Josiah Ibrahim
Other projects
11 Jul 2023
Conserving Critically Endangered Vultures in Nigeria: A Study on Vegetation Structure, Tree Species, and Community Engagement in the Hadejia Nguru Wetland Complex
This project seeks to establish a holistic monitoring and mitigation framework within Nigeria's Hadejia-Nguru Wetlands, an internationally designated Important Bird Area (IBA) and Ramsar site. The ecosystem faces escalating threats, including extensive habitat loss, agrochemical pollution, and unsustainable resource use, which compromise the health of its diverse flora and fauna.
Building on the success of two previous Rufford Small Grants that focused on the critically endangered Hooded Vulture and waterbirds, this Booster project introduces a vital, integrated, multi-taxa approach. We will incorporate specialised surveys and community training for two key bio-indicators: butterflies (vital pollinators highly sensitive to pesticides) and amphibians (indicators of water and habitat quality).
The project has three main aims over 12 months:
1. Vulture Conservation and Stewardship: We will enhance monitoring at six Hooded Vulture breeding sites using camera traps and implement non-invasive nest protection strategies. Crucially, we will train a network of 10-15 community-based "Vulture Guardians" to transform negative local perceptions into appreciation for the vultures' ecological role and establish a rapid response network against poisoning incidents.
2. Threat Mitigation and Habitat Restoration: We will address root threats by establishing two community-managed nurseries to raise over 1,000 native Acacia and Baobab seedlings for reforestation in degraded areas. We will also conduct workshops on sustainable agricultural practices (e.g., organic pest control) to reduce the application of toxic agrochemicals, a major threat to all target species.
3. Establishing Biodiversity Baselines: Our team, comprising specialised Ornithology, Lepidopterology, and Herpetology experts, will conduct comprehensive monthly biodiversity inventories for amphibians (using Acoustic Recording Units) and butterflies (using specialised transects). We will then train 50 local community members in identification and monitoring protocols, ensuring the capacity for long-term citizen science and conservation efforts remains local and self-sufficient.
By fostering local ownership, providing specialised training, and securing crucial baseline data for the entire ecosystem, this project ensures that conservation strategies are both sustainable and integrated, leading to long-lasting protection for the Hadejia-Nguru Wetlands.