Birds Conservation – Avian Conservation Uganda

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.

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.

What is Conservation?

Webinar presented by Peter Jones
On the enlightening day of July 8, 2023, Peter Jones, Founder and President of Andalucía
Bird, delivered a captivating webinar on the essence of conservation. In the engaging
session, Peter delved into the multifaceted concept of conservation, highlighting its mission
to protect nature’s resources and preserve biological diversity.

Before the webinar unfolded, ACUS’ Secretary General; Mukama Joshua painted a picture of
ACUS’s current status in Uganda’s avian conservation landscape and highlighted the
organization goals. He eloquently stressed the power of collaboration by fostering strong
networks within the birdwatching community. Through awareness excursions to different
corners of the country, ACUS not only enlightened the public about the importance of bird
habitats but also instilled a profound appreciation for the role birds play in maintaining
ecological balance.

Moreover, Joshua ‘s narration revealed ACUS’s dedication to establishing bird clubs in
educational institutions to provide a platform for interaction, knowledge-sharing and
knowledge production to inspire young minds to embrace the study of birds and their
conservation.

Drawing from his vast experiences, the Presenter of the day; Peter shared strategies for
steady growth and future prospects, emphasizing the importance of patience and dedication.
Peter explained that conservation isn’t just about shielding nature from human impact, but it
also advocates for the sustainable use of natural resources, striking a balance between
human activities and environmental preservation. He stressed the significance of preserving
distinct populations of species to maintain their genetic richness and prevent extinction.
Discussing the role of conservation societies, Peter emphasized how the work of
conservation organizations is vital for conservation efforts. These organizations raise
awareness, mitigate habitat loss, and promote habitat protection to safeguard diverse avian
species.

As conservation efforts transcend national borders, Peter emphasized the importance of
seeking international collaboration. ACUS, considering affiliation with Birdlife International,
can provide valuable mentorship, capacity building opportunities for the shared goal of
preserving birds and their habitats.

Peter shed light on the multidisciplinary nature of conservation work, where techniques to
prevent biodiversity loss incorporate aspects of economics, law, social sciences, and religion,
making it a holistic approach.

He also discussed how conservation priorities are determined, based on regional
significance and global conservation impact. Collaboration with volunteers and local groups
empowers societies like ACUS to prioritize regional projects effectively.
Highlighting the success of restoration projects, Peter revealed Andalucía’s involvement in
revitalizing biodiversity through wetland and salt pond restoration, creating ideal
environments for breeding birds and other wildlife.

To support their conservation initiatives, fundraising and community engagement play a
pivotal role. ACUS needs to organize vents to attract donations and foster community
support for their cause.

Leveraging various media and publications, Andalucía spreads awareness about their
conservation efforts and attracts new members through a quarterly magazine showcasing
their work.

Drawing lessons from flagship projects involving Montagu’s Harrier and Lesser Kestrel,
Peter detailed innovative strategies to protect these species, ensuring their survival amidst
changing environments.

Addressing climate change, Peter stressed the need for adaptive conservation strategies
involving long-term monitoring, habitat restoration, climate-adaptive nesting sites, and public
awareness.

Understanding regional disparities in bird responses to climate change enables targeted
conservation efforts, considering factors like climate variation, habitat suitability, and
migratory behaviors.

Despite funding challenges, Peter offered potential solutions for avian conservationists in
Uganda, such as seeking diverse funding sources and forming international partnerships with
renowned scientists.

In conclusion, Peter Jones’s comprehensive presentation highlighted the vital importance of
conservation, empowering societies such as ACUS to make a lasting impact in preserving
avian biodiversity and our natural world.

Initiating a Bird Club at Muni University

Developing Ornithology Studies Using University Bird Clubs

Birds, with their vibrant colors, melodious songs, and fascinating behaviors, have always been a source of wonder and joy for nature enthusiasts. At Muni University, this passion for avian life led to the formation of the Muni University Avian Conservation Club, a dedicated group committed to promoting the understanding, appreciation, and conservation of birds in Uganda. On 10th June 2023, the club embarked on a field study to identify the bird species thriving within the university’s grounds.

Bird Watching: A Delightful Expedition

Armed with binoculars and a keen sense of curiosity, members of the Avian Conservation Club set out on their bird watching expedition. The early morning hours proved to be the perfect time for observing the feathered inhabitants, as the majority of birds were active during this period. Dividing themselves into two groups, the birdwatchers explored two distinct sections the library bird watching area and the Health Science bird watching section, dedicated to crop planting.

Bird Identification

The field study was not just about observing birds but also understanding their unique characteristics. Bird identification is an art that involves closely observing their size, shape, coloring, behavior, habitat, voice, and geographic location. Armed with online field guides, the birdwatchers confirmed the names of the birds they encountered, unraveling the mysteries of each species they spotted.

Discoveries and Conservation Awareness

The checklist of bird species observed around Muni University highlighted the rich diversity of avian life thriving in this academic haven. From the enchanting Red-cheeked Cordonblue and the majestic Shikra to the common Rock Doves and Pied crows, the university grounds provided a habitat for several captivating species.

The field study served as a reminder of the urgent need for bird conservation. Unfortunately, many bird species are experiencing alarming declines in population, even among those considered common. The observations made during this study underscored the vital role birds play in maintaining ecosystem health. They act as indicators of environmental issues, and their decline can signify broader ecological problems that could impact humans and other species.

Challenges and Recommendations

The study also shed light on challenges faced by the Avian Conservation Club. Limited time spent in the field and the scarcity of trees within the university grounds were identified as factors affecting bird identification. To improve birdwatching results, the club plans to allocate more time for future field studies and advocate for the planting of more trees on campus.

Another issue the club recognized was the gender imbalance within its membership. To foster a more inclusive and diverse environment, the club aims to encourage more women to join and actively participate in their activities.

The Muni University Avian Conservation Club’s bird watching expedition was a delightful and eye-opening experience. It revealed the importance of preserving bird habitats and understanding their role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. With a commitment to spreading awareness and fostering partnerships, the club aims to protect and conserve birds not only within the university but throughout Arua City, West Nile, and Uganda at large. Avian life for generations is their motto, and they are resolute in their pursuit of safeguarding these beautiful creatures for the benefit of all.

Saving Uganda’s Birds: Enhancing Conservation with Data

The Avian Conservation organized a webinar on June 17th, 2023, titled “Saving Uganda’s Birds: Enhancing Conservation with Data,” led by esteemed ornithologist Jonathan Onongo. During the event, participants explored innovative strategies to protect Uganda’s diverse bird population, as Jonathan Onongo presented on the topic of avian preservation.

Uganda, a landlocked country with a landmass ranging from 900 to 1,500 meters above sea level, covers an approximate area of 241,000 square kilometers. Its favorable ecological richness is attributed to diverse vegetation, which can be divided into distinct zones such as forests, dry areas, wetlands, and open areas.

With over 1,080 recorded species, Uganda boasts a rich and diverse avian population. This remarkable diversity positions Uganda as a leader in avian richness in Africa. The country is home to nearly 50% of Africa’s bird species and 10% of global bird life. New discoveries, such as the recent inclusion of the Urania species spotted in Tororo, continue to expand the number of recorded species.

Bird species in Uganda can be categorized based on residency and migration patterns. Resident species breed within the country, while migratory birds visit during their non breeding periods. The importance of habitat protection and the impact of habitat exploitation on Uganda’s bird population was emphasized during the webinar. The long-term survival of all bird species depends on the preservation and integrity of their natural habitats.

To safeguard Uganda’s avian diversity, conservation efforts should prioritize the protection and restoration of critical habitats, particularly wetlands and forests. Implementing sustainable practices, raising awareness among local communities, and enforcing strict conservation measures are essential steps in this endeavor.

Bird research in Uganda has evolved over a century, combining scientific methods and indigenous knowledge to gain a comprehensive understanding of the country’s avifauna. Early research primarily focused on museum collections, but efforts have shifted towards studying bird distribution, populations, and behaviors. Several publications, including the Birds of Africa and the Bird Atlas for Uganda, have significantly contributed to the understanding and conservation of bird species.

Monitoring programs have been established to assess bird species’ status and trends. These programs prioritize ecological characterizations and the identification of indicator species.

Bird populations, species, and the number of species are examined twice a year, providing vital information for conservation measures and prioritizing protected sites.

Uganda has designated specific areas as key sites for bird conservation, encompassing approximately 80% of the country’s important bird habitats. Twelve RAMSAR sites have been designated for wetland conservation, and data from monitoring programs and censuses are crucial for identifying and establishing protected areas.

Despite some conservation success stories, Uganda still faces challenges in bird conservation. Limited human capacity, including a scarcity of researchers and inadequate ornithology training, hinders progress. Bridging the gap between species and available researchers requires collaborative efforts and the incorporation of comprehensive ornithology courses into educational institutions.

Addressing these challenges necessitates data-driven decision-making and the collection of essential information on bird populations, habitats, and threats. Citizen science initiatives, supported by mobile apps and other platforms, enable individuals to contribute to data collection and enhance our understanding of bird species’ conservation needs.

Raising awareness about bird conservation is crucial, not only among students but also among the wider public. By promoting student involvement, fostering collaborative networks, and generating a sense of responsibility, we can inspire future generations to actively contribute to bird conservation efforts in Uganda.

The journey towards comprehensive bird data collection and publication requires long-term dedication and support. Stakeholders in Uganda must collaborate and advocate for the importance of data-driven research in bird conservation. By building a strong foundation for data collection and fostering an appreciation for Uganda’s avian wealth, we can effectively safeguard the country’s bird population for generations to come.

In conclusion, the webinar highlighted the significance of data-driven conservation strategies , collaborative efforts, and raising public awareness in protecting Uganda’s diverse avian population. By prioritizing habitat preservation, promoting research and education, and engaging local communities, Uganda can make substantial progress in safeguarding its unique bird species.

Transcribed by Regan Okia

Finding the Elusive Fox’s Weaver

A Hidden Treasure: Pian Upe Game Reserve!

From 29th to the 1st of April, ACUS embarked on an exhilarating 3-day conservation awareness expedition to collect vital data, raise awareness about avian conservation, and engage with the vibrant local community.

The Pian Upe Game Reserve is a sanctuary nestled north of Mount Elgon, spanning a sprawling 2,275 km². From undulating plains to forested grasslands, riverine woods to majestic kopjes, Pian Upe boasts a unique habitat teeming with a mesmerizing array of bird species. The reserve ventures through altitudes ranging from 1000 m to 3068 m, giving it the right to host an impressive array of bird species, including the rare and endangered Fox’s Weaver and the elusive Karamoja Apalis.

Unveiling Avian Marvels

The excursion was an unforgettable encounter with nature’s finest avian treasures as the ACUS members navigated the trails of Pian Upe Game Reserve. Our keen eyes and attentive ears were rewarded with captivating sightings and melodic melodies of the Helmeted Guineafowl, the African Gray Hornbill, and marvel at the playful antics of the Grey-crowned Crane. With unwavering determination, we sought out the elusive Fox’s Weaver, to discover its specialized habitat and exclusive breeding grounds of the whistling acacia. On the trail to find the Fox’s Weaver, we were rewarded with the fragile beauty of the Karamoja Apalis also hanging out in the acacia, highlighting the urgent need for conservation measures to protect this remarkable habitat crucial for the survival of these two restricted-range species. Unfortunately, the whistling acacia which the two species prefer is also preferred by local communities for construction purposes and this has led to constant cutting down of these trees that threatens the life of these species.

Community Engagement in Kudduti – Nakapiripiriti district of Uganda

At ACUS, we firmly believe in the power of data to drive effective conservation strategies. Our survey expedition was not only a quest for avian knowledge but also a platform to foster community engagement and raise awareness. Through interactive sensitization campaigns in the Kuddutti community, we celebrated the cultural, economic, and ecological significance of birds. The community discovered firsthand the invaluable benefits that birds bring, from attracting tourism revenue to inspiring local traditions. In response to concerns about bird-related crop damage, ACUS offered practical solutions, such as sensitization programs, habitat preservation efforts, and innovative approaches to minimize conflict.

Overcoming Challenges and Charting a Path Forward

Inadequate data, scarce monitoring resources, absence of studies, and budget constraints continue to limit the ambitious conservation mission for the birds of Uganda. However, ACUS is steadfast in its commitment to surmount these hurdles and forge ahead to address these challenges. ACUS is working for the establishment of a community bird club in the Kuddutti community, equipped with the necessary resources and training to conduct regular vital data-collection and public education on the need for avian conservation. To this end, strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, both public and private, will ensure a synergistic collaboration that amplifies conservation outcomes.

Global Big Day 2023

The Global Big Day is upon us on 13/05/2023. Global Big birding Day is a 24-hr affair on a global scale that puts birds at the center of the conversation for a day.

Join the Avian Conservation Uganda as we Plant trees on 12/05/2023 and Watch birds on 13/05/2023. To enhance awareness of bird conservation, you can participate by going bird watching at home or join one of our groups to identify as many birds as you can. Report and tag Avian Conservation Ug on eBird with what you find from anywhere you will be in Uganda. Planting Trees For Birds provides a variety of benefits for birds. They are crucial for the survival of these birds since they Provide food, shelter, and a place to raise their young ones. Planting trees is a great way to help these birds as well as the ecosystem.

We look forward to you being a part of our birding teams. Have fun, enjoy the birds you find, stay safe, and share your sightings and tag Avian Conservation Ug on eBird. Every bird counts.

The Global Big Day

A World-Wide Celebration of Birds

The thirteenth day of this May, 2023 was a special day. Not because it was someone’s birthday, but because it was this year’s Global Big Day . From my experience, the average Ugandan is very puzzled when you make mention of the Global Big Day. You’d most likely get a “What are you talking about?”

To the bird-aware community though, the Global Big Day is a particular day. It is a day to grab your gear and get your bird on. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Cornell Lab of Ornithology organizes the Global Big Day for bird lovers to celebrate all the birds around them. Birdwatchers across the world set out to participate by going on a birdwatching adventure to appreciate birds around them. Birdwatchers dedicate the day to learning new things about their favorite birds, learn more about bird behavior and get beguiled in the romantic songs birds sing. Birders often get together and kick off birding at midnight, camping out camping out or doing birding around their home to celebrate the day.

This year’s Global Big Day was extra special to us; it was the first time the Avian Conservation Uganda got together to celebrate the Global Big Day. And celebrate we did, with 14 birding groups across Uganda – the society identified 369 birds 369 birds on the day out of the 998 species reported on eBird. Of the 369 species observed, there were special entries of Albertine endemic birds. This means, to marvel at the shining red pigment of a Dusky Crimsonwing dashing in the ecological paradise, listening to majestic songs of the Archer’s Robin-Chat or catching a glimpse of the Grauer’s Broadbill dumpy green is a reserve only for the Albertine forests. Our teams were delighted to encounter several Albertine endemics Albertine endemics ) including the Grauer’s Broadbill, Regal Sunbird, and the Rwenzori Apalis.

To imagine that at the current rate of loss of habitat especially the declining forest cover, encroachment on wetlands and modification of Important Bird Areas; Important Bird Areas ) future generations may not be able to bask in the beauty of the Great Blue Turaco or find therapy in the distant songs of the African Thrush in the early morning, is a disturbing thought. Future generations don’t deserve such a gloomy fate. This and more, is why the Avian Conservation Uganda brings together birdwatchers and bird lovers to put birds at the centre of the conversation and to raise awareness about the need to conserve these precious birds.

Birds aren’t ecological constants. They are variables and therefore may change depending on the ecological conditions of the equation. The health of the ecosystem has a significant bearing on bird life as much as the birds have on it. Human destruction and modification of bird habitat for agriculture, commercial activities and urbanization have left most habitats unsuitable for birds and this causes migrations or worse, reduced breeding and declining populations. These variations destabilize the ecosystem across the board. For instance, reduced bird populations can mean less pollination agents affecting the quantity of the yield for farmers. With the global problem of food insecurity, we can not afford less pollination agents.

Therefore, it is why the Avian Conservation Uganda is pleased to celebrate the Global Big Day. It is a day we can put bird conservation at the center of the conversation. The participated in the celebrations by planting trees in an effort to lead the way in restoring vital bird habitat and organizing birding groups across the country to identify as many birds as possible in an effort to raise awareness on bird conservation. ACUS birding groupss in L. Mburo National Park, Kibale Forest, Bwindo Impenetrable forest, Bethany Land Institute, Muni University, Kabale University, Balaamu University, Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Insitute, Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, the Rotaract Club of Kampala North and Mgahinga Forest submitted their checklists for the day identifying 369 birds.

Avian Conservation Uganda was named among Top eBirders Top eBirders and contributing significantly to Uganda identifying the third highest species in Africa on the Global Big Day. The organization has scheduled a conservation awareness excursion to Semuliki National Park where participants will get to go birding and celebrate birds over a weekend to supplement efforts to raise awareness of conserving birds for the cultural, economic and ecological benefit.

Why Should We Conserve Birds?

Top Five Reasons Why Birds Are Awesome.

At Avian Conservation Uganda, people always ask us; why are birds important? How do birds help us? And why are bird-conservation projects important? We always say birds have many uses because they provide immeasurable aesthetic, cultural, economic and natural benefits to society, economies and the environment and therefore conserving them conserving them for the benefit of next generations is important work. The following are some of the benefits of birds;

Benefits to agriculture and farming;

Farmers benefit the most from birds . Birds’ presence on farms has several good and challenging implications. For instance, birds such as cattle egrets help to control pests around animals by feeding on them. In crop growing, birds still control pests (although can be pests sometimes too) birds pollinate plants, disperse seeds and control weeds. Despite feeding on farmers crops, the overall impact on the natural environment scale, birds’ presence on farms is positive . Farmers are being encouraged to cater for these their best friends with conservation-friendly farming techniques.

Benefits to culture, people and society.

Birds have immense impact on cultures , societies and (wo)man’s interaction with the environment. There is a direct correlation between interacting with birds and quality of life in terms of art , activities, nutrition, , folklore and legends, values and attitudes. Interaction with birds increases the quality of life of man; whether he is a farmer, a sailor , Noah of the Ark or a hunter. Admittedly, we were being too generous when we said birds are farmers’ best friend, because it can be argued that hunters get the most from the awesomeness of birds. Considering, (wo)man started hunting thousands (if not millions) of years before he started farming the land, hunters have enjoyed their winged friends much more. Many a culture tamed birds such as falcons, kites and ravens to assist in spotting out prey or even hunting for their pets.Birds are so awesome that nations, military units, sports teams, organizations and superstars associate with their image, symbolism and adopting their qualities and fearlessness. For example, Ugandan representatives adorn colours of the National bird – the Grey crested crane, while Liverpool modelled a mythical Liver Bird from the cormorant to be the team’s badge. Artists, artisans enjoy the aesthetic value of birds creating magnificent artistic products from bird watching, bird parts such as feathers and songs. Musicians compose the sweetest of melodies enjoyed by many a music lover inspired by bird songs and their calls. Safe to say, it will be a sad day when birds die.

Benefits to food production and ensuring food security

Birds a great source of food for people, animals, insects and interestingly, other birds. People rear birds domestically for food, animals hunt birds, other animals feed on their eggs while others feed their decomposing dead flesh. Therefore, birds play a significant role in balancing the nutrition chain for both people and the natural ecosystem.

Economic benefits of birds:

In Uganda, there are several economic benefits of birds including; poultry farming, recreational birdwatching and tourism, image symbolism and branding, health products, art & crafts, agricultural inputs sourced from birds and other subtle socio-economic value of birds to societies. All these bird-based products contribute significantly to Uganda’s GDP creating thousands of jobs, supporting equally numerous families and enhance the quality of life.

Beneficial role played by birds in natural ecosystems

Birds are important indicators of the status of the environment. In the wild, birds communicate to animals the events happening in their vicinity. For instance, a presence of marabou storks, vultures and crows signals the presence of a carcass and this is sometimes the lifeline of many animals, insects and other birds. In addition, this scavenger activity helps to clean the environment of decomposing bodies leaving the environment clean. Birds also help to disperse seeds in the wild, pollinate plants and control pests and diseases in wild flora and fauna. Bird dropping also fertilize marine resources and provide food for fish to improve the quality of marine life. Birds are also crucial players on the natural food chain providing food for carnivores, birds of prey, eggs for snakes, lizards and other predators. This sustains the ecosystem and keeps the environment healthy.

Bird conservation enthusiasts joining the Avian Conservation Uganda

Join a Conservation Organization

Binding together optimizes raising awareness about the vitality of avian conservation, resource-mobilization to undertake conservation projects and involving support partners to drive the conservation effort to desirable levels and reduce the number of threatened species on the IUCN Red list. You can start your journey to contributing to bird conservation with just a click. Join the Avian Conservation Uganda here.

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