Second Finnish Osprey Found in Siaya County

The discovery of a dead Western Osprey, bearing identification rings traced back to a Finnish zoo, has reignited calls for enhanced conservation efforts in Siaya County, particularly around Usalo Beach on Lake Victoria. 

Found entangled in a fishing net by local fisherman Walter Tende Oloo, this marks the second time in five years that an osprey originating from the same Finnish facility has reached this remote Kenyan location. The tragic find has prompted renewed appeals to designate Usalo Village as a protected bird sanctuary, a move local residents and conservationists believe is crucial to safeguarding the diverse avian species that frequent the area.

The osprey, a large raptor that feeds primarily on fish, is distinguished by its expansive wingspan, which can reach up to 180 centimetres (71 inches). Its migratory patterns are among the most extensive in the avian world. The markings on the bird's leg rings were verified by the Museum Zool in Helsinki, Finland, confirming its origin and triggering heightened interest in the reasons behind these repeated transcontinental journeys.

This incident follows a similar sighting in January 2020, when another osprey, also ringed in Finland, was discovered alive in Usalo Village. At that time, Finnish authorities confirmed the bird had been ringed in June 2017 and had reached breeding age. While the previous bird was found alive, the recent discovery of a deceased osprey entangled in fishing gear highlights the threats these migratory birds face, prompting urgent calls for protective measures.

The frequency of these sightings suggests that Usalo Village may possess unique ecological attributes that attract ospreys, such as a plentiful fish supply and potentially suitable nesting habitats. Walter Tende Oloo, who discovered both ospreys, has long been an advocate for protecting the birds that frequent his land, much of which has been submerged by Lake Victoria. He expresses concern that many villagers, unaware of the ecological importance of these birds, often hunt or harm them.

"There are many species of birds that come here, but people do not understand their importance," Oloo said, emphasising the need for immediate intervention by local authorities.

Echoing these sentiments, Francis Onyango Mayeya, a respected elder in the community, emphasises the need for official recognition of Usalo as a bird conservation site. While the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) intervened after the first osprey sighting in 2020, lasting conservation measures were not implemented. The community now hopes that the recent incident will prompt the county government to take decisive action.

The reappearance of the Finnish osprey underscores the vital importance of bird migration studies, according to Richard Kipngéno, a Birding Officer at Nature Kenya. Bird ringing programs are essential for tracking migration patterns, lifespan, and recovery rates of various species. These global programs provide invaluable data on how birds navigate long distances and adapt to different environments.

At the National Museums of Kenya, the Nairobi Ringing Team, in collaboration with Nature Kenya, conducts bird ringing every Tuesday. This process involves collecting biometric data, including measurements of wingspan, weight, and feather condition. Scientists also assess fat content, a critical factor in a bird's ability to undertake long migratory journeys.

"Before setting off, birds prepare by feeding extensively, as they will have limited opportunities to eat while flying," Kipngéno explained. "We check their fat reserves and skin condition, if the skin appears red, it indicates low fat content."

Bird migration is influenced by various factors, including seasonal changes, food availability, and breeding cycles. Some birds migrate within Africa, while others travel across continents. The Western Osprey is known to migrate from Europe to Africa during non-breeding seasons, relying on landmarks, coastlines, and mountain ranges for navigation.

The repeated arrival of Finnish ospreys in Usalo Village presents a significant opportunity for conservation and eco-tourism development. Properly managed, the area could become a destination for bird-watching enthusiasts and researchers interested in migratory species. Local leaders and conservationists are urging the Siaya County government to take proactive steps to protect the region's avian biodiversity. 

"The zoo in Finland must be curious about why their birds keep coming here. This is an opportunity for collaboration between Kenyan and Finnish conservationists," Mayeya said.