The wetland systems within Lake Mburo support key semi-aquatic species. Papyrus-dominated margins serve as habitat for the sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekii), a secretive antelope species dependent on continuous wetland cover.
Although recorded, sitatunga sightings remain rare due to their cryptic behavior and preference for dense vegetation. Swamp corridors also support rodents such as swamp rats and shrews, though these are not part of standard visitor programming.
Otters (Aonyx capensis) have been reported intermittently along quiet inlet zones of Lake Mburo.
These indicators of aquatic health require more systematic monitoring to confirm their current range status. Guides seldom include otters in viewing plans due to their unpredictable surfacing patterns.
Aquatic Megafauna
Two dominant aquatic species define lake-based tourism activities: hippopotamuses and Nile crocodiles.
The hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) maintains stable social groups in most of the 13 lake bodies across the Mburo system.
Lake Mburo, along with Lakes Kazuma and Bwara, has the highest hippo concentrations. Hippo pods form the primary attraction during boat cruises and shoreline viewing, activity patterns centre on dusk grazing and midday water immersion. Human-wildlife conflicts increase near community watering points during dry months.
Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) occur across all water bodies, especially near fish-abundant shallows and rocky sunning sites. Guides frequently include crocodile observation on boat excursions.
Nesting zones occur on sandier embankments along Lake Mburo’s eastern flank, though they remain unmarked to avoid visitor disruption.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Lake Mburo supports a range of reptilian life, including monitor lizards (Varanus niloticus), pythons (Python sebae), and various snake species. Most snakes are nocturnal and include both venomous and non-venomous species.
Forest cobras, puff adders, and boomslangs have confirmed records but remain difficult to observe.
Monitor lizards are more reliably viewed, particularly during sunny hours along waterlogged road edges.
They play an important role in scavenging and controlling amphibian populations. Croaking activity during the wet seasons signals high frog activity, with species including Amietophrynus regularis and Hyperolius spp.
These are critical indicators for ecosystem resilience following prolonged dry periods.
Aquatic and Wetland Birds
Lake edges and papyrus corridors support key wetland specialists. The African finfoot (Podica senegalensis) ranks as a core target species.
It nests in papyrus root masses and moves through shallow water channels.
The rare shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) occasionally appears in the Mburo–Kacheera corridor, although no stable breeding population has been verified.
Other important wetland birds include the lesser jacana (Microparra capensis), papyrus gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri), African fish eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer), white-backed night heron (Gorsachius leuconotus), and spur-winged plover (Vanellus spinosus). Viewing success depends on water levels and time of day.
Lake and Swamp Systems
Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)
Crocodiles are widely distributed across Lake Mburo, Lake Kigambira, and smaller water bodies, including Lake Kazuma. Adults exceed 4 metres in length and nest along sandy inlets during the dry season.
They play a critical role in aquatic population control, feeding on fish, amphibians, and the occasional carrion. Crocodile density is highest along the Mburo–Rwizi lake stretch, particularly near Warukiri landing site.
African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
These dominate the park’s ichthyofauna—fish breeding peaks between February and April when water levels rise.
Tilapia favour rocky shallows, while catfish inhabit deeper, vegetated zones. UWA regulates occasional fishing by communities through controlled-access schemes.
Wetland Edges and Papyrus Margins
Nile Monitor (Varanus niloticus)
Present across all five lakes in the park. Monitors are strong swimmers and active predators of eggs, fish, and small vertebrates.
They bask on fallen logs and rock slabs, particularly near papyrus-lined channels. Sightings are frequent along boat trip routes.
Marsh Terrapin (Pelomedusa subrufa)
Observed in shallow swamp pools. This species feeds on insects, larvae, and detritus. Its population is underreported due to its elusive, submerged behaviour.
During prolonged dry spells, terrapins aestivate in burrows within wetland mud.
Snakes (Unconfirmed but probable)
Though no systematic herpetofaunal census has been completed, park rangers report occasional sightings of puff adders (Bitis arietans), African rock pythons (Python sebae), and water snakes (Natrix spp.).
Most occur near seasonal watercourses and are rarely seen without intentional tracking.