Briefs from a week in the forest program

So, here it comes the (I hope) eagerly expected update about my adventures in Africa!
As I already posted, during the last week and, even, this morning, I have had the opportunity to participate in the forest project. What is it about? Basically, we perform some scientific research focused on an improved management of the Shimoni forest, currently endangered by the demographic growth of this village, that already accounts with about 4000 inhabitants. Curiously, they themselves are in need of preserving this forest, as they need it for the collection of fuel and timber. However, unsustainable practices, as charcoal production, are decreasing the forested area drastically.
Moreover, this forest gives shelter to the biggest population in Kenya of the colored Angolan Black and White Colobus, and the endemic Zanj Elephant Shreew. It also hides some pieces of traditionally sacred forest areas, known as "kayas". Among the species that live here, you can also find several species of hornbills, baboons, vervet and sykes monkeys, antelopes and a variety of birds, arthropods and plants. And, only 20 years ago, you could even find elephants dwelling between these trees. It is not strange that the East African Coastal Forests have been declared one of the World's 25 Biodiversity Hot Spots by the IUCN (International Union for the Consevation of Nature).
And what kind of surveys do we perform here? Here you can find a small list:
- Primate and hornbill etology (studies about the behaviour).
- Biodiversity surveys: mainly about birds and butterflies.
- Canopy studies, analyzing the height and distribution of the canopy throughout the year.
- Mangroove studies, analyzing their dynamics.
- Disturbance studies, analyzing the human disturbance in the forest: extraction of wood for fuel and timber, charcoal production, forest clearing...
The objective: enhance the scientific knowledge about this golden piece of nature, and help the local community to manage their resources, of which they are in a huge need, on a sustainable way.
But please, don't think that the local people are not aware of the problem. Actually, they are pretty concerned, and a partnership between GVI and the local community has resulted on a CBO (Community Based Organization) called Friends of Shimoni Forest, which has taken a lot of interesting and successful initiatives and with which I am expecting to work in close contact. But don't worryt, you will receive more detailed updates about them.
Hugs for you all from the Equator!