Hippo census kicks off in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Though poaching in Uganda is on an increasing rate, it has not stopped the exercise of counting the Hippos. This practice is carried out once in 2 years with the main aim of monitoring the population trend of these elegant mammals. This time it was started on 25th February 2014 and it is not expected to take a long time (about 3 weeks). The main reason for these practice is to get the exact figure of Elephants so as to to come up with the right safari facts about Uganda.

Hippos are one of the unique wild animals that spice up a Uganda Safari due to their magnificent look and wide bodies. As you penetrate through the national park on a boat, keep your eyes wide on the water surface and you will surely watch the hippos playing with the water. Those visitors that are interested in taking part in this census were given a chance and they can help the management to achieve this long awaited programme.

For long, Hippo census has been going on in this country after a period of two years and last year, it was conducted on Kazinga channel. This time, the activity is expected to extend to the park’s water bodies of Lake Edward and George, Kazinga channel, rivers including Kyambura and Ishasha plus isolated crater lakes of Nyamusingiri, Kyasanduka and many more others. This is going to give the clients a thrilling experience of exploring the larger parts of Queen Elizabeth National Park at ease.

Hippos are generally amphibious and therefore it is hard to count them on foot and this is why the counting conducted on a boat. However, in some parts where the rivers are narrow, it is done on foot. The number of hippos this time is expected to double that of last time because of the many registered births that have happened since the last census.

In order to get accurate results of the total number of Hippos, two operators equipped with binoculars will escort those doing the counting and they will position themselves to maximize sightings. These operators will observe the hippos and then notify the data recorders who will be equipped with data sheets. Visitors too will help in identifying the hippos as they enjoy a wonderful experience on their safari. Each counting group will have a skilled photographer who will help in verification of counts and taking clear photos. The whole clique is headed by a leader who will guide the exercise and make sure that the relevant protocols are observed. Visitors are briefed before they join the exercise in order to get the required skills and knowledge to avoid mistakes.

When Hippos are found, they tend to submerge keeping their bodies under water for more than six minutes. This is why the team has to be patient and avoid rushing to avoid producing false results. In case you find the Hippos in a group, just count the heads to save time.

Before you step into the boat for the census, make sure that you have worn a life jacket, avoid smoking and keep in balance with the boat. This is for your own safety and that of the Hippos since cigar irritates them.

While Hippo census is going on, Tourists can enjoy other safari activities like bird watching, spot fishing, game viewing, clear photograph taking and many more.This is one of the best experience you can ever get on a Uganda Safari,so hurry and enjoy every part of the exercise.