National Wildlife Federation’s Post

🌱🌊 International Day for the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystem 2023! 🌏🌿 Today, let’s celebrate the #mangroves, a remarkable ecosystem in safeguarding our planet's health! Due to its habitat being the coastline and intertidal area, mangroves have adapted their body parts to a number of #environmental challenges like being perpetually submerged in high salinity water to being bombarded with storms and waves. As an ecosystem, mangroves provide a sanctuary for a diverse array of plant and animal species. They act as nature's guardians of #biodiversity, supporting countless species in their life cycles. Mangroves are also nature's first line of defense against #coastal erosion and storm surges. Their dense root systems act as a natural buffer, shielding coastlines and communities from tropical storms and rising sea levels. For local #communities, mangroves can also act as a source of #sustainable livelihoods. They provide valuable resources such as multiple forest produce, both timber and non-timber. Mangrove also play a role as fishing grounds, supporting the well-being of coastal populations that rely on #fisheries. Let's stand together in celebration of the International Day for the #Conservation of #Mangrove Ecosystem so this magnificent #ecosystem can last for generations to come! #coastalresilience #SDG14 #WorldMangroveDay #MangroveDay #marineconservation #BCAF #BlueCarbonAcceleratorFund

Crossness nature reserve is one of the few last remaining strongholds for the ‘endangered’ Shrill Carder Bumblebee. This species now has only 2 strong populations left in the UK, one in the Thames Eatuary and one on the Severn Eatuary in Wales. There is a new battle to protect its habitat at Crossness after plans have emerged to destroy 6 acres of habitat to house a new carbon capture facility. https://lnkd.in/eX4WsG48

There are fewer than 800 spoon-billed sandpipers worldwide. For every 20 eggs laid in the wild, only three chicks survive to adulthood. We've been supporting partners overseas to protect the future of 'spoonies'. By head-starting chicks, studying migration patterns and restoring wetland habitats, conservationists are working to boost the numbers of this critically endangered species. Read more here 👉 https://ow.ly/jTNe50Qf74N #WorldWildlifeConservationDay

Indeed, the spoon-billed sandpiper is a critically endangered species with fewer than 800 individuals left worldwide. For every 20 eggs laid in the wild, only three chicks survive to adulthood. However, conservation efforts are underway to protect the future of these unique birds, affectionately known as ‘spoonies’. One such effort is the practice of ‘head-starting’ chicks, which involves collecting and hatching eggs and then hand-rearing the chicks for safe release once they’ve fledged. This technique has been able to improve the odds so that now 15 out of every 20 headstarted chicks survive. In addition, studying the migration patterns of these birds has been crucial. Spoon-billed sandpipers are serious migrators, travelling between South Asia and their breeding grounds in Russia. Tiny satellite tags, small enough to be glued to the birds’ back feathers, are shedding new light on their migration route and more crucially where they stop off to rest. This information is vital for focusing conservation efforts along their flyway. Restoring wetland habitats is another key aspect of these conservation efforts. Wetlands are crucial to the survival of both wetland wildlife and people. Communities have been rallying to protect these environments wherever the bird is spotted on its long migration. These combined efforts are playing a crucial part in pulling this precious bird back from the brink of extinction. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when we work together to protect our planet’s biodiversity.

#Elephants are keystone species, playing a critical role in maintaining the biodiversity of the ecosystems in which they live. Have you ever wondered what role they play exactly? Well, these gentle giants help shape their environment in numerous ways. By eating a variety of plants and fruits, elephants disperse seeds over large areas through their dung, promoting plant diversity and forest regeneration. Their ability to knock down trees and shrubs creates clearings that allow new plants to grow and provide habitats for other species. Additionally, during dry seasons, elephants dig water holes that not only quench their thirst but also provide water for other wildlife. Despite their importance, elephants face significant threats from poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. At the African Wildlife Foundation, we are dedicated to protecting these magnificent creatures. Learn more about how our #CounterWildlifeTrafficking program is tackling these challenges to safeguard these precious #species here - https://bit.ly/3XSaXIs #Africanconservation #Wildlifeconservation #Africanwildlife #NaturesValue

In the latest installment of our Species Awareness Series, we look into the fascinating world of the Glass Eel. These slender, bony fish embark on an incredible journey between saltwater and freshwater as part of their life cycle. However, this remarkable species faces a dire threat: illegal harvesting and trafficking. Often referred to as elvers, these baby eels are coveted in illicit markets, driving both the American eel and European eel to endangered status, as classified by the IUCN. The Glass Eel's plight is exacerbated by poaching, overfishing and the loss of crucial freshwater habitats, leading to a severe decline in their populations. At Focused Conservation, we're dedicated to shedding light on lesser-known species like the Glass Eel that desperately require protection from trafficking and exploitation. Join us as we continue our mission to raise awareness and advocate for the preservation of our planet's precious wildlife. Together, we can make a difference for species like the Glass Eel and ensure a sustainable future for all. #FocusedConservation #WildlifeProtection #GlassEel #Conservation #SpeciesAwareness #StopWildlifeTrafficking #IllegalWildlifeTrafficking

Today marks the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, and I couldn't let this occasion pass without raising awareness about the significance of mangroves. These unique ecosystems offer a range of services, including coastal protection, acting as nurseries for numerous fish species (hence, enhancing biodiversity), and playing a crucial role in carbon sequestration. It's distressing to witness the rapid decline of these extraordinary ecosystems due to factors such as pollution, logging, and conversion to other land uses. Preserving mangroves is not only essential for our present well-being but also for our future, particularly in the face of rising sea levels. One aspect that never fails to amaze me is how mangroves thrive in saline conditions, managing to grow right at the border of land and sea. Their adaptability is truly remarkable! What fascinating fact about mangroves captivates you the most? Let's celebrate and learn more about these incredible natural wonders on this important day! (Photo courtesy: Wildlife Conservation Society) #MangrovesDay #EcosystemServices #Restoration #CoastalProtection

Landscapes that have escaped fire for decades or centuries tend to harbour vital structures for wildlife, such as tree hollows and large logs. But these “long unburnt” habitats can be eliminated by a single blaze. The pattern of fire most commonly experienced within an ecosystem is known as the fire regime. This includes aspects such as fire frequency, season, intensity, size and shape. More in The Conversation #auspol > https://loom.ly/sUqzxpo

The most important lesson that Wolves have taught me over a lifetime of working for their restoration is that we need to “rewild” our own understanding of Nature and accordingly, our own behavior. To truly restore biodiversity, we must adapt to Nature’s needs rather than force Nature to adapt to us. Following the wolf’s example, we can thrive in balance with our environment, each fulfilling our own important role in nurturing our Mother Earth. It is the only way to restore our planet’s #biodiversity and indeed the survival of our species.