Knowledge on birds of conservation interest among the people living close to protected areas in Serengeti, Northern Tanzania

Abstract

We examined the ability to recognise birds of conservation interest among the residents living adjacent to the Serengeti National Park. Data on ability to recognise the photo of eight selected bird species were collected in October 2011, in relation to the respondents' gender, age, tribe and education. Almost all eight species were known by at least 50% of the respondents. The men, older people between 40 and 42 years of age and the Maasai tribe showed good or perfect ability in recognising these birds. Unexpectedly, we found that people with little or no education had greater ability of recognising birds than those who received secondary and/or higher education. Given that only approximately 50% of respondents recognised the selected bird species regardless of age, education, gender and tribe, we emphasise that education programmes on wildlife resources recognition and biodiversity conservation awareness raising activities are to be introduced to communities surrounding the western Serengeti ecosystem. We discuss the results and how to incorporate traditional knowledge into natural resource management, biodiversity conservation and the management of sustainable resource use.