These are birds in Uganda, one of the most gifted and exciting bird-watching destinations in the world, with a profusion of bird species, sailing in the skies and into the hearts of the wilderness, forest territories, mountains and swamps. Over 1000 unique bird species call Uganda home and of those, the Falcons and Caracaras are worth your time and encounter.
Once described by Winston Churchill- the former British wartime prime Minister; the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is where to spot the Falcons and caracaras. It is a lovely nation in the east of the continent of Africa neighbored by Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Caracaras and falcons are rare birds; active during day time. In comparison with other prey-eating birds such as eagles, kites, and hawks; falcons and caracaras use their beaks to kills prey.
There are about 62 species recorded in the world; of which 16 of them are in Uganda; namely; Lesser kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), pygmy Falcon (polihierax semitorquatus), greater kestrel (Falco rupicolous), Eurasian kestrel (Falco naumanni), sooty falcon(Falco concolor), Eleonora’s falcon (Falco eleonprae) red-necked falcon (Falco ardosiaceusi), African hobby (Falco cuvierii), Amur falcon (Falco eleonorae), Gray kestrel(Falco ardosiaceus), Red-footed falcon (Falco vespertinus), fox kestrel (Falco Alopex), Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicusand), Taita Falcon (Falco fasciinucha), Peregrine Falcon (peregrinus among others.
Caracaras.
Also known as the Carrion hawk; caracara belongs to the Falconidea family and is one of the new species of the Polyborinae subfamily. They are lovely, social, but also very aggressive; though small in size, about 16 to 24 inches long. They rule vultures territories; feeding on reptiles, birds, amphibians, and carrions. Caracaras are identified by their red striped cheeks & throat and long legs.
They spend most of the time on the treetops or soaring above the horizon; while monitoring a prey to capture and feed on. These inhabit forest areas, where they build nests with sticks and grass at the giant treetops.
Falcons.
Scientific name – polihierax semitorquatus is one of the most beautiful birds in Uganda. Falcons are ranked among the smallest raptor birds in the world, found in the easy and South Africa. An adult falcon is identified by white fur on its face and the lower parts, female with a gray chestnut at the back, and then a brown back for the Juveniles.
The pygmy falcons are dominant in the country, feeding on insects, tiny mammals, and small reptiles, and many more. Once in a while, the falcons share nests with weaver birds which often build larger nests. Falcons can be easily found in Kidepo valley National park, far in the north eastern corner of Uganda.
How and when to see caracaras and falcons in Uganda?
The most remarkable way of encountering these rare birds is while on a bird-watching safari in the different birding destinations in the country, namely; Kibale Forest National Park, Kidepo Valley National park, Bigodi swamp, and Queen Elizabeth national park among others. The birding adventure is done all year round, with the activities starting very early in the birding, or late afternoon.
The experienced birding guides help in identifying the different species by their unique features. March, April, May, and November are the best birding months, though wet.
What to carry on a trip to encounter caracaras & falcons include; all birding documents, binoculars, cameras, hiking boots, and rain prove to protect against any shower. Birding costs 30usd for foreign Nonresidents, 30usd for foreign residents, and 10,000shs for Ugandans. This cost excludes transport, feeding, and any extra activity.
Encountering the rare caracaras and falcons is a unique opportunity and unforgettable for every birding enthusiast. These birds are so attractive, tiny and active during day time. With us; your search for falcons is secured and guaranteed success.
