Animals in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Animals in Queen Elizabeth National Park : Home to a mind numbing array of African wildlife, Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is one of Africa’s richest and most diverse safari destinations. The park offers spectacular geography with zones of; Forest, Savanah, Mountain, and Crater Lake hosting more than 95 species of mammals and over 600 species of birds. The park provides unparalleled opportunities to see animals in their natural elements, from the world famous tree climbing lions to great herds of elephants.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most biodiverse protected area covering 2,000 square kilometers. This rare location between the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Edward is filled with life. Open savannas, dense forests, wetlands and lakes which divide the park make it feasible for a wide variety of wildlife species to survive. The variety makes this park a perfect place for travelers who want to see all the African wildlife in one place.
Rare Tree Climbing Lions
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the main attractions for lions. Unlike many other African lion populations, the Park’s southern Ishasha sector lions are famous for an unusual habit of climbing trees. Fig and acacia trees are home to these lions who can be seen lounging, allegedly to escape biting insects and cool off in the trees. One of the thrilling and rare experiences to encounter these powerful cats resting over the savanna, is what makes Queen Elizabeth National Park unique from other safari destinations.
Leopards
In rare occasions leopards can also be sighted in the park, they are more associated with thick growth forests. Leopards are famous for their stealth and abilities as a hunter and can easily be seen curling up on tree branches during the day. One of the best places to see these solitary beautiful cats in their natural habitat is in Queen Elizabeth National Park, while in Uganda.
Gentle Giants
In Queen Elizabeth National Park, you will also have the lucky chance of coming across the largest land mammals on earth, the African elephants. Free roaming the savanna, it’s frequent at water sources like Kazinga Channel a refreshing respite on hot days. People can also watch elephants quietly grazing on what is available such as grass and shrub, playing by splashing water, among others. The African savanna elephant species is known for its large, fan shaped ears and curved tusks; the park’s elephants are part of this species.
Hippos, and crocodiles
Kazinga channel joins Lake Edward and Lake George, which is full of animals. The size of the hippo population is one of the biggest sights here. Boat safari along Kazinga Channel allows visitors to see some of Africa’s densest concentrations of hippos estimated to be here. Nile crocodiles glide through the water or lounge on the banks, also. An awe-inspiring experience to watch these prehistoric predators in their habitat, it’s a must see when you come to the park.
Chimpanzees
Kyambura Gorge is known as the ‘Valley of Apes’ and is a rare opportunity for those interested in primates to get close to chimpanzees. The controlled chimpanzee tracking tours enable the tourists to see these cool characters of the forest, as they hunt for food, seriously or play around or simply socialize. Chimpanzees seen at Kyambura Gorge are part of a habituated troop, where they are habituated to human presence, close enough to watch intently.
Vervet Monkeys and Olive Baboons
You can see Vervet monkeys and olive baboons all through Queen Elizabeth National Park. Playful social and curious primates are often found near the park entrance and around the picnic sites. Vervet monkeys are recognizable by their blue faces and long tails, while baboons are simply larger with a tendency to travel in groups, males sporting great strength and dominance.
Antelope Species
Antelope species abound in Queen Elizabeth National Park, each living in a different part of the park. Some of the most notable include:
Ugandan Kob: These graceful animals are iconic to Uganda and you often see these herds of them grazing across the savanna. Their coats are reddish brown and easily recognizable; the males have distinctive lyre shaped horns.
Topi: Boasting rather dark plumage and rather slender body, topis are fast runners who can be watched feeding in park’s plains.
Bushbuck: These are small, reclusive antelopes which prefer habitats with plenty of trees and immediate proximity to water. Bushbucks with their spotted coats and spiraled horns are perfect camouflages.
Waterbuck: The name waterbuck is true, for they prefer staying close to water bodies, away from predators. Other antelopes are bigger, but they have distinctive rings of white around their tails.
Buffalo Herds
Among the most easily seen animals in the park are the Cape buffaloes or African buffaloes. They move in large herds, and are most often seen near water sources. Although their outside calmness seems never weak, buffaloes are still strong creatures and they can be even dangerous with their provocations. A great reminder of how beautiful Africa is, observing massive herds of grazing or migrant buffalo through the park’s grasslands.
Birds
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a bird’s paradise, with over 600 species. The diversity of the park’s many habitats make it one of Africa’s premier birding destinations. Some of the notable species include:
African Fish Eagle: African fish eagles are famous for their bill white head and distinctive call are often seen diving to catch fish in the Kazinga Channel.
Shoebill Stork: The shoebill stork is rare and prehistoric looking and one of the things that birdwatchers most want to see. The park’s wetlands sometimes play host to this unique bird.
Flamingos: The park’s crater lakes are home to migratory flamingos, making a stunning pink spectacle.
Kingfishers, Bee-Eaters, and Turacos: These birds are common sightings along the park’s lakes, rivers, and forests and are brightly colored and beautiful and add a splash of color.
