Mombasa: The Mombasa Tourism Council has initiated an eradication programme to tackle the invasive house crow population, which poses a threat to the region’s tourism industry ahead of the December peak season. This effort aims to ensure a crow-free environment for visitors during the Christmas period.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Sam Ikwaye, Executive Officer of the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC) and Chairman of the Mombasa Tourism Council, announced the programme during a press briefing at Travellers Beach Hotel and Spa. The initiative covers areas from Shanzu to Tamarind, with pre-baiting conducted over the past eight days and poisoning set to commence with approval from Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and A Rocha Kenya.
The council plans to raise Sh10 million by the year’s end to support the initiative. A fundraising event is scheduled for December 13 at Fort Jesus Gardens, involving stakeholders from various sectors. The South Coast Residents Association, led by Chairman George Mokaya Swanya, reported success in a pilot programme in Diani, eliminating thousands of birds with financial support from members.
Alphaxad Chege of Serena Beach Resort and Spa highlighted the displacement of indigenous birds by the invasive species, affecting the area’s reputation as a bird-watching destination. The crows have become a nuisance, disrupting outdoor dining experiences at beachfront establishments. Hotels are contributing baiting materials to aid the eradication efforts.
Eric Kinoti Kiambi, Coordinator of the Crows No More Project under A Rocha Kenya, explained that the house crow, introduced via shipping routes, threatens local biodiversity, public health, and tourism. The project uses Starlicide, a control agent that poses no secondary poisoning risk, to address the crow population.
The initiative has significantly reduced the house crow population on the north coast, with plans to address the estimated 800,000 individuals along the coast. The Oversight and Planning Committee, consisting of KWS, National Museums of Kenya, County Government of Mombasa, and various stakeholders, leads the efforts.
The house crow, Corvus splendens, is a highly invasive species from the Indian subcontinent. It poses public health risks and contributes to biodiversity loss through its aggressive behavior and predation on indigenous bird species. Support from various organizations and successful eradication in other countries demonstrate the programme’s potential for success.
