In 2021 we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority to conserve Southern Bald Ibises in the catchments of Polihali, Mohale and Katse, where the authority operates. The construction of Polihali Dam in the Mokhotlong region is part of phase 2 of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, which aims to increase the transfer of water from Lesotho to South Africa. It will impact at least 10 Southern Bald Ibis breeding colonies by fully or partially flooding the ledges where they nest. As the manager of the Ingula and Grasslands Conservation Project, I monitored these colonies in 2021 and noted that one of them, the Masakong colony - one of the five largest known breeding colonies in the range of this Vulnerable species would be completely flooded due to its proximity to the dam wall.
This story is from the March 2023 edition of African Birdlife.
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This story is from the March 2023 edition of African Birdlife.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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EXPLORING NEW HORIZONS
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when perfect isn't enough
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flood impact on wetland birds
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