Rare birds found in Uluguru Mountains

A team of Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania experts has discovered a new species of rare birds known as Uluguru bush shrikes in Morogoro Region?s Uluguru South Forest Reserve (USFR).

By Felix Andrew

A team of Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania experts has discovered a new species of rare birds known as Uluguru bush shrikes in Morogoro Region?s Uluguru South Forest Reserve (USFR).

The landmark discovery, said to be decisive in studies associated with conservation and a crucial addition to Tanzania`s wealth in wildlife, took place at the Bunduki gap.

Commenting on the development, WCST official Jasson John said: ?We thought the only place in the world with this type of birds was the Uluguru North Forest Reserve, and how wrong we were.?

Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund and a team of WCST birdlife officers USFR was in December 2006 jointly funded an exploratory tour to USFR in search of bush shrikes.

The two Uluguru forest reserves extend over the peaks of the scenic Uluguru Mountains and are separated by Bunduki, a gap 1.5 km long.

Gaps between forests normally result in the isolation of populations of some plants and animals, ultimately threatening their existence.

The Uluguru Mountains are part of the Eastern Arc Mountain chain that is home to some of the oldest and most biologically diverse forests in the world and are critical sources of water for Tanzania.

Adult Uluguru bush shrikes measure 22 cm in height on average.

They have green and yellow undersides with washed green flanks and a distinctive black cap or head.

WCST is a national membership, non-profit and non-governmental organisation whose mission is to conserve Tanzania`s natural resources and the environment for the benefit of the country`s people.

Source: Guardian