The Narina Trogon in Uganda
The Narina Trogon in Uganda: The secretive and stunning Narina Trogon is found in Uganda, a place with an incredible diversity of wildlife. The medium-sized Narina Trogon (Apaloderma narina) is distinguished by its eye-catching green and red plumage. Its length is between 32 and 34 cm. This bird, which belongs to the Trogonidae family, is indigenous to the Afrotropical forests and woodlands. Important to note it that Uganda is home 2 Trogon species – the Narina and recently split Western Bar-tailed trogon which is mostly a high altitude rarity.
The Narina Trogon bears the name of the Khoi Khoi woman who François Le Vaillant, a well-known French ornithologist, fell in love with while he was living in South Africa. She was so beautiful that Le Vaillant named this magnificent bird in her honour. The term “thin-skinned” in the generic form “Apaloderma” alludes to the thin, easily-ripped skin of this family.
The Narina Trogon is easily found in Uganda’s Royal Mile of Budongo Forest, which is a popular and one of the best spot for birdwatching in Uganda due to its lush and forested surroundings the presume it is a forest edge yet a continuum of the Budongo eco system. The habitat preference of this bird is catholic, indicating that it can live in valley, riparian, and highland forests, among other types of woods. The species’ numbers are locally reduced due to deforestation, despite its broad distribution and variety of habitat choices, underscoring the significance of conservation efforts.
The male Narina Trogon in Uganda stands out because of his green gape and eye flanges and vivid amaranth red underbelly plumage. The female, albeit still colourful, has a duller red below and a brown face and chest plumage. While their gape and eye flanges are less pronounced and their inner wings have conspicuous white tips, juveniles resemble females in other ways.
The primary foods of the Narina Trogon in Uganda are insects and small invertebrates; on rare occasions, it may also eat rodents and small reptiles. Its peculiar method of foraging involves it perching still, frequently rolling its head to look for prey, then quickly snatching it up as soon as it is spotted.
Males of the species use their characteristic, low, repetitive hoot to mark their territory or entice potential mates. Males may show off their bare, blue-green throat patch and fluff out their breast feathers when courting. They nest in tree hollows, and both sexes are involved, so it might be difficult to find their nests.
The monogamous Narina Trogon in Uganda exhibits courtship behaviours such as a “floating lek,” in which a number of males congregate and pursue one another through the air. A pair that has mated will choose a nest site after displaying for a few days. The female lays two to four eggs during the breeding season, which runs from November to February.
The Narina Trogon’s existence in Uganda’s woodlands is evidence of the rich natural history of the nation. To see this scarce species adds even more appeal to Uganda’s already spectacular birdwatching situation, drawing in birdwatchers and nature lovers. In order to guarantee that Uganda’s varied ecosystems continue to support the Narina Trogon and other animals, conservation activities are essential.
It is strongly advised that anyone who would like to see the Narina Trogon in its natural habitat travel to the Budongo Forest. The peaceful surroundings of the Royal Mile allow one to witness the splendour of the Narina Trogon and other bird species. Finding a Narina Trogon in the wild is an unforgettable experience because of the bird’s striking hues and reticent disposition, which make every encounter unique and treasured.
Birds like the Narina Trogon depend on Uganda’s dedication to protecting its natural environments and the species that live there. Visitors may help preserve these amazing animals for the enjoyment of future generations by supporting conservation efforts and ethical travel.
What are the best places to see the Narina Trogon in Uganda?
There are numerous locations in Uganda where one can witness the colourful Narina Trogon. A great place to see the Narina Trogon, the Budongo Forest, especially the Royal Mile and the Kaniyo pabidi section, is well known for its diverse birds. A common reason for birdwatchers to come to this location is to see the bird’s remarkable green and red plumage. In addition, many bird species, like the Narina Trogon, find refuge in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park mostly the Ruhija secrtion, the small and unique Mabira Forest near Jinja city and the Capital Kampala, the tropical rain forests of Kibale National Park, Immaramagambo Forest, Mpanga Eco-tourism site among the many habitats where it finds great and safe haven.
These birds thrive in the park’s deep forests, and guided trips can improve the likelihood of seeing them. Journeys Uganda offers customised itineraries that highlight the nation’s rich avian species for those seeking a more structured experience. These itineraries guarantee an unforgettable bird-watching adventure. Discovering these regions offers the chance to observe the Narina Trogon while also appreciating Uganda’s woods’ abundant variety.