Adult breeding plumage does not differ from non-breeding plumage. The underparts are a lighter shade of grey. The primaries are black-tipped and secondaries have a greenish tint. The plumage is slaty blue-grey overall with a darker grey head. Males are larger than females and have longer bills.

Large, somewhat frightful looking birds, shoebill storks stand 110 to 140 cm tall. This causes the fish living in the water to surface for air more often, increasing the likelihood a shoebill stork will successfully capture it. They are also found where there is poorly oxygenated water. When shoebill storks are in an area with deep water, a bed of floating vegetation is a requirement. They are often found in areas of flood plain interspersed with undisturbed papyrus and reedbeds. Shoebill storks inhabit freshwater swamps and extensive, dense marshes. This bird's range usually coincides with that of papyrus and lungfish. Smaller populations occupy eastern Zaire and Rwanda. The main populations are found in southern Sudan (mainly in the White Nile Sudd), the wetlands of northern Uganda and western Tanzania and the Bangweulu swamp of northeastern Zambia. While there is no shoebill storks in South Luangwa, spending a few nights here gives one a chance to get into the safari groove, as well as meet your guide who will be with you for the rest of the trip.Shoebill or whale-headed storks are endemic to Africa and inhabit the east-central part of the continent. Alternatively a cultural tour or trip to a wildlife education centre can be arrange, which gives one a more holistic experience of the Luangwa Valley. Once brunch and a siesta followed by tea time treats, its back out into the park to see what the late afternoon/early evening has to offer. Early morning is best for doing walking safaris as well as game drives and commence after a light breakfast. It is the first stop on The Shoebill Safari.ĭuring your time at Luangwa River Camp, a typical day consists of 2 game activities per day, with the choice of a game drive or a walking safari. This small and intimate camp with just five bush suites, along with its setting and location creates a real “wow” factor and a romantic feeling simply flows through the camp. Luangwa River Camp sits nestled under an ancient ebony grove on the banks of the Luangwa River overlooking the game rich area known as the Luangwa Wafwa.

The South Luangwa National Park marks the end of the Great Rift Valley, one of the last remaining unspoilt wilderness areas and possibly the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa. The area also hosts the endemic black lechwe along with tsessebe and buffalo. Of course the star attraction remains the extraordinary shoebill. Then the safari will continue onto Shoebill Island Camp in the breath-taking Bangweulu Swamps, which remains one of Zambia special gems – with superb birding, from all the water birds to the endangered wattled crane elegantly strolling around the plains. There are many bird species that will be new to the safari and the sitatunga antelope will certainly be seen at the swamp. One of our top safari guides will lead this trip to enhance your experience throughout.Īfter a couple of nights at Luangwa River Camp in the South Luangwa the group flies to Kasanka National Park and will spend some time at Wasa Lodge. This is an exceptional safari combining South Luangwa National Park, Kasanka National Park and Bangweulu Swamps. On the hunt for the remarkable shoebill, you will also encounter elephants, lions, giraffes, and host of other species. If you want a chance to see a shoebill, this safari is for you! Join Robin Pope Safaris for this exceptional trip covering the South Luangwa, Kasanka, and Bangweulu swamps.

Shoebill next to person