on the Bugungu Road. Black-throated Canary Crithagra atrogularis Two were seen in farmbush near Buhoma. Yellow-fronted Canary Crithagra mozambica Fairly common throughout Brimstone (Bully) Canary Crithagra sulphurata Recorded in farmbush near Buhoma and fairly common in Queen Elizabeth NP. Thick-billed Seedeater Crithagra burtoni Small numbers were seen daily at Buhoma and Ruhija. NOTE: The Tanzanian endemic S. melanochrous is sometimes split off a Kipengere Seedeater; this is accepted by the IOC. Streaky Seedeater Crithagra striolata Good views of this species in the vicinity of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Yellow-crowned Canary Serinus flavivertex Good views of one at Ruhija. NOTE: This species complex has been split into two, the nominate southern group would remain as Cape Canary Serinus canicollis and the form which we recorded in Uganda becomes Yellow-crowned Canary S. flavivertex. IOC and Clements both recognize this split.

Buntings Emberizidae Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Emberiza tahapisi We had good views of two on the Butiaba escarpment. Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris We saw them in Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo NP’s. Brown-rumped Bunting Emberiza affinis Brief views of this sought-after species in Murchison Falls NP Cabanis’s Bunting Emberiza cabanisi One was seen near the Royal Mile.

Annotated List of Mammals recorded

Taxonomy and nomenclature follows “The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals” by Jonathan Kingdon, Academic Press, 1997.

Total species recorded: 44

Apes Hominidae Chimpanzee Pan troglodytes We enjoyed a most memorable experience with a fabulous group of nine Chimps on the Royal Mile in Budongo Forest. Several males were seen beating buttress roots signalling their territory whilst a

Trip Report - Uganda 2014 40 female and baby fed in a small tree at eye level and several others sat grooming one another. It was a remarkable scene and to encounter them in the wild whilst not even trekking them was an unexpected bonus and yet another major highlight of this trip.

(Mountain) Gorilla Gorilla gorilla beringei Trekking for gorillas was at Ruhija, with the mobile family groups moving quite a lot along the steep hillsides (the name “Impenetrable” forest is supposedly derived from steepness, and hence impenetrability of this forest), and making for a rewarding, if challenging experience! The group enjoyed a wonderful experience with 13 Mountain Gorillas during their trek at Ruhija. Later whilst birding at Ruhija we came across several more Gorillas including a young male who gave superb views.

Colobid Monkeys Colobidae Central African Red Colobus Piliocolobus oustaleti Initially seen at Sebitole and we also had excellent views of these at Bigodi Wetland. Guereza (Black-and-white) Colobus Colobus guereza This attractive monkey was seen at a variety of forested and secondary forest sites on the tour.

Cheek-Pouch Monkeys Cercopithecidae Olive (Anubis) Baboon Papio anubis First seen at the Royal Mile, with large troops recorded in various forest and savanna situations thereafter Grey-cheeked Mangabey Lophocebus albigena ugandae We saw this species at Mabira Forest, Sebitole and Bigodi wetland. New work suggests that the ones found here are in fact endemic to Uganda, and thus Lophocebus ugandae become Uganda’s only endemic primate. Patas Monkey Cercopithecus patas We had good views of one male in Murchison Falls NP. Tantalus Monkey Cercopithecus pygerythrus Widespread and seen in a range woodland situations throughout Uganda. This species is also the species of “vervet” we saw in the south around Lake Mburo. L'Hoest's Monkey Cercopithecus lhoesti We saw these around Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A handsome forest species that spends a large proportion of its time on the ground. Blue (Gentle) Monkey Cercopithecus mitis stuhlmanni Seen very well on the Royal Mile with scattered sightings elsewhere Red-tailed Monkey Cercopithecus ascanius Good views of this species at Mabira, Kibale and Buhoma.

Lorisids Loridae Senegal Galago Galago senegalensis We heard this species calling in Lake Mburo NP. Demidoff’s Galago Galago demidoff We had good views of several on our night drive at Ruhija.

Flying-Foxes Pteropidae Straw-coloured Fruit Bat Eidolon helvum

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We saw these large bats at Jinja in large numbers. Ruwenzori Mountain Fruit Bat We had good views of one in Kibale NP.

Large-Winged Bats Megadermatidae Yellow-winged Bat Lavia frons Excellent views of these interesting and appropriately named bats in QENP and at Lake Mburo.

Hares & Rabbits Leporidae Uganda Grass-Hare (Bunyoro Rabbit) Poelagus marjorita We saw up to fifty on our extended night drive in Murchison Falls NP.

Squirrels Sciuridae Striped Ground Squirrel Xerus erychropus Two were seen en route to Mabamba, with a few scattered sightings in Murchison Falls NP. Fire-footed Rope Squirrel Funisciurus pyrropus One was seen in Kibale NP. Carruther’s Mountain Squirrel Funisciurus pyrropus We saw these in Ruhija and on the Mubwindi Swamp walk. Boehm's Squirrel Paraxerus boehmi We saw these small squirrel in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Alexander’s Dwarf Squirrel Paraxerus alexandri We had good views of several at Mabira Forest. Red-legged Sun Squirrel Heliosciurus rufobrachium Good views of two at Mabira Forest and another at Bigodi. Has rufous leggings and a banded tail.

Porcupines Hystricidae Crested Porcupine Hystrix cristata We had fabulous views of one in Murchison Falls NP.

Dogs & Allies Canidae Side-striped Jackal Canis adustus We had great views of one in Murchison Falls NP.

Mustelids Mustelidae Spot-necked Otter Lutra maculicollis Four seen swimming at the source of the Nile, in Owen Falls Dam near Jinja

Mongooses Herpestridae Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguinea One was seen en route to the Royal Mile, another in Murchison Falls NP and another near Murro. Dwarf Mongoose Helogale parvula These cute mongooses were seen well in Lake Mburo NP. Banded Mongoose Mungos mungo We saw a family group of 19 in Queen Elizabeth NP. Savannah Mongoose Dologale dybowski

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We had amazing views of three of this rare and localised species on a termite mound near the Royal Mile. White-tailed Mongoose Ichneumia albicauda Two were seen in Murchison Falls NP during our extended night drive.

Cats Felidae Leopard Panthera pardus We had amazing sightings of one in Queen Elizabeth NP. Lion Panthera leo One male was seen during the Kazinga Channel boat trip and a further five tree-climbing lions on the Ishasha road.

Giant Elephant Shrews Procavidae Chequered Elephant Shrew Rhynchocyon cirnei One was seen briefly at Kaniyo Pabidi.

Elephants Elephantidae African Elephant Loxodonta africana We had some lovely views of this species in Murchison Falls NP where we saw about 25 and then in Queen Elizabeth NP we found up to 50 daily.

Horses Equidae Common (Plains) Zebra Equus quagga boehmi Good views of up to fifty daily in and around Lake Mburo NP.

Hippopotamuses Hippopotamidae Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius Many were seen on boat cruises on major waterways (i.e. Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel, Lake Mburo). We also saw one leaving the lake for its nocturnal foraging foray while in Lake Mburo NP.

Pigs Suidae Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus Seen at all savanna parks (i.e. Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo NP’s).

Giraffes Giraffidae Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis rothschildi Great views of this species on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. According to some scientists, Giraffe could be split up into at least six species, with this one becoming Rothschild’s Giraffe (see http://scienceblogs.com/grrlscientist/2007/12/22/giraffe-species/).

Bovids & Horned Ungulates Cape (African) Buffalo Syncerus caffer These imposing bovids were seen in Lake Mburo NP. Lake Chad Buffalo Syncerus brachyceros These smaller bodied and smaller horned buffalo were seen in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP’s. The herds we saw along the Kazinga contained a few reddish individuals more akin to the Forest

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Buffalo in the forests of the Congo. Some theories state that some Forest Buffalo fled the hunting and habitat destruction in the Congo and made their way into QENP, where they then interbred with the savanna-inhabiting Lake Chad Buffalo. Nile Bushbuck Tragelaphus bor We saw these in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP’s. Cape Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus Bushbuck seen in Lake Mburo probably correspond to this species. Lake Victoria Sitatunga Tragelaphus spekei We had good scope views of two at Mubwindi Swamp. Common Eland Taurotragus oryx livingstonii Three of these enormous antelope were seen in Lake Mburo NP. Bush (Common/Grey) Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia Two were seen in Murchison Falls NP. Black-fronted Duiker Cephalophus nigrifrons kivuensis We enjoyed a number of views of this species at Ruhija. Ruwenzori Duiker Cephalophus rubidus We had good but brief views of one at Buhoma. Eastern Blue Duiker Philantomba a. aequatorialis One was seen well but briefly in Kibale NP. Sudan Oribi Ourebia montana Although threatened in other areas in Africa, we saw large numbers on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP. Bohor Reedbuck Redunca bohor Two were seen in Murchison Falls NP. Uganda Kob Kobus kob thomasi Common in open grassland habitat near water in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP’s. Defassa Waterbuck Kobus defassa These were seen in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo NP’s. Impala Aepyceros melampus These were common and easy to see in Lake Mburo NP. Uganda Topi Damaliscus ugandae We recorded these antelope in the Ishasha portion of QENP and in Lake Mburo NP. Lelwel Hartebeest (Kongoni) Alcelaphus lelwel This species was seen on a few occasions on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls NP.

Annotated List of Reptiles recorded

Total species recorded: 9

Finch’s Agama Agama finchi Some good views of these in Murchison Falls NP, where they were common. Southern (Blue-headed) Tree Agama Acanthocercus atricollis ugandaensis We saw this species very well in Kibale NP. Moreau’s Tropical House Gecko Hemidactylus mabouia Commonly seen on buildings at night; often recorded at checklist time! Western Savanna Monitor Varunus exanthematicus We had great views of one in Murchison Falls NP.

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Nile Monitor (Leguaan) Varanus niloticus We saw this lizard on the Kazinga Channel. Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus This ancient predator was seen in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP’s. Slender Green Snake Philothamnus heterolepidotus George had good views of one in Queen Elizabeth NP. Forest Cobra Naja melanoleuca We had good views of one in Queen Elizabeth NP. Jameson’s Mamba Dendroaspis jamesoni One was seen by some in Queen Elizabeth NP.

Reference Clabaut, C., A. Herrel, T. Sanger, T. B. Smith, and A. Abzhanov, 2009. Development of beak polymorphism in the African seedcracker, Pyrenestes ostrinus. Evolution & Development 11: 636-646.

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