Birdwatching – Avian Conservation Uganda

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

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

Tag: Birdwatching

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

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