The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced the successful rescue of thirty-three Cattle Egrets by its Problem Animal Control Unit after the birds lost their habitat due to tree cutting along Jinja Road. The operation took place on Monday evening, October 14, 2024.
Among the rescued birds, eighteen were sub-adults, while fifteen were chicks, all displaced when their nesting trees were felled. The birds were quickly taken to the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) in Entebbe for assessment and care. The Wildlife Hospital at UWEC immediately began providing medical treatment and rehabilitation for the displaced egrets.
During the rescue, UWA confirmed that thirty-one of the birds were found alive, but unfortunately, two had already succumbed. A thorough clinical examination of the surviving birds revealed that thirteen of the chicks were in critical condition, suffering from significant weakness, lethargy, and injuries to their wings and feet, likely caused by falls during the tree-cutting process.
Tragically, six of these critically injured chicks later died due to the trauma sustained from the incident. However, the remaining birds are now receiving specialized care, including electrolyte therapy, appropriate diets, and environmental enrichment to aid in their recovery. UWA’s veterinary specialists are monitoring their condition closely, ensuring the injured birds are given the best chance of survival.
UWA expressed its commitment to safeguarding the remaining egrets during their rehabilitation and urged the public to continue supporting conservation efforts.
“We appreciate the public’s cooperation in our mission to protect and conserve wildlife,” UWA said in a statement, emphasizing the need for public awareness and engagement in protecting wildlife habitats.
This incident highlights the growing challenges faced by wildlife in urban areas as habitat destruction due to human activities, such as tree cutting, increasingly threatens the survival of many species.
UWA’s rapid response demonstrates its dedication to wildlife conservation, even under challenging circumstances.
As efforts to rehabilitate the surviving birds continue, UWA has also reiterated the importance of responsible environmental management to prevent further displacement and endangerment of wildlife across Uganda.
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