Residents of Ugingo Village in Siaya County were treated to a rare spectacle after an Osprey, a migratory bird of prey from Russia, made an unexpected stopover in their area on Friday, November 7, 2025.
The fish-eating raptor, which travels thousands of kilometers from Europe and Russia to Africa, was found entangled in a fishing net along Lake Victoria. The bird, identified by a Russian tag on its left leg used for research and conservation tracking, was safely rescued by local fishermen and taken to the home of Mr. Joanes Oraro in Central Yimbo Location.
According to Village Elder Mr. Eric Omuok, the sighting quickly drew curious villagers eager to witness the rare avian visitor. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Siaya team, led by Deputy County Warden Mr. Byatt Shikanga, responded swiftly to secure the bird and ensure it received proper care.
The Osprey, appearing weak and exhausted from its long migratory flight, was later transferred under the supervision of KWS veterinarians, headed by Dr. Isaac Lekolool, and renowned raptor expert Dr. Simon Thomsett. It was taken to the Raptor Centre at Soysambu Conservancy for medical examination, rehabilitation, and monitoring before being released back into the wild.
KWS commended the Siaya community for their vigilance and cooperation, emphasizing the crucial role of public participation in wildlife conservation. The Service also acknowledged its ongoing collaboration with the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) and the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust (KBPT) in avian conservation efforts.
The remarkable arrival of the Osprey highlights the extraordinary migratory journeys undertaken by birds and the interconnectedness of ecosystems across continents.
KWS has urged members of the public to report any sightings of sick or injured wild animals via the toll-free number 0800 597 000, WhatsApp 0726 610509, or by visiting the nearest KWS station.