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Research Project Title
Monitoring the Sokoke Scops Owl and Usambara Eagle Owl Population, and Awareness Raising in the Eastern Arc Mountains.
Research Purpose:
Other -(Specify)
Principle Investigator:
mremiezra@gmail.com
Introduction
The term 'Eastern Arc' is used to refer to the forest-covered, ancient crystalline mountains of eastern Tanzania and southeast Kenya that are influenced by the Indian Ocean climatic regime and so have predictable local climates (Bjørndalen, 1992). All significant evaluations of global biological priority have recognized the region. White (1983) recognized the 'Eastern Arc Mountains; as a component of the Afromontane archipelago-like regional center of endemism beginning in the 1970s.The mountains harbor at least 1,500 plant species found nowhere else, as well as unique mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, where there are 333 globally threatened species (CEPF, 2009). Sokoke scops owl (Otus ireneae) is a small nocturnal bird species, endemic to the coastal forests of East Africa and only found in the Arabuko Sokoke forest reserve in Kenya and the Usambara Mountains in Tanzania. Known for its monogamous breeding behavior, it forms lifelong pairs and occupies tree cavities for nesting. It is listed as an endangered species by the IUCN. Understanding the breeding biology and nesting behaviors of this species is essential for their conservation, given their limited range and vulnerable status. On the other hand, the Usambara eagle owl (Ketupa poensis vosseleri), a larger and more elusive species, is endemic to Tanzania in the Usambara Mountains. Recent discoveries have suggested the presence of a few isolated populations in the Nguru and Udzungwa mountains (Tanzania), along the Eastern Arc Mountains. This owl exhibits territorial and secretive nesting behavior thus, documenting the breeding biology and nesting habits of this owl is crucial for preserving its unique ecosystem and ensuring its survival.
Problem Statment
The Sokoke scops owl and Usambara eagle owl face a great challenge of habitat loss that could threaten their existence. The two species prefer natural forests that are less disturbed by human activities, but human encroachment and logging pose a major threat to their suitable habitats. They also face a problem of bad cultural beliefs that are associated with superstitions, where people associate owls with bad omen or death. Communities that perceive higher negative interactions with particular species of wildlife want a reduction in their populations. This project seeks to enhance scientific knowledge and collaborate with local communities to facilitate the long-term conservation of owl species.
General Research Objective
To conserve and maintain the current population and habitat of Sokoke Scops Owl and Usambara Eagle Owl in the Eastern Arc Mountains using scientific research findings and local community engagement.
Other Details
Clearance# Clearance Date Permit# Permit Date Commencement Date Completion Date
None CST00000283-2023-2025-00570 April 28, 2025, midnight March 31, 2025 March 30, 2026
Priority Research Theme & Areas
Priority Research Theme Research Area
HABITAT AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION Biodiversity Monitoring - Priority ( H )
HUMAN-WILDLIFE INTERACTIONS Cultural values and social economics - Priority ( M )
Project Location
Region Wildlife Area District Species

Tanga

Project Researchers
Researcher Role
Ezra Mremi Principal Investigator
JOSEPH MBOYA Co-researcher
Michael Kiamro referee
Co-researcher
Elisante Kimambo referee
Reseach Objectives
Sn Objective Methods Description
1 i. To determine the population of Sokoke scops owl and Usambara eagle owl using call- playback and field observation
Other Owls’ population density will be estimated using the call-playback method as described by Kelsey and Langdon (1984) and used by Virani (2009). One-minute-long owl calls will be played at night for owls to respond
2 ii. To assess the nesting behaviour of the Sokoke scops owl and Usambara eagle owl.
Other Setting camera traps in the potential nesting sites
3 iii. To assess the habitat quality for owl species in the forest reserves
Other Remote sensing and field observation
4 iv. To raise the local people’s awareness on owls’ conservation.
Interview Interviewing local people on their perceptions toward owls, then educate them on the ecological importance of owls
Reseach Attachments
Attachment Name Attachment
Full Proposal Progress_report_for_the_project_-_Ezra_Mremi.pdf