A long-distance migratory bird — an Osprey from Russia — made an unexpected stopover in Kenya. Photo by KWS 
By Andrew Mbuva
An extraordinary wildlife encounter unfolded in Siaya County on Friday, November 7, 2025, when a long-distance migratory bird — an Osprey from Russia — made an unexpected stopover in Kenya, capturing the fascination of both locals and conservation experts.
The fish-eating bird of prey, identifiable by a Russian identification tag attached to its left leg, got entangled in a fishing net early that morning. The tagging, part of an international research and conservation effort, allows scientists to track migratory routes and behavior patterns across continents.
Alert fishermen safely freed the exhausted bird and took it to the home of Mr. Joanes Oraro in Ugingo Village, Usigu Sub-location, Central Yimbo Location. Word of the rare visitor spread quickly through the community, attracting the attention of curious residents and local leaders, including Village Elder Mr. Eric Omuok.
Responding swiftly, officers from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Siaya team, led by Deputy County Warden Mr. Byatt Shikanga, arrived at the scene to ensure the bird’s safety and well-being. The Osprey, believed to have flown thousands of kilometers from the Palaearctic region, was secured and placed under professional care after its long journey.
Under the supervision of Dr. Isaac Lekolool, Head of the KWS Veterinary Department, and renowned raptor expert Dr. Simon Thomsett, the bird was transported to the Raptor Centre at Soysambu Conservancy. There, it will undergo medical evaluation, monitoring, and rehabilitation before being released back into the wild to continue its migratory path.
KWS extended gratitude to the Ugingo community for their vigilance and cooperation, underscoring the essential role that ordinary citizens play in safeguarding Kenya’s diverse wildlife. The agency also acknowledged the ongoing collaboration with avian experts from the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) and the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust (KBPT).
This rare event not only underscores Kenya’s significance as a vital stopover for migratory birds but also highlights the deep interconnection of global ecosystems. The arrival of the Osprey serves as a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience — and the shared responsibility to protect it across borders.
