Hello all,

Along with Peter Njoroge at NMK, I'm planning to re-survey parts of three Hinde's Babbler IBAs that were originally surveyed back in 2000-01. The aim is to revisit several watercourses in July to determine whether there has been any substantial change in babbler numbers, the proportion of offspring present or the quality of their habitat. 

At the same time we would like to take the opportunity to review the distribution of Hinde’s Babbler records over the past decade. Since 2000-01 it has cropped up at a number of new sites, extending its known range. It seems unlikely that these new sites represent a genuine range expansion, however, rather than improved knowledge, but either way its distribution is probably better known now than at any time in the past.

To help us get a clearer picture of the species’ status, I wondered if you would mind sending me details (number, date or year, and – crucially – the location) of any Hinde's Babbler sightings you’ve had over the past 10 years, especially in areas more than 1-2 km from existing H Babbler IBAs (Mukurweini, Kianyaga, Machakos and Mwea N.R.).

If you would prefer to get in touch directly, my email address is:    ps61@st-andrews.ac.uk

Very many thanks for any information you’re able to send!

Best wishes,