“Burhinus vermiculatus”

What to Know About the Water Thick-knee in Uganda?

The water thick-knee which is also called the water dikkop is an African terrestrial bird in the family Burhinidae. It is found in almost all African countries.

In Uganda, you have maximum chances of seeing the water thick-knee while on the boat launch safari in Murchison falls national park.

In inhabits in shoreline areas, riverbanks, mangroves and other sheltered wetland areas.

How Does the WaterThick-knee in Uganda Look Like?

The water thick-knee grows to a length of 38-41cm and weight of 280-430g.  its color I not well known and this makes it good for camouflage.

The eyes are yellow. The bill is short and strong. The knee joints are larger than those of other family members.

How does The Water Thick-knee in Uganda feed?

The water thick knee is a nocturnal bird and mainly rests near around water logged areas in the day, hiding in the vegetation or rocks.

It can however make some sightings in the day time hours. It singly or in pair or at most in a small group forages at night for invertebrates and small vertebrates like reptiles and frogs. It can rarely go further than 1km from water.

How Does the Water Thick-knee in Uganda Nest?

Water thick-knee builds a simple scrape close to water and often near landmarks like bushes, driftwood or sometimes animal dung. They often build open nests occasionally with little cover.

How Does the Water Thick-knee in Uganda Breed?

Breeding season of the water thick-knee sometimes depends on the geographical location but usually happens in the late dry season or early rains.

It is monogamous bird, and the pair bond lasts until one partner dies, that’s when the remaining partner will look for a new partner.

How Does The Water Thick-knee in Uganda Reproduce?

The female water thick-knee lays between 1-3 eggs in their nest. The partners incubate the eggs between 22-25 days before hatching.