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In Search of ‘Mamiwata’

12th July 2011

SOSF West African manatee project leader Lucy Keith is currently blogging from the field in Congo:

Mamiwata is an African name for a spirit believed to be embodied by the manatee. This blog chronicles my search for the elusive West African manatee, and my exploration to understand its biology, habitat and preservation needs, economic and cultural significance. So little is known about this animal, yet it is intensely hunted almost everywhere it exists and may already be gone from much of its previous range. In 2006 I was inspired to go try to find and learn more about them, starting in Gabon.

Lucy’s blog is a fascinating account of the day-to-day life of a researcher in Congo, complete with all the difficulties, surprises and delights that are involved (including chubby West African manatee orphan Victor, below).

Victor, an orphaned West African manatee. Photo by Lucy Keith.

Victor, an orphaned West African manatee. Photo by Lucy Keith.