We spent the morning exploring the birds of the Ruhija sector in Bwindi. Our primary goal was to visit Umubwindi Swamp, celebrated among bird enthusiasts for its rare and endangered population of Grauer’s Broadbill. This species is highly localized, existing only in two isolated regions: Bwindi (Uganda) and Itombwe/Kahuzi (Democratic Republic of Congo).
Our walk started off with a bang as we found an active bird party. We were fortunate to spot the Banded Prinia, which provided excellent views, as well as the Red-faced Woodland Warbler, another Albertine rift endemic, and the Mountain Illadopsis. Descending towards the swamp was a delightful experience, with the lush forest providing a serene backdrop. The birdwatching was exceptional as always, with sightings including the Ruwenzori Apalis, Mountain Oriole, Olive-breasted Greenbul, White-browed Crombec, and the Grey-chested Babbler—a highlight of the trip. We also spotted the Blue-headed Sunbird, Dwarf Honeyguide attempting to parasitize Cardinal Woodpeckers, White-headed Wood Hoopoe, Archer’s Ground Robin, Willard’s Sooty Boubou, and the stunning, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher-a Albertine rift endemic-.
Arriving at the spot where our local guide had recently seen the Grauer’s Broadbill, we waited briefly before being treated to a marvelous sighting of this rare avian gem. For the next 20 minutes, we observed a pair feeding and playfully chasing a Western Tinkerbird—a truly unforgettable moment. A brief walk to the swamp rewarded us with clear views of the Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, another elusive endemic of the Albertine Rift.
After such an exhilarating morning, we enjoyed a packed lunch amidst the forest before embarking on the challenging hike back up and out of the forest. Along the way, we encountered notable birds such as the Thick-billed Seedeater, White-bellied Crested Flycatcher, Ruwenzori Hill Babbler, and had excellent views of the Strange Weaver, Sharpe’s Starling, Brown-capped Weaver, Northern Puffback, Yellow-billed Barbet, and Black-billed Turaco—each putting on a show for our group.
Back at the lodge, we took a well-deserved rest, reflecting on our adventure over a few cold beers. One last effort for the day in the bamboo section of Ruhija rewarded us with another Albertine Rift endemic, the Handsome Francolin. Dinner was a lively affair, filled with discussions and updates to our birdwatching lists Falling asleep to the distinctive call of the Wood Owl capped off another memorable day in the forests of Uganda.
