Uganda Wildlife
Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex)
- Best Months
- Jan, Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Dec
The shoebill stork is an ancient avian giant widely sought after by birding enthusiasts for its striking, prehistoric appearance reminiscent of the Jurassic era. Standing up to five feet tall with an eight-foot wingspan, this bird is defined by its massive, bulbous, shoe-shaped bill tipped with a razor-sharp hook. Its formidable bill easily decapitates its preferred prey of large lungfish, along with water snakes, frogs, and even juvenile crocodiles.
Last updated October 22, 2026
· Written by Enoch, Huko Safaris
5.0average traveler rating
Local expert: Enoch
Best Months to See Shoebill Stork
From our team
Shoebill Stork
While you can find them in the Albert Delta of Murchison Falls, a canoe excursion in Mabamba Bay Swamp on the edge of Lake Victoria near Entebbe has a higher chance of sightings. Tip: head out by 7:00 AM; this is when the shoebills are most active, hunting for lungfish that surface for air in the poorly oxygenated water before the heat of the day forces them down.
— Enoch, Huko Safaris