The Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUG) is a registered and youth-led non-profit (established 2022) dedicated to protecting Uganda’s birdlife and habitat. ACUG’s mission encompasses research, education, habitat restoration, and community engagement to conserve birds and their ecosystems. ACUG positions itself as “one of the largest dedicated regional bird societies in East Africa.” Its leaders include Ugandan ornithologists and conservationists who work in partnership with schools, communities, and national agencies.
1. Survey Objectives & Background
- The survey, led by Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUG) in collaboration with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, aimed to assess whether any populations of the rare Shelley’s Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza shelleyi) remain in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
- This species is globally considered Endangered, with an estimated 1,000-2000 mature individuals, and has shown ongoing declines, largely due to habitat loss.
2. Geographic & Ecological Context
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (33.9 km², altitudes 2,227-4,127 m) features montane forests, bamboo stands, and high moorland habitats known to host Shelley’s Crimsonwing
- Previous systematic surveys (2009-10) in Mgahinga and nearby Bwindi also recorded zero sightings of this species
3. Survey Methodology
- Multiple point-count/visual detection techniques were employed across representative habitats (valley bottoms, bamboo thickets, forest clearings).
- The team replicated protocols from earlier efforts (for example, 2009–10 RFCG surveys) to ensure comparability and rigor.
4. Survey Findings
- No individuals of Shelley’s Crimson-wing were detected or captured.
- Other crimson-wing species (such as Dusky, Red-faced, Abyssinian) were regularly observed or caught, confirming survey effectiveness.
- The absence of Shelley’s during these surveys aligns with past survey outcomes and suggests extremely low or locally extirpated densities in Mgahinga.
5. Interpretation & Implications
- Mgahinga likely does not support a resident population of Shelley’s Crimsonwing; if it does, numbers are extremely low.
- This aligns with the species’ fragmented distribution across the Albertine Rift and prior lack of detection in Ugandan surveys.
- Conservation pressures like deforestation and forest degradation in the region further threaten habitat suitability.
6. Next Steps & Recommendations
1. Expand Surveys in Adjacent Areas
- Focus on border zones contiguous with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where sightings occurred as recently as 2022.
- Use systematic mist-net transects and bioacoustic devices to detect vocalizing individuals.
2. Enhance Long-Term Monitoring
- Launch annual crimson-wing surveys in targeted zones across the Albertine Rift. Integrate satellite-aided habitat assessments to monitor forest change.
3. Habitat Restoration & Protection
- Prioritize conserving bamboo–forest understory habitats.
- Work with local communities and park authorities to limit forest encroachment and promote reforestation.
4. Capacity Building & Public Engagement
- Equip Avian Conservation Uganda and local birding groups with training in monitoring techniques.
- Established community bird clubs in pilot parishes near Mgahinga and Bwindi, following ACUG’s model.
5. Secure Dedicated Funding
- Like RFCG’s past partnership with Hans Hoheisen Trust, they pursue international grants to sustain surveys and awareness campaigns.
7. Conclusion
The absence of Shelley’s Crimsons wing in the recent Mgahinga survey, despite robust methodology and previous similar outcomes, reinforces the species’ rarity in this part of Uganda. While sightings in adjacent Bwindi offer hope, a focused, long-term programme is essential. Avian Conservation Uganda’s commitment to studying the species through expanded surveys, habitat restoration, community engagement, and international partnerships sets a vital path forward for conserving this stunning yet elusive bird.