New Bird Species Discovered in Selous Game Reserve

A team of Tanzanian and international ornithologists has identified a previously unknown bird species in the Selous Game Reserve—a vibrant sunbird with iridescent blue and yellow plumage. Dubbed the "Selous Sunbird" (Cinnyris selousensis), the discovery underscores the reserve’s status as a biodiversity hotspot.

"Finding a new vertebrate species in this day and age is extraordinary," said Dr. Amina Rajab, the expedition’s lead scientist. "It shows how much we still have to learn about Selous."The bird was first spotted near the Rufiji River, an area with rich avian diversity but relatively understudied due to its remote location. Researchers are now working to assess its population size and habitat needs.

Conservationists hope the discovery will bolster efforts to protect Selous from proposed industrial projects, including hydropower dams."This little bird could be a flagship for conservation," said wildlife photographer Rajiv Gupta, who captured the first clear images of the species.