The Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)

/0 Comments/in /by

The Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)

The Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta) : also known as the laughing hyena is a specie classed as the sole extant member of the genus Crocuta. It is a native to the Sub-Saharan Africa in countries like Uganda, Ghana, Zambia, Malawi, etc.  This spotted hyena is the most social of the carnivores which is the largest group sizes and with most complex social behaviors. Different from other species, the social system of the spotted hyena is openly competitive other than cooperative. Interestingly, females care and provide only for their own clubs rather than assisting each other.

On the other hand, males display no paternal care and their societies are larger than males and dominate them. Being the most common large carnivore in Africa, the spotted hyena is a greatly successful animal due to its part adaptability and opportunism. The species is primarily a hunter but at times it’s a savage with the capacity to eat and digest a bone, skin, and other animal wastes. Basically, these animals hunt alone, in small groups of 2-5 members or in large groups. During a hunt, they often run through ungulate herds in order to select an individual to attack. Once selected, their prey is chased over a long distance often several kilometers.

Physical Appearance

The spotted hyena has a strong and well developed neck including forequarters, but relatively underdeveloped behind parts. In addition, the rump is round instead of rectangular which prevent attackers coming from getting a grip on it. Their fur also varies greatly and always changes with age and it is made up of spots, and much shorter. Furthermore, the base color is usually pale greyish-brown or the vice versa. Whereby an irregular pattern of roundish spots is superimposed on the hind and back quarters.   The spots vary in size, even on single individuals and their variable distinction may be reddish, blackish or almost deep brown.

A less distinct spot pattern is visible on the legs and belly but not on the throat and chest. However, some made research confirms that at times the spot patterns help to identify out individual hyenas. The crest is usually reddish-brown in color, the crown and upper part of the face is brownish including a white band above both eyes. The area around the rhinarium, the lips and the back portion of the chin are all blackish. Besides, the limbs are spotted, though the feet vary in color ranging from light brown to blackish. The mammal has appropriately a large heart, nearly to 1% of its body weight thus giving it great endurance in long chases. This spotted hyena’s skull has a much greater size and narrower sagittal crests. Due to its size, it has one of the most powerful built skulls among the Carnivores. 

Behavior

Spotted hyenas form social groups namely clans and these may comprise of 3 to 80 members. These large clans usually occur in prime territory with large prey concentrations, such as Kidepo valley national park. On the other hand, smaller clans occur in the desert areas in southern Africa. Here, all females are dominant to all males and they remain in their natal clans for the rest of their life. Males scatter or disperse upon reaching sexual maturity and once a male joins another clan, he enters a dominance line up that the other males respect.

Males spend quite a long time on developing relationships with females in the clan. In fact, they follow females for periods of days or weeks and eventually gain favor with the females through this behavior. Even though these hyenas live in clans, the members of a clan are only observed all together in three circumstances. These include; when defending the territory, at communal den as well as during kills. Sometimes the clan members forage alone or in small groups. However, higher ranking females have been shown to combine more with kin than low ranking females. 

Hunting Behavior

Leaving alone other large African carnivores, spotted hyenas do not normally prey on any species. When hunting medium to large sized prey, they tend to select certain animal categories. These include; the young animals that are frequently targeted as well as the old ones. The usually spot and tracks live prey by sight, smell and hearing. However, carrion is normally detected by smell and the sound of other animals or predators feeding. Their auditory perception is powerful in that it can detect sounds of predators killing prey or feeding on carcasses over a quite distance. The hyena relies more on sight than smell when hunting and does not follow its prey’s prints. Besides, small prey is killed by being shaken in the mouth whilst large prey is eaten alive.

Denning Behavior

Basically, in these animals, the clan’s social life revolves or rotates around a communal den. Some clans tend to use particular den sites for years while others may use several different dens within a year or  simultaneously. These dens consist of more than a dozen entrances and are normally located on flat grounds. Their tunnels oval in section, being wider they are high and narrow down from an entrance. Dens have large bare patches around their entrances where hyenas move or lie down on.

Because of their size, adult hyenas are incapable of using the full extent of their burrows, since most tunnels are dug by cubs or smaller animals. These hyenas rarely dig their own dens, having been observed for the most part to use the abandoned burrows of different animals like warthogs, jackals, hares, etc. Faeces are normally deposited 20 metres (66 feet) away from the den. However, they urinate wherever they happen to be. Dens are used mainly by several females at once, whereby it is not uncommon to see up to 2 metres in width, the height being rather less. 

Reproduction

Reproduction in spotted hyenas is polygamous and they are non-seasonal breeder however a birth peak occurs during the wet season. As a matter of fact, females are polyestrous, with an estrus period lasting nearly two weeks. This animals is promiscuous and no enduring pair bonds are formed. In any case, both sexes may copulate with several mates over the course for several years. Male spotted hyenas will display or show submissive behavior when approaching females in heat.

Even if the male over weighs or outweighs his partner, it normally favors younger males born or joined into the clan. Males perform a bowing display to females before mating and lowers his muzzle to the ground. He later, advances quickly towards the female, bows again and then paws the ground close at the hind quarters of the female. The female’s dominance assures that males are timid and will retreat immediately if the female displays any aggression.  The gestation period is 4 months and females usually bear twins although 1 to 4 young are possible. The females give birth through their penis-like clitoris and during birth the clitoris ruptures.

This basically allows the young to pass through and the resulting wounds take several weeks to heal. Cubs are not weaned until they are between 14 and 18 months of age and females are capable of producing a litter every 11 to 21 months. The newborn cubs weigh nearly from 1 to 1.6kg and are normally quite precocious being born with their eyes open. The age at sexual maturity is about three years, although some males may be sexually active at the age of two. Females are very protective of their young and do not tolerate other hyenas around their babies. Interestingly, males have not been reported to have any role in parental care.

Communication

The hyena is well known for its wide variety of vocal communication. Some of these include; groans and soft squeals that are uttered during hyena greetings. A whoop is given out as a contact call whereby a fast whoop is uttered when excited at a kill. Usually males give the fast whoop calls often than the females but are generally ignored. However, female calls generally evoke much more of a reaction.

Additionally a lowing call is used by impatient hyenas who are always kept waiting at a kill. Spotted hyenas also possess a complex set of postures in communication, like when threatened or afraid. Here, the ears are folded flat, and are usually followed with baring of the teeth and flattening of the mane. During any attack by either wild dogs or other hyenas, it lowers its hindquarters. During an allegation attack, the head is held high with the ears cocked, mouth closed, mane erect and the hindquarters high. The tail normally hangs down when neutral, though it changes position according to the situation.

Feeding

The spotted hyena is the most carnivorous member of the Hyaenidae and have a reputation for being mostly scavengers. However, this is not accurate since a study revealed 70% of the diet was composed of direct kills. Generally clans split up into hunting groups of 2 to 5 individuals and they eat a variety of items. These include; waterbucks, impalas, warthogs, topi, elands, hares, jackals not to mention but a few. Hyenas use their keen senses of hearing, sight and smell to hunt live prey and at times, it chases its prey for a long distance. Although they are aggressive towards each other when feeding, they compete frequently through speed of eating other than fighting each other as lions do.  In addition, they also hunt in regions of higher concentrations of prey. They do not require much water instead they normally spend approximately 30 seconds drinking.

Where to find them in Uganda

In Uganda the spotted hyena can be spotted during game drives in different national parks. These include; Murchison falls national park, Kidepo valley national park, Queen Elizabeth national park and more.

The African Martial eagle

/0 Comments/in /by

The African Martial eagle

The African Martial eagle : (polemaetus bellicosus) is a large eagle native to sub-Saharan Africa countries. These incluced; Uganda, Ghana, Zambia, Malawi, not to mention  but a few. It is the only member of the genus polemaetus, a species of the booted eagle sub-family (Aguilinae) and has feathering over its tarsus. It is a fairly opportunistic predator varying its prey selection between mammals, birds and reptiles. Its hunting technique is unique since it is one of the few eagle species known to hunt primarily from a high soar, by stooping on its quarry. Due to its habit of taking livestock and regionally valuable game, local farmers and game wardens frequently seek to eliminate them. However, the effect of eagles on prey is almost certainly considerably exaggerated. The martial eagle is perhaps naturally scarce due to its requirement for large territories and low reproductive rates.  

Description

Martial eagles are Africa’s largest eagles and males are slightly smaller than females nearly (76% of the size). The adults have brown upper-parts, a short and dark crest. In addition, the underparts are white with brown to black spots that extend to feathered legs. Furthermore, the bill is long, strongly hooked and black. Toes are bluish gray and armed with large curved talons. Wings are long and slightly pointed with dark under-wing coverts, however the flight feathers are barred. The tail is short, lighter in appearance and is also barred although females have more spots on the underparts than males. Juveniles have pale to white upper-parts and have pale wings with light under-wing coverts.

Behavior

These eagles speed exceptional amount of time in air and spends most of the time hunting or soaring high above the ground. They are only perceived via binoculars (normally invisible to the naked eyes) with the help of their large wings and broad tail. They are also able to soar excellently although poor on maneuvering which directly explains why they avoid dense forests. These birds hunt by attacking in a well-controlled dive at a slanted angle and striking prey with their long legs.

They often perch on dead branches and trees that gives them a wide view of the areas. They basically return to these perches when resting since they are very shy and often avoid humans.  However, martial eagles especially adult birds, are typically devoted to less disturbed areas. They also tend to be very solitary and are not known to tolerate others of the own species in the area outside of the pair during the breeding season.

Reproduction

These birds have a slow breeding rate and nest in large trees or pylons often situated on hill sides. The nest is usually enormous about (4-6 feet in diameter) made of sticks up to 1.5 inches in diameter and lined with green leaves. Pairs may build multiple nests and alternate between nests on successive years. The nests are often re-used from year to year with the female repairing parts of the structure and re-lining the interior with leaves. Besides, mating seasons vary across the geographical ranges, although it generally occurs during the dry seasons and often breed once every two years.

Generally, the females lay 1-2 eggs and incubation lasts for 45 to 50 days and chicks fledge 90 to 100 days. However, males have been observed incubating and rarely bring food to incubating females until the eggs hatch. Thereafter, males will hunt and feed females for approximately 2 months. Chicks are born without feathers and become fully fledged after 90 days. Afterwards, they attempt their flight and spend several years in the nest before being chased off by the adults.  Juveniles remain close to the nest for up to 6 months, and do not reach full independence until 2 to 3 years of age. They usually reach reproductive maturity at 4 to 5 years of age. Generally martial eagles lack a mating dance although both sexes will make a loud distinctive cry during mating periods. Eventually, they form monogamous pairs which they mate with for life.

Vocalization

These martial eagles are silent for most of the year, however during mating season they cry kwi-kwi-kluee-kluee. Like all birds, they perceive their environment through tactile, auditory, visual and chemical stimuli.  The martial eagle is a weak and infrequent vocalizer since vocal activity has been reported even during the breeding season. The recorded contact call between pair members consists of the birds, usually when perched, letting out a low mellow whistle, ko_wee_oh. The same vocalization is known to have been uttered by females when male brings food. During territorial aerial display and sometimes when perched, adults may utter a loud, trilling klee_klee_klooeee_kulee. In fact, the territorial call may be heard from some distance. A soft quop may be heard, made by pairs around their nest, perhaps being a mutual contact call. 

Feeding

Martial eagles eat a variety of medium sized mammals, birds and lizards usually weighing between 1-5 kilograms. Determined, anything available in their territories including much larger animals like cape hares, squirrels, mongooses, etc. At times, game birds and waterfowl make up a large portion of their diet. Some of these include; francolins, bustards, guinea fowls, not to mention but a few. They also prey on animals like small antelopes, young impalas, vervet monkeys, baboons, snakes, monitor lizards, etc. In fact, these eagles have been seen killing and eating up to 35 kilograms.

Explore Africa’s Beauty | Nature & Wildlife

/1 Comment/in /by

Explore Africa’s Beauty | Nature & Wildlife

Explore Africa’s Beauty | Nature & Wildlife : The continent teems with unique landscapes, ancient history, geographical wonders and active adventures to enjoy. From exploring its vast, open savannas and dense jungle interiors to sampling a cheeky. These include; Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees, South Africa’s inspiring attractions. Botswana’s unspoiled treasures, Kenya’s contrasting wilderness, Tanzania’s inimitable experiences. Zambia’s thundering Africa, Namibia’s striking Ecology, Zimbabwe’s world of wonders, etc. 

Reason whey you should visit Africa

Experience an African safari

Africa is synonymous with the wildlife safari whereby Africa’s National Parks are rich with a diversity of wildlife and birdlife. With its famous destinations to clap eyes on animals like lions, zebras, giraffes, elephants, cheetahs. Leopards, impalas, kobs, jackals, rhinos, wildebeests, antelopes, not to mention but a few. With bird species such as; African fish eagles, martial eagles, red billed buffalo weavers, shoebill stork. White headed buffalo weavers, turacos, Grey plantain eaters, sunbirds, lapwings, jacanas, bee-eaters. Robin chats, plovers, night jars, ibises, hornbills, gonoleks, crested cranes, flycatchers, kingfishers, etc. African safari isn’t just about glimpsing these animals from afar but you’re completely immersed in their own untamed world. All those experiences you are most likely not to forget, and definitely putting one for the bucket list.

Soak up the checkered political history

With a political history as shocking and fascinating, Africa is famously home to Nelson Mandela, an antiapartheid revolutionary. He was imprisoned on Robben Island a few kilometers off Cape Town in South Africa for 18 years. In fact, he spent his 27 years behind bars and to this day his cell remains furnished as it was at the time.

Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas (The pearl of Africa)

You will never forget the moment you first lay eyes on a Gorilla in the wild in Uganda. Rising at dawn to trek through the humid jungle while here, expect challenges and obstacles. Experience these as you battle through the appropriately termed impenetrable Forest. Basically, it is comprised of scaling steep paths and trudging through muddy ravines in search of the majestic creatures. At times after a healthy trek, gorilla families are revealed chewing bamboo shoots, scratching their heads, breast feeding the young ones and climbing trees. Here, time seems to stand still as you observe these gentle and shy giants relaxing in their natural habitat.

Explore colorful coastal cities

Nestled between mountains and the ocean, Cape Town is one of Africa’s most stunning and colorful coastal cities. Head to the Table Mountain for seriously epic views as well as a dip at the picture perfect Clifton beach. A sensational stretch of sand and sea that has been awarded a Blue Flag Beach status, which means “water”. It has got pristine beaches, epic sunsets, warm, balmy nights and palm trees to boot. the African island of Mauritius is basically the place to soak up the sunshine and veg out on beach.

Visit one of the seven natural wonders of the world

Forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is known as the greatest sheet of falling water in the world. With natural wonders of the world, the true majesty and spectacle of Victoria Falls is difficult to describe since it is a sight to behold. Besides, the falls are 1.7km wide with a volume between 20,000 and 700,000 cubic meters. This is water per minute falling down a vertical drop of 100m.

Behold breathtaking landscapes

When it comes to incredible scenery, Africa is right up there with the best. Boasting vast savannas, stunning beaches and dramatic mountains, this continent has it all. Throw in epic canyons, sugar plantations and extinct volcanoes and you will have endless opportunities to explore nature at its finest.

Indulge in spectacular food and wine

In fact, not many people realize that South African wine lands are spectacular than famous wine regions of the world. Indulge in wine tasting, wine making tours and delicious cuisine as you take in the magnificent scenery.

Head to the waters for a different Safari experience

Although not commonly associated with the country’s dry landscape, there are plenty of water based activities. These include; white water rafting on Kenya’s River Tana, Uganda’s river Nile experience. Canoeing down the mighty Zambezi, canoeing on the second deepest lake in Africa Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda and exploring its exciting islands. Canoeing down Manambolo River in Madagascar brimming with endemic birds and enter the spectacular and less visited Manambolo Gorge through a limestone plateau. Therefore, if your inner water-child is calling for a trip with water activities, Africa has all you need and further more.

Tropical beaches that rival some of the world’s best

Africa certainly has a lot of beaches making it impossible to choose the absolute best. However, a top pick would be the beaches on the small island of Zanzibar. This is just off the coast from the Tanzanian capital of Dar es Salaam. This small island basically boasts clear azure waters, coral white and a variety of diving and snorkeling opportunities. It is also a perfect place to relax after completing a safari or trek up Africa’s highest peaks like Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. 

Luxury glamping

Africa offers the best glamping experience, a fantastic and memorable way to experience a safari. Experience the comfort of a hotel with the thrill of being immersed in nature and separated by the walls of your canvas tent. However with glamping, expect proper beds with pillows and private balconies with hot tubs looking over the savanna.

Hang out with the meerkats

Get up close with the cutest animal in Africa the meerkat! Only in Africa can you interact with meerkats in their natural habitats in the desert regions of South Africa. In fact, hanging out with these most social and fearless animals will be a highlight of any African holiday.

Vibrant cities

Explore Morocco’s Marrakesh, a densely packed, medieval city that originally dates back to the Berber empire. In fact, the maze of alleys and prosperous markets evokes images of the Disney’s Aladdin. While here, you will be hard-pressed shaking the magic carpet from your mind. However, it will done as you navigate hundreds of intricately hand-woven rugs from the electric souks. In contrast, South Africa’s Cape Town is a modern cosmopolitan city that boasts a spectacular coastline and rich in cultural heritage and history. The city is also mysteriously beautiful both for its setting against one of the new seven wonders of nature. 

Geological wonders

Visit the world’s highest sand dunes in the Namib Desert. While here, witness the world’s largest and most powerful waterfall, Victoria Falls in Zambia/ Zimbabwe. You can as well explore the lush water world of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Additionally, discover Ngorongoro crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site of the world’s largest unbroken, unflooded volcanic caldera. You also stopover at Fish River Canyon, the second largest river canyon in the world. Discover Murchison falls the world’s strongest waterfalls where the Nile forces its way through the gaps in the rocks only 7m wide. Surprisingly it tumbles 43m before flowing west words into L. Albert. With a gorgeous variety of culture, wildlife and adventure, the African continent will deliver truly unforgettable experiences.

It’s closer than you realize

Flight to Johannesburg are just over 11 hours that’s so closer than Europe, USA and South America! Therefore don’t hesitate visiting Africa your true dream destination for adventure and wildlife. 

Camping, glamping and everything in between

Camping in Africa is an invigorating experience since it offers a close connection to the land, nature and wildlife. The best thing about camping in Africa is that there are many grades of camping, therefore it is not all about bush tents. Are you keen on pitching tents to experience the outdoors firsthand? Want that little bit of luxury, like bush showers around and attached to your campsite? A fully serviced camping, or high-end camping in luxurious dome tents with full bedding and an en-suite? Well, Africa offers it all.

The best time to travel is……. All year round!

While July to September is a popular time to visit thanks to more moderate weather. You can enjoy an African holiday all year around.

Africa’s brimming full of big amazing things

Since its the second biggest continent in the world, Africa is jam-packed with some of the world’s biggest things:

  • The largest desert in the world, the Sahara Desert.
  • The longest river in the world Nile River which runs for 6,853 km.
  • The world’s biggest inland delta, Okavango Delta in Botswana.
  • Highest free standing mountain in the world (and one of the seven summits), Mountain Kilimanjaro.
  • The world’s oldest desert- the Namib desert in Namibia
  • The world’s largest wildlife migration on Earth takes place in the Serengeti in Tanzania with over 750,000 zebras marching ahead of over 1.2 million wildebeests as they cross this mysterious landscape.
  • It is the home of the largest living land animal, the African elephant, which can weigh up to seven tons.
  • It also harbors the four of the five fastest land animals in the world such as the lion, Thomson’s gazelle, wildebeest, and the cheetah.
  • It also has the world’s largest outdoor art galleries with more rock art sites than any other continent. Large amounts have been found in the Sahara desert, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Kalahari Botswana and Uganda. However, many remain undiscovered because they are situated in remote areas of the desert or are rarely visited by humans. The oldest known art found has been estimated to be between 27,000 to 40,000 years old, offering an insight into the ancient people’s beliefs, way of life and stories in countries like Uganda, Namibia, Ethiopia and more.
  • Africa is clearly known as a home to an estimated total of over 3000 tribes, each with incredibly different languages, cultures and traditions. Some of the tribes are well known such as the Zulu, which happen to also be Africa’s largest ethnic group of 11 million people. The Masai who have deeply rooted traditions and culture and are known for living a nomadic life style and herding cattle for a living. The san and Batswana people of the Eastern Kalahari, with a cultural heritage that is over 20,000 years old. The Karamajong in Uganda that are still sticking on their culture and norms with their designed manyattas.

The Great wildebeest migration

From July to October herds of over 1 million wildebeests, zebras and other grazing species travel over the border from Tanzania and into Kenya’s Masai Mara. Their journey takes them across the Mara River, and it is their struggle to swim across and then clamber up the river banks that attracts tourists from all over the world. One of Kenya’s best-kept wildlife secrets is that another migration takes place each year between January and March. This spectacle does not involve wildebeest migrating northwards from Serengeti but instead an east to west migration from the Loita plains to the Mara traversing Ol kinyei, Naboisho and Olare Motorogi conservancies.

Tanzania’s inimitable Experiences

The moment you first touch the native soils, you feel connected to land, animals and people unlike any other on the planet. As an immersion destination, Tanzania is a place where your imagination blends flawlessly with reality. Vast landscapes that entice the human mind now stretch for miles inviting you to explore every tree, plains and mountains. These experiences await you in the land of Tanzania, one of East Africa’s most incredible destinations.

Rwanda, Gorillas in the mist

Experience your very own “Gorillas in the mist” African vacation in Rwanda. Led by a professional ranger-guide deep into the natural habitat of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas in the volcanoes National Park. You can as well pay homage to those who have worked to protect the awe-inspiring creatures. You can also meet some of the local people who once poached these creatures but now work to give mountain gorillas a fighting chance to survive and thrive. Volcanoes is a home to parts of the continent’s mountain gorilla population and here you will also have a chance to explore Lake Kivu. It is one of Africa’s great lakes and gives guests a chance to refresh themselves with water-based activities. The lake is especially known for its Nyirangongo views of Congo, an active volcano that displays a glow of magma around its rim.

Discovering new things and attractions never stops because it’s always full of surprises. Book with Great Nest Image Safaris for your safari experience in Africa.

African countries with their slogans
  • Uganda-The Pearl of Africa
  • Kenya-The Pride of Africa
  • Tanzania-Brian of Africa
  • Rwanda-Land of a Thousand Hills
  • South Africa-Rainbow Nation
  • Egypt-The Gift of the Nile
  • Nigeria-The Giant of Africa
  • Zambia-The real Africa
  • Ethiopia-The Land of Origin
  • Malawi-The Warm heart of Africa
  • Ghana-The gateway of Africa
  • Gambia-The smiling coast of Africa
  • Morocco-The land of colours
  • Mali-The eyes of Africa
  • Madagascar-The Red Island

Ajai Wildlife Reserve in Uganda

/1 Comment/in /by

Ajai Wildlife Reserve in Uganda

Ajai wildlife reserve in Uganda : is another fascinating tourist destination nestled in  north-eastern Uganda. It is between districts of Arua, Nebbi, Moyo and Adjumani on the western banks of the mighty Albert Nile between Pakwach and Nimule. The reserve is relatively small approximately (166 sq km) and is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. In fact, it derived its name from a powerful local chief called Ajai who led in the 1930s. Generally, it was first established in 1962 and later officially established as Ajai wildlife reserve in 1965. This reserve comprises of a prominent island that is encompassed by savannah and seasonal swamps that are supplied by the rivers Acha and Ala.

During the rainy seasons, the swamp gets fully flooded thus cutting off the island from the outside world. This basically explains why animals continue to survive within the island close to a growing human population. The reserve basically  consists of woodlands, savannah plains as well as swamps. In fact, has got a great Tourism potential hosting or harboring a diversity of wildlife.

These include; leopards, bushbucks, black and white colobus, zebras, foxes, common duikers. Dik dik, olive baboons, oribi, vervet monkeys, Uganda Kobs, waterbucks, civets, buffaloes, sitatungas, hippopotamus, etc. In addition, it hosts a number of reptiles such as pythons, green snakes, monitor lizards, puff adders, black cobras, etc. Additionally the swamps and woodlands combine to perfectly harbor  a variety of bird species. These include; African fish eagles, Grey crowned cranes, giant kingfishers, Marabou stocks, African jacanas, pied kingfishers, etc.

History

Historically, till the early 1970s, Uganda was a popular tourist destination due to her spectacular sceneries. These included the higher concentration and diversity of wildlife including both the black and white rhinos. Initially, the reserve was managed by a powerful local chief named “Ajai” who led in the 1930 hence deriving its name from him until 1980. As a matter of fact, the Reserve was one of the few places where you could sight the endangered white rhinos in Uganda. However, they are now extinct within the wildlife reserve and this draws an explanation as to why it was once called the Ajai Rhino Sanctuary.

During that time, it harbored over 60 white Rhinos out of the 80 Uganda was hosting. When the local community members started hunting these rhinos, the World Wildlife Fund facilitated an Anti-poaching initiative that was conducted throughout the reserve in 1962. However, it didn’t stop the poachers from hunting these mammals, not until they became extinct. Later, the local people started using the wildlife reserve land for their own personal activities. After a period of six years, the Uganda Wildlife Authority came in and privatized some of the management and operations of the Reserve. This was with peculiar consideration given to a private hunting and photographic tour operator, the Uganda Wildlife Safaris Limited. Today Uganda’s rhinos are extinct and very few rhinos now survive outside national parks and reserves country.

Activities in Ajai reserves

Game drives

In Ajai game reserve, game viewing can be enjoyed while on a game drive in several different game drive tracks. Here, you drive through scaling landscapes where you will have great chances of seeing the lions in wait for prey. You will also have a big opportunity to have a glimpse at different animals and bird species. Animals include; the sitatungas, leopards, olive baboons, common duikers, hyenas, warthogs, waterbucks, bush bucks, hartebeests, etc.

Birding 

Game drives offer an opportunity for one to come across a variety of distinct birdlife including savannah forest birds and water birds. The commonest species include; the Marabou stork, Secretary birds, Abyssinian ground hornbills, Open-billed storks, Black-billed Bustards, Widow birds, etc. Additionally, near swamps and other water bodies where there are more thickets and woodlands also harbors birds. These include; the Giant kingfishers, shrikes, Malachite Kingfishers, francolins, Cuckoos, Woodpeckers, herons. Hamerkop, African fish eagles, Crombecs, Hornbills, Red-throated Bee-eaters, Geese, Stilts, Warblers, plovers, Flycatchers, etc.

How to get there

This Uganda Safari destination can be accessed by both Air and road transport. Through road transport, it is approximately  6-7 hours’ drive from Kampala to Arua. With air transport, scheduled and charter flights can be arranged from Kajjansi to Arua airfield. You can also fly from Entebbe to Gulu or Arua after which you can be transferred to the reserve for the day’s activities. Are you planning to take a safari trip to North western Uganda, don’t miss out spotting on Ajai wildlife reserve.

Katonga Wildlife Reserve

/0 Comments/in /by

 

 

Katonga Wildlife Reserve

Katonga Wildlife Reserve : named after the Katonga River, which flows from the swamps southwest of Lake Wamala towards Lake Victoria in the East, with lesser periodic flows from those same swamps to Lake George in the west and it also comes with mixed savanna and acacia woodlands. The reserve is located in the Ibanda and Kamwenge districts in the western Uganda, along the banks of the Katonga River. In Kamwenge district, it borders with the Biguli subcounty and some parts of the Mpara subcounty in Kyenjojo district. The reserve is approximately 200 kilometers by road, west of the capital of Uganda, Kampala. It was first gazetted as a game reserve in 1964 to serve as a corridor for migration of wildlife from Tanzania and western Uganda, in 1996 the reserve was upgraded to a wildlife reserve when a former game department and the Uganda national park merged to create the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) an administrative body managing all the protective areas in Uganda. The flora within this nature reserve consists of the rare vegetation types such as the grassland, wooded grasslands, woodland, riverine woodland, papyrus, riverine grassland and swamp. The largest part of this area is mixed savanna featuring the acacia or the woodlands.

The reserve however features permanent, seasonal wetlands and also consists of several riverine and tropical forests. Its strategical geographical location comes with magical forests, swamps and also savanna vegetation where its diverse ecosystem thrives including variety of wildlife species. The dominant flora species include; Sporobolus festivus and also Chloris gayana. They thrive together with associate species such as setaria species, hyparrhenia species and panicum maximum. The reserve’s ecosystem is interlinked with the Nile system creating a significant wetland system for human survival.  The reserve can either be explored by a canoe or by foot, it is a home to over 40 mammal species, butterfly species, reptiles and amphibians. Some of the mammal species you will come across include reedbuck, waterbucks, Uganda kob, warthogs, river otter, elephants, bushbuck, impalas, zebras, buffalos, topis, eland and many more. You will also come across various primates such as black and white colobus monkey, red-tailed monkey, olive baboons to mention a few. The reserve is considered one of the unique places to view the secretive sitatunga antelope in the Central and East Africa. Katonga wildlife reserve is also a home to over 150 bird species making it a great birding destination such as Squacco heron, goliath heron, grey heron, black-headed heron, cattle egret, dwarf bittern, great bittern, Madagascar night heron, intermediate egret, little egret, purple heron, rufous-bellied heron, great egret, striated heron and many more.

What to do at Katonga wildlife reserve

Canoeing

The canoe ride in this reserve takes you through the narrow channel and swampy vegetation of the reserve with a knowledgeable guide. While on the canoe you will get to enjoy the beautiful swamp vegetation of the reserve and also spot some bird species such as egrets, kingfishers, Egyptian goose, African fish eagle, plovers and many more. You will also see animals grazing in the reserve such as otters, elephants, warthogs, hippos, sitatungas and more. The canoe trail is approximately 2 kilometers ride through the reed and papyrus swamp guided by a local boat operator.

Guided nature walks

This activity is rewarding because the reserve has got three trails; the Kyeibbale trail which takes you through an area with tall rock formations, forested caves and valley. The Sitatunga trail takes you through the grassland and wetland, the trail offers tourists an opportunity to come across the rare sitatunga antelopes. The Kisharara trail which takes you through the main habitants within the reserve comprising of savanna, grassland and swamp fringes. It is a good trail for seeing sitatungas and other mammal species like the troop of the black and white colobus monkey and a number of bird species.

Wildlife viewing

Katonga wildlife reserve provides an opportunity to tourists to come across several mammal species and the common ones are elephants, olive baboons, Uganda kob, waterbucks, warthogs, zebras, elands to mention a few. An experienced guide will take you through this activity and feel free to ask anything about these species.

Community walks

Due to your interest, your tour guide can arrange for you a community walk in order for you to know more about Ugandan people and their way of living. The surrounding people are the Banyankore or Ankole people who are known for keeping large herds of long horned cattle. Get a chance to visit their homesteads for breathtaking activities such as how they prepare their meals, their traditional dances, games, storytelling by the elders and many more.

When to visit the reserve

Katonga wildlife reserve can be visited by tourists throughout the year, but the best time to visit the reserve is in the dry season in the months of December, February, June and July.

How to get there

The reserve straddles between Ibanda and Kamwenge districts in the western part of Uganda. It is located along the banks of the river, approximately 200 kilometers (120 mi) by road and west of Uganda’s capital Kampala, approximately 4 hours’ drive.

Kazinga Channel Exploration | Queen Elizabeth National Park

/0 Comments/in /by

Kazinga Channel Exploration | Queen Elizabeth National Park

Kazinga Channel Exploration | Queen Elizabeth National Park: is a long natural channel connecting two lakes; Lake Gorge in the east and Lake Edward in the west. It is approximately 420 kilometers away from Kampala, has an estimated terrain of about 914 meters above sea level. The wetland is basically a home to crocodiles, numerous bird species, sitatungas, waterbucks, among others. In fact, this channel is one of the most important features in Queen Elizabeth National Park and has got two sections; the North Kazinga and the Kasenyi plains. Besides, the Kasenyi plains offer breath taking view points of spotting game whereby you will have a better way to see the diverse wildlife living in this area. These include; elephants, buffaloes, and other wild animals that live within the grassland thickets in the Northern Kazinga just next to Mweya peninsular.

What to expect while at Kazinga Channel

In 2005, large numbers of hippos were killed in Kazinga channel as a result of an anthrax outbreak. This basically occurs when animals eat remnants of vegetation in the driest months, absorbing bacterial spores that can live for decades in the dry soil. Nevertheless, the shores of this channel draw a large number of wild animals, bird species and reptiles throughout the year. Surprisingly, it has got one of the largest population of hippos in the whole world and also plentiful Nile crocodiles.

These animals can be spotted while on a boat cruise down the course of Kazinga channel or most likely at the entrance of the spectacular Lake Edward. Other animals include; sitatungas, waterbuck, elephants, Uganda kobs, monitor lizards and many more. The boat cruise on the channel is extremely rewarding and among the finest launch trips in the country. The channel is also known as a birding paradise in Queen Elizabeth National Park since it harbors over 58 bird species which can be sighted during the boat cruise. These include; pied kingfisher, fish eagle, pink-backed pelican, yellow billed stork, African spoonbill. Martial eagle, papyrus gonolek, long-tailed cormorant, black bee-eater, African skimmer, etc.

Best time to visit

The channel can be visited anytime of the year however, the best time is during the dry season. These include; the months of June to September and December to February. Here, the channel becomes an oasis that gathers large numbers of animals that come to bathe, feed and drink water. You can also visit during the wet season in the months of March to May and December to February. The months are considered to be ideal for birding since it’s the breeding season for the birds. In fact, there is always also plenty of fruits and food for the birds in this season.

How to get there

You will drive from Kampala via Masaka, Mbarara, Fort portal, Kasese and then Queen Elizabeth National Park.  In general, it is approximately 6 to 7 hours’ drive on a tarmac road.

Kazinga Channel Wetland

/0 Comments/in /by

 Kazinga Channel Wetland

Kazinga Channel wetland is registered and protected through Ramsar sites rights of conservation of wetlands in Africa. It is approximately 420 kilometers away from Kampala, has an estimated terrain of about 914 meters above sea level and located in Kasese District in Uganda. The wetland is a home for crocodiles, numerous bird species, and water and land statunga antelopes, waterbucks among others. Kazinga channel is a wide 32 kilometers (20mi) long natural channel connecting two lakes; Lake Gorge in the east and Lake Edward in the west. This channel is one of the most important features in Queen Elizabeth National Park (the well-killed game reserve in Uganda covering an entire land area of 1,978 square kilometers). On the Eastern side of the channel is Lake George a small lake with an overall depth of 2.4 meters and 250 square kilometers. This lake is fed by streams flowing from the spectacular Mount Rwenzori just north of this lake. The out flow from Lake George flows through this Kazinga Channel and drains west into the adjacent Lake Edward which is among the main fresh water lakes in Uganda and covers a total area of 2000 square kilometers. The channel has got two sections; the North Kazinga and the Kasenyi plains. It’s recognized that the Kasenyi plains offer breath taking viewpoints of spotting games and you will have a better way to see the diverse wildlife living in this area within its very pristine natural environment like the elephants, buffaloes, and other wild animals that live within the grassland thickets in the Northern Kazinga just next to Mweya peninsular.

In 2005, large numbers of hippos were killed in Kazinga channel as a result of an anthrax outbreak which occurs when animals eat remnants of vegetation in the driest months, absorbing bacterial spores that can live for decades in the dry soil. The shores of this channel draw a large number of wild animals, bird species and reptiles throughout the year, with one of the largest population of hippos in the whole world and also plentiful Nile crocodiles. These animals can be seen well on a boat cruise down the course of Kazinga channel or most likely at the entrance of the spectacular Lake Edward. Other animals include; sitatungas, waterbuck, elephants, Uganda kobs, monitor lizards and many more. The boat cruise on the channel is extremely rewarding and among the finest and most liked launch trips in the country.  During the boat cruise, you will get a chance to see the fishing villages overlooking the stream such as the Kasenyi plains. On the boat, you are able to see fishermen washing their fishing nets and also have a chance to see them catching fish using a more rudiment method and traditional method (hook fishing). When you look over the stream to the fishing villages, you will also see fishermen repairing their boats and women repairing the fishing nets to make them ready to be used for fishing. It is also known as a birding paradise in Queen Elizabeth National Park because it harbors over 58 bird species which can be sighted during the boat cruise. Some of these birds include; pied kingfisher, fish eagle, pink-backed pelican, yellow billed stork, African spoonbill, martial eagle, papyrus gonolek, long-tailed cormorant, black bee-eater, African skimmer, black crake among others.

Best time to visit

The channel can be visited anytime of the year but the best time is during the dry season in the months of June to September and December to February. During the dry season, the kazinga channel becomes an oasis that gathers large numbers of animals that come to bathe, feed and drink water. These animals will be seen gathering on the shores of the channel. You can also visit during the wet season in the months of March to May and December to February though it is considered to be ideal for birding because it’s the breeding season for the birds and there is always also plenty of fruits and food for the birds in this season.

 

How to get there

You will drive from Kampala via Masaka, Mbarara, Fort portal, Kasese and then Queen Elizabeth National Park which is approximately 6 to 7 hours’ drive on a tarmac road.

 

 

 

The Nakayima Witch’s Tree | Uganda Cultural Sites

/26 Comments/in /by

The Nakayima Witch’s Tree | Uganda Cultural Sites

The Nakayima Witch’s Tree | Uganda Cultural Sites : is one of the oldest trees of the ancient times. It is basically regarded as a witch tree due to its historical background. This tree is nestled on top of Mubende hill in Mubende district. It is on Kampala-Fort portal Road with a short distance of 4km from Mubende town. In fact, this tree is believed to have super natural powers for healing, fertility, wealth and solving many other problems. It generally derives its name from Nakayima who was a royal princess and a daughter to the last king of the Bachwezi Ndahura.

As a result, Nakayima is said to have disappeared in a tree which today is believed to have natural powers. The tree stands at about 40meters high and is estimated to be 400 to 600 years of existence. Surprisingly, what catches your eye as you approach this mysterious tree is its impressive root system. The tree base has got a large tree buttresses and its hooks can easily be seen on top of the Mubende hill from Mubende town. This therefore explains why it is considered an amazing attraction to both the locals and the tourists.

Historical background of the Nakayima Tree

The tree comprises of eighteen compartments and prayers are held in these grass carpeted compartments. The old tree is surrounded by a number of other trees and is also visited by people paying homage to Nakayima of the Bachwezi dynasty. This dynasty said to have supernatural powers and are historically known as demi-gods. Nakayima is also claimed to have mystic powers that made her able to treat people especially the small pox victims who were treated to full good health. However, she would also treat other diseases that wouldn’t be treated by any other herbalists around the community. Besides, the tree is also believed to be a sacred tree by a number of people in the surrounding area and far beyond.

One of the known and famous requirements or requests that are brought to the Nakayima tree include physical ailments and bearing of children. In addition, people looking for a miracle in relationships also visit the place plus those seeking for good fortune. The witches or witch doctors smoke special pipes whose smoke is supposed to allow them communicate with the spirits in the spiritual world. At the time of the small pox outbreak, the Bachwezi influence on the Hima pastoralists came to a stand still. As a result, the clan powers were no more whereby a new dynasty of Bito rulers were formed. The Bachwezi King’s residence came to be known as Mubende meaning “there is another one” interms of another ruling power.

The downfall of Nakayima

In the year of 1988, there was a religious conflict between the Buganda and Bunyoro whereby Nakayima Nyanjara was forced to flee. Later, she returned but all the seven huts had been destroyed and the graves of predecessors have been defaced. In 1899, king Kabalega visited Mubende hill to pay tribute to Nyanjara. Later, Mubende hill was placed under a chief known as Muganda Saza by the indirect colonial rule of the British government in the year 1902.

In fact, this made Nyanjara shift to Bugogo where she died in 1907. However, she was not buried in the traditional cemetery but near the sacred tree. Today the Uganda national museum contains Nakayima Nyanjara regalia that was captured. In that case, she was buried at the base of Mubende hill. So far, one of the items in her regalia are the two large ancient pots. A visit to this tree is usually combined by a stopover to Fort portal and Kibale forest national park.

How to get there

Nakayima tree can be accessed via the Kampala-Fort portal Road. It is a short distance drive of 4 kilometers from the town of Mubende.

Bigo Bya Mugenyi in Uganda | Uganda Cultural Tours

/0 Comments/in /by

Bigo Bya Mugenyi in Uganda | Uganda Cultural Tours

Bigo bya Mugenyi in Uganda | Uganda Cultural Tours : is characterized by wild flowers, savannah grasslands, shrubs, woodlands and crickets.   It is located in the southwestern Uganda in Mawogola county situated on the southern shore of river Katonga. The word Bigo Bya Mugenyi is basically translated to mean “The fort of a stranger”. It is best described as having two elements; the first one consisting of a long, irregular ditch and bank alignment with multiple openings. These effectively create an outer boundary by connecting to the Katonga river in the east and the Kakinga swamp to the west and towards its eastern end. The outer ditch branches further to the east to encompass a nearby crossing of the Katonga River.

The second element consists of a central, interconnected group of four irregularly shaped ditch and bank enclosures that are connected to the Katonga river by a single ditch.  It is said that the Chwezi also known as the Bachwezi were the first people to settle in the Bigo bya Mugenyi. In fact, these people are also believed to have been the first people to settle in Uganda during the 11th-16th century. They had mysterious tendencies for example disappearing in thin air and leaving foot marks on the rocks. Specifically, the most recent traces or marks are at the Amabere ganyina mwiru another yet popular attraction in fort portal. The Kigere are said to be foot prints of the Bachwezi which correlates with the assertion that they used to disappear and leave footprints back when they disappear in the air.

Bigo bya mugenyi structure

Generally, there are two trench synergies at Bigo bya Mugenyi. The inner is made up of 4 openings that pour into each other while the outer is the one that trails and connects with river Katonga. The earthworks at the fort are claimed to be linked to the ancient Chwezi people. This is a duo-rule dynasty that didn’t last long. The Bachwezi had a system of governance and they were presided over by two kings. These include; King Wamala and King Ndahura who was said to be the last king of the Chwezi people. As a matter of fact, when tourists visit this historical site, they pass through Kabeho.

This place has ancient spears, arrows, shields, etc that guards used at the camp before making their destination to the Katonga river. This is a spot where tourists fetch water for cleansing themselves before making the long stride to Bigo bya Mugenyi. Basically, the idea of cleansing yourself is an act of seeking for protection from the gods so that they don’t get annoyed with you. The cultural site consists of several grass-thatched huts that were set up to shelter the keepers. Right next to them is a fenced and well-maintained site on an elevated ground.

What to expect at Bigo Bya Mugenyi

While here, people seek for blessings and wealth from the gods. The identity of the Chwezi people is enigma whereby no one knows where they went. On the other hand, no knows where they came from since they were believed to have been demigods. Bigo bya Mugenyi has been re-declared by the jungle and it is believed there is a number of dangerous wildlife. These supplements the cultural expeditions such as the leopards, bushbucks, water bucks, duikers as well as snakes.

Surprisingly, they have never attacked anybody, even after setting sight on them. Otherwise, this is one of the signs of the presence of the gods in the area. Tourists can also engage themselves in visiting the local people in the communities surrounding the site. Besides, local people believe that when it rains while tourists are still at the site, then something bad will happen. In conclusion, the place has been used for social studies in primary schools and has been kept as one of the country’s cultural gems.

How to get there

Bigo bya Mugenyi site can be accessed 60 kilometers from Sembabule town. However, tourists visiting the site are supposed to report to the tourism police.     

The hippopotamus Facts

/0 Comments/in /by

The hippopotamus Facts

The hippopotamus Facts : also know as (Hippopotamus amphibius) is a semiaquatic mammal found in Africa. It is one of the only two species in the family Hippopotamidae namely; the common or river hippo and the pygmy hippo. Generally, the river hippo is the larger of the two and its populations are concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa.  On the other hand, the pygmy hippo, a native of West Africa, is both solitary and a nocturnal creature.

It basically lives in forested areas and survives on an herbivorous diet of grasses and leaves. Both species require the cooling, restorative powers of muddy waters as well as rivers. Above all, they spend much of their time with their bodies almost fully submerged. Although their skin appears to be rough and rugged, it is actually very sensitive to the intense sun and needs nearly constant hydration. Whilst the common hippo lives in large groups led by the most dominant male. Besides, pygmies prefer to stay on their own or in much smaller groups.

Hippopotamus Facts

They are one of the largest animals on the planet

Besides rhinoceros and the elephant, the common hippo is one of the biggest animal on planet earth. A fully-grown male can weigh up to 7,000 pounds while the female will generally weigh about 3000 pounds. At birth, baby hippos can weigh around 60 pounds, but it doesn’t take them long to gain weight. Surprisingly, in less than 3.5 years, a hippo is considered mature.

Hippos can’t swim

Hippos are always seen in water but actually can’t swim or float. They spend hours in rivers and lakes and sometimes with only their eyes showing. However, they remain in shallow waters and find sandy river banks and bottoms to stand on. Most of their foraging activity is done at night, since they’re nocturnal animals. During the heat of the day they strive to find a way to protect themselves from the midday sun. Furthermore, the water and mud act as a barrier to soothe their skin and regulate their temperatures.

 Calves possibly suckle underwater

These animals are generally vegetarians although during the first year of life, calves nurse on milk from their mothers. Once they are born, they stay close to their mothers relying on them for food. This is done until they can survive on their own in the wild. They are also best known to ride on their mother’s backs sometimes. Interestingly, the hippo’s body has an adaptation to allow the calves to feed both on land and underwater. The eyes and nostrils close to prevent the calf from ingesting water and they can maintain this position for some good time. 

Hippos can hold their breath

They have a unique lung structure that helps them to stay underwater without breathing for about 5 minutes. That means a hippopotamus needs to come up to the surface for air every 5 minutes. In most cases, the hippos tend to jump up from the river floor to the surface to take a breath. They also sink back down, and move forward along the bottom of a river bed. A thick membrane covers their eyes and their nostrils close, creating a protective water-tight seal. The species will do this when they sense danger or feel threatened by something in their environment. They may move to another area or just stay still until they feel it is safe to come back up to the surface. In fact, hippos are even able to sleep underwater using this same reflexive instinct.

Vocalizations

Hippos are basically very loud and use a series of noises to communicate with one another in their groups. These sounds are quite distinct and have been described as honks, whines, squeaks and growls. At times, it also resembles the sound of human laughter. On land, it is believed that their calls can be heard up to a mile away, although they have also been known to vocalize underwater. Nothing much is understood about what each call means or why they utter the sounds. But like other animals, it is their way of spreading messages. These include; alerting other hippos to danger, signaling a time to move or to stay still or even calling after their young ones.

Hippos are polygamous

These are species not known to mate for life and a male may obtain 10 mates in a lifetime. Since it’s the dominant male that rules the rest of the school, it’s always a challenge for younger males to secure a female to breed with. In a season, a male will usually mate with more than one female to ensure offspring. When young ones are born, they will all stay together in his territory. Here, he can protect, defend and shelter them from other competing males, intruders and predators.

Hippos can mate in the water

The basically mate every two years and most of the mating takes place in water. Both males and  females use vocalizations, body language and even their own faeces and urine. In fact, this is done to display or show their interest or even to disapprove. Surprisingly, male will travel, compete, defend and fight other males in order to get the mate he wants. Regardless, only dominant and powerful hippos are allowed to mate successfully.

Gestation period

More like a human, female hippos have quite a long gestation period. Hippo’s gestation period is 8 months approximately 237 days and they will only have one baby at a time. The calf will remain besides its mother for approximately a year, suckling milk as it grows and gains strength. After some time, it will quit nursing and feed on vegetation.

They live in groups

These hippos are often found in large groups called schools and can consist of up to 100 hippos. This generally allows for safety and security and also gives males control over their families and territories. The main predators of hippo are crocodiles, hyenas as well as large cats which often opt to go after the smallest offspring. This is especially if they have wandered away from the protective groups and safe bounds. 

Hippos mark their territories

Defending their territories is one of the reasons as to why hippos are considered dangerous. Female hippos will fiercely protect their young however the males who are most vicious and threatening. They will go after any hippo, animal or human that dares enter their personal territory or space. While on land, they may use their tails to launch their faeces around the area. This is done to specifically mark and show their territory to others. Other territory defending signals include loud noises, honking, yawning, wheezing, wide open mouths and charging. Besides smell reception of urine and dung showering, they also use the vomeronsal organ. This operates like an underwater syringe to draw in urine, to communicate or know the reproductive status of a male or female.

Where to find you in Uganda

While on your safari in Uganda, you are able to spot these animals in different national parks. These include; Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, etc.