From the dailies -Loathed Owl set to soar to new heights as a major tourist stop

The dreaded owl whose sighting is often associated with bad omen, is set for bigger height, it will soon become a tourist attraction in Kilifi County. A community based organization in the county, The African Barn Owl initiative has embarked on a project that will change the attitude of people who fear or loathe and hence kill the birds. The birds are found in a century old little known cave located in kikambala division in Kilifi South Constituency. This cave sits on a 2.5 acre parcel of land which is basically made of calcium carbonate rocks. Legend has it that these particular caves were used for shelter by the locals to avoid merchants of the infamous slave trade. From their elevated ground with a clear view of the ocean it is easy to imagine how their forefathers could spot merchant Arab sail dhows as they sailed towards the coast and immediately took cover inside the caves. 

This rare bird resides in the cave and feeds on mainly on small rodents such as rats, snakes, bats, lizards and other crawling insects. The owls are nocturnal birds of prey with strong feet, sharp talons and hooked bills. The group is promoting the eco-tourism venture by encompassing nature and cultural heritage in conservation. The caves are seated on a scenic site, just the second row from the beach waters of the Indian Ocean. Until recently the caves were sacred worship places or kayas.

African Barn Owl initiative has now opened up the caves to research scientists and student’s who are keen about exploring finer details touching on climate and weather formation. Artists also exhibit their work inside the underground caves.