Sokoke scops owl (Otus ireneae) Case Study

GEF Grant 242536210
Bird

Continent: Africa

Country: Tanzania

Grant Amount: $16,400

Awarded Date: January 23, 2025

Ezra Peter Mremi

Sokoine University of Agriculture


Uhuru Street

Morogoro

Tanzania

3073 - Morogoro Tanzania

Tanzania

Tel: +255 756438692

Mob: +255 786078728

Monitoring Sokoke Scops Owl and Usambara Eagle Owl Population and Range, and Awareness Raising in East Usambara Mountains' Forests

This project aims to safeguard the endemic and endangered Sokoke scops owl and Usambara eagle owl by addressing both ecological and social challenges. Firstly, this project focuses on understanding the specific habitat needs and habitat use of these species. By mapping their habitat range, the study will inform future conservation strategies, helping prioritize the protection of critical sites within Kambai and Mgumi Forest Reserves. The project tackles bad cultural beliefs associated with owls, where they are often viewed as harbingers of bad omens or death. These negative beliefs contribute to habitat destruction and persecution of owls. Through targeted community workshops, the project seeks to shift local perceptions, demonstrating the ecological importance of owls as pest controllers and ecosystem indicators. Finally, the project emphasizes empowering the local community to play an active role in conservation. By forming forest monitoring groups, local stakeholders will collaborate to protect owl habitats from threats such as illegal logging, charcoal burning, and land encroachment. In doing so, the project fosters long-term sustainability, ensuring that both species and habitats are preserved for future generations.

Grant document

This grant is funded as part of our Fonseca Leadership Program which was established by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). This fund supports young conservationists from developing countries.

GEF Grant 242536210 - located in Tanzania, Africa