Endemic Species of Uganda : Uganda is a natural charm lies in her natural disposition; her perfectly aligned physical features and mostly in her endearing wildlife. Right off when one arrives at Entebbe International Airport, one is fed with the sensation that this land has been blessed with a unique kind of abundance. From green country, plains and ancient rugged ridged, to free flowing streams and warm hospitable people, Uganda is definitely the destination of choice for your well deserved vacation or safari. Explore outstanding destinations such as the source of River Nile, the Rwenzori Mountain range and Lake Victoria among many others.
When it comes to the wildlife, Uganda is specially abounding in an array of animals and birds that make the highlight of many safaris. The diversity in itself is mind blowing to the point that you will encounter some species that do not occur anywhere else in the world. So as you predict your Uganda safari, make it a point to check out these endemic species that you may never have a chance to see anywhere. These include; the Mammals, Rwenzori Shaggy rat, Kityo’s Serotine, Ugandan lowland shrew, Nkozi (or Ssese) island Sitatunga, Rwenzori Duiker, Birds, Fox’s weaver, Karamoja Apalis, Reptiles, Tolley’s Forest Chameleone, Acuminate Bush Viper, Lolui Island Skink, Amphibians, Lake Victoria toad, Roux’s Puddle Frog, Monokid catfish, Elephant catfish, Rwenzori barb, Albertine rift endemics
These species occur within the montane forests of the rift valley stretch between north of Lake Albert and Lake Tanganyika. Some of these species are; Mountain Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, Rwenzori Colobus, African green broadbill, Rwenzori Turaco, Congo bay owl, Grauer’s cuckoo-shrike, Handsome Francolin, Dwarf otter shrew, Archer’s robin chat, Dwarf Honeyguide, Shelly’s crimson wing, Rwenzori batis, Blue headed sunbird, Red faced woodland warbler, Stripe breasted tit, Neumann’s warbler, Kivu ground thrush, Red throated alethe
Where to see the endemic species of Uganda
Mount Rwenzori national park – Rwenzori Mountain ranges is located in southwestern Uganda near the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Ruwenzori Mountain range is one of the most beautiful places to be in Uganda. It features captivating landscapes adorned with montane, woodland and alpine vegetation. The valleys of this mountain range are refreshed with clear streams and its summits with glistening glaciers and snow.
The Rwenzori Mountains are perfect for spotting Albert endemic species; especially birds like the Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori Batis and mammals like the Rwenzori duiker and Rwenzori Shaggy rat. The pristine forests are a conducive habitat for a diverse range of butterflies, reptiles and flora.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home of the Mountain Gorillas. This ancient forest is one of the most diverse in the world. It is home to a wide range of flora and fauna including the highly sought after mountain gorillas. The forest extends in the DRC and is perfect for catching the Albert endemic species and a wide range of birds as well.
Kibale National Park
Kibale forest national park is location within the Albertine rift makes it perfect for spotting a number of endemics. The park is also home to a wide range of primate species including Chimpanzee and Golden monkeys. Some unique flora, butterflies and reptiles can also be found here on your wildlife safari as well.
Mgahinga Gorilla national park
Mgahinga national park is a place to trek the endangered Golden Monkeys. This park is the only other destination to see Mountain Gorillas in Uganda. It is located at the foothills of the Virunga Mountain range that stretches into the Democratic Republic of Condo and Rwanda. The montane vegetation here supports a number of unique flora and a diversity of animals.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo national park is located in northeastern region of Uganda, and has unique wildlife sightings. Several endemics such as the Karamoja Apalis and many nearly endemic species can be seen here. The isolation of the park also allows for private and low-paced excursions.
