Guide to Wild Animals Found in Uganda
Uganda is regarded as a hotspot for biodiversity, boasting some 345 species of mammal and 1020 species of bird (around half of the total number found in Africa), 142 species of reptile, 86 species of amphibian, 501 species of fish, 1,242 species of butterfly, and 4,500 species of vascular plants. 20 primate species, including more than half of the world’s endangered population of mountain gorillas. Want to know more about the wild animals in Uganda?

List of top wild animals you should expect to see on your wildlife safari
Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, is a place where every nature lover can have a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of the Africa safari big five wild animals: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Giraffe, Rhinoceros and the great apes, the mountain gorilla, and chimpanzee. But that’s not all; the country boasts over 350 species of mammals, from the mighty giant mountain gorillas to the smallest ones like bats, bush babies, and shrews. Uganda is also home to over 1k bird species, many reptiles, and herbivores, making it a true paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the various animals found in Uganda and why it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of nature.

The animals found in Uganda can be grouped into these categories:

Predators

Lion
Leopard
Cheetah
Hyena
African civet
Mongoose
Genets
Otter
Bat-eared Fox
Jackal
Caracal
Serval Cat
20+ other predators
Primates

Mountain gorilla
Chimpanzee
Red-tailed monkey
Golden monkey
Grey-cheeked Mangabey
Vervet Monkey
De Brazza’s Monkey
Black-and-white Colobus Monkey
Baboon
Blue Monkey
L’hoest’s Monkey
Red Colobus Monkey
Patas Monkey
Potto
Bushbaby
Herbivores

Buffalo
Elephant
Giraffe
Hippo
Rhino
Zebra
Uganda Kob
Antelope (29 species)
Wild hogs
Many others
Reptiles

Crocodiles
Snakes
Monitor lizards
Chameleons.
Carnivorous Animals Found in Uganda
There are 38 carnivore species in Uganda; here are the top predators to see in Uganda.

Cheetah
Cheetahs have a greyhound-like build and are heavily spotted. They have distinctive black tear marks and are rarely seen. They are speedy animals, but they are the least powerful among the large predators. Cheetahs can be found in grassland and savannah habitats, only in Kidepo National Park and Pian Upe Game Reserve.

Lions in Uganda
Lion
The lion, known as the king of the wilderness, can weigh up to 680kg and reach a height of 165cm. They are known to prey on antelopes and buffalos. Interestingly, it is the females who are the hunters. Lions are common in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley National Parks, but are absent from Lake Mburo National Park. If you want to see the famous tree-climbing lions, you can find them in Ishasha, which is located in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Recommended for you: Best Places To See Lions in Uganda

Leopard in uganda
Leopard
The leopard is a must-see animal on an African safari, and its elusive nature adds to its allure. Leopards are quite similar to the cheetah but can be differentiated from their rosette-shaped spots and are more powerfully built. They prefer wooded or rocky habitats and are present in most national parks in Uganda but are regularly seen along Channel Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

African civets
African civets
Civets are not easily seen since they are nocturnal but are common in most Uganda wildlife parks. They are bulky, longhaired with a cat-like face.

hyena in uganda
Hyenas
Spotted hyenas are commonly found in all savannah parks of Uganda, except for Kidepo National Park. Spotted hyenas embody the essence of the African savannah with their enigmatic presence and unique appearance. Characterized by their distinctive spotted coats, which blend shades of brown, black, and white, these carnivorous mammals exude a sense of both elegance and ruggedness. Their bodies are robust, with powerful jaws and a slightly sloping back, contributing to their formidable stature. Notoriously known for their vocalizations that range from eerie whoops to bone-chilling laughter, spotted hyenas are expert communicators within their tightly-knit social structures. With an air of perpetual curiosity, their amber-colored eyes survey the landscape, reflecting an intelligence and adaptability that has allowed them to thrive in a variety of ecosystems.

Mongoose in Queen Elizabeth NAtional Park
Mongoose
Mongooses of various species, including the Egyptian, Marsh, Slender, White-tailed, and Banded mongoose, are commonly spotted around the Mweya Peninsula in Queen Elizabeth National Park. A mongoose is a small carnivorous mammal that belongs to the family Herpestidae. They have long, slender bodies, short legs, and pointed snouts. They typically have brown or grayish fur, although the color can vary depending on the species. Mongooses are known for their agility, speed, and exceptional hearing and eyesight, which make them skilled hunters of small prey such as insects, rodents, and reptiles. They are also known for their ability to fight and kill venomous snakes.

Genet predator nocturnal cats in Uganda
Genets
Genets are nocturnal mammals that belong to the Viverridae family, similar in appearance to cats. The species include the servaline, large-spotted, and small-spotted genets, which can be spotted during night drives at the Semliki Wildlife Reserve. Interestingly, they are attracted to human waste.

Otter
Otters are aquatic predators that can be found in most wetlands and in some areas of Lake Mburo National Park. There are three species of otters in the area: the spotted-necked otter, which is smaller in size and very active during dawn and dusk; the Cape clawless otter; and the Congo clawless otter, which is the largest African otter species.

Bat-eared Fox
The bat-eared fox is more associated with the dry open country and appears only in Kidepo National Park. They are small in size with a striking silver-grey color, huge ears, and black eye-masks often seen moving in pairs or small family groups during the cooler hours of the day.

Jackal
Jackal
Jackals primarily live in savannah habitats and hunt various birds, mammals, fruits, and bulbs. The Black-backed and side-striped jackals are often spotted in national parks such as Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley, but can also be found in other parks like Bwindi and Mgahinga, although less frequently. These jackals are known for their unique vocalizations and their adaptability to different environments.

Caracal – predator wild cats in Uganda
Caracal

Caracals are medium-sized felines with a reddish-brown coat and tufted ears. They are typically found in open habitats, and are mainly spotted in Kidepo National Park. The African golden cat, which is a type of caracal, is widely distributed in western Uganda, and can be found in every forested national park except Semliki National Park.

Serval wild cat in Uganda
Serval Cat
Serval cats in Uganda can be found in places like Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park. These wild cats have a sleek golden-yellow coat adorned with black spots and stripes, large ears, and a short tail with a black tip. Known for their excellent hunting skills, servals are often spotted near grasslands or water sources. If you’re lucky enough to embark on a game drive in these parks, keep your eyes peeled for these elusive and shy creatures.

Primates Found in Uganda
One of the most popular types of wild animals found in Uganda are primates, which include all species related to lemurs, monkeys, and apes, including humans. Some of the most fascinating animals to see on Ugandan safari are the mountain gorillas found in the Bwindi and Virunga Mountains, as well as the playful chimpanzees found in Kibale, Budongo, and Kaniyo Pabidi Forests.

watching mountain gorillas in Uganda
Mountain Gorilla
Mountain gorillas are remarkable primates known for their strength, intelligence, and close-knit social structures. Although there are four gorilla subspecies, only the endangered Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) is found in Uganda. These gentle giants live in the mist-covered slopes of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Recognizable by their robust builds, dense black fur, and expressive faces, mountain gorillas live in cohesive family groups led by a dominant silverback. They are herbivores, primarily feeding on leaves, shoots, and fruits. Observing mountain gorillas during a trek in the mountains of Uganda is a rare and privileged experience, allowing for an intimate encounter with one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom while contributing to their conservation efforts.

Chimpanzee, Primate Animals found in Uganda
Chimpanzee
Chimpanzees, our closest relatives in the animal kingdom, are intelligent and social primates found in Uganda’s rainforests. The chimp species you’ll encounter in Uganda is the Eastern Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii). These fascinating creatures have a mix of black and brown fur, swinging through the trees with agility using their long arms. They live in communities led by an alpha male and exhibit complex behaviors like tool use and communication through gestures and vocalizations. The best places to witness these incredible chimpanzees in their natural habitat are Kibale National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve, and Kyambura Gorge. Trekking through these forests offers a chance to observe these remarkable beings and appreciate their intelligence and social interactions while contributing to their conservation.

vervet monkey Uganda
Vervet Monkey
Vervet monkeys, delightful and energetic creatures, are commonly found in Uganda. Identified by their gray fur, black faces, and long tails, these agile monkeys thrive in various habitats, from forests to savannahs. In Uganda, you can spot the vervet monkey, specifically the East African Vervet (Chlorocebus pygerythrus), in places like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park. Known for their playful antics and social structure, vervet monkeys are skilled climbers and adept at foraging for fruits, leaves, and insects.

De Brazza’s Monkey
De brazza’s monkey has a hairy face, a reddish-brown patch around its eyes, a white band across its brow, a white mustache, and a beard with a relatively short tail. They are found in Mount Elgon and Semliki national parks.

Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys
Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys
Black-and-white colobus monkeys are striking primates distinguished by their contrasting fur colors. Found in Uganda, these monkeys are a captivating sight with their black fur and a distinctive mantle of long white hair running along their sides and tails. They have a unique appearance, as their faces are framed by a white fringe of hair and they lack thumbs, a feature that sets them apart from other monkeys. Black-and-white colobus monkeys live in groups, and their social structure is organized around a dominant male. They are primarily leaf-eaters, relying on a diet of leaves, shoots, and unripe fruit. In Uganda, you can encounter these graceful creatures in various places, including Kibale National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park, where their acrobatic antics and striking appearance add to the rich biodiversity of the region.

baboon
Baboons
Baboons are fascinating and social primates found in Uganda, known for their distinctive appearance and complex group dynamics. These monkeys have a dog-like face, a hairless muzzle, and a long tail. Olive baboons are a common species in Uganda, and they typically have a gray-brown fur color with a hint of olive. Living in troops, baboons exhibit a hierarchical social structure led by an alpha male. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in various habitats, from savannahs to forests. Baboons are omnivores, consuming a wide range of food, including fruits, leaves, insects, and small animals. In Uganda, you can encounter baboons in national parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kibale National Park, where they add an element of lively and communal behavior to the diverse wildlife landscape.

Blue Monkey
Blue Monkeys
Blue monkeys, also known as Sykes’ monkeys, are captivating primates found in Uganda, characterized by their striking blue-gray fur. These medium-sized monkeys have a distinctive cap of longer hair on their heads, which gives them a somewhat regal appearance. They are skilled climbers, utilizing their prehensile tails and strong limbs to navigate through the trees. Blue monkeys are social animals, usually living in groups led by a dominant male. Their diet consists of fruits, leaves, and insects. In Uganda, you can spot blue monkeys in various forested areas, including Kibale National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Observing these elegant primates in their natural habitat adds to the enchanting biodiversity of Uganda’s lush landscapes.

Golden Monkeys
Golden Monkey
Golden monkeys are enchanting primates native to the high-altitude forests of Central Africa, including parts of Uganda. Known for their vibrant and golden-orange fur, these monkeys are a delight to observe. In Uganda, the most notable population resides in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where they inhabit the bamboo forests on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains. Golden monkeys are recognized for their playful behavior, acrobatic movements, and close-knit social groups. They primarily feed on bamboo leaves, fruits, and insects. Trekking to see golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the most popular safari extensions in Uganda.

L’hoest’s Monkey
L’hoest’s Monkey
The L’Hoest’s monkey is a species of primate with a distinct appearance. It has a black face with white whiskers that point backward, partially covering its ears, and it carries its tail in an upright position. This species is quite difficult to spot as it prefers living in dense forests. It can be found in the Maramagambo forest, Kibale forest, Bwindi forest, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Red-tailed Monkey
Red-tailed Monkey
The red-tailed monkey is a primate species that has a brownish color, white whiskers, and a coppery tail that features a heart-shaped patch on the nose. These monkeys are typically found in various reserves and national parks, including Kibale Forest, Bwindi Forest, Mpanga, and Budongo forest reserves, as well as Semliki and Queen Elizabeth National Parks.

Red Colobus Monkey
Red Colobus Monkey
The red colobus monkey is a beautiful primate species with a striking appearance. It has a reddish-brown coat with black limbs, a pale face, and a long tail that ends in a tuft of white hair. The monkey’s tufted crown distinguishes it from other colobus monkey species. It is a social and arboreal animal that lives in groups of up to 20 individuals. The red colobus monkey is an important part of the ecosystem and plays a vital role in seed dispersal. You can see it in Kibale Forest National Park, especially around Bigodi Wetland sanctuary and a few of them in Semliki National Park.

Patas Monkey
Patas Monkey
The Patas monkey, also known as the hussar monkey, is a terrestrial species that is primarily found in the dry savannah regions of Kidepo and Murchison Falls National Parks. They have a lankier build compared to other monkey species and are characterized by their long legs and tails. Their fur is a light reddish-brown color, which blends well with their natural surroundings. One of their distinct features is a black stripe that runs above their eyes, which could easily be confused with the Vervet monkey. Patas monkeys are highly social animals and live in groups called troops, which can consist of up to 60 individuals.

Potto – primates in Uganda
Potto
Potto, also known as the African or honey potto, is a fascinating nocturnal animal that is native to the forests of Central and West Africa. These medium-sized creatures are often mistaken for sloths due to their slow movements and long limbs, but they are actually more closely related to lemurs. Potto are known for their unique ability to forage for food while hanging upside down from tree branches. They have a special joint in their neck that allows them to turn their head almost 180 degrees, which helps them to spot insects and other small prey in the dark. Despite their adorable appearance, potto are fiercely territorial and will defend their territory against other potto. If you ever find yourself in Kibale forest, Bwindi, or Queen Elizabeth National Park, be sure to keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures!

Bushbaby – nocturnal primates in Uganda
Bushbaby
Bushbabies, also known as galagos, are small, nocturnal primates found in the savannah reserves of Uganda. With their large, sparkling eyes and soft, furry bodies, bushbabies are adorable creatures that are loved by many. They have long, thin fingers and toes with sharp claws that help them grip onto trees and move quickly through the forest canopy. Their piercing cry, which is often heard at night, is used to communicate with other bushbabies and to warn of potential dangers. Despite their small size, these primates are skilled hunters and feed primarily on insects, fruit, and small animals such as birds and rodents.

Lesser bushbaby found include the eastern needled-clawed bushbaby, Thomas bushbaby, Dwarf bushbaby

Gray-cheeked Mangabey
Gray-cheeked Mangabey
Gray-cheeked mangabeys are intriguing primates found in the lush forests of Central Africa, including parts of Uganda. These monkeys are distinguished by their unique appearance, featuring a dark fur color with distinctive gray cheeks. Their faces are framed by this gray fur, creating a striking contrast. Gray-cheeked mangabeys have a robust build and a long tail that aids in balancing as they move through the trees. They are highly social animals, typically living in groups that include males, females, and young ones. Their diet consists of a variety of fruits, leaves, seeds, and insects. In Uganda, you may encounter gray-cheeked mangabeys in forested areas, including national parks like Kibale National Park, which is known for its diverse primate population.

Herbivore Animals Found in Uganda
On an all-inclusive Uganda safari, you can’t miss catching sight of Herbivorous animals in Uganda’s plains, at least in every grassland you look. Herbivores are the most widespread wild animals found in Uganda. These are what you expect to see on your Uganda safari Vacation.

white Rhinos
Rhinoceros
Rhinoceros, commonly referred to as rhinos, are formidable mammals characterized by their massive size, thick and tough skin, and distinctive horns. There are two main species of rhinos: the white rhinoceros and the black rhinoceros. Despite the name, both species can be gray or brown in color. Rhinos are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, and shoots. They have a unique prehistoric appearance, with a robust body and a distinctive horn or two on their snouts, made of keratin—the same protein found in human hair and nails. The black rhino is extinct in Uganda, but you can spot white rhinos at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

giraffes in uganda
Giraffe
If you visit top safari destinations in Africa and not see a giraffe, then you’ve missed out on spotting one of the world’s living spectacle. Did you know that the Rothschild’s giraffe is one of the most endangered giraffe subspecies in the world? Also called the Baringo or Ugandan giraffe, these majestic creatures can grow up to 18 feet tall and weigh over 2,000 pounds. They have a unique pattern of dark patches on a creamy white background, and their long necks allow them to reach high branches for food. The Rothschild’s giraffe has a graceful and elegant movement, swaying as it moves both right legs simultaneously and then both left legs. This subspecies can only be found in a few protected areas in Uganda and Kenya, including Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo, and Kidepo Valley National Parks. Uganda is also home to the Nubian giraffe, another endangered subspecies of giraffe with large, irregularly shaped spots covering its entire body.

Buffalo – big five animals in Uganda
Buffalo
The buffalo, a prominent member of the coveted Big Five, stands out as one of Uganda’s most dangerous animals, renowned for its unpredictable and defensive nature. This robust creature is capable of easily trampling even a lion that dares to challenge its might. Buffaloes thrive in diverse landscapes, forming large herds across the savannah and more intimate groups within the forests, making their presence felt in all of Uganda’s national parks. Their sheer strength and collective behavior make buffaloes an awe-inspiring sight in the wild, epitomizing both the beauty and challenges of coexisting with the untamed wonders of Uganda’s natural habitats.

Kazinga Channel Hippos – boat cruise safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Uganda
Hippopotamus
Hippos are huge water animals, the third biggest on land after elephants and rhinos. They weigh around 1,500 to 1,800 kg and have webbed feet that help them move in water. Unlike us, they don’t sweat, so to stay cool, they spend most of their time in the water. You can find them near almost every water body, but the best places to see these amazing creatures are Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo National Parks in Uganda.

Zebra
Zebra
Zebras are striking animals characterized by their distinctive black and white striped coat, resembling a unique pattern of bold and elegant markings. In Uganda, the Plains Zebra, scientifically known as Equus quagga, is commonly found. These zebras prefer habitats with open grasslands, making Kidepo Valley National Park and Lake Mburo National Park ideal locations for spotting them. The Plains Zebra’s social nature is evident as they often move in groups, grazing on grass and showcasing their captivating appearance against the backdrop of these scenic parks.

African Elephant
The African Elephant is a large, majestic mammal known for its impressive size, distinctively large ears, and elongated tusks. In Uganda, you can encounter both the African Bush Elephant (Loxodonta africana africana) and the African Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis). These magnificent creatures can be observed in various national parks, with notable populations residing in Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. African Elephants are herbivores, consuming a variety of vegetation, and their presence in these natural habitats contributes significantly to the biodiversity of Uganda’s wildlife. Observing these gentle giants during a safari offers a unique and awe-inspiring opportunity to witness their grandeur and appreciate their importance in the country’s conservation efforts.

Impala, Habivores Animals found in Uganda
Antelope
Antelopes are graceful herbivorous mammals known for their slender bodies, long legs, and distinctively curved horns. In Uganda, various antelope species can be found, adding to the rich tapestry of the country’s wildlife. Among these are the Ugandan Kob (Kobus kob thomasi), which is the national symbol of Uganda, and the Impala (Aepyceros melampus). These antelopes thrive in different habitats, including savannahs and woodlands, and can be spotted in several national parks such as Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Observing antelopes during a safari provides a chance to appreciate their agility and the role they play in maintaining the ecological balance within Uganda’s diverse ecosystems.

Types of Antelopes in Uganda
Eland: The largest antelope with fawn-brown with large dewlap and short-spiraled horns, sometimes with light white stripes on its sides. They appear around Lake Mburo National Park, Kidepo Valley, and the surrounding areas.

Greater Kudu: It is handsome with a Grey-brown coat with long, elegant spiral horns and white side stripes.

Hartebeest: The common one is Jackson’s hartebeest – an unusual, flat-faced creature living in lightly wooded and open Savannah habitats, frequently seen in the Ishasha sector of the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo, and Kidepo valley.

Oryx: Is ash-grey with sports distinctive large, scimitar-shaped horns and regal commonly found in Kidepo National Park. It is more familiar with the semi-desert and dry acacia woodland.

Defassa waterbuck: Has a grey-brown coat, white rump, and large curved horns and grazes near water. They are found in most savannah national parks.

Sitatunga is semi-aquatic, large with a shaggier coat with both sexes having stripes, and has distinctively splayed hooves adapted to its favored habitat of papyrus and other swamps. It is found in all six national parks.

Impala is handsome and slender with a chestnut coloring, sleek appearance, and distinctive lyre horns for males. They have broad jump skills. They are only found in Lake Mburo.

The lesser kudu is similar to the greater kudu but only smaller in size and less striped, found in Kidepo National Park.

Grant’s gazelle are lightly built tan in color.

Reedbuck: It has small crescent-shaped horns and a Grey-brown in color. The Bohor reedbuck is found in all the four Savannah national parks of Uganda. The mountain reedbuck is found in Kidepo National Park.

Uganda kob: The Uganda kob is related to the waterbuck and reedbuck but is reddish-brown in color and bulkier in appearance. They are found in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Semliki, Kidepo National Park, and Katonga Wildlife Reserves. The small-sized antelope in Uganda belongs to the Duiker family, characterized by their small size and their love for thickly forested habitats.

Forest duiker: It is relatively large with a striking yellow back and heavier than a bushbuck. Types of the forest duiker include;

The Harvey’s red duiker is tiny with a chestnut-brown color and is found around the forested parts of Queen Elizabeth national park and Kibale forest.

The blue duiker is smaller with a grey-blue coat found in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison falls, Kibale, and Bwindi National Park.

Peter’s duiker is found in Kibale, Bwindi, and Queen Elizabeth national parks.

The black-fronted duiker is found in Mgahinga and Bwindi forests.

Grey duiker is speckled with a Grey-brown coat found in woodland and savannah habitats, seen in all four of the Savannah national parks and Mount Elgon.

Oribi has a red-brown back, white underparts, and a diagnostic black scent gland under its ears. They are found in the tall grasslands, and it is seen in all the Savannah national parks. Borassus are located in the northern grassland of the Murchison falls national park.

Klipspringer has goat-like habits with a dark grey coat and almost speckled living in pairs in suitable habitats in Kidepo and Lake Mburo national parks.

Guenther’s dik-dik is small, with a dark red-brown coat, distinctive white eye markings, and very pretty. They are found in the dry Savannah around Kidepo valley.

Bates’ pygmy antelope is not a duiker but similar and appears in the same favored habitats. It is found in Semliki National Park and the forests bordering Queen Elizabeth National Park’s southern half.

Wild Pigs
Warthog, Uganda
Warthog
Warthogs are distinctive-looking wild pigs known for their stocky build, bristly manes, and prominent tusks. In Uganda, the Common Warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) is the species commonly found. These sturdy animals can be spotted in various habitats, including grasslands and woodlands, within national parks such as Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Warthogs are herbivores, primarily grazing on grasses, and they often use their sharp tusks for digging up roots and bulbs.

Common Bushpig (Potamochoerus larvatus)
Bushpig
The bushpig is a wild pig species known for its robust build, pointed snout, and distinctive reddish-brown fur. In Uganda, the Common Bushpig (Potamochoerus larvatus) is the species that can be found. These adaptable animals inhabit a variety of environments, ranging from forests to grasslands, and are distributed across different national parks, including Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Bushpigs are omnivores, consuming a mix of plant matter and small animals, and are primarily active during the night.

Giant Forest Hog (Hylochoerus meinertzhageni)
The giant forest hog
The giant forest hog is a large pig species distinguished by its massive size, dark brown or black coat, and distinctive facial features. In Uganda, the Giant Forest Hog (Hylochoerus meinertzhageni) is the species of this particular pig found in certain regions. These impressive animals are typically associated with dense forest habitats, making appearances in places such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Semliki National Park. Giant forest hogs are omnivores, foraging on a variety of foods including roots, fruits, and small animals.

Reptiles Found in Uganda
Among the wild animals found in Uganda are cold-blooded reptiles. Thanks to its hot equatorial climate, Uganda is a haven for many cold-blooded reptiles. The largest of these is the Nile crocodile, observed along the banks of rivers and lakes, basking open-mouthed in the heat as blackbird plovers pick tasty morsels from between their teeth. The species was once threatened with extinction as a result of being hunted for its high-quality leather.

Nile Crocodile among the animals found in Uganda
Nile crocodile
The Nile crocodile is the largest living reptile found in Uganda, known for its powerful build and presence in waterways. Recognized by its olive-green or brownish scales and a V-shaped snout, the Nile crocodile is a large species that can grow up to several meters in length. These crocodiles are skilled predators, inhabiting rivers, lakes, and swamps, where they patiently wait for prey to approach the water’s edge. Their diet includes fish, birds, and mammals. In Uganda, Nile crocodiles can be spotted in various locations, including the Nile River, Murchison Falls National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Although their impressive size and sharp teeth make them fearsome, observing Nile crocodiles in their natural habitats allows for an appreciation of their crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the water ecosystems in Uganda.

Snakes
Snakes are elongated, legless reptiles found in various habitats across Uganda. They come in a wide range of sizes, colors, and patterns. Some common snake species in Uganda include the African Rock Python, the Black Mamba, and the Puff Adder. The African Rock Python is one of the largest snake species and is known for its impressive size and distinctive pattern. The Black Mamba, on the other hand, is highly venomous and is known for its sleek black color. The Puff Adder is recognized for its broad, triangular head and well-camouflaged appearance. While snakes play important roles in ecosystems by controlling rodent populations, it’s essential to exercise caution and respect when encountering them in the wild. In Uganda, snakes can be found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and near water sources, but they are typically shy and prefer to avoid human encounters.

When is the best time for wildlife viewing?
You can visit most Uganda safari parks throughout the year. However, the best time for viewing animals Found in Uganda is the Dry season (from June to August and December to February). The dry season is when animals congregate near rivers and water points. During the rainy season, the roads can become impassable, hiking trails become slippery and challenging, and the overall experience might be compromised. Find out more about when the best time to visit Uganda.

Uganda, blessed with warm tropical weather, is a haven with various wildlife, plant life, and adventure activities. You will get a closer look at different wild animals found in Uganda, from mammals, primates, reptiles, and birdlife. Extremely fascinating are the changing vegetation from Savannah, tropical forests, mountain vegetation, hygrophilous vegetation in water points, and the steppe.

How to book a Uganda wildlife safari
Uganda provides a unique experience for wildlife safaris, offering various options to encounter different species of animals. Maseke Adventure Co. has been planning customized Uganda safari journeys since 2007, using their expertise to design trips that capture the essence of every destination and align with travelers’ travel styles. They handle all the intricate groundwork, making the process of planning an adventure exciting for travelers. To connect with them, one can simply email or use the online forms available on their website or engage with their head consultant through the green button on the bottom-right corner of the screen.