Sites and Habitats
Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs)
The IBA concept is one of bird conservation’s cornerstones and identifies all priority sites for conserving the world’s birds and other wildlife populations. There are over 13,000 such sites globally, and Zambia is home to 42. Over the years, the global IBA network has steadily been absorbed into the framework of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA), with all existing IBAs automatically qualifying as KBAs (referred to as Legacy KBAs).
Wetland Conservation and Restoration
Wetlands are among the world’s most productive ecosystems. They play a crucial role in supporting both human and wildlife survival. They provide essential ecosystem services, support livelihoods, and contribute significantly to countries’ economies. In Zambia, wetlands cover about 19% of the country’s total land area, with 8 of them designated as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.
Forest Conservation and Protection
Forest conservation and protection efforts are vital for safeguarding biodiversity and supporting Zambia’s unique ecosystems. By preserving forest habitats, BirdWatch Zambia protects critical breeding and feeding grounds for various bird species and other wildlife, including endangered ones. Initiatives focus on mitigating deforestation through reforestation and afforestation and promoting sustainable land use practices.
Our History
Initially there was an ornithological branch of the then Wildlife Conservation Society. The Zambian Ornithological Society(ZOS) was formed during an inaugural meeting on 13 March 1969 by a group of keen birders and citizen scientists who wanted to promote and study birds in Zambia. Committee members were formally elected, a draft constitution was approved and the Wattled Crane was chosen as the society’s emblem.
Our Focus
BirdWatch Zambia has representation on the National Steering Committee for Biodiversity, playing a crucial role in the domestication of the Global Biodiversity Framework.
To halt the decline of flagship bird species and reduce human induced threats to birds while increasing benefits to communities through avi-toursim and other nature-based livelihood opportunities.
To conserve, protect and restore degraded habitats thereby enhancing biodiversity and preventing species extinction while optimising benefits derived by communities from the restored landscapes.
To address the major systemic drivers of the biodiversity and climate change crises and promote a nature friendly and carbon-neutral world.
Mobilise and engage people to support conservation and contribute to a just, equitable, rights-based society where nature is fundamental to our wellbeing.
Numbers Don't Lie!
We believe in working with people to conserve Zambia’s rich diversity of bird specie and unique landscapes.
Satisfied Clients
Projects Completed
Accolades Earned
Lines of Code
Would you like to support our work us?
You can support our work by becoming a BirdWatch Zambia member or by donating.