Ethno-Ornithology of the Mushere People of Plateau State, North-Central Nigeria: Children's Bird Knowledge.

Ethno-ornithological knowledge of Mushere children was surveyed between October-November 2015. The aim of the study was to determine if bird knowledge held by adults was being transmitted to the younger generation, and if children viewed or perceived birds differently from the adults. We used picture elicitation exercises and free-listing in data collection. Our results show that bird knowledge is being transmitted to children in Mushere, but transmission is mainly horizontal, not vertical, with most children learning from peers. Children view birds mainly as food, and consider them important for that reason. We conclude that more pro-active engagement of Mushere children in bird conservation activities can encourage a better appreciation of birds beyond the present perception and could help sustain the present cultural knowledge of birds.