Zoology Department

Researching and Conserving Kenya’s Animal Biodiversity

The Zoology Department at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is dedicated to the study, documentation, and conservation of Kenya’s rich animal biodiversity. The department conducts taxonomic and ecological research on a wide range of animal species, including invertebrates, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.

With one of the largest zoological collections in East and Central Africa, the department serves as a critical research center for scientists, conservationists, and policymakers working to understand and protect Kenya’s wildlife.

Core Functions of the Zoology Department

  1. Research & Monitoring – Conducting biodiversity studies to track species distribution, ecological roles, and conservation needs.
  2. Collection Management – Preserving Kenya’s largest zoological reference collections for scientific research.
  3. Education, Training & Public Awareness – Offering training programs, workshops, and public exhibitions on animal biodiversity.
  4. Data Documentation & Dissemination – Providing scientific insights to guide conservation policies and decision-making.

Specialized Research Sections

The department is structured into six specialized research sections, each focusing on different animal groups.

The Herpetology section focuses on the diverse amphibian and reptile species found in Kenya.

  • Conducts research on behavior, community ecology, physiology, and toxicology.
  • Houses the largest collection of amphibians and reptiles in East Africa, with over 30,000 preserved specimens.
  • Provides data for biodiversity conservation and policy development.

The Ichthyology section plays a key role in understanding and conserving Kenya’s freshwater and marine fish species.

  • Conducts research to support sustainable fisheries management and conservation policies.
  • Maintains a collection of over 43,000 fish specimens for comparative studies.
  • Collaborates with government and international organizations to monitor fish biodiversity.

The Invertebrate Zoology section houses the largest entomological collection in East Africa, with over two million specimens.

  • Conducts biosystematics and phylogenetic research on insects and other invertebrates.
  • Studies pollinators, pests, and biodiversity indicators to support conservation and agricultural management.
  • Collaborates with researchers in entomology, biogeography, and ecosystem health.

The Mammalogy section focuses on research related to systematics, ecology, and conservation of Kenya’s mammal species.

  • Studies mammal distribution, habitat preferences, and ecological roles.
  • Conducts research on species classification and evolutionary relationships.
  • Maintains a reference collection of over 20,000 mammal specimens for scientific analysis.

The Ornithology section is involved in research, conservation, and monitoring of Kenya’s diverse bird species.

  • Conducts applied research in conservation biology to protect threatened bird species.
  • Maintains a collection of over 30,000 bird specimens for scientific studies.
  • Works with local and international organizations to track migratory birds and monitor habitat changes.

The Osteology section is the largest skeletal collection center in sub-Saharan Africa, supporting:

  • Research in comparative anatomy, evolutionary biology, and forensic science.
  • Preservation of skeletal materials for museums, universities, and conservation research.
  • Scientific analysis for biological anthropology and vertebrate paleontology.

Meet the Scientists

The National Museums of Kenya (NMK), established under the Museums and Heritage Act (2006), is a multi-disciplinary institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, researching, and presenting Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage.

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