In an initiative aimed at protecting the lesser kestrel, conservationists in Kaski and Syangja districts are set to install 100 nest boxes. The project, spearheaded by the organization “Friends of Nature,” will see 10 nest boxes placed in Syangja and 90 in Kaski.
Director Raju Acharya explained that historically, nest boxes for lesser kestrels were found in older houses around Pokhara and nearby areas. However, with a reduction in available nesting sites, there is now a need to create new habitats. “We have identified locations with existing lesser kestrel populations and are preparing to set up these nest boxes to facilitate their nesting,” Acharya said.
In Gandaki Province, conservation ambassadors have already been selected to support the project, with plans to install the nest boxes within the next three weeks. This is the first time conservation ambassadors have been appointed for this specific task. They will focus on protecting old trees, preventing bird hunting with slingshots, conducting conservation workshops for local students and communities, distributing artificial nest boxes, and addressing poaching and capacity-building issues.
The six conservation ambassadors, Keshav Sapkota, Balakumar Gurung, Sudarshan Parajuli, Ayush Dhungana, Jyoti Sharma, and Deepa Gurung, will volunteer for one year, contributing to the study and protection of the lesser kestrel. They have already undergone training to enhance their skills for this mission.
Director and conservationist Raju Acharya recently received the ‘Whitley Award,’ often referred to as the ‘Green Oscars,’ for his efforts. The funds from this award are being utilized to support the lesser kestrel conservation campaign, including the installation of nest boxes. Balakumar Gurung, one of the conservation ambassadors, reported that the process of identifying suitable locations for the nest boxes is already underway.
