A Hearty Call

Of crucial importance this year, and for decades to come, is the conservation of some of Kenya’s most endangered species. The priceless wildlife species include:

  • The hunter’s hartebeest
  • Macow’s Shrew
  • Cosens’s Gerbil
  • Red Colobus
  • The African elephant
  • African wild dog
  • Reticulated Giraffe
  • Cheetah
  • Lion

The hunter’s hartebeest

Morphology

The hunter’s hartebeest (Beatragus hunter) more commonly known as the Hirola stands at 3-4 feet at the shoulder and a step closer to extinction everyday.

Ecology

This endemic species is especially dependent on the arid plains of Kenya’s northern range and coastal forests that border into Somalia. This antelope occurs east of the Tana river and is among a growing number of species that are running headlong towards ruin.

Interesting Features

This beautiful ‘four eyed’ antelope sports lyrate horns with curious black and white accents over a tan hide.

Biological Extraction

These social herbivores are thought to belong to a similar lineage with the topi and sassaby species of the damaliscus genus.

An endangered Lot

Sadly, fewer than 600 individuals remain in the wild as a result of climatic change, predation and encroachment by man into competition with the hartebeest.

The Black Rhinoceros, Cosens’s Gerbil, Red Colobus, and , Macow’s Shrew

The Black Rhinoceros, Cosens’s Gerbil, Macow’s Shrew and the Red Colobus are among 21 endangered species.

The African elephant, African wild dog, Reticulated Giraffe, Cheetah, and the Lion

The mighty African elephant, African wild dogs, Reticulated Giraffe, Cheetah and even the king of jungle are now listed among 31 vulnerable species.

Response

Upon realizing that the problem was in man’s interaction with the ecosystems all life depends on, a community based approach has been adopted to drive conservation efforts. Where many local communities often hunt, poison and drive off wildlife that competes with their livestock is exactly where the solution lies.

Key Mitigation Organisations

They include:

  • Northern Range-lands Trust
  • The Ishaqbini community conservancy

Northern Range-lands Trust

Leading the way is the Northern Range-lands Trust which educates and trains communities on the importance of conserving biodiversity and natural resources to improve their own livelihoods in a sustainable manner. Currently, the trust covers over 6000 square Kilometers through 17 community run conservancies. This operation is fashioned in a way that would allow migration of wild animals in their natural range without unnecessary human interruption.

The Ishaqbini community conservancy

An answer to the Hirolas’ call has taken form through the Ishaqbini community conservancy in Kenya’s north eastern Ijara district. A trained team scouts the conservancy to ensure security and monitor the wildlife to standardize data on the sightings, numbers as well as human/wildlife conflicts. This work has greatly reduced the numbers of animals lost to poachers.

More Intervention Efforts Needed

Still a lot is left to be done and more awareness to communities for their invaluable cooperation must be furthered for sure sustainability of the conservation agenda. No value can be placed on any one species. Lamentably, we realise all too late a species’ importance in the cycle of life. Remember, prevention is better than cure. So, next time, look to support the conservation efforts wherever you may Journey!