Kenya’s diversity of wildlife has garnered international fame over the years, especially its black rhinos, lions, leopards, and diverse birdlife. The country is also known for its natural resources and its export earnings.
However, it is currently in danger of extinction as both the human and the animal populations fight for nature’s limited space as well as poaching, which has reduced the number of wildlife, thereby affecting local tourism negatively.
A wildlife census has become crucial for conservation and ecological management to help track species diversity and strategies to protect Kenya’s unique species. At Lewa conservancy, which is located in Laikipia county, spans approximately 62 acres of land, comprising of various wildlife. The conservancy team held this exercise recently.
All animals, including the big five, were all tracked, counted and recorded electronically through an app. Additionally, Bana Life Conservancy and sections of Mt.Kenya were incorporated in this exercise. These annual censuses play a pivotal role in monitoring population trends across Lewa and the surrounding ecosystems.
Dr. Dominic Maringa, the head of wildlife and conservation in Lewa Conservancy, states that monitoring population shifts, especially in relation to climate change and migration patterns is essential in formulating strategies to safeguard Kenya’s unique biodiversity.
