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Saving The Shoebill

Avian Conservation Uganda is building a bird-friendly community: One step at a time.

In the heart of Tisai Island on Kumi’s Lake Opeta, a remarkable story of compassion unfolded when Mr. Steven Kileng, while on a walk, found a Shoebill chick in the clutches of danger. Her life hung in the balance as a serval cat that had just devoured her sibling was hunting her. Mr. Kileng, a cultural enthusiast, was aware of the Ekuruddudu (Shoebill) being a revered bird in local culture. Upon discovering that the young Ekuruddudu was under attack, Mr. Kileng swiftly sprang into action, fending off the predator to rescue the defenseless chick. Mr. Kileng proceeded to inspect the scene further, only to discover the surviving chick had lost its mother as it lay lifeless on the shores of Lake Opeta. Recognizing the sensitivity of the situation, Mr. Kileng rightly thought it prudent to move the chick to safety to avert its imminent demise. He subsequently decided to adopt the bird and move it to his household. He and his wife along with their children then nurtured their newfound family member with unwavering dedication, dedicating sacrificial resources to ensure her survival. The family named their new adopted chick Junior.

With each passing day, they diligently fed her a diet of fish to provide the nourishment necessary for her growth and well-being. The family, aware of the endangered status of the Shoebill species, even hired the services of local fishermen, providing them with fishing equipment to ensure they made a daily catch enough to feed Junior. Despite the challenges they faced, their commitment remained steadfast, fuelled by a shared determination to safeguard a species on the brink of peril. For weeks, they made sure Junior was comfortable providing food, shelter and even playing with Junior to ensure physical fitness. Their commendable dedication to the welfare of this bird did not stop there. Mr. Kileng went ahead to share this remarkable story with local authorities. On getting this information, Mr. Patrick the local Councillor reached out to a contact Faridah Katushabe, a Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) officer stationed at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) and informed her of the situation. Faridah, a career conservationist, devoted herself to finding support to seek rehabilitation for Junior. The first responder to this dire situation turned out to be a group of bird lovers who have come together to form a membership-based organization dedicated to conserving the precious birds of Uganda – the Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUS).

With support from Bussi island’s Park Shoebill, the Avian Conservation Uganda instantly worked out logistical support for a team of 6 including two UWA staff, two UWEC, and two members of the Avian Conservation Uganda to travel to Tisai island to transfer the bird to UWEC, Entebbe, for rehabilitation. 

This collaboration exemplified the power of collective action necessary for effective conservation of the country’s precious biodiversity, demonstrating what can be achieved when public and private sector organizations apply concerted efforts to support local communities in the fight to halt the decline of biodiversity. On 4th March 2024 – the afore-mentioned team travelled to Tisai, crossed Lake Opeta on canoe and made it to Mr. Kileng Steven’s home to pick up the Shoebill and transfer it to UWEC. The journey was an eventful expedition as the team had to travel overnight, including crossing Lake Opeta at 10:00 pm in the night to ensure the bird was not overly stressed by the hectic transfer from remote Kumi to the UWEC rehabilitation station.

On 5th March 2024 – the team arrived at UWEC in the mid-morning and effectively handed over the bird to UWEC rehabilitation station, signaling a successful mission. In recognition of the family’s selfless act of heroism, members of the Avian Conservation Uganda, led by Park Shoebill’s Joseph and Lilliane Ndiho rallied together, offering contributions as a token of gratitude. Their generosity served as a testament to the profound impact of individual and collective actions in securing the future of our planet. Junior has since grown comfortable in his new home at UWEC as he undergoes rehabilitation before he is released back into his natural habitat to have a full life, breed, and multiply his endangered species which has an estimated population of 5000 individuals left in the wild according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, rendering it vulnerable. The Shoebill is distributed in East and Central African freshwaterswamps,s especially in Uganda, South Sudan, DRC, Rwanda, and Zambia.

The Avian Conservation Uganda, an esteemed environmental organization dedicated to the preservation of birdlife, played a pivotal role in Shoebill’s rescue. Their tireless efforts not only ensured her safety but also underscored the importance of raising awareness about the critical need for bird conservation. As Shoebill embarks on her journey towards rehabilitation, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the profound interconnectedness of all living beings. Through acts of kindness and collaboration, we have the power to effect positive change and safeguard the precious biodiversity that enriches our world. Together, we champion the cause of conservation, ensuring that future generations inherit a world teeming with the wonders of nature. For in the protection of creatures like this shoebill, we safeguard not only their future but our own, as birds play a vital role in enabling the sustenance of natural ecosystems as seed dispersers, pollinators and pest management on farms – all of which maintain forest ecosystems, support agriculture, and ensure a healthy planet for all.

For this reason, collaborations with networks such as the Rotaract Club of Kampala North, the Avian Conservation Uganda can raise awareness about the need to conserve Uganda’s rich biodiversity, especially the 1086 bird species (and counting) recorded in Uganda. This is a necessary effort to cultivate a society that appreciates the ecological, cultural, aesthetic, and economic benefits of birds. With support from members of the public, ACUS can be able to have more inspiring stories, such as that of Mr. Kileng Steven. The work of the ACUS, though, goes beyond saving vulnerable birds, ACUS activities are related but not limited to, studying and monitoring bird species, behaviors, and populations, collecting, recording and disseminating information about birds to residents and visitors, restoring degraded bird habitats, and creating awareness about and advocating for avian conservation. ACUS welcomes all members of the public to join the society as members to participate in these activities, travel on birdwatching trips, join our university bird clubs in the effort to cultivate an environmentally aware, bird-friendly community. Visit www.acugs.org, @acus_uganda on X and Instagram for more.

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ACUS collaborates with Rotaract Club of UCU Mukono to spread the Conservation gospel to UCU students

On the 10th of February 2024, the Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUS) joined forces with the  Rotaract Club of UCU Mukono (https://twitter.com/UCURotaract13 ) for an enlightening conservation talk and birdwatching session (https://ebird.org/checklist/S161381179  ) on the  university campus (https://ucu.ac.ug/ )aimed at sparking the interest of students in conservation ideals. The keystone species of the day was the enchanting African Thrush, a beloved songbird that  captured the hearts of all in attendance.

The event was not merely a gathering; it was a call to action, a rallying call to inspire young minds to  appreciate the beauty and importance of avian life. With 43 students from various disciplines in  attendance, the session served as a platform to ignite a passion for bird conservation and biodiversity  among the university community.

At the heart of the session was the African Thrush, a charismatic bird known for its melodious song and  vibrant plumage. As participants embarked on a birdwatching expedition led by seasoned experts from  ACUS, the campus came alive with the sights and sounds of these avian wonders. Each sighting of the  bird species served as a reminder of the rich biodiversity that surrounds us and the urgent need to protect  it.

Beyond the thrill of birdwatching, the session aimed to plant the seeds for lasting impact, bestowing upon the students a sense of stewardship for the conservation of Uganda’s precious biodiversity. By advocating  for the establishment of a birding club at the university, ACUS and the Rotaract Club of UCU Mukono  hope to empower students to delve deeper into the study of birds conducting research about birds from their various disciplines and engage in meaningful conservation  efforts.

As the sun set on the day’s activities, it was evident that something special had been sparked within the  hearts of the attendees. The desire to learn, to explore, and to protect our feathered friends had taken root,  promising a brighter future for bird conservation in Uganda and beyond.

Through collaborations and partnerships such as this, ACUS continues to sow the seeds of environmental stewardship, nurturing  a new generation of conservationists who will safeguard Uganda’s natural heritage for generations to come.

To learn more about ACUS and their mission to conserve Uganda’s avian treasures, visit acus.org and join  us in our quest to protect and preserve the birds that enrich our lives and ecosystems.

ByRegan Okia

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ACUS and Friends of Nature Team Up to Teach Youth About Conservation at Entebbe  Botanical Gardens

In a wonderful collaboration to help protect nature and get young people excited about it, the  Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUS) and Friends of Nature organized a special day trip  to the beautiful Entebbe Botanical Gardens (https://visitentebbe.org/entebbe-botanical-gardens/ ). This event was attended by 35 enthusiastic young  people between the ages of 9-16 and aimed to inspire them to care for the environment. 

Set in the peaceful surroundings of Entebbe, the gardens provided a perfect backdrop for a day  full of fun and learning. The activities included birdwatching, talks, quizzes, and games, all  designed to help everyone feel closer to nature. 

The main focus of the day was on birds. Led by experts from ACUS, the  group went on exciting birdwatching walks to learn about different birds and why they’re so  important for keeping our environment healthy. 

During talks and discussions, everyone got to understand more about why it’s vital to protect our  planet’s plants and animals. They learned how birds help keep nature in balance and why it’s up  to us to look after them. 

As the day went on, there were lots of laughs and friendly competitions, making the learning  even more enjoyable. 

By the end of the trip, everyone had pledged to do their bit to help protect nature in their own  lives. With new knowledge and enthusiasm, these young nature lovers left the gardens feeling  ready to make a positive impact. 

The teamwork between ACUS and Friends of Nature shows how powerful it can be when people  come together for a good cause. By inspiring young people, we’re helping to create a brighter  future where nature and humans can thrive together. 

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Harmony of Wildlife

Harmony of Wildlife and Agriculture at Farm Resorts Kakiri

On the 20th of April, 2024, members of the Avian Conservation Uganda embarked on an  enlightening field visit to Farm Holdings Limited (https://twitter.com/farmresorts2?lang=en ), nestled in Kakiri, Wakiso District along the  Hoima Road. This journey into the heart of conservation and agriculture proved to be an  enriching experience for the team, composed of passionate members of the Avian Conservation Uganda.

Upon arrival, the team was warmly welcomed with a hearty breakfast, setting the tone for a day  of exploration and discovery. The first enchanting encounter awaited within the confines of the  compound, where the melodious chirps of Village Weaver birds filled the air, signaling the  co-existence of nature and human endeavor.

Guided by the spirit of conservation, the team ventured into the meticulously-kept botanical gardens at Farm  Resorts (https://m.facebook.com/p/Kakiri-Country-Resort-100052891166430/ ). Here, amidst the lush foliage, they were blessed with a rare sight, the elegant Great  Blue Turaco, tending to its nest adorned with two precious chicks. For many in the team, this  was a first-time encounter of a Great Blue Turaco nest, a moment cherished for its profound beauty and significance.

During the expedition (https://ebird.org/checklist/S169520324 ), the natural wonders of Farm resorts continued to unfold as the team ventured into a near-perfectly-preserved natural forest. The forest, with its diverse flora, spoke volumes of the pristine air quality, evident in the flourishing lichens adorning the trees, a testament to the delicate balance of nature preserved  within. The rare sighting of the melodic Red-capped Robin-Chat, a pair of Blue Malkoha and the Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird made the stroll through the forest worthwhile.

Eager to delve deeper into what Farm resorts has to offer, the team received invaluable insights into various  bird indication methods. From the subtle calls echoing through the canopy to the intricate nests  hidden amidst branches, and even the delicate feathers left behind as clues, each technique  served as a gateway to the avian world. With expert guidance, the team even had the privilege of  spotting the majestic Black and White Casqued Hornbill feathers, a triumph of patience and skill.

The expedition extended beyond the confines of the botanical gardens, meandering through  coffee plantations, cattle kraals, and even an adventure park all seamlessly integrated into the  landscape of conservation and agriculture at Farm resorts. Farm Holdings Limited – Farm resorts parent company, true to its ethos, embraces a  holistic approach to regenerative agriculture, encompassing activities such as bee keeping, coffee nursery  bedding and nurturing a planted forest boasting a diverse array of Eucalyptus species. All this has birthed an impressive ecosystem on the farm that makes it a model to envy. It is no wonder Farm Holdings was voted the Best coffee farmer in the Central region by a local coffee farmers’ association.

In a heartfelt gesture, Farm resorts was bestowed with a membership certificate, marking their  official induction as corporate members of the Avian Conservation Uganda. This gesture  of appreciation extended to the management, under the stewardship of Mr. Wycliffe and Mrs. Eva Birungi,  whose dedication to conserving the natural habitat deserves commendation.

In reflection, Farm Holdings Limited stands as a poignant testament to the benefits of harmonious coexistence of wildlife and agriculture. It exemplifies how, through mindful  stewardship and a deep reverence for nature, we can nurture thriving natural ecosystems alongside  agricultural pursuits, ensuring a legacy of sustainability for generations to come.

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Conserving Indigenous Knowledge on Birds

For centuries, people living in Uganda have had interaction with birds for their economic use, aesthetic value, cultural development and ecological contribution. This human interaction of the various cultures in Uganda with birds inspires art, music, fashion, attitude and is expressed in folklore, legends, folksongs, customs and practices. Additionally, traditional knowledge of birds as environmental indicators has aided in hunting, farming, cultural ceremonies and other occasions and activities. Unfortunately, due to a cultural shift, the traditional system of this knowledge transfer has been disrupted and Uganda as well as the world is on the verge of losing this knowledge. This program is aimed at recording this knowledge for conservation purposes.

The Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUS) is working to conserve indigenous knowledge about birds in Uganda. We do this through a variety of programs, including:

  1. Birding excursions: We lead birding excursions to remote areas of Uganda, where we teach participants about the birds they see and the indigenous knowledge about birds that is held by local communities.
  2. Workshops: We hold workshops on indigenous knowledge about birds, where we bring together experts from different fields to share their knowledge and experiences.
  3. Publications: This program aims to publish books, create content and articles on indigenous knowledge about birds, to make this knowledge available to a wider audience.

We believe that conserving indigenous knowledge about birds is essential for the conservation of birds in Uganda. This knowledge is a valuable resource that can help us to understand and protect birds. We are committed to working with local communities to ensure that this knowledge is passed down to future generations.
Here are some examples of indigenous knowledge about birds in Uganda:

  1. Birds are used for food: Many Ugandan bird species are eaten, including doves, pigeons, and weavers. Birds are also used in traditional medicine, and their feathers are used for decoration.
  2. Birds are used for pest control: Some birds, such as the Cattle Egret, are known for their ability to control pests. This knowledge is being used to develop new ways to control pests without using harmful chemicals.
  3. Birds are used for cultural purposes: Birds are often featured in art, music, and folklore. They are also used in traditional ceremonies and rituals.
  4. Birds as environmental indicators: Many cultures in Uganda use birds to study environmental trends and features. For instance; some cultures follow Honeyguides to find honey in forests, some cultures make use of waterfowl to find water sources while other cultures use birds to predict weather patterns.

Indigenous knowledge is a valuable resource that can help us to understand and protect birds. Avian conservation Uganda society is committed to working with local communities to ensure that this knowledge is passed down to future generations.


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Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

Loss of habitat continues to be the single most prevalent threat to bird life. The habitat and ecosystem restoration program is a key component of the Avian Conservation Uganda’s
work to protect and restore bird populations.

The program focuses on restoring degraded habitats and creating new habitats that are beneficial to birds.

One of the main goals of the habitat and ecosystem restoration program is to reduce the impact of human activities on bird populations. This is done by working to restore degraded and modified habitats, such as farmlands, wetlands and forests, and creating new habitats, such as bird sanctuaries and nature preserves. The program also works to educate the public about the importance of protecting bird habitats and ecosystems.


The habitat and ecosystem restoration program is been implemented at Bethany Land Institute in Bombo, Kaynela Farms Ltd in Kayunga and aims to build more strategic partnerships with land owners to restore degraded habitats and creating new habitats that are beneficial to birds.


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Conservation-Awareness Experiential Birdwatching

Birdwatching is a popular hobby enjoyed by millions of people around the world. It is a great way to get outdoors, enjoy nature, and learn about birds. But did you know that birdwatching can also be a powerful tool for bird conservation?


Birdwatchers are often passionate about birds and their conservation. They are more likely to be aware of the threats facing birds and to take action to protect them. Birdwatching can also help to raise awareness of bird conservation issues among the general public who ordinarily take birds for granted.


There are a number of ways that birdwatching can be used to promote bird conservation. One way is through citizen science projects. Citizen science projects involve volunteers collecting data on birds and their habitats. This data can be used to track bird populations, identify threats to birds, and develop conservation strategies.


Another way that birdwatching can be used to promote bird conservation is through education. Birdwatchers can share their knowledge about birds with others, and they can encourage people to take action to protect birds. Avian Conservation Uganda therefore offers educational programs and excursions that can help to raise awareness of bird conservation issues.


Birdwatching is a great way to enjoy nature and learn about birds. It can also be a powerful tool for bird conservation. By getting involved in birdwatching, you can help to protect birds and their habitats for future generations. By joining these trips, you can learn more about birds,understand and appreciate them to help make a difference for birds and their conservation.
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Building a Bird-friendly Community Through Public Education

This program mainly targeting young people involves building bird clubs in schools and communities surrounding Important Bird Areas, protected areas and other biodiversity hotspots.
These bird clubs act as recruitment centers for bird-friendly people who come together to aid in
monitoring bird species, populations, behavior and habitat in their communities and play a
crucial role in attracting people in their communities to engage in birding excursions, encourage
other members to learn more about birds and their invaluable contribution to a sustainable
environment and generally disseminate information about the importance of birds to the
economy, social development and ecological uses.


The program involves planning, implementing and/or participating in seminars, talk shows,
discussions, lectures, conferences, webinars, fellowships and other events to raise awareness
on the necessity of bird conservation, the understanding and appreciation of birds and their role
to society and the environment.

The project implements training of leaders and members of bird clubs in basic bird identification techniques, using bird identification tools, data collection and
management will enhance the capacity of the clubs to carry out these monitoring excursions.

Data collection and management will be critical in pursuing a data-driven approach to
conservation efforts. ACUS shall also seek to provide support of necessary equipment including
binoculars, telescopes and where necessary phones to aid in data collection efforts using digital
tools such as eBird. Birds are an important part of our ecosystem. They provide food, shelter,
and pollination for other animals, and they help to control pests. However, bird populations are
declining worldwide due to habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. We can help to protect
birds by building bird-friendly communities through public education.
Here are some ways to build a bird-friendly community through public education:

  1. Teach people about the importance of birds. Many people don’t realize the importance of birds to our ecosystem. We can educate them about the role birds play in pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. We can also teach them about the threats facing birds, such as habitat loss and climate change.
  2. Encourage people to create bird-friendly habitats. We can encourage people to create bird-friendly habitats in their own backyards and communities. This can be done by planting native plants, providing water sources, and bird-friendly farming.

By building bird-friendly communities through public education, we can help to create a world
where birds can thrive. This program aims to use public education to build bird-friendly
communities:

  1. Schools: Schools can teach students about the importance of birds and how to create bird-friendly habitats. They can also organize birdwatching trips and other activities that help to raise awareness of bird conservation.
  2. Community organizations: Community organizations can hold public events to educate people about birds and their conservation. They can also provide information about how to create bird-friendly habitats.
  3. Government agencies: Government agencies can develop and implement policies that protect birds and their habitats. They can also provide funding for bird conservation projects.

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Bird-Friendly Farming

Farmland is a major habitat for birds globally, and in Uganda specifically, where the vast majority of the population is employed in agriculture. About 35% of the land in Uganda is cultivated, making agriculture one of the most significant land use forms in the country.

Unfortunately, this isn’t particularly good news for the environment and birds in Uganda on account of the prevailing methods of farming. Major declines have been recorded in farmland bird species, including birds such as Uganda’s National bird; the Grey-Crowned Crane, yet some bird species heavily depend on farmland as habitat.


Research has shown that birds are a farmer’s best friend as they increase productivity on farms as they play an important role in seed dispersal, support pollination, pest control as they eat insects and other harmful organisms to crops. Birds such as Cattle Egrets, Piapiac and Oxpeckers also control ticks and other disease causing insects on animals. Although birds also feed on farm crops and may cause some damage, research has shown the net effect on farms is positive and birds have been seen to increase on-farm productivity significantly.

Unfortunately, crop monocultures and the rapid modification of natural landscapes to create more land for agriculture continue to lead to declines in bird populations on farms. However, some methods of farming such as mixed farming and agroforestry have been proven to be bird-friendly farming methods.

Farmers are at the forefront of enforcing solutions to declining numbers of farmland birds
through adopting bird-friendly farming. Bird-friendly farming which restores mosaic landscapes
with trees, preserves water sources, prevents soil loss and desertification to provide connectivity
for birds and other wildlife.
How can we promote bird-friendly farming for avian conservation?
There are a number of ways to promote bird-friendly farming for avian conservation, including:

  1. Educating farmers about the benefits of bird-friendly farming. Farmers need to understand the importance of birds to their farms and the benefits of adopting bird-friendly farming practices.
  2. Providing financial incentives for farmers who adopt bird-friendly farming practices. Farmers need to be able to see the financial benefits of adopting bird-friendly farming practices in order to be motivated to make the change.
  3. Developing and implementing bird-friendly farming standards. Bird-friendly farming standards can help to ensure that farmers are adopting practices that are truly beneficial to birds.
  4. Monitoring and evaluating bird-friendly farming practices. It is important to monitor and evaluate bird-friendly farming practices to ensure that they are effective in conserving birds.

By promoting bird-friendly farming, we can help to conserve birds and their habitats, and ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits of these amazing creatures.

Here are some specific examples of how bird-friendly farming can be beneficial to birds:

  1. Bird-friendly farming like agroforestry can provide food and shelter for birds. By planting native plants and providing water sources, bird-friendly farms can provide food and shelter for birds.
  2. Bird-friendly farming can reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides. Pesticides and herbicides can be harmful to birds, so bird-friendly farms can reduce the use of these chemicals.. Bird-friendly farming is a win-win for farmers and birds. By adopting bird-friendly farming practices, farmers can improve their bottom line and help to conserve birds for future generations.

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Solving the data problem: Laying foundation for enhancing Ornithology studies in Uganda.

The Data problem
In today’s world, it is improper to ignore the use of data for effective decision
making(https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-15870-0 ) and policy formulation to
drive action. This concept applies across social, economic and environmental sectors. In
countries that are still lagging in technology use, digital infrastructure, and skilled labor; the
problem is much more prevalent. Uganda faces such a burdensome problem of inadequate
data
(https://unstats.un.org/unsd/environment/envpdf/unsd_unep_eca%20workshop/uganda.pdf )
for environmental protection. The Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUS) is all about
conserving birds and promoting the protection of their habitat. However, in pursuit of its
goals, the organization confronts the problem of a massive gap in research and data
availability to inform lean conservation strategy and action.


Our Idea
Birdwatching (https://ec.europa.eu/research-and-innovation/en/horizon-
magazine/birdwatchers-world-unite-and-take-environmental-action
) and ornithology have
captivated the imagination of nature enthusiasts for centuries. The vibrant colors, melodious
songs, and remarkable behaviors of birds make them a fascinating subject of study. In recent
years, the interest in birds and their conservation has seen a surge, and university bird clubs
have played a pivotal role in driving this enthusiasm. Avian Conservation Uganda
has set up bird clubs in a number of institutional clubs such as Muni University,
(https://muni.ac.ug/ ) Metropolitan University, Bethany Land Institute
(https://bethanylandinstitute.org/ ) among others. These clubs provide a unique platform for
students to appreciate avian diversity and encourage participation in scientific conservation.

Creating a Community of Bird Lovers.
Creating a network of ardent bird enthusiasts is the first step in initiating ornithology
research at a university. University clubs serve as a gathering place for students from diverse
disciplines who have an interest in birds. Diversity in the club’s membership, whether in
biology, ecology, environmental science, art, and culture causes interdisciplinary interactions
vital for knowledge transfer and knowledge production.

Strategic relationships with local and international universities

Unfortunately, there are no dedicated ornithology institutions or courses in Uganda. This
presents a unique problem for ornithology studies and students; students who might be
interested in ornithology have to settle to travel abroad – an opportunity only available to a
handful of Ugandans.

The Avian Conservation Uganda has birthed a platform for
University students to interact with their peers in local and international universities to
facilitate cross-cultural interactions, knowledge transfer and knowledge production. Through
webinars & online events, volunteer programs, conference opportunities; students can
network to further their interest and participate in studies on birds.


Citizen Science and Data Collection
University clubs can actively participate in citizen science projects or augment data
collection efforts. Bird surveys, migration monitoring, and breeding season observations are
just a few examples of valuable data that can be gathered by club members. Contributing to
citizen science(https://www.birds.cornell.edu/citizenscience ) projects helps students
become part of a larger research network while collecting valuable data for ornithology
research.
Field Trips and Birdwatching Expeditions

Research (https://web.stanford.edu/~cagan/SekerciogluOrniTourismEnvCons2002.pdf ) has
shown field experiences enhance student understanding of concepts and influence the
choice for further studies. University clubs are ideal for organizing bird watching expeditions
and field trips that will likely encourage passion for birds and studies around them. These
field trips take students out of the classroom and into natural environments, where they
may view and identify several bird species up close to immerse themselves in the
mysterious, musical and colorful world of birds. Field trips provide a solid foundation in
observing and studying the real-world bird behavior, ecology, and conservation strategies
for birds.


Collaborating with Professionals and NGOs.
Avian Conservation Uganda seeks collaboration with established ornithological
societies, wildlife NGOs, research institutions, and government agencies to foster
partnerships that open doors for information sharing, collective action and consolidated
efforts. Such collaborations offer invaluable exposure and real-world experience to aspiring
ornithologists.


Promoting Bird Conservation
Beyond research, university clubs can use their findings to raise awareness about bird
conservation in uganda. By engaging in community conservation projects and proposing
strategies based on their research outcomes, students can actively contribute to the
protection of bird populations and their habitats.


University clubs are an ideal breeding environment for aspiring ornithologists to take their
first steps into the field of avian research. Students can translate their passion for birds into
significant contributions to ornithology by building a community of bird enthusiasts,
cooperating with faculty advisers, organizing field trips, engaging in citizen science,
performing research projects, and collaborating with professionals. University clubs can fly
to new heights in avian study by encouraging bird conservation and sharing their discoveries
with the globe. So spread your wings and begin on an ornithology voyage that will enchant
you for the rest of your life with the wonderful world of birds.

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