Updated
Hartlaub’s duck is a shy, chestnut-brown forest duck with a black head, a small white patch near the eye in males, and pale blue wing patches. Despite some descriptions, it is not a highland lake bird: it lives on streams, rivers and pools inside lowland rainforest across Central and West Africa. In Uganda it is found in western forests such as Semuliki and, more rarely, Kibale and Budongo, and is a prized find for birders.
Hartlaub’s Duck in Uganda: A Rainforest Duck
Habits
It feeds on aquatic insects, snails and crustaceans in shaded forest waters and sometimes perches on branches overhanging streams. Pairs or small groups are wary and fly off at the first sign of people, so quiet observation from a distance is needed. It nests in tree holes, as many forest ducks do.
Where to look
Semuliki National Park, an extension of the Congo Basin forest, is the best Ugandan site, especially around forest streams and swampy pools. Ask a local bird guide about recent sightings. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Semuliki and other lesser-visited places, Fort Portal, Uganda’s wetlands and Uganda birding.
Frequently asked questions
On streams and pools in lowland rainforest.
Best in Semuliki National Park; rarely in Kibale and Budongo.
Aquatic insects, snails and crustaceans.
No, it is shy and flies off quickly.
