Wildlife census takes off - 3rd September 2021

Kenya is gathering data on its wild animal population. The first National Wildlife Census will be more detailed than previous attempts. Planes are flying over 50 of Kenya's national parks and reserves, as well as other protected areas.

Human actions have resulted in a steep decline in wild animal populations. Animal numbers are decreasing through a combination of illegal hunting, increasing size of towns and cities plus climate change.

Robert Obrein is the assistant director of the Kenya Wildlife Service.

Robert Obrein: "We have always concentrated doing our things {the census} on protected areas, but for the first time, we're even going beyond protected areas because the national government wants to know where the wildlife is."

More detailed information about the animals' behaviour can be gathered, as the census is carried out from the air. Details of the animals' behaviour, such as where they eat and sleep, are noted. Sightings of animals near human settlements show how far people have invaded the animals' habitat. This can have terrible consequences. Around 500 people died as a result of contact with wild animals between 2014 and 2017.

Wildlife director Julius Cheptai, from Isiolo county, explains.

Julius Cheptai: "We will also be able to address the issues to do with the human-wildlife conflict, in terms of population of those animals that are prone to human wildlife conflict."

The possibilities of future conflict, between humans and animals, are a major concern for Robert Obrein.

Robert Obrein: "That means we are encroaching on wildlife places. That means eventually another 10 years, we might not be having wildlife outside protected areas."

Robert Obrein: "I'm really afraid that in the near future, we might be fencing off protected areas to keep wildlife safe."

The census will provide a better understanding of Kenya's wildlife. This will help animals and humans to live together more harmoniously.