Category: News Updates

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Exploring Lake Mburo National Park’s Avian Paradise with a Park Birdwatching Experience.

On March 10th to 12th, 2023 Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUS) was welcomed to the extraordinary realm of Lake Mburo National Park, where birds dance and nature thrives in harmony. The excursion was aimed at unraveling the significance of protected areas on birdlife, discover the thriving bird habitats, and understand the road ahead of our conservation efforts for birds of Uganda.

A Haven for Feathered Wonders

Located in the heart of western Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park unfolds across approximately 370km² of breathtaking landscapes. With its elevation ranging between 1220 and 1828 meters above sea level, this park is an integral part of the enchanting L. Victoria basin. Imagine a picturesque tapestry of wetlands, savanna woodlands dominated by the majestic Acacia hockii, and a lush forest zone teeming with over 332 bird species. We expected to witness nature’s best-kept secrets, encountering extraordinary avian treasures like the Rufous-bellied Heron, Black-throated Barbet, Green-capped Eremomela, Southern Red Bishop, and Long-tailed Cisticola, exclusive to this wondrous sanctuary.

A Sanctuary of Conservation

In the spirit of avian conservation, Lake Mburo National Park proudly holds the title of an Important Bird Area (IBA). Within this ecological haven, a tapestry of marshes, woodlands, and savannahs creates a diverse range of bird habitats which house an impressive narray of bird species. Notably, the African Finfoot, the Red-faced Barbet, the Papyrus Gonolek and the Crested Barbet find solace within these protected grounds. Overcoming past challenges, collaborations with local pastoralists, farmers, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority have paved the way for a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Thrilling Encounters with Feathered Beauties

As ACUS members embarked on a journey of discovery in this avian paradise on the three-day expedition through Lake Mburo National Park, we were enthralled by a breathtaking kaleidoscope of bird species that grace the skies and trees. We marvelled at the vibrant African Pygmy Kingfisher, be awestruck by the African Fish-Eagle, the graceful flight of the African Green Pigeon, the playful antics of the African Grey Hornbill, the melodious African Ground Thrush, and the elegant dance of the African Jacana. These sightings, among numerous others, bring to life the vibrant avian tapestry of this magnificent park. Our adventure also shed light on the importance of monitoring and preserving threatened species and those lacking adequate data.

Conservation Fueled by Data

Our expedition to Lake Mburo National Park served a greater purpose beyond exploration. We diligently collected valuable data on bird populations, habitats, and distribution within the park’s boundaries. Armed with this wealth of information, ACUS is poised to make informed conservation decisions, raise public awareness about the significance of bird conservation, and foster a bird-friendly community. By involving the general public in our excursions, we aim to deepen their understanding of the vital role birds play in maintaining a balanced ecosystem, preserving cultural heritage, and fueling economic growth.

Overcoming Challenges, Paving the Way for Conservation

As with any noble endeavor, our journey was not without its challenges. We encountered obstacles such as inadequate data collection methods, limited information on Ugandan bird species, a shortage of monitoring tools, and a scarcity of accessible bird knowledge resources. To surmount these challenges, we propose implementing standardized data collection and administration systems, promoting research collaboration and data sharing, providing the necessary monitoring tools, and enhancing the availability of bird knowledge resources.

Preserving the Symphony of Wings

In conclusion, our three-day excursion to Lake Mburo National Park offered valuable insights into the diverse bird species, habitats, and conservation challenges in the area. These findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and conservation efforts to protect bird populations and their habitats. ACUS remains steadfast in its vision of a flourishing avian life for future generations. We will continue engaging in community-based projects and conservation.

REGAN OKIA

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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.

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Five reasons why birds are awesome and need to be conserved

At Avian Conservation Uganda (ACUS), people always ask us questions such as; why do we need to conserve birds? why are birds important? How do birds help us? And why are bird conservation projects necessary? We always say birds have many uses because they provide immeasurable aesthetic, cultural, economic and natural benefits to society, economies and the environment, therefore, conserving birds for the benefit of the next generations is a duty ACUS is formed to perform. The following are some of the benefits of birds;

Benefits to agriculture and farming;

Sunbirds are important pollination agents

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.

Aesthetics and colour: The Beautiful Ross’ Turaco

Birds have an 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, aesthetics, 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 friends 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 cultures tamed birds such as falcons, kites and ravens to assist in spotting prey or even hunting for their pets.

Birds are so awesome that nations, military units, sports teams, organizations and superstars associate with their image, and symbolism and adopt their qualities and fearlessness. For example, Ugandan representatives adorn the 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 and artisans enjoy the aesthetic value of birds creating magnificent artistic products from bird watching, and 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

Farm landscapes are important habitats for birds. ©rwenjerudemofarm.com

Birds are 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 people and the natural ecosystem.

Economic benefits of birds:

The Secretary bird is of the most sought-after sights by birdwatchers

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 enhancing the quality of life.

The beneficial role played by birds in natural ecosystems

Someone called the cleaning crew: A pied crow in flight

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, the 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 reducing contamination risk to food webs and ground for multiplying harmful bacteria and pathogens. Birds also help to disperse seeds in the wild, pollinate plants and control pests and diseases in wild flora and fauna. Bird dropping also fertilizes marine resources and provides food for fish to improve the quality of marine life. Birds are also crucial players in the natural food chain providing food for carnivores, birds of prey, and eggs for snakes, lizards and other predators. This sustains the ecosystem and keeps the environment healthy.

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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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