Lake Nakuru Flood

Lake Nakuru is known the world over as a sanctuary for hundreds of bird species. It has over the years been the place where birdlife photographers come to make a name for themselves. But in recent months, water levels have risen to levels not seen in 60 years.

This has reduced the salinity of the water, reducing algae, the main food for flamingoes. When I visited the lake in the first week of August 2014, I did not see a single flamingo as all had migrated elsewhere in search for food. The cause of the rise in water levels is uncertain, with the two main causes thought to be either reforestation in the Mau or underground water sources.

Here are some shots I took while on a visit to Lake Nakuru in November 2007. You can clearly see the abundance of flamingoes and pelicans.

And here below, in August 2014.

With the lake claiming roads, KWS have done a good job of carving out new ones making sure one can still enjoy their visit to Lake Nakuru National Park.

For a good view of just how much the water levels have risen, compare the following sets of images shot from Baboon Cliff.

2007. Roads and tracks clearly visible, trees busking in the sun. And below, 2014.

No tracks or roads, trees now submerged.

2007. The road on the western side of the lake that is now submerged.

2007.

2007.

2007. Buffaloes and flamingoes enjoying the lake’s waters.

It’s not only wildlife that has been affected by the rising water levels. KWS have had to move the park gate and headquarters to higher ground with staff quarters now vacated.

The now abandoned park gate above, and the same place in April 2012 below.

The Flamingo Gift Shop and Restaurant is now closed.

The abandoned staff quarters.

Where the park’s main gate has now moved to.

This goes to show nature can never be tamed, but why would we want to?