For dedicated ornithologists, Uganda's prime attraction is the presence of more than 100 West African forest species at the most easterly-and most accessible- extent of their range. This alluring list of forest specialists includes the psychedelic Great blue Turaco and the raucous Black-and White casqued Hornbill, as well as the gem-like green Broadbill and 23 other species endemic to the Albertine Rift. Uganda is the best place to see what many rate as the most sought after African bird: the shoebill, a massive prehistoric-looking swamp-dweller notable for its heavy clog-shaped bill.
Once thought to be a relative of the storks the shoebill has because of its habitat and the way its flies with the neck retracted and powdering down patches been affiliated to the pelicans. The shoe bill also referred to as the "Whale headed Stork is a unique bird with hesitant similarity.
Living in extensive papyrus swamp habitats, the shoebill bill can be found also in central Africa from Southern Sudan to Northern Zambia and some wetlands of Tanzania, but with difficulty. The place to find these shoebills with comparative ease is in Uganda- Mabamba swamp that is found on Lake Victoria afew minutes drive from the International airport in Uganda. In Uganda the shoebill can also be found in Queen Elizabeth (South west) and Murchison falls National Park in Northern Uganda. The best way to view this bird is by taking a boat instead of driving through the park.
They are Large, grey, long-legged, swamp-dwelling African bird Balaeniceps rex. The shoebill is about 1.5 m/5 ft tall, with a large wide beak 20 cm/8 in long and more than 10 cm/4 in wide. It uses its beak to hallow reptiles, fish, molluscs and carrions out of the mud. They live in pairs several different kilometers away from each group. However they can be found in groups at favourite feed spots.
Unique to Africa the shoebill is a humble and unique bird that birders wouldn't dare miss on their trip to Africa.
Dickson Richards is a freelance Writer in Africa.For adventures,visit Kenya Safari Maasai, and Gorilla Safari Uganda or Chimpanzee Tracking
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