Lake Mburo National Park is a national park located in western Uganda. It is situated in Kiruhura District and is approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) South West of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. The park covers an area of about 370 square kilometers (140 square miles).
Animals In Lake Mburo
Lake Mburo National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. It is the smallest national park in Uganda, but it is home to a variety of animals. Among others, Lake Mburo is famous for its large herds of zebras. Here are the animals found in Lake Mburo National Game Park.
The Zebras:
Lake Mburo National Park is famous for its large population of zebras. The park is one of the few places in Uganda where you can spot the Burchell’s zebra.
Burchell’s zebra, also known as the plains zebra (Equus quagga burchellii), is a subspecies of zebra found in various parts of southern and eastern Africa, including Lake Mburo National Park in Uganda. It is one of the most common and widely distributed zebra species.
Burchell’s zebras are known for their distinctive black and white striped coats, which vary in pattern and intensity among individuals. The stripes serve as a form of camouflage and also play a role in individual recognition among zebras.
These zebras have a compact and sturdy body, with an average shoulder height of around 1.2 to 1.4 meters (4 to 4.6 feet). They have a tuft of hair on their tails, and their muzzles are elongated.
Burchell’s zebras are social animals and usually live in family groups known as harems, consisting of one male stallion, several females, and their offspring. They are herbivores and primarily feed on grasses and other vegetation.
In Lake Mburo National Park, Burchell’s zebras can be seen grazing in the open savannah areas, often in close proximity to other herbivores like impalas and topis. Their striking appearance and behavior make them a popular attraction for visitors to the park.
The Impalas:
Impalas are abundant in the park and can be seen grazing in the open savannah areas. Impalas (Aepyceros melampus) are medium-sized antelopes found in various parts of Africa, including Lake Mburo National Park in Uganda. They are one of the most common and widespread antelope species on the continent.
Impalas are known for their elegant appearance, with a reddish-brown coat, white underbellies, and black markings on their face, ears, and legs. Male impalas have long, lyre-shaped horns that can reach up to 90 centimeters (35 inches) in length, while females are hornless.
These antelopes inhabit a range of habitats, including savannahs, woodlands, and grasslands. They are highly adaptable and can survive in different environments. Impalas are herbivores and primarily feed on grasses, leaves, and shoots.
Impalas are gregarious animals and form mixed-sex herds, often consisting of females, young males, and their offspring. Adult males, known as rams, establish territories and compete for dominance during the breeding season, which can involve impressive displays of territorial behavior and vocalizations.
One notable characteristic of impalas is their incredible agility and ability to jump long distances. When threatened, they can perform incredible leaps known as “pronking” or “stotting,” where they jump into the air with all four legs extended. This behavior is believed to be a way to confuse predators and communicate with other herd members.
In Lake Mburo National Park, impalas are commonly seen grazing in the open grasslands and woodland areas. Their striking appearance, graceful movements, and social behavior make them a fascinating species to observe during a visit to the park.
As with any wildlife, the exact population and distribution of impalas within Lake Mburo National Park may vary, so it’s always best to check with the park authorities or local guides for the most up-to-date information on wildlife sightings.
Elands:
Lake Mburo National Park is known for its eland population. Elands are the largest antelope species and can be spotted in the grassy plains.
Topis:
Topis, a type of antelope, are common in the park. They are known for their unique coloration and can be found in open grasslands.
Buffaloes:
Cape buffaloes can be seen in Lake Mburo National Park, often in large herds. They are massive and powerful animals.
Warthogs:
Warthogs, with their distinctive tusks and warty faces, are frequently seen in the park. They are usually found in grassy areas.
Hippos:
Lake Mburo is home to a population of hippos. These semi-aquatic mammals can be spotted in and around the lake.
Crocodiles:
Nile crocodiles inhabit Lake Mburo and can often be seen basking on the banks or swimming in the water.
Birds:
For Birders, Lake Mburo National Park boasts a diverse bird population, with over 350 bird species recorded. You can spot various waterbirds, raptors, and savannah species.
The centerpiece of the park is Lake Mburo, which is part of a larger wetland system. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills, open savannah, and acacia woodlands, creating a picturesque setting. Visitors to the park can enjoy activities such as game drives, nature walks, boat cruises on the lake, bird watching, and camping.
Lake Mburo National Park is easily accessible from Kampala, and it is a popular destination for both day trips and longer stays. It offers a unique opportunity to experience wildlife and nature in a compact and easily navigable setting.
