Wilderness Bisate newsletter – August 2026

Speaking of restoration, as the landscape around Bisate continues to mature, we are seeing an increasing variety of bird species making use of the habitat, including a red-rumped swallow and rock martin most recently. Swallows are associated with the availability of flying insects and suitable open space, a reminder of how important this changing landscape has become. Meanwhile, the rock martin adds another tick to our growing bird list, and gives guests yet another reason to look towards the skies during their stay.

We were honoured to welcome 100 CITW Rwanda students from the surrounding districts to Bisate this month. Two groups of learners, wearing their distinctive yellow T-shirts, visited the property as part of their 2026 Conservation Camp.

The camp comprised energiser games and lessons – such as the Web of Life and the Food Chain, gorilla behaviour and ecology, the national parks of Rwanda, and threats to biodiversity in VNP. Before returning home, the students visited Bisate and had the opportunity to each plant an indigenous tree, and take a sapling home with them to continue their conservation efforts.  

It was truly inspiring to see the students gathered in the tree nursery, listening attentively as our Bisate Agronomist, Jean Moise, shared fascinating stories about nature and explained how Bisate has successfully reforested the concession. The students were curious and eager to learn more about the importance of conservation and the efforts behind Bisate’s restoration journey.

By teaching young people about the importance of conservation and giving them the opportunity to take part in practical activities, CITW’s aim is to empower future generations of African conservation leaders.