Bird Islands

Bird islands are a paradise for birdwatchers, as they offer an abundant amount of species that can be seen nowhere else in the world. Stretching across a major portion of the eastern coast of Kenya, these islands are uninhabited and offer a natural habitat for a variety of birds. Some of the most common bird species that can be seen on these islands include the Pelican, The Osprey, The Egret, The Heron, The Spoonbill, and the Kites.

History

The Bird Islands are a part of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, which was established in 1926. They were designated as a reserve to protect the flightless birds that live on the islands, and their breeding grounds. The first humans to visit these islands were probably the Samburu people, who used them for hunting game animals such as lions and leopards. It wasn’t until 1912 that Europeans discovered this remote area of Kenya, and explored it for the first time. In 1959, Robert Moyle leased these islands from the Government of Kenya as a ground station for his logistic company CBA Steamships based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. On June 12th of that year he started receiving flies on one island called Bird Island 1 and then visited another less inhabited but very beautiful island called Bird Island 3 whose inhabitants had to run at full speed out of fear upon seeing Moyle’s ship.

Climate

The climate on the Bird Islands is arid, with a yearly average rainfall of just 10 cm. The islands are also very windy, and as such can be quite cold in winter and hot in summer. The extreme temperatures can reach 45 degrees Celsius (113 deg F). There are no recorded animal or bird species that have died because of the climate. Expeditions and Missions to explore the Bird Islands were done in 1959 by Robert Moyle, who leased these islands from the government of Kenya. He made expeditions every 19 days taking with him a team of 9 men on his vessel Edith de Haviland (Motor Vessel 70). Over time he explored over 700 km² around both islands to reconnoitre future landings for over twelve months.

Culture

There is no evidence that the Bird Islands were ever inhabited. It is possible that they were used as hunting grounds by the Samburu people, but there is no record of any other human activity on these islands. The first European to explore them was Captain Robert Moyle in 1912.

The culture and landscape of the Bird Islands are incredibly different from anything else on Earth. The small population has never had to deal with any significant external threats, so there is a lot of unexpressed power within the places which makes them different to other parts of the world. The islands are very isolated and have not been effected by outside influences, they will stay this way for ever more.

Politics

The Bird Islands are a part of Kenya. There is no doubt that they will always be part of Kenya because the islands cannot survive on their own. The people who live there rely on tourism for their livelihood, and this form of income is very unstable and unpredictable. It would be difficult to make any significant changes to the way things are currently run without adversely affecting the tourism industry which sustains the islanders there. It is difficult to see how the people on this small close looking group of islands could sustain themselves without speaking English or having any contact with the outside world, they are stuck in time and place.

Government Services

There are no government services on the Bird Islands. Prior to 1963, they were part of the British Protectorate of Kenya and as such, there was a British civil servant who provided general administration for the islands. However, after Kenyan independence in 1964 this role was abolished and any form of government service ceased.

There is no military or police presence on these islands, so any crimes that are committed have to be dealt with by local authorities. There is not much that the islanders, who are very limited in numbers and do not want to travel or leave the islands at all, could give another government body which they would expect would help with this.

Tourism

The Bird Islands are a popular tourist destination and as such, they rely on tourism for their livelihood. However, this form of income is very unstable and unpredictable. Changes to the way the islands are run could have a negative impact on tourism and so it would be difficult for them to survive without it. The only form of government service that the islands have is by a British civil servant who provides some administration and it would not be easy to make any important changes which will affect this as they currently do everything.

There are no military or police on these islands, so anything criminal has to go through the Keniantown council (a local governing board), where people decide what happens with cases like theft etc.

Transport

There is no form of public transport available on the Bird Islands, so people have to rely on private vehicles. This can be a difficult and expensive way to get around, especially as there is no petrol or diesel available on the islands.

There are only a small number of people who live on the Bird Islands and they do not want to leave them at all. It would be very difficult for any other government body to come and take over their role or would be able to deal with any crime that is committed, given the low population and lack of legal system.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a tranquil getaway, look no further than Bird Islands. These lush islands are a perfect place to clear your head, disconnect from the world, and rejuvenate your soul. With crystal-clear waters and acres of pristine beaches, Bird Islands offer something for everyone. From swimming, sunbathing, and fishing to hiking and biking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on these beautiful islands.

FAQ

What Is The Population Size Of The Bird Islands?

There are only a small number of people who live on the Bird Islands and they do not want to leave them at all. It would be very difficult for any other government body to come and take over their role or would be able to deal with any crime that is committed, given the low population and lack of legal system.

Where Is The Nearest Airport To Bird Islands?

Bird Islands are located off of Saint James and therefore not served by any commercial airlines.

What Kind Of Tourist Facilities Exist On The Islands?

There are only a small number of people who live on the Bird Islands and they do not want to leave them at all. It would be very difficult for any other government body (i.e., MetService) to come and take over their role or would be able to deal with any crime that is committed, given the low population and lack of legal system.

Does New Zealand Have Any Associated Islands?

Yes. A number of small islands are scattered through the region: Aotearoa (the Maori name for New Zealand), Mangaia (of volcanic origin), Rarotonga, Saint Helena and Tristan da Cunha. There other groups such as Cook Islands in Poly nesia and the Marquesas.

How Do I Visit/View South Island?

If you’re in Christchurch, check out a video of the southern lights that reaches maximum intensity on New Year’s Eve (and remains there until 10:30 pm).