The Black and White Colobus | Old world monkey

The Black and White Colobus | Old world monkey : also termed to as an Old World monkey is a native to central Africa. They have a scientific name known as the mantled guereza, that derives from its mantle, the long silky white fringe of hair that runs along its body. On the other hand, “Guereza” derives from the native word in Ethiopia meaning monkey. Additionally the scientific name colobus derives from a Greek word “kolobus” meaning “Mutilated” which refers to its lack of thumbs. The specie generally has a distinctive black and white coloration, with long white fur on their backs. In addition, they are unusual in a way that they possess no thumbs and only have four fingers on their hands though some individuals will have a partial thumb that is not used. 

The Black and White Colobus facts
Physical description

These are basically heavy bodied animal with a long tail. They basically possess only four fingers on each hand. In fact, the thumb is absent or represented by a small phalangeal tubercle that sometimes bears a nail. However, it is believed that the loss of the thumb may be an adaption for quick movements through and along the trees. The coloration of the fur is distinctly white and black, the face is grey, no fur, face and callosities are surrounded by white. More so, the coat is glossy black along with a U-shaped white mantle of varying length harbored on both sides. 

Reproduction

Colobus Guereza generally have a polygamous mating system. It has also been studied that there seems to be little or no reproductive seasonality in most populations of the colobus. However, they tend to have a birth peak, timed out so that weaning corresponds with the greatest seasonal abundance of solid food. There is no distinct breeding seasons however, most mating definitely occurs mainly in the rain season. The full sexual maturity of the male guereza is always at the age of 6 and in females is 4 years of age.

Besides, the female produces one young every after 20 months of her gestation period which is about 6 months before giving birth again. When giving birth, females usually tend to give birth in private, and solitude. In fact, they have been noticed helping themselves when giving birth.  Other troop members often handle very young infants and the infants are carried on the other’s abdomen where it clings to her fur. Generally, both the male and the female take part in the parenting of the child. Otherwise, females remain in their natal group meaning that mothers and daughters have life-long relationships.

Behavior

They are typically diurnal and are highly arboreal residents of deep forest. They also live in sexually mixed groups ranging from 8 to 15 individuals. The family usually consists of one fully adult male (dominant), three or four reproducing females, adolescents and infants. Furthermore, each troop has its own territory which is well defined and defended from other troops. The colobus spends much of their time sitting in the tops of trees. However, they take turns sleeping at night so that at least one individual is awake at all times to watch over for predators.

There is always no true leader of a group although strong males usually take leadership roles. Territories may overlap and marginally they are vigorously defended by males. These territories are defended by leaps and cries, hand-to-hand communication, fighting, etc. Additionally the displays of the white fringe fur flapping up and down serve as a warning to other animals. In order to have defense against their predators like eagles, the species simply attempts to avoid and hide from them. However, they also at times been seen in fights against other types of animals a practice termed to as baiting.

Life span

These colobus live up to 20 years typically in the wild and have been known to live 25-30 years in captivity. Otherwise, predators of black and white colobus are leopards, crowned hawk eagles and occasionally chimpanzees.

Communication

Five vocal sounds have been recorded such as snorts, honks, screams, purrs and roars. Additionally, in terms of vocal communication, visual signals such as facial expressions, flapping of fringe fur and body postures are used in aggressive communication between different groups. 

Feeding

Guereza are the second most folivores species among the colobus. Their diet comprises of primarily leaves with nearly of young unripe ones, mature leaves, fruits, leaf buds and blossoms. However, this distribution is highly varied seasonally and geographically thus at times mature leaves may account in the diet.  Additionally, they get water from dew and the moisture content of their diet or rainwater held in the tree trunk hollows. Nevertheless, they spend most of their days eating, relaxing almost like humans.

Habitant

Their habitat ranges from tropical forests to dry forests and scrublands. They are generally found in high density forests where they forage on leaves. While in forests, they are highly arboreal and spend most of their time in the trees. However, in less dense forests, they will travel along the ground. Besides, they spend most their time searching for food and resting. In Uganda, they can be viewed in different national parks. Some of these include; Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Semuliki National Park, etc. They are also noted among the popular primate species sought after on wildlife safaris in Uganda.

Mabamba Swamp Exploration

Mabamba swamp Exploration : The swamp is famous for the shoebill with over 12 shoebill storks  (locally called “Boolwe”). Besides, the bird is Uganda’s most sought-after bird by Uganda birding tourists as well as nature lovers. The swamp is generally a prime wetland birding site located on the northern fringes of Lake Victoria in Uganda. It covers 2424 ha with thick marshes of papyrus, water lilies and other wetland grasses.  

As a matter of fact, the mysterious shoebill is known to occur in mainly four countries. These include; Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan and Zambia. However, in Uganda it is best seen at Mabamba swamp. In 2006, the Ramsar Convention on the wetlands awarded this swamp the status of a wetland of international importance since it contains globally threatened species. The wetland is also a Ramsar site and Important Bird Area (IBA) which hosts over 300 bird species. The wetland also hosts huge flocks of Palearctic migrants every year from October to March.

Activities done at Mabamba Swamp
Canoeing

Basically, birding in this place is done on a canoe by riding through a maze of trails cutting through the thick marshes in such for bird species. Some of the birds include the rare shoebill, white-winged warble, blue swallow, black-headed weaver. Papyrus gonolek, swamp flycatcher, pallid harrier, pigmy goose, Carruthers cisticola, lesser jacana, grosbeak weaver. Viellot’s weaver, northern brown-throated weaver, Clarke’s weaver, palm-nut vulture. Papyrus yellow warbler, African purple swamp hen, African water rail, blue breasted bee-eater. Winding cisticola, goliath Heron, African fish eagle, long tailed cormorant, yellow billed duck, malachite kingfisher. Glossy ibis, white-winged tern, hamerkop, great cormorant, grey-headed gull. White-faced whistling-duck, knob-billed duck, little stint to mention but a few.

While here, you will meet the local fishermen and discover that there was a time when the local community used to be enemies with the birds as they competed for the same fish resource. But today, many local people have been trained as tour guides who now strive to preserve both the birds and the swamp. Otherwise, guides are now a part of the Mabamba Wetland Eco-Tourism Association.  They share their knowledge of the swamp and part of the revenue from their tours is re-invested in conservation projects which protect the Shoebill.

Fishing

The community is happy to tell you a story about how this Swamp got its name after a lungfish locally known as “Emamba” which inhabit its waters, and they form the staple of the shoebill’s diet. The swamp is rich with lungfish locally known as “emamba” which is also the favorite food for the shoebill. However, the lungfish is also one of the most sought-after fish by the local fishermen, creating competition with the shoebill. These fishermen had long held a superstition that seeing a shoebill resulted in a poor catch that day so they hunted and killed them leading to the decline in their number and almost rendered them extinct in the wetland.

Others

The site supports a lucrative fisheries activity and a source of fish for home consumption and commercial use. It provides raw materials for local crafts, building materials, water for domestic and livestock use and non-wood products. Factors needing attention are the dry season incursion into the swamp by fishermen; hunting of the sitatunga by the local people; the proliferation of the Water Hyacinth and poaching of the Shoebill. The proliferation of flower farms along the shores of Lake Victoria and the use of agrochemicals is likely to have an impact. 

Best time to visit

This place in Uganda is visited all year round but dry months are much preferred as the water levels are low. This also gives much better feeding places and the grass is short. This is in the months of June to September and December to February.

How to get there

Mabamba swamp can be accessed by water and road. From Kampala city or Entebbe town, but the easiest route is through Nakiwogo landing site in Entebbe.  You will take a motorized boat to the island led by a guide to search for the elusive shoebill. The easiest route is through Nakiwogo landing site in Entebbe where you take a motorized boat to the swamp.

Toro Semliki Wildlife Reserve Uganda

Toro Semliki Wildlife Reserve Uganda : is basically a predominantly grassy savanna and acacia echoing Murchison Falls National Park at the northern end of Lake Albert. It is also known as a conservation protected area in the western part of Uganda. It is generally located in Kabarole district in the Toro sub-region, on the floor of the rift valley. Here, Lake Albert, Kijura escarpment and the mighty Rwenzori mountains create backdrops. The reserve was established as a game reserve in 1926 and was also among the first protected areas to be declared.

The main reason was to protect the large numbers of Uganda kobs in the area which is within Ntoroko and Kabarole districts. South west of the Toro Semliki wildlife reserve are the 3rd highest elevated mountains in Africa. These include the Rwenzori Mountains while North to the reserve is the famous Lake Albert the furthest-north of the great rift lakes.  Additionally, stands of borassus palms, lakeshore marshland and broad river valleys filled with beautiful gallery forest all add variety.  Furthermore, the reserve is characterized by a hot climate, with the temperature halving after the sunsets, and the constant prospect of rain. 

Communities living around the reserve
Kasesenge-kyakabaseke community

It is located on the Eastern escarpment of the rift valley and the biggest number of them are the Bakiga migrants who originally came to work tea estates in the 1960s. During the good seasons, tea provided a stable income and as the prices of tea deteriorated, they resorted to crop cultivation mainly beans, maize, bananas and groundnuts.

Karugutu-kyabandara community

This community is situated in the south of the reserve about 18 kilometers from Fort portal town. Besides, it is mainly inhabited by the Bakonjo who are traditional cultivators. The crops usually grown include; soya beans, bananas, cassava, beans and rice. Afterwards, they are sold in Rwebisengo and Ntoroko markets.

Ntoroko fishing community

The community is at the south-eastern tip of Lake Albert between the estuaries of Wasa and Muzizi rivers. The area covering approximately 4 square kilometers has been excised from the reserve and gazetted as a wildlife sanctuary. As a result, this is done to provide protection of any wildlife that interface in this area. As a matter of fact, Ntoroko community depends mainly on fishing.

Rwebisengo community

This one is located on the west and northwestern edge of the reserve in the Semliki flats. It comprises of the Batuku (Batoro-Bahuma) who are predominantly pastoralists. In fact, these are believed to be descendants of the Abarusula who were the royal army of the King Kabalega of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom.

What to do in the reserve
Birdwatching

The reserve boosts over 440 bird species and its a few spots where the extinct shoebill can be found. West of the reserve is the board Congolese rain forest that contains one of the richest, most extinct species reservoirs in the world. It is also one of the planet’s biggest covers of the un-logged forest. Some of the birds here include; red-necked falcon, black-billed barbet, great white pelican. Malachite kingfisher, Abyssinian ground-hornbill, African pygmy goose, black coucal, pennant-winged nightjar. Stunning red-throated bee-eater, piapiac, not to mention but a few. The adjacent Semuliki National Park offers a great opportunity to add several species associated with the Congolese rainforest.  However, migratory birds are present from November to April.

Guided nature walks

These are conducted near Semuliki safari lodge where you will meet an experienced guide. There after, will go through a variety of habitats ranging from savannah woodland to riverine forest. While here, you will come across baboons, waterbucks, red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus, warthogs, elephants, Uganda kobs, etc.

Game drives

It is also a home to a number of wild animals such as elephants, leopards, waterbucks, giant forest hog, hippos, Uganda kobs, buffalos, etc. Primates here include; chimpanzees though rarely seen, baboons, vervet monkey, red-tailed monkey. Black and white colobus, dent’s mona monkey, central African red colobus, blue monkey and de Brazza’s. Animals regularly seen include; elephants, warthogs, buffalo, waterbucks, Uganda kobs, leopards, white-tailed mongoose bush babies, etc. Game drives at the reserve are carried out in the morning, afternoon and at night.

Community tours

The Karugutu Community Conservation Association (KCCA) is a community-based association whose objective is conservation education through Music Dance and Drama (MDD). This group also organizes traditional dances for the visitors. In addition, they have a shop for handcrafts at the entrance of the reserve which they sell to tourists.

Hiking to the Nyaburogo Gorge

This is an ideal walk for birders that usually starts right at the reserve headquarters. It is a 7 kilometers hike that goes through a diversity of habitats like woodland, savanna and a forest in the gorge. During the hike, you will also come across different bird species such as tropical boubal, black-headed Bushrike, arrow marked babbler, bush shrike. Also watch out for primates like black and white colobus, vervet monkey, baboons and with good luck you can also see chimpanzees.

How to get there

Toro Semliki wildlife reserve is approximately 1 hour from Fort Portal town and it’s located about 300km/180mi from Kampala. It is approximately a 6 to 8 hours’ drive and the reserve is visited throughout the year.  

Kalinzu Forest Reserve Uganda

Kalinzu Forest Reserve Uganda : is a fascinating natural forest located in the western part of Uganda in Bushenyi district. It is located around the confines of Queen Elizabeth National Park and also expands to the Maramagambo forest. In addition, it has a biodiverse ecosystem consisting of the dense vegetation of the tropic rain forest and wildlife found in here. In fact, the reserve is famously known for chimpanzee trekking and it’s the second-best spot for chimpanzee tracking after Kibale Forest National Park. Besides, nature walks through the valleys will expose your mind to a whole new world of the forest life. During the nature walks, you have views of Mountain Rwenzori, Lake George as well as the beauty of Kazinga channel. 

Apart from the chimpanzees, the forest also harbors primates like black and white colobus monkey, baboons, vervet monkey, red tailed monkey, L’Hoest monkey, etc. The forest is a home to over 380 bird species and some of these include; the black and white casqued hornbill. The great blue turaco, sunbirds, cuckoos, bee-eaters, starlings, not to mention but a few. The reserve also harbors approximately over 100 moths, over 270 butterflies, flowers of nature and a few reptiles. Its also a home to wildlife species that reside in savannah grassland like the lions, leopards, wild pigs, giant forest hogs, waterbucks, buffalos, duikers, elephants, etc. These animals visit this area because of the thick forest with a variety of fruits and food and also because it borders Queen Elizabeth National Park.  A visit to this forest takes you through its distinct trails each of which rewards you with unique experiences. They include;

The palm trail

This is a 5 kilometer’s trail which takes you approximately 2 hours depending on your hiking speed. You will pass through its woodland trees and get to see unique tree species while crossing through a comparatively flat terrain in this reserve. While here, tourists are rewarded with wonderful tree species found along the path. Some of these include; the popular and interesting one being the flame tree also known for its vast. Red tulip-like flames which are believed to increase libido in women, the Raphia palm tree commonly used to making mats, ropes, baskets, etc.

The valley trail

This trail takes about 4 hours and offers spectacular views of the magnificent steep slopes of the right valley. You can as well encounter various wildlife on the way.

The waterfall trail

It is 11 kilometers and takes approximately 5 hours and while here, you will have magical views over stunning Kilyantama waterfall. The trail involves tourists transversing through some hilly areas and wet terrains. It also allows tourists to see the breathtaking Kilyantama waterfall that will welcome you with its roaring sounds and serene environment.

The river trail

The river trail covers approximately 3 kilometers and takes about 1 hour depending on your hiking speed. Chimpanzees and other primates are mostly seen in this trail and tourists will also come across River Kajojo also known as “Elephant River” because elephants were known to bath from here.

What to do at Kalinzu forest reserve
Chimpanzee trekking

This is generally the main activity done in the reserve led by the guide to different trails. Chimpanzee trekking takes approximately 4 hours however, you can also come across other primates. Some of these include; the black and white colobus, baboons, vervet monkey, red tailed monkey and many more.

Chimpanzee habituation

After your breakfast, have your packet lunch which you will enjoy since this activity takes the whole day. The ranger will first brief you and afterwards lead you into the forest in search for the chimpanzees. While here, you will have a rewarding view of their lifestyles as well as enjoy their daily activities. Therefore, book with us for your permits in advance to avoid inconveniences.

Bird watching

Kalinzu forest is home to over 378 bird species and its one of the best birding destinations in Uganda to all bird lovers. While doing the activity, you will have an insight to experience the different calling of different bird species. Some of the birds here include; the great blue turaco, sunbirds, black and white casqued hornbills, cuckoo, eagles, camaroptera, etc. 

Wildlife viewing

Since the forest reserve is close to Queen Elizabeth National Park and the great Maramagambo forest, expect to spot some animals. Some of these include; leopards, elephants, warthogs, wild pigs giant forest hogs, waterbucks, buffalos, duikers, etc. 

Camping

The forest also offers the perfect site for camping activities; in the middle of the forest, a camping site has been set up for tourists to sleep next to nature. While here, enjoy the beautiful African night while listening to amazing night animal sounds.

Guided nature walks

The guided nature walk in Kalinzu forest is an interesting activity that will offer a tourist an opportunity to explore the forest. Here, expect to see a number of different plant species since the forest is home to over 414 plant species. Also expect to spot different primates, bird species, the amazing waterfall, vegetation and plantations as well as the wildlife that come from Queen Elizabeth National Park..

Best time to visit the forest

The best time to visit this forest is in the dry season from July to August and December to February when the forest trails are not slippery however, the forest can be visited all year round.

How to get there

Kalinzu Forest Reserve is located in the western Uganda approximately 375 kilometers which is about 6 hours’ drive from Kampala. You will drive through Masaka-Mbarara-Bushenyi. Visitors can also board a bus to Butare and get a special hire to the forest.

Budongo Forest Reserve in Uganda

Budongo Forest Reserve in Uganda : the largest survival natural forest in Uganda, with a total surface of approximately 825 square kilometers, of which 430 square kilometers is a continuous forest. The name Budongo derives from the local Bunyoro word “fertile soil”. According to the history, the forest was protected by the King of Bunyoro and only with his permission local chiefs were allowed to hunt inside it. This forest is also known for its former abundance of East African mahogany trees as well as being home to a population of chimpanzees. The forest is located within the boundaries of Murchison Falls National Park and also on the escarpment northeast of Lake Albert. The major tourist sites within this forest include; the Kaniyo Pabidi Ecotourism site and Busingiro Ecotourism site.   

This pristine forest reserve has an amazing number of plant species whereby over 465 plant species have been recorded. Apart from the giant mahogany trees, other  trees  include; the spiky fagara trees, parasitic strangler figs and iron wood trees. The forest offers an extremely rich biodiversity including over 24 mammals, over 9 primates, over 280 butterfly species and birds species. It is also a natural habitat of more than 600 chimpanzees, of which a small community has been habituated for eco-tourism purposes.  Other primates that can be observed include; Black and white colobus, olive baboons, red-tailed monkey, blue monkeys and grey-checked mangabeys.

What to do in Budongo forest reserve
Chimpanzee tracking

This activity is generally the number one priority in the reserve and led by an experienced ranger. The time when the fruits are shorter in supply, the chimps move a lot covering a wider area. Therefore, the success of seeing them drops to about 50% rate. This activity basically grants you chances of enjoying these apes as they do their daily activities in the forest. While here, you are also free to take photos as well as videography to take back home for remembrance.

Bird watching

The forest is also a home to some of the rarest birds in East Africa. Its a habitat to over 360 bird species both migratory and residential. Some of the birds here include; forest robin, African emerald cuckoo, yellow and grey long bill. Yellow browed camaroptera, black headed flycatcher, chocolate backed kingfisher, white spotted flufftail, lemon bellied crombec, etc.

Climate

Throughout the year, maximum daytime temperatures in the forest hover around 31°C/88°F. In the wet season (March to October), the rain eases off a bit during June and July. The precipitation practically disappears in the dry season (November to February), providing a welcome break from the tropical humidity.

Best time to visit

Budongo forest reserve is visited all year around, however, it is at its best in the dry season (November to February). The drier tracks at these times make chimpanzee trekking and birding that much easier.