Try birding anywhere or in Mburo National Park this Christmas season

Dec 18, 2019

while saving for a chicken and turkey to feast on this Christmas, I have learned that there are more than eight different types of weaver birds.

Until recently, I always went to Lake Mburo National Park to see zebras, antelopes, hippos and giraffes grazing.

With a team of birders from the UK, US, Greece, and Australia, I had my perception of traveling and adventure changed.

On my attractions, I have since added birds.  "Birding is now a lifestyle," Mike Bergen from the US, says. "So, this Christmas eat your turkey knowing there are more than 8,000 other bird species.

In this hobby, you meet fellow birders physically and on social media. It is fascinating to know that each bird you see has its own plumage, nesting habits and habitat that suits them." 

True to his word, while saving for a chicken and turkey to feast on this Christmas, I have learned that there are more than eight different types of weaver birds. 

Owls don't cause death Owls also vary but one thing they have in common are the large eyes and an international belief that they are bringers of bad news.  "I have been to the US, UK and India," confided a seasoned bird guide, Herbert Byaruhanga.

"The belief is the same - that you hear the hoot and someone dies. But I contest it. Because even where there are no owls people still die. Owls if anything comes to feast on rats in our neighborhoods."   

What to carry for birding  While birding in Mburo, I was made shy because while I was using my eyes and ears to bird, the others were armed with binoculars and sophisticated cameras with infrared lenses. They were getting detailed photos of shy and thin birds. The vibrant colors were eye-grabbing. 

One of them, Peter Waanders from Australia, had reason to wet our throats with any drink of our choice.  "I have every reason to celebrate with you, fellow birders," announced Waanders. "I have seen my 4,000th bird in Uganda! I have been in this hobby for more than 30 years. And I find Uganda a birders Mecca after my excursions in Canada, Croatia, South Africa, and India." 

Thomas Bird from UK who was speechless after seeing a calm and composed Shoebill in Mabamba swamp.  "Uganda is in its own league when it comes to birding," Bird said.

"I have been placed for 13 years hunting for the Shoebill but all has been in vain. And here I am - it went viral when I shared it on social media."  According to Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) marketing manager Claire Mugabi they are targeting birders who spend between $7000 and $12000 on travel, accommodation and other requirements while scouting for different birds in their habitats. 

"After their tour, our 10 destination buyers bought artifacts to take back home as mementos," Mugabi said.  "But for a domestic birder, you can begin in your backyard before going to the forests, national parks, lakeshores and swamps. The hobby worth adopting this Christmas has no age limit."

 

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