Rare Russian Osprey rescued in Siaya after epic migration to Lake Victoria
KWS reported that the bird appeared weak after covering a long distance across continents and was given immediate care before being transported for rehabilitation.
Residents of Ugingo village in Siaya County were left amazed after discovering a rare Osprey that had flown thousands of kilometres from Russia before getting trapped in a fishing net near Lake Victoria.
The bird, identified by a metallic tag on its leg, was rescued by local fishermen who later handed it over to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
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According to KWS, the bird landed in the village early Friday morning after an exhausting journey from the Palaearctic region.
The fishermen who found it entangled in their net managed to free it carefully and took it to the home of Joanes Oraro, where residents quickly gathered to see the unusual visitor.
“The fishermen safely extracted the bird from the net and brought it to the home of Joanes Oraro in Ugingo Village…This quickly drew the attention of the community,” KWS said in a statement.
Village elder Eric Omuok, who informed authorities, said the arrival of the foreign bird created excitement as it was the first time such a species had been seen in the area.
Soon after, a team of KWS officers led by Deputy County Warden Byatt Shikanga arrived to secure the Osprey and assess its condition.
KWS reported that the bird appeared weak after covering a long distance across continents and was given immediate care before being transported for rehabilitation.
The Osprey was later taken to the Raptor Centre at Soysambu Conservancy, where veterinary experts led by KWS Veterinary Services head Isaac Lekolool and raptor specialist Simon Thomsett are monitoring it.
Lekolool explained that migratory birds often face life-threatening challenges such as fatigue, harsh weather, and accidental injuries during their global travels.
“The bird is currently stable and receiving attentive care,” he said. “With proper rehabilitation, we anticipate it will recover fully and continue its remarkable journey across continents.”
The KWS team commended Ugingo residents for their cooperation and swift action in protecting the bird, emphasising that community involvement is crucial in wildlife rescue and conservation efforts.
The agency also recognised the continued collaboration with the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) and the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust (KBPT) in conserving rare bird species.
The Osprey, known scientifically as Pandion haliaetus, is a fish-hunting bird that migrates over long distances between breeding sites in northern Europe and Russia and wintering grounds in Africa and Asia.
KWS urged members of the public to report any sightings of injured or stranded wildlife for immediate assistance.
“Reports can be made via the toll-free number 0800 597 000, WhatsApp 0726 610509, or at the nearest KWS station,” the agency said.
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