Recently discovered roost helps boost conservation for Timneh Parrots
In June, WPT’s Dr. Steven Janssen teamed up with Dr. Ben Freeman and Andrew Gweh to visit one of only known roost site for the endangered Timneh Parrot in Liberia.
Andrew first learned of the roost’s existence from local villagers during research in 2022, supported by WPT/NECF’s Parrot Conservation Grant. Since then, he’s built a strong relationship with local villagers. Thanks, to this trust, the team was granted the privilege to visit the roost site.
Despite challenging conditions (getting stuck in the mud—repeatedly!), the team arrived just in time for dusk, greeted by the joyful calls of Timneh Parrots settling into a few dozen trees in the village to roost.
Despite challenging conditions (getting stuck in the mud—repeatedly!), the team arrived just in time for dusk, greeted by the joyful calls of Timneh Parrots settling into a few dozen trees in the village to roost.
A nighttime spotlight count revealed an astonishing 1,119 parrots roosting in 50 trees! While these numbers are impressive, more research is needed to better understand the species’ status in Liberia.
The team also collected faecal samples to help answer crucial questions about the diet and gut microbiomes of wild Timneh Parrots, which will inform management of parrots seized from the illegal wildlife trade.
Environmental historian Professor Nancy Jacobs also joined the team, researching the cultural connections between people and parrots. Villagers shared their traditions, seeing the parrots as symbols of good luck and in return protected them.
This vital work was made possible by a capacity-building project funded by the US Department of Agriculture.
