Tanzania · NATURE CONSERVATION
Large birds are part of the African landscape
When thinking of Africa, one probably immediately pictures vast savannas, with majestic lions, elephants, giraffes, and endless grasslands. Yet there is another group of animals that is at least as fascinating, but receives much less attention: the large African birds and birds of prey.
When large birds disappear, we do not only lose a beautiful species. We simultaneously lose an important part of the natural ecosystem and a characteristic part of this landscape.
African birds of prey are also becoming increasingly threatened.
The international nature organization BirdLife International warned in the Red List update around 2021 of the rapid decline of three iconic African savanna birds of prey: the Secretarybird, the Martial Eagle, the Bateleur, and various species of vultures in some regions. All four were classified as Endangered, which means they are at a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
Habitat loss is a major threat
One of the biggest problems is the loss of natural habitat.
Africa is changing rapidly. Agriculture is expanding, cities are growing, and infrastructure is being built. As a result, natural grasslands are increasingly being fragmented.
For birds that need large territories, that is particularly problematic.
An area may still appear green on a map, but when roads, agricultural plots, power lines, and buildings fragment the landscape, the living environment changes drastically.
Therefore, we must not only look at what happens within national parks. The landscape outside protected areas is also crucial.
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still see large African birds during a safari in Tanzania?
YES! Tanzania boasts very diverse landscapes and rich bird areas. With an experienced guide and sufficient time to observe at your leisure, many more bird species are often discovered than travelers expect beforehand.
Is nature conservation only about protecting nature reserves?
No, nature conservation goes much further than merely designating national parks and reserves. Large birds such as birds of prey and vultures often use vast habitats and can move between protected areas and the surrounding landscape. Therefore, agricultural areas, infrastructure, energy projects, and other areas outside nature parks are also important.
Why are young birds extra vulnerable?
Young birds are often particularly vulnerable because they still have to learn to fly, forage for food, and recognize dangers. Moreover, high mortality among young birds can result in too few new adult birds eventually being added to maintain the population.
In summary
- Protect the entire landscape: nature conservation is not just about national parks, but also about areas where birds live, breed, and forage outside protected zones.
- Give young birds a chance: young birds are extra vulnerable and need safe habitats, sufficient food, and rest to reach adulthood.
- Safari is more than the Big Five: during a safari, also look up and discover the fascinating world of African birds of prey and other extraordinary birds.
A bird safari at your own pace
Anyone traveling to East Africa today might still get the chance to admire these impressive birds in their natural habitat.
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