Children Lead Revival of Maasai Ostrich Population

Oct 29, 2024

KIKESEN River, KENYA - The iconic Maasai Ostrich (Struthio camelus massaicus), once on the brink of disappearance in many parts of Kajiado County, is returning triumphantly thanks to a remarkable conservation initiative led by schoolchildren.

Habitat loss and egg poaching, often by children paid by charcoal traders and urban dwellers, had devastated the ostrich population in the Kikesen River Conservancy in Central Kajiado. Numbers plummeted over the past two decades.

Determined to change this trajectory, the conservancy partnered with the Wildlife Clubs of Kenya to establish school-based wildlife clubs. The clubs trained and instilled a love and respect for nature in young people, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to protect ostrich nests instead of poaching them.

Pupils collaborated with the rangers, and at times installed camera traps, thus transforming vulnerable nests into monitored sanctuaries.

The initiative's success is undeniable. After two years, the conservancy documented numerous ostrich chicks hatching in the Murantawua and Nairrabala areas.

"We saw 36 chicks hatch in the first five months of monitoring," said Simon Sosoika, the patron of the wildlife clubs and chairperson of RAMAT Wildlife Society. "This is the first time in years, and we're optimistic about seeing over 100 chicks this year."

"The children's leadership in bringing back this bird to our rangelands fills us with immense joy," echoed Moses Kisimir, Manager of Kikesen River Conservancy. "In 2024, even more chicks hatched, confirming that child-led egg poaching has diminished."

The Maasai Ostrich, the world’s largest bird, is culturally significant to the Maasai people and plays a vital role in the savanna ecosystem by dispersing seeds and helping to control vegetation. In the Maa language, it is called Esidai, meaning “the good one.”

An adult Ostrich can weigh over 130 kilograms and reach over 2.75 meters. They nest communally, creating large, shared nests holding dozens of eggs for 42 days. Both males and females participate in the incubation and raising of the chicks. While this communal nesting strategy is common, some ostriches prefer a more solitary approach, forming pairs to raise their young.