Saiwa Swamp National Park is truly the “sanctuary of the Sitatunga antelope”

Saiwa Swamp National Park is the smallest park in Kenya measuring 3 square kilometres but its ecological diversity stands out.

It is the only park in Kenya where the last species of Sitatunga, a rare aquatic antelope is found earning it the name “Sanctuary of the Sitatunga antelope”.

The rare aquatic Sitatunga Antelope at Saiwa Swamp National Park Kenya. [Photo courtesy]

Saiwa Swamp National Park’s ecology is unique and is one of those where you take a fascinating botanical safari and surprisingly, lovely walks at dawn. In short, it fits the description of the ideal places for nature lovers as its ecology consists of both a forest and a swamp supporting the growth of a wide range of plants.

A host of exotic trees, flowers and plants are in this park supporting the survival of De Brazza’s monkey which is a rare species. A part of the park is a tropical wetland with a mix of riverine forest, acacia woodland, sedges and lush green vegetation towards the end of the forest.

Here, birdlife is charming and exciting. Waterbirds – lesser jacana, grey heron and the African black duck – and the most interesting forest bird, Narina Trogons colour the forest. Besides this wonderful species worth every minute of your admiration, the collared and orange-tuffed sunbird, yellow bishop, Hatlaub’s marsh widow bird and Noisy ross turacos adds to the fascination of the forest.

On the walking trails, gonoleks are common while dragonflies and damselflies exemplify Saiwa swamp fed by Saiwa River. Ants cover the surface of the forest making it due to the continued accumulation of refuse materials.

On a terrifying fact though, the forest cobra and African rock python abound so do toads, side-striped chameleon, frogs and a special species of forest tortoises.