Animals in Murchison falls national park
Murchison Falls National Park is a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in northwestern Uganda. Established in 1952, it is one of the oldest and largest national parks in the country, covering an area of approximately 3,893 square kilometers (1,503 square miles). The diverse landscape of Murchison Falls National Park comprises vast savannah plains, woodlands, and riverine forests, providing a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species. It is home to a rich assortment of animals, including 4 of the “Big Five” – elephants, lions, leopards, and buffaloes, Other notable species found within the park include giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, various antelope species, and an array of birdlife. Let’s take a deeper dive into the animals in Murchison falls national park.
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Animals in Murchison Falls National Park LIST
African Elephants:
African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth and are well-known for their distinctively large ears and long tusks. These magnificent creatures are one of the park’s main attractions and are found in significant numbers throughout the park. They are a key attraction for tourists visiting Murchison Falls National Park. They are seen in large herds on the Pakuba track, Wankwa gate, and on the acacia woodlands.
African Buffalos:
Large herds of African buffalo roam the park, often seen grazing in the savannah. These magnificent creatures are part of the “Big Five” and are one of the iconic species found in the park. African buffaloes are massive, robust bovines and are known for their distinctive appearance, characterized by their large, curved horns and dark-colored, shaggy coats. They are social animals that live in herds, often led by an older, dominant female. Murchison Falls provides a suitable habitat for these animals, with its grasslands, woodlands, and proximity to the Nile River, which offers them access to water and grazing resources.
Giraffes:
Giraffes are among the prominent mammal species found in Murchison Falls National Park. They are easily recognizable due to their long necks, spotted coat patterns, and distinctive horn-like structures called ossicones. The park provides a suitable habitat for giraffes to thrive, as it offers various types of vegetation for them to feed on. They are found in most parts of the park but vast herds can be seen during your game drives on the Albert Track. A big number of these giraffes have been transferred to other national parks like Kidepo Valley and Lake Mburo national park.
Lions:
Lions are one of the major attractions on any African safari. This makes the park one of the most popular safari destinations in Uganda. Big herds of lions have been observed during game drives on different tracks. The Pakuba track has a resident pride of up to 15 members. Other smaller prides have been sighted along the Pakuba Airstrip, the Commonwealth Track, and Albert Track.
Leopards:
Leopards are one of the most thrilling sightings on your safari to Murchison Falls. This is because the big cat is elusive. However, leopard sightings in the park need patience and a keen eye. Look out in the low-hanging branches in the woodland. Their long tails are a dead giveaway. A delta cruise offers great opportunities for close encounters as this spot is a regular spot where the leopard is seen.
Hyenas:
Hyenas are another great sighting when visiting Murchison Falls. They are often seen in groups of up to 5 in the early morning and evening game drives. During these times, they leave their barrows and relax by the sides of the road. A night game drive offers good opportunities to see them hunting.
Hippos:
Hippos can be seen during the launch cruise to the bottom of the falls or to the Nile Delta. They are found in the shallow ends of the river in small pods. Boat safaris allow you close proximity in safety. More hippos can be seen grazing by the hippo pond or wallowing in the shallow ends of the delta. You are advised to keep your distance as they are known to be temperamental.
Antelopes:
Antelopes comprise more than 70% of the wildlife in Murchison falls national park. Due to the vast savanna and plenty of food, they have thrived in number. The most common antelopes in the park include; the Uganda Kob, waterbucks, Jackson’s Hartebeest, duiker, bushbucks, Oribi, and Reedbuck to mention but a few. These antelopes can be seen during your game drives and boat cruises as they come to quench their thirst by the river.
Crocodiles:
These Nile crocodiles are known for their large size and powerful presence, and they are often spotted basking in the sun along the riverbanks or lurking in the waters. Visitors to Murchison Falls National Park have the opportunity to see these fascinating creatures during boat safaris on the Nile River
Chimpanzees:
Budongo forest, located right at the edge of the national park is home to over 600 chimpanzees. These primates shared 95% of their DNA with humans and are considered man’s closest relative. Chimpanzee trekking in the Budongo forest is done in the morning and afternoon. This allows you to trek into the forest and enjoy close encounters with these primates.
Activities in Murchison Falls National Park.
These activities will allow you to explore the vast savanna and encounter the animals that call Murchison falls national park home.
Morning and Evening game drives:
These game drives are the most conventional way of interacting with the wilderness on any African safari. These are done in a customized 4X4 with a pop-up roof. This gives you the best views yet affords you comfort and safety during your interactions with the game. Morning game drives start as early as 6:00 am, giving you the best opportunity to see the nocturnal game (Lions, leopards, and hyenas) do a last-minute hunt before retreating into their shelters for the day. Evening game drives allow you to witness the wilderness as it cools down, bringing out the night dwellers. These game drives are led by an experienced game ranger who ensures you get the best safari experience.
Boat cruise:
Boat cruises in Murchison falls national park are done on the Nile. The launch cruise takes you to the bottom of the falls. The banks are lined with various wildlife as the river is a lifeline and nourishes the game in the park. Elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes are some of the wildlife you will see on this boat cruise. The Delta cruise offers a more relaxing adventure. The elusive leopard is one of the highlights of this cruise. This cruise offers remarkable sightings as you can get very close encounters with the leopards
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