Uganda Project

The IOS have provided funding for an important project to study owls in Uganda

Mrs. Margaret Cooper presenting the spot lamps donated by the IOS to Dr. Christine Dranzoa of W.A.R.M.

The department of wild animal and resources management (W.A.R.M.) at Makerere University has instigated studies of owls which live on the campus. The work is coordinated in country by Christine Dranzoa a leading Ugandan ornithologist. The external supervisors of the project are Professor John Cooper and his wife Margaret.

AIMS AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE PROJECT

A study has begun into pellet analysis, this will reveal the main food requirements of the owls in the area.

Field visits have been made to establish which species of owl are found in the area.

A study into the attitudes of local people to owls has been instigated.

An owl observation form has been produced and distributed to conservation and wildlife bodies as well as individual ornithologists.

A facility is being established where sick and injured owls can be hospitalised and kept for treatment and study.

A workshop on owls is planned.

All work is carried out by MSc and Bsc students at the veterinary faculty of the university and will ensure that they have a greater knowledge of owls when they move on to their chosen careers.

Professor John Cooper demonstrating pellet analysis techniques with students at W.A.R.M