Are there Big cats in Uganda – all you need to know about big cat viewing on safaris in Uganda

Are there Big cats in Uganda – Uganda is not only a top safari destination for big cat safaris but also a dream destination for many travelers who wish to experience the absolute feel of nature. Big cat adventures will grant you opportunities to spot some of the most elusive animals like leopards, Lions, Cheetahs, among others. Acacia Safaris Limited is the best tour operator to plan with you your safari to the pearl of Africa for the absolute safari experiences.

Here is all you need to know – Are there Big cats in Uganda

African Lion (Panthera leo)

An African lion is the largest and most imposing African carnivore. The lion is remarkably the most sociable of the large cats which live in loosely structured prides typically of about five to fifteen animals. In different cultures, lions have different significant importance and in Uganda, they enjoy the reputation of being the kings of the beasts and are popular symbols of royalty, strength and bravery.

In Uganda, lions can be seen in Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park that is famous for its Ishasha tree-climbing lions

Leopard (Panthera pardus)

The leopard is the most common Africa’s large felines and often lives in close proximity to humans, however, they are rarely seen because of its secretive, solitary nature. According to the ecological and ethological attributes, the leopard is an exceptionally adaptable predator.

leopards in Uganda

In Uganda, leopards are predominantly sighted in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Mt Elgon National Park and Toro- Semiliki Wildlife Reserve

Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)

Undoubtedly, the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is the swiftest mammal on land and can reach speeds of 97 or perhaps 113 km per hour (60 or 70 miles per hour) over short distances. However, it usually chases its prey at only about half that speed and will need half an hour after the chase to catch its breath before it can eat.

The cheetah’s actual speeds may even be much lower in realistic hunting settings, when they may be slowed down by weaving prey and the need to avoid obstacles.

Even though its speed makes it a fearsome hunter, the cheetah is the most vulnerable of the world’s big cats. The cheetah’s body is uniquely adapted to help it reach top speeds: long, slender limbs, hard foot pads, and the flexible spine give it duplicated long strides. The wild cat’s light tail acts like a rudder, and its semi-retractable claws work like the spikes on a sprinter’s shoe to offer stability during the chase. It also has a large nasal cavity that helps it pump in oxygen, and the shape of its inner ears allows it to maintain balance and keep its head still as it sprints.

Prior to using its incredible speed, the cheetah will survey the grassland for signs of prey, primarily antelope and warthogs, but occasionally smaller animals like hares and birds. It moves stealthily, has a speckled coat that makes it easy to blend into long savannah grasses, and hunts throughout the day to take use of these traits.

Other cats to spot in Uganda – Are there Big cats in Uganda 

African Golden Cat – one of the hard to find in the cat family while on safaris in Uganda. These cats are can be spotted on safaris in Uganda if you’re lucky enough and are famously known to live in the forests of West Africa.

African Wild Cat – The African wild cat closely looks like the domestic cat and are known to interbreed with them in most cases.

Caracal – the caracal can be found in open habitats like Kidepo valley national park.