Research and nest monitoring programs aim to protect raptor populations within the Greater Mara Ecosystem.
The Mara Raptor Project, a flagship initiative of the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust, is dedicated to securing the future of the Greater Mara Ecosystem’s aerial predators. This region holds global significance for raptor conservation, boasting a remarkable diversity of over 60 species, including four that are Critically Endangered and six classified as Endangered.
To protect these birds, the team must first understand them. Scaling up their efforts significantly, field researchers have now identified nearly 1,000 nesting sites across the ecosystem and actively monitor approximately 400 of them to track population health. Beyond monitoring, the project employs satellite tagging to map the vast movements of Martial Eagles and vultures, while leg-banding allows for the long-term identification of individual birds. When active intervention is needed, the team serves as first responders for poisoned or injured raptors—facilitating their rehabilitation—and works to strengthen vulnerable nests or construct artificial ones to encourage successful breeding.
Project Coordinator Lemein Par
Nest monitoring
A white-backed vulture with a solar powered satellite tracking device
Presentation in camp
A banded martial eagle - Image credit Marco Carniel and Steve Narasha
Governors’ Camp Collection provides regular financial assistance to ensure the smooth operation of these vital rescue and monitoring efforts. In return, the Mara Raptor Project team actively trains our guides, sharpening their skills in raptor identification and ecology to better interpret the skies for our guests.
Guests are invited to connect directly with this conservation work. You can contribute to “citizen science” by sharing clear photos of ringed birds or rare species, such as the African marsh-harrier or Pel’s fishing owl, to update the project’s database. For a deeper immersion, we can arrange a private evening presentation by the team at the camp (minimum donation: USD $250). For keen birders, a Project Coordinator can accompany you on a game drive to check nest sites or track tagged birds in the field (minimum donation: USD $500 for groups of 1–5). All experiences must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.
