Mabamba Bay

Mabamba is one of Uganda's 33 Important Bird Areas and since 2006 a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance.[2] The area has over 260 bird species and is labelled an Important Bird Area. The period from September to March experiences the highest bird activity at the wetland due to the arrival of many migrant birds. Large congregations of Blue Swallow, White-winged and Gull-billed Terns fill the wetlands and the shores of Lake Victoria. Key protected bird species in Mabamba are the shoebill, the blue swallow and the papyrus gonolek.[3]

Bird watching is the primary activity within the area. Spotting and observing the rare Shoebill stork is definitely one of the highlights for every bird watcher coming to Uganda. The Mabamba Swamp offers the best chances of seeing this majestic bird. The large bird with its prehistoric look fascinates many bird lovers. The shoe bill usually hides within the papyrus and is known for feeding on lung fish. The wetland is also home to plenty of other bird species. These include: African Pigmy Goose, Black Crake, Black Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, Black-crowned Waxbill, Black-headed Heron, Black-winged Stilt, Pied Wagtail, African Firefinch, African Fish Eagle, African Green Pigeon, Pink-backed Pelican among others.You will also have a chance to witness a few activities like fishing, which is done by the local people, some of which stay in the nearby village of Kasanje. Statungas, which is an antelope is also common at Mabamba as well as some rare plant species like the sand boxes. A Mabamba swamp excursion is available to any visitor to the area. The excursion usually lasts for three hours although the option of a full day is also possible. The birding guides usually use local motorized boats. At the landing stage, there are many fisherman preparing for their daily fishing activities. The swamp is a beautiful environment of papyrus plants and water lilies.