While Uganda is renowned for its Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—its savannah parks have diverse other captivating wildlife.
Most of the wildlife is found in the Savannah Parks namely: Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National, and Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, among others.
The landscape of Savanna parks is characterized by open grasslands, scattered trees, and seasonal wetlands, which support a diverse range of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.
We have highlighted some of the remarkable wildlife found in Uganda’s savannah parks, showcasing the country’s rich ecological diversity.
- Mammals in Uganda’s Savannah Parks
Giraffe:
Giraffes can be found in Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park.
Giraffes are known for their long necks and distinctive spot patterns, giraffes are a common sight in Uganda’s savannahs. They feed on leaves from tall trees and are often seen browsing in open grasslands.
Warthog:
Warthogs are common in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park and can also be sighted in Lake Mburo National Park.
Warthogs are easily recognizable by their tusks and wart-like bumps on their faces. They are often seen searching for roots and tubers in the savannah.
Hartebeest:
Hartebeest found in Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Hartebeests are large, robust antelopes with a distinctive appearance, including long, curved horns and a sloping back. They are well-adapted to open grasslands and are often seen in herds.
Waterbuck:
Waterbucks are found near water sources in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park and can also be sighted in Lake Mburo National Park.
Waterbucks are large antelopes with a characteristic ring-shaped marking on their rump. They are typically found near rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
Oribi:
Oribi is found in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The oribi is a small, agile antelope with a sleek body and slender legs. It is often found in open grasslands and is known for its speed and agility.
Conclusion
Uganda’s savannah parks have a diverse array of wildlife beyond the famous Big Five. From the towering giraffes and elusive hartebeests to the vibrant birds and intriguing reptiles, the country’s savannahs offer a wealth of opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.
By supporting conservation efforts and appreciating the rich biodiversity of Uganda’s savannahs, we can contribute to the preservation of these remarkable ecosystems for future generations.
