AbstractIntermittent observations on the behaviour of 4 of the main glaciers on the Uganda slopes of the Ruwenzori are reported. While this does not represent a large sample of the 37 glaciers of the massif, it probably shows clearly the pattern of change at least on the eastern slopes. The glaciers examined were relatively active valley tongues whereas many of the so-called glaciers of the range are either summit icecaps or small cirque glaciers. Due to the smallness and steepness of the glaciers examined, they probably react rapidly to mass-budget changes. Such a supposition finds confirmation in the similarity of their behaviour. Over the period of observations rapid retreat is evident; this has been neither constant nor continuous. Speculations concerning the significance of these variations are offered.