Support Waterbird Counts in our Wetlands The Annual Waterbird (waterfowl) count counts program was launched in 1990 as part Kenya’s commitment to International waterbird conservation. Since then, the counts have been conducted regularly in January and July at key Rift Valley lakes and other wetlands within the country. All counts are conducted by volunteers; people and organisations, and provide much needed data for waterbird conservation around the world What are waterbirds (waterfowls)? These are birds that live in or near water. They include pelicans, herons, storks, ibises, spoonbills, flamingoes, ducks, geese. In addition, raptors, kingfishers and other wetland- dependent birds are also counted. Waterfowls are an important indicator of environmental health and can give early warning of undesirable ecological changes within our wetlands. Why are waterbird counts conducted? The goal of this programme is to monitor changes in water bird numbers and distribution in representative wetlands across the country and avail the information to various stakeholders including • Government and Non-Governmental Conservation organizations • The tourism industry • Education institutions • In addition, waterfowl counts is in itself an interesting outdoor activity that helps in • Increasing knowledge and awareness of the importance of waterbirds and their wetland habitats at local and national levels • Building and strengthening national networks of enthusiastic volunteers while facilitating their training. • bringing people close to the nature Coordination of waterbird counts The census is carried out by volunteers from across the country and is coordinated by the National Museums of Kenya in partnership with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Nature Kenya (NK), and other local, national and international conservation organizations. The participants have varied experiences and include professional and amateur bird lovers, ornithologists, local community members and students across the country. Coverage and scope of monitoring The census primary target is the Rift Valley lakes but other wetlands including natural and man-made ones are also covered. Why Support water bird count? By participating in waterbird count, you and your organization are supporting wildlife conservation and therefore tourism – a major employer in many parts of Kenya. In addition, this is an excellent opportunity to give back to nature – an important CSR activity. This can also be an opportunity for your staff to network and learn more about bird and other biodiversity conservation. How you can support the waterbird counts Participation in the census activities is on a voluntary basis either as an individual or as an organization. You can support this exercise by: 1. Volunteering your time as a counter 2. Donating equipment including camping equipment, binoculars, telescopes, GPS units for use during the exercise. 3. Donating food for the counters. 4. Paying fuel and other coordination costs. 5. Provide vehicle/s to transport volunteers to the field 6. For Lake Naivasha, you can avail your boat for use by the counters. For more information on participation and supporting the activity in cash or kind donations contact: John Musina Waterfowl count Coordinator National Museums of Kenya Email: [email protected] Dr. Sam Adaje Head of Ecological monitoring , Bioprospecting and Biodiversity Information Management Kenya Wildlife Service Email: [email protected] Dr. Paul Muoria Species and Sites Programme Manager, Nature Kenya Email: [email protected] or [email protected] NATIONAL MUSEUMS OF KENYA where heritage lives on mazingira yetu uhai wetu wajibu wetu
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