Birdwatchers in Kenya joined the rest of the world in participating in the October Big Day on October 8. On this day, birders from around the world go out to enjoy birds and submit their observations through the eBird mobile app. The day is also celebrated as the World Migratory Bird Day.
Fifteen Site Support Groups (SSGs) affiliated to Nature Kenya took part in the event in Maasai Mara, South Nandi Forest, Lake Elmenteita, Tana River Delta, Mida Creek, Dakatcha Woodland, Dunga Swamp, Mumoni Hill Forest, Mutitu Hill Forest, Taita Hills, Kikuyu Escarpment, Mt. Kenya, Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, Sabaki Estuary and Kinangop Grasslands Key Biodiversity Areas.
Kenya was ranked 10th in the world with 703 species and 236 checklists completed. Top Kenyan eBirder was Albert Baya from Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Guides Association and also a member of Nature Kenya Site Support Group for Arabuko-Sokoke Forest KBA, with 222 species. The country’s top hotspot was Lewa Wildlife Conservancy with 210 species.