Lake Opeta may be one of the smallest lakes in Uganda but is among the most celebrated sites in the country as far as birding is concerned. Located in the eastern region of Uganda, this lake connects the dry Karamoja with the wetter central – eastern parts of Uganda. Lake Opeta with its surrounding swamps and marshes is among the handful of other virgin wetlands in the country.
The lake receives its waters from Mount. Elgon rains and with its counterpart L. Bisinia drain their waters into the Lake Kyoga basin. It’s a converging place for wildlife from Pian Upe wildlife reserve in the east and several other species can be viewed here like zebra, buffalo, antelopes, and many more that call this place home.
In addition, Lake Opeta is a member of Uganda’s 33 Important Bird areas and was enlisted in 2006 as Ramsar site and a wetland of international importance. This reason makes the area one of the most sought-after birding destinations. Lake Opeta is the sole habitat for Fox’s weaver – Uganda’s only endemic bird and also a good number of shoebills, only recorded in a few other areas in the country.
Over 160 bird species have been sighted in this area with the Fox’s weaver, unique papyrus gonolek and the legendary shoebill stork leading the list. Birding is primarily done on boat rides through the thick papyrus marshes following snaking trails in the swampy waters. Accessing this wetland is one of the hardest things you will encounter but also the most rewarding birding expedition you can think of in Uganda.
Fox’s Weaver – Uganda’s endemic pride.
The Fox’s weaver is globally acknowledged as critically threatened with other species like the shoebill, condo serpent eagle and African green broad bill. This weaver family can only be found in eastern Uganda in Lake Opeta and Lake Bisinia marshes. It’s a common resident in the districts of Kumi, Soroti, and Kawasaki. With the efforts being put into conservation, their numbers are expected to rise to approximately 400 individuals in the future.
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