UWA Rescues 33 Displaced Cattle Egrets After Habitat Loss in Kampala

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced the rescue of 33 Cattle Egrets, displaced due to habitat destruction caused by tree cutting along Jinja Road.

The rescue, carried out by UWA's Problem Animal Control Unit on the evening of Monday, October 14, involved eighteen sub-adult birds and fifteen chicks.

According to a statement from UWA, the birds were immediately transported to the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) for medical evaluation and care. Sadly, two of the egrets were found deceased upon rescue, while 31 survived.

A detailed clinical assessment revealed that thirteen of the rescued chicks were in critical condition, suffering from injuries to their wings and feet, which hampered their movement.

These injuries, along with weakness and lethargy, were attributed to trauma, likely caused by falls during the tree cutting process. Despite the efforts of the veterinary team, six of the critically injured chicks later succumbed to their injuries.

The surviving birds are now receiving specialised care, including electrolyte therapy, nutritional support, and environmental enrichment.

UWA has assured the public that the birds are being monitored closely as they undergo rehabilitation.

"The rescued birds are receiving appropriate shelter and care from our veterinary specialists," UWA said in the statement, noting that they are committed to ensuring the birds' recovery.

The authority also expressed appreciation for public support and cooperation in its ongoing efforts to protect Uganda’s wildlife, highlighting the critical role of conservation in safeguarding the country’s biodiversity.

This incident underscores the broader environmental concerns linked to unchecked urban development, which continues to threaten wildlife habitats across the country. UWA urged individuals and communities to be mindful of the impacts of deforestation and habitat destruction on local wildlife.