conserve the conservationists

loss of species is a natural phenomenon but over the past 100 years, the rate of extinction has increased 1,000 – 10,000 times above the natural level.

in a total, I believe of 11,000 species, 1 in 4 mammals and 1 in 8 birds are in danger of becoming extinct.

there are a number of things that we can do about this and one of the most under-researched aspects is the conserving the very conservationists who do such a sterling job. they often lead solitary, lonely lives, up mountains and lost in forests with just a film crew perhaps.

put funds aside for a breeding programme coordinator (whether at a national or international level) who keeps a computerised studbook to record every individual conservationist, and not just the warm, cuddly variety.

“adopt a conservationist” programmes – for an annual subscription, you get monthly updates, photographs and a personal letter from the conservationist himself/herself.

an introduction service that brings prime specimens together, making sure the conditions are right; you know quiet, peaceful ambience, good food and fine wine, Johnny Mathis playing quietly in the background.