Over the past year, the Shoebill Nest Protection Programme — a unique initiative that comprises a nest protection element and a captive rearing facility — has taken significant strides toward ensuring the long-term survival of these iconic birds. From ground-breaking releases to deepened community involvement, offering hope for both the shoebills and the communities working to conserve them and the landscape on which so many species depend.
Read about the inception of the programme here
© African Parks One of the most exciting achievements in 2024 was the successful soft release of Sam and Bwalya, two shoebill chicks raised in captivity who are now navigating Bangweulu’s wetland’s. This innovative method, which gently acclimates the birds to their natural habitat before full release, was successful. Both chicks have remained near the release site and have taken up fishing—marking an important step toward their full reintroduction into their natural habitat. Their adaptation signals a promising future for the programme’s rewilding efforts.
Meanwhile, it is clear that the programme’s approach to captive rearing is paying off. Three other chicks—Bona, Malaika, and Happy—have been transitioned to soft-release enclosures on the Lumbatwa River. These enclosures allow the birds to develop while providing a safe environment to prepare them for eventual release. Happy even demonstrated his growing independence by catching and eating a snake in his enclosure—an impressive display of natural behaviour that signals his readiness for rewilding.
But the programme’s success has gone beyond the birds themselves. Over 800 community members from multiple chiefdoms recently participated in vital awareness raising meetings, where the Shoebill Programme’s conservation message was shared. The engagement didn’t stop there: chipupilas (spiritual leaders) and village headmen from Chitambo Chiefdom joined in discussions on how to tackle the biggest threats to shoebill habitats, such as fire and human encroachment. The result? Strong support from these leaders, whose influence is crucial in safeguarding the wetlands for future generations.
Behind the scenes, the programme has been strengthening its infrastructure to ensure the continued success of these initiatives. The installation of a new borehole pump at the Chikuni facility guarantees a reliable water supply, supporting the birds' health and highlighting the programme's commitment to creating a sustainable environment for conservation efforts.
The Shoebill Programme is not just saving birds—it’s supporting communities in their efforts to conserve their natural heritage.
03 February 2025 – African Parks