EP 15: Fighting Vulture Poisoning in Kenya

Although still early in her environmental career, Valerie Nasoita is already making a large impact in conservation efforts towards vultures in Kenya. Originating from the Maasai tribe, Valerie is currently working hands-on as a Vulture Liaison Officer for The Peregrine Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to the global conservation of birds of prey.

In many parts of Africa, only 1-2% of previously abundant vulture populations remain today. This is a result of many agricultural producers poisoning the vultures, in hopes to deter them from their livestock. Unfortunately, this has proven ineffective in preventing predation upon the livestock, but also has contributed heavily to the rapid decline in vulture populations. Valerie focuses her conservation efforts on educating the public on the importance of vultures in an ecosystem and how devastating the effects of poisoning these birds prove to be.

A wide range of discussion takes place in this week's conversation with Valerie Nasoita. She shares fascinating insight about the struggle as a woman conservationist in a male dominated society, and how she navigates getting work done despite these obstacles. From vulture facts to what it’s like growing up in the Rift Valley of Kenya, we are very grateful for what Valerie presents to Breaking Green Ceilings.

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Related Resources:

Kenyan Conservation Hero fights to save critically endangered species against all odds
Kenyan Conservationist - Valerie - Helps Rescue Poisoned Endangered Vultures
Fighting vulture poisoning in Kenya