The shoebill stork in Zambia (Balaeniceps rex) is one of the great bird species in Africa and certainly one of the major challenges in bird watching.
The shoebill gained the name of “the most sought-after” of all the birds of the African continent. You don’t need to be a bird watcher or an ornithologist to get excited when you see it. The bird is so impressive and without doubt the most extraordinary bird to discover in Uganda!
As its name suggests his bill is quite big (30 cm x 10 cm) with the structure of a human foot that ends in a ferocious nail-like hook. Long in the leg and broad in the wing, standing well over a meter twenty high and dressed in blue-grey. With his yellow eyes the bird has also a violent appearance.
Want a chance to see a shoebill stork in Zambia?
Bangweulu swamps is the Best Place to see Shoebill Storks in Zambia Shoebill stork safaris in Bangweulu swamps Zambia – Best time to see the shoebill stork in Zambia. Shoebill stork safaris in Bangweulu swamps – Bangweulu is home to over 400 bird species, including 10% of the world’s wattle crane population and the globally important population of the endangered shoebill stork, both also listed as vulnerable.
Shoebill safaris In 2012, a Shoebill Nest Protection Plan was developed with support from local communities. Approximately eight local fishermen are employed as guards to protect shoebill nesting sites, preventing poachers from stealing eggs and chicks to feed the illegal wildlife trade. To date, these guards have helped protect over 30 fledglings.
Bangweulu swamps is the Best Place to see Shoebill Storks in Zambia.
Though the morning is the best time to spot the shoebill stork, any time of the day is a good time. Rarely does one leave Bangweulu swamps without spotting the Shoebill Stork, as well as many other waterbirds that make Bangweulu swamps swamp their home. It is a remarkable wetlands Sanctuary to visit for the Shoebill Storks, Sitatunga Antelopes, and the tropical vegetation you see here.
Bangweulu swamps is an excellent opportunity to see the elusive and endangered Shoebill Stork.
Many who visit Zambia want to see the Shoebill Stork. One of the most reliable places where you can sight the most sought-after Bird in Africa.
The Shoebill Stork is Bangweulu swamps Wetlands. Bangweulu swamps is the perfect place for bird watchers who want to see the most elusive and endangered Shoebill Stork in Africa.
When is the best time to visit?
The main season is from May to August when Shoebills can usually be seen on canoe trips. September to November offer great birding (though maybe no Shoebill sightings) and the some amazing mammal spectacles.
Where to stay on your shoebill stork safaris in Bangweulu swamps.
Shoebill island camp
Shoebill Island Camp is perfectly positioned on the edge of the expansive Bangweulu wetlands. The camp has a front row seat to the constant activity of the swamps and surrounding flood plain. It is always alive with bird movement and the sound of thousands of lechwe sloshing through the shallow waters. The peaceful harmony of the local fisherman brings a special experience to this camp, where community conservation is crucial to the welfare of the wetlands and its wildlife, especially the iconic shoebill. Each day ends looking out at the sunset before you, and closes out what is certainly a place never to be forgotten.
How to get there
Bangweulu Wetlands is located 700km/343mi north of Lusaka. Bangweulu isn’t included on many tourist itineraries and getting here isn’t very straightforward – the easiest way is by chartered plane. There are two airstrips in the area.
It is possible to drive to the park, and some specialized operators can set up a mobile trip for you as well. If you are driving yourself, you need to be fully self-sufficient with a high-clearance 4×4. In the Wet season, you’ll have to hire a boat for the last stretch to the Shoebill Island Camp.
Zambia’s main airport is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN), located 14km/9mi from the capital, Lusaka – it is through this airport that most international visitors will arrive in the country
