The mongoose tracking experience is one of the most amazing experiences that one can enjoy on his or her visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This activity involves only a group of 4 participants who escort a group of researchers to do a study on the mongoose, through different areas of the park. These areas are normally off-limits to tourists since it’s where the recording of the behavior of these highly social creatures is done.
The Banded Mongoose Project is based on and around Mweya Peninsula, in Queen Elizabeth National Park, western Uganda. The Mweya Peninsula supports a population of over 400 banded mongooses living in twelve social groups. The banded mongooses are small mammals with gigantic appetites and complex social and communication systems which fascinate wildlife researchers.
While on the mongoose tracking experience, visitors will learn to identify individuals, register their weight, record weather, surroundings, and location, and monitor their behavior. While enjoying a thrilling experience, you can also make a valuable contribution to a longstanding research project. The data collected will be used by the researchers at the Banded Mongoose Research Project.
Mongoose tracking sessions usually last between 1-3 hours and tracking is possible at any time from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, morning sessions tend to be more active and are more likely to last longer.
The activity greatly plays a great role in reducing great stress developed by these mongooses on seeing human presence. They tend to be habituated and this will increase their feeding range.
In addition to the mongoose tracking experience, during the tracking, one is able to come across a good number of other wildlife species. So, don’t miss out on African elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks and so much more.
Other Activities Besides Mongoose Tracking Experience
Besides the mongoose tracking experience, visitors to Queen Elizabeth National Park also complement their visit with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park. Others opt for Rwenzori mountain climbing hiking safari or gorilla trekking safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, south of this park.