The  Uganda  Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA)  has been involved  in ecological research, particularly in relation to bird hazard and wildlife control at airports. The Bird hazard and Wildlife Control (BHWC) section of Entebbe International Airport has been recording high frequencies of wildlife strike incidents involving ‘Unknown Species’ since 2014. The incidents are described as unknown because they are normally experienced by pilots on approach to the airport; where carcasses of those species are not recovered for identification.

UCAA through BHWC also carries out Wildlife Risk Assessment, by conducting wildlife risk assessments to identify and evaluate the risks posed by wildlife to aircraft operations. It also  collaborates with international organizations  and  local institutions  to  train conservationists and airport staff in wildlife hazard management. These efforts by UCAA underscore  the commitment  to balancing aviation  safety  with environmental conservation.

A detailed Ecological Study has been recommended to identify the different bird and other terrestrial wildlife species including the ‘Unknown ‘species and their population indices in and around Entebbe International Airport.

This will allow environmental specialists to provide recommendations on how to manage wildlife hazards at airport, and propose the mitigation measures to address the environmental impacts.

What is an Ecological Study?

An Ecological Study (ES) is a scientific study that analyzes data at the population or community level, rather than the individual level.

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in Uganda provides  guidelines for conducting ecological studies as part of environmental assessments. These studies  are  crucial  for understanding  the potential impacts of development projects on the environment and ensuring sustainable practices.