A Migratory Bird From Russia Makes A Surprise Landing in Siaya, Kenya

An Osprey, a long-distance migratory bird from Russia and other parts of Europe, touched down in Kenya, captivating both locals and wildlife experts alike. On the morning of Friday, the 7th of November 2025, this fish-eating bird of prey, wearing a Russian identification tag on its left leg—bird experts attach these tags and transmitters to gather data for research and conservation efforts—got entangled in a fishing net. 

The fishermen safely extracted the bird from the net and brought it to the home of Mr. Joanes Oraro in Ugingo Village, Usigu Sub-location, Central Yimbo Location. This quickly drew the attention of the community, as reported by Village Elder Mr. Eric Omuok.

Responding swiftly, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Siaya team, led by Deputy County Warden Mr. Byatt Shikanga, took immediate action to ensure the bird’s safety. The exhausted feathered traveler from the Palaearctic region was carefully secured and put under expert supervision.

Under the guidance of Dr. Isaac Lekolool, Head of the KWS Veterinary Department, and Dr. Simon Thomsett, a renowned raptor specialist and rehabilitator, the Osprey was transferred to the Raptor Centre in Soysambu Conservancy, where it will undergo detailed medical examination, monitoring, and rehabilitation. The bird will eventually be released back into the wild to continue its journey. 

We wish to thank the community for their vigilance and support, highlighting the crucial role the public plays in wildlife conservation in Kenya, and also acknowledge and appreciate the continued partnership with avian experts at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) and the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust (KBPT). 

This remarkable visitor serves as a vivid reminder of the incredible journeys migratory birds undertake and underpins the global connections that link us through the natural world.

We encourage the public to report sick or injured wild animals via our toll-free number 0800 597 000, WhatsApp 0726 610509, or to the nearest KWS station for immediate intervention. 

Story credits: Sande Olocho