Kenya Connect led a two-day learning experience at Muthoki Country Lodge, bringing together 96 students from Tausi, Winners, Simba, and Champion Eco Clubs, alongside 26 staff including teachers, Muthoki residents, and Kenya Connect staff. For many students and staff, this was their first-ever exposure to birding, nature exploration, and hands-on environmental learning.
The visit offered a powerful lesson in environmental restoration, as students learned how the lodge transformed from previously overgrazed land into a thriving ecosystem. This real-life example sparked reflection among students, with Mutati noting, “We should not cut down trees; instead, we should plant them because trees protect birds and make our environment beautiful.”
Before the nature walk, students were first trained by birder Felix Migoya from Mbiti Africa Safaris, who introduced them to the basics of birding, including how to use binoculars, observe bird behavior, identify different species including the importance of birds noting, “If we kill birds, I will have no job,” helping students understand the direct link between conservation and livelihoods. Equipped with these skills, students then explored the forest, applying their knowledge in real time by observing, identifying, and documenting birds through writing and photography.
They recorded over 14 bird species, including the Superb Starling, Northern White-crowned Shrike, Mountain Oriole, Slender-tailed Nightjar, Ring-necked Dove, Common Bulbul, White-browed Sparrow-Weaver, Hadada Ibis, Egyptian Goose, Fork-tailed Drongo, Mourning Collared Dove, Rattling Cisticola, Grey Heron, and Grey-headed Kingfisher. As students engaged with the activity, curiosity grew. Nzilani shared, “This is my first time learning about birds and how they help in keeping nature balanced,” while Mutua expressed surprise, saying, “I did not know that birds control pests and help in pollination.”
The nature walks were both engaging and therapeutic, exposing students to a variety of trees, including medicinal and fruit-bearing species. Raphael and Ruth from Muthoki enriched this experience by guiding students through different tree species, explaining their uses, age, and significance, and helping them distinguish between indigenous and exotic trees. This deepened students’ understanding of the connection between nature and daily life. Blessing reflected enthusiastically, “I am happy to see birds, trees, and bees. I have learned that trees can be used as medicine so we don’t waste money going to the hospital, and how to keep bees at home. I will remember everything.”
There were many “aha” moments as students eagerly spotted birds and asked questions specifically birds’ names, creating a vibrant and interactive learning environment. The experience also inspired adults, with Raphael from Muthoki sharing, “This has really created a new interest in me in doing birding.” Felix Migoya also noted, “The initiative is a noble one and a great step in nurturing children to become responsible citizens and champions of the environment.”
Beyond environmental knowledge, students developed key life skills, particularly responsibility and care; understanding the importance of protecting nature, conserving resources, and being mindful of their environment.
By the end of the visit, students left inspired, more environmentally conscious, and motivated to take action in their communities. The experience also opened their eyes to how nature conservation can support tourism and create career opportunities, showing that protecting the environment can also build sustainable livelihoods for the future.
These field trips were supported by a TuiCare Foundation grant.
