SPRING 2015: ISSUE 46
Wildlife MATTERS
Paul O’Grady calls for support for Zambia’s elephants in our Radio 4 Appeal Wildlife Artist of the Year London June 30-July 4 Returning to the Mall Galleries for a glorious 8th year - beautiful wildlife art supporting conservation
The Art of Conservation
The magazine of the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation - saving endangered mammals in the wild www.davidshepherd.org
Founder/President:
David Shepherd CBE FRSA
Honorary Vice Presidents:
Mark Carwardine, David Gower OBE, Gary Lineker OBE, Simon King OBE, Mandy Shepherd Trustees:
Lady Melanie Lamb, Nigel Colne CBE, Christopher Cowdray, Nigel Keen, Fiona Luck, Bruce Norris, Andre Pienaar, Avril Shepherd Trading Company Directors: Christopher Oliver, Lady Melanie Lamb, Mary Nugent Chief Executive: Sally Case Finance Director: Mary Nugent Head of Brand & Communications: Vicky Flynn Individual Giving Manager: Erica Wark Fundraising & Events Manager: Georgina Lamb Trading Manager: Lisa Langridge Communications Assistant: Andrina Murrell Office Manager: Natalie Archer Education: Tiffany Cavanagh Accounts Assistant: Marianne Watts Wildlife Artist of the Year: Nina Neve TigerTime Manager: Vicky Flynn Community Fundraiser: Marianne Watts Conservation Advisor: Mark Carwardine Education Advisor: Andrew White
Welcome to
Wildlife Matters Photos courtesy of Will Bremridge
WHO’S WHO
DSWF Office, Gallery & Trading Company: Saba House 7 Kings Road Shalford Guildford, Surrey GU4 8JU Tel: 01483 272323 Email: dswf@davidshepherd.org Websites: davidshepherd.org & tigertime.info Charity No.1106893 Company No. 4918392 CAF ‘Give as you earn’ No. 001604. VAT Reg No. 414001815
Print: Pensord Press Limited Editorial & Design: Vicky Flynn, DSWF Cover Image: Paul O’Grady with Nkala at the GRI Elephant Orphanage Project, Zambia Courtesy of Jill Worsley
Keeping in touch: Help us cut costs DSWF’s monthly eNewsletter keeps you up-to-date with all our latest news, events and offers and we also provide Wildlife Matters in an online format. If you would like to receive either communication in this way please email your full details to dswf@davidshepherd.org so that we can switch you from printed to digital communications. Or call us on 01483 272323. Keeping print costs down helps us put even more funds into conservation. You can also follow DSWF and TigerTime on Facebook, Tumblr and Twitter @theDSWF @theDSWFgallery @TigerTimeNow
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Becoming a great grandfather for the first time gives one an interesting perspective on life. Primarily, it fills you with a sense of extraordinary wonder but it also makes you think about the legacy you are leaving, about the generations that will follow in your footsteps. I am hugely proud of my family, of the direction my daughters and all their children have taken and the deep love they have for wildlife and for art. Of course, I’m pleased to say that may have something to do with me! What more could an artist and conservationist want but to see those you love most stepping so passionately onto the path that you have forged. I consider you, the loyal supporters of my Foundation, to be an extended part of that same passionate and compassionate family - who see wildlife not as a trinket, talisman, medicine or commodity, something to be turned into shortterm economic gain, but as something inherently valuable in its own right; important to the balance and biodiversity of this planet, the planet we share but don’t own. I was reminded again about the importance of the next generation adopting this message when I helped judge the entries at this year’s Global Canvas art and poetry competition. Run each year for under 16s with the short-list exhibited at the Natural History Museum in London (see page 6-7) I was overwhelmed by the creativity and collaboration on display. It’s thrilling to see such a bold belief in the importance of conservation being demonstrated by such young and creative people.
By the same token I am extremely excited about this year’s Wildlife Artist of the Year event which takes place at the Mall Galleries in London June 30 - July 4 (see the back cover for more information). Over 150 artists have been shortlisted and are in with the chance of scooping the prestigious top prize. Hanging alongside them will be original work from guest artists Adam Binder, Sevina Yates, Simon Max Bannister and Stefano Zagaglia and, of course, three generations of the Shepherd family myself, Mandy Shepherd and Emily Lamb. This wonderful profusion of wildlife art is being sold to fund vital conservation work so please, if you can, come along to browse and buy. Raising funds to protect wildlife is, of course, why the Foundation exists and we are hugely lucky to be supported in our endeavours by friends and celebrities who share our passion. We would particularly like to thank those contributing to our ‘Stars & Stripes’ art auction for tigers this summer including Deborah Meaden and Joanna Lumley. Also, Michaela Strachan for supporting Global Canvas and Paul O’Grady who is presenting our BBC Radio 4 Appeal for Zambia’s elephants on May 17. Please tune in at 7.55am or 9.25pm This wonderfully diverse family of friends and supporters enables DSWF to achieve its goals to save wildlife. Thank you for being part of it.
100% of donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full, with no administration costs deducted
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Inside this issue
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6 9 13
CONTENTS p.5 Paul O’Grady fronts our BBC Radio 4 Appeal for Zambia’s elephants p.6 2015 Global Canvas - We Can Heal the World p.10 Among the black rhino of Namibia p.13 Catch up with the latest from our TigerTime Campaign p.24 Looking forward to the 2015 Wildlife Artist of the Year event at the Mall Galleries in London, SW1 June 30 - July 4
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(image courtesy of Martin Aveling)
Urgent Appeal to help keep the elephant orphans safe With the older orphaned elephants in Zambia already responding to the strong call of the wild (see page 9) it’s more important than ever that the wild spaces they return to are safe. That’s why we urgently need to train and equip new rangers to help keep the elephants and their wild cousins safe from poachers. We are hugely grateful to those of you who have already responded to this appeal and, for those who would like to support it, you can donate either online at: www.davidshepherd.org or by calling us on 01483 272323
THANK YOU
Elephant survival in the spotlight CEO Sally Case
This spring has been busy for those championing elephant survival. Two conferences in Botswana in March reviewed agreed targets for the reduction of ivory trade and the effectiveness of plans drawn up twelve months earlier at the London Conference. As nations gathered, news that the decline in elephant numbers was unchanged in 2014 - 20,000 lost again to poaching - was a stark reminder that talk simply isn't enough. Also in March, three countries were placed on the trade ban list for failing to meet their obligations to protect elephants and deal with the rampant illegal ivory trade. Notices were issued by CITES recommending that signatories no longer permit trade with Nigeria, Laos and DR Congo. Each country had failed to submit national ivory action plans. In April, DR Congo submitted their plan and were removed from the trade ban list. There's no doubt that the current ivory crisis is very real and DSWF is responding. We joined 44 other charities in signing a letter calling for the ban of all ivory exports, asking the EU - the main exporter of pre-Convention ivory - to lead by example. We were also signatories of the open letter to China requesting an end to the ivory trade and one of 50 international elephant conservation and animal welfare groups calling on the government of Hong Kong to stop issuing any new import licences and re-export licences for pre-Convention elephant ivory. We will keep you up-to-date on the impact of these efforts on our website at www.davidshepherd.org While words alone are rarely enough, demonstrating your concern and adding your voice to call for change does help keep important issues like this at the top of the international agenda. As transnational illegal wildlife trade grows so must transnational cooperation to end it. We are proud to partner with some amazing organisations in our pursuit to end wildlife crime, but prouder still to be supported in our efforts both on the world stage and at grass roots conservation level by you, our wonderful supporters.
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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News Working with WildAid DSWF steps up support for demand reduction
This year WildAid will develop and produce four new PSAs featuring actor Andrew Lincoln, star of the hit US TV show The Walking Dead, prominent Vietnamese doctors and CEOs, and an animated talking rhino. The PSAs will be distributed throughout Vietnam and China via WildAid’s vast network of media partners.
Photo ©WildAid
A new DSWF grant will help WildAid raise awareness in Vietnam of the rhino poaching crisis, support Vietnamese lawmakers in banning rhino horn sales and increase enforcement efforts with the aim of measurably reducing demand for rhino horn in Vietnam. The grant will support a variety of campaign activities, including the development of billboards, print ads and public service announcements (PSAs) as well as hospital, media and business leader outreach efforts.
Jackie Chan one of WildAid’s key celebrity supporters with the Chinese billboard image discouraging the use of rhino horn
WildAid will broaden awareness that rhino horn is made of keratin with a ‘rhino horn is just fingernail – fingernail never cured anything’ fashion print and social media campaign. The print campaign will feature Miss Vietnam and several top models, actresses, and singers posing in fashion portraits highlighting their decorated fingernails and will coincide with a social media challenge campaign to encourage influential
personalities to engage their social media followers to decorate a fingernail and share photos on Facebook. “Media outreach on this scale is vital to raise awareness and reduce demand,” says DSWF CEO, Sally Case. “We’re delighted to be working with WildAid again on this very important issue.”
Money matters Innovation Visual’s gift to wildlife Huge thanks to Innovation Visual Ltd who visited DSWF's offices at the end of March to present a donation from their 1% For The Planet partnership. "We give to a number of charities through the programme and donating to DSWF, which supports so many endangered species, has always been top of our giving list," says Joanna Culley , Director of Innovation Visual.
We have just come to the end of our 2014/15 financial year and are pleased to report that despite the continued uncertainty in the economy our supporters have again proved their commitment and support with income reaching a record £1.4 million in the year. This has allowed the Foundation to meet all grant obligations and to allocate nearly £200,000 to an investment fund to give greater financial stability into the future. In addition to this, carried forward reserves will be high enough to allow for increased grant giving in 2015/16.
Joanna (pictured second right) was joined by Brandon Fryer and Julie Lowery from Innovation Visual who presented DSWF CEO, Sally Case, with a cheque for £1,000.
In the 31 years since being formed in 1984, DSWF has spent nearly £7.5 million in the support of wildlife conservation projects in Africa and Asia. Grant funding to date includes:
“The Foundation offers a number of ways for your company to get involved,” says Sally. “From charity of the year partnerships and employee engagement to event sponsorship and client cultivation at some truly inspiring events there are a host of opportunities just waiting to be explored.”
£950,000 has been spent in Zambia on establishing and running a holistic conservation programme comprising park protection and forest guard training, an Elephant Orphanage and community and education programmes.
To out more please call Sally Case on 01483 272323.
£580,000 has been spent in Namibia on the protection of the highly endangered black rhino population in the project area.
£620,000 has been spent in the Indian state of Assam successfully protecting around 80% of the world’s Indian rhinos and a growing population of Bengal tigers. £420,000 has been spent in Zimbabwe on the protection of the African Painted Dog through monitoring, park protection, a ground breaking children’s education project and community work. £200,000 has been spent in Uganda on helping to provide increased security in the National Parks and on community programmes to help the wildlife reclaim the wild spaces they lost during previous years of conflict. £210,000 has been spent in Mongolia on snow leopard conservation work focussed on community livelihood projects and lobbying for protection of the leopard’s range state. £850,000 has been spent on fighting wildlife crime around the world with focus on undercover investigations, enforcement and political lobbying to halt the illegal trade in wildlife parts.
4 100% of donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full, with no administration costs deducted
Preparing for the BBC Radio 4 Appeal On a beautiful spring day in London, TV presenter and radio host, Paul O'Grady arrived at Old Broadcasting House to record the DSWF BBC Radio 4 Appeal for Zambia's elephants. His passion for animals and his enthusiasm to help raise awareness and funds for the elephants he has grown to love simply shone through. "We knew that Paul had fallen head over heels for Nkala, one of the orphans at the elephant orphanage in Zambia, when he visited to film his ITV show 'Paul O'Grady's Animal Orphans'. So, asking him to read the appeal seemed like the natural fit," explains Vicky Flynn, DSWF Head of
Communications. "We were thrilled when he said yes!" Keen to get it just right Paul worked on a couple of takes before the finished appeal was pitch perfect. "I left my heart in Lusaka when I visited those elephants and I'd do anything to raise awareness and funds to keep them safe," he said. "It's shocking to think that in maybe ten years there will be no elephants or rhino left. So we have to do everything in our power to save these elephants and to support those who look after them."
The DSWF Radio 4 Appeal will air on Sunday May 17 at 7.55am and 9.25pm with a repeat on Thursday May 21 at 3.27pm
Wildlife trafficking update In March we welcomed Steve Galster, Founder and Executive Director of Freeland Foundation and Chief of Party of the ARREST Program. His background covers investigative research and media campaigning relating to wildlife trafficking, arms trafficking and human trafficking in many parts of the world, including the former Soviet Union, USA, China, Afghanistan, Africa and Southeast Asia. DSWF has worked with Steve and Freeland for many years.
“Steve brought us up-to-date with some exceptionally important investigative work that DSWF is funding in wildlife trafficking syndicates,” says CEO, Sally Case. “We are very proud to be part of some critical and globally important work which we hope to be able to share with you very soon.”
Charity of the Year
Life-size tiger coming to London
Steve Galster, Executive Director of Freeland Foundation with DSWF CEO, Sally Case
Artist Richard Symonds has taken on the challenge of painting a life-size tiger in oils as part of the TigerTime campaign collection for the Mall Galleries exhibition this summer. This stunning big cat - shown here at the halfway stage - is designed to raise awareness and funds for DSWF’s tiger projects in India, Thailand and Russia. Stowe School has chosen DSWF as their charity of the year. The partnership runs from February 2015 with the students focussing their fundraising events on the Amur tiger.
“The idea behind my life-size paintings is to offer those who enjoy unique trophies an alternative to the real thing. With as few as 3,000 tigers left
in the wild taking this tiger home will help species survival, not add to its decline,” says Richard. The painting will be for sale at the Mall Galleries, London as part of our week of wildlife art from June 30 - July 4 and on view at our Shalford Gallery the week before. More details can be found on the back page. You can also discover more in a step-by-step feature in the June edition of The Artist magazine (available at newsagents). Below: Richard Symonds at work on his life-size tiger
“We’re thrilled to have David Shepherd’s old school on board and look forward to an exciting partnership,” says Education Manager, Tiffany Cavanagh who addressed 800 students at the school in February. “Headmaster Anthony Wallersteiner was really pleased with the students’ choice of such an iconic and beautiful species, giving them ‘something tangible and specific to think about’,” adds Tiffany. “The students were completely engaged in the presentation and are enthused and excited for the next fundraising challenge, as are we!” The sale of roses on Valentine’s Day kicked the schools fundraising efforts off raising over £850.
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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EDUCATION UPDATE:
GETTING INVOLVED Education is fundamental to conservation. David Shepherd has always been passionate about supporting education globally because he truly understands the importance of empowering children with the knowledge to help change behaviours and save our world.
2 Global Ca
At the beginning of 2015, Education Manager Tiffany Cavanagh joined DSWF to work with schools in the UK to raise awareness about wildlife conservation. So far the team has worked with 3,088 students ranging from assemblies and presentations to art, music and drama workshops. Here are a few examples:
South Farnham School
Talk on the endangered animals DSWF work to protect
Eco School Leader Naomi Wagner with Tiffany Cavanagh and some students from South Farnham School enjoyed a "truly inspiring assembly".
St.Thomas of Canterbury Charity of the term
Above; David Shepherd and TV presenter Michaela Strachan had the hard job of choosing their favourites from an inspiring short-list
This year’s Global Canvas Art and Poetry Competition was a huge success, writes Education Manager, Tiffany Cavanagh. In previous years children from around the world have been invited to submit their art and poetry on an individual basis. This year for the first time, they were invited to come together, to collaborate creatively and explore the theme “We can heal our World” to produce an exhibition of work as a group.
All photographs © DSWF
The children at the Fulham school entered Global Canvas this year and raised money to adopt DSWF animals. They far exceeded their target raising nearly £600. Tiffany visited the school on 9th March to deliver the adoption packs and talk to the students. Art Teacher, Nicola Chance said, “The children really enjoyed the assembly and hearing about the animals they raised money for. This made their fundraising efforts all the more meaningful.”
If you would like Tiffany to visit your school please email her on: Tiffany.Cavanagh@davidshepherd.org
We received entries from the UK, Hong Kong, Zambia, United Arab Emirates and Kenya with over 2,000 students taking part. The new theme and format worked brilliantly and we were overwhelmed by the level of collaboration, creativity and the quality of each exhibition. Those shortlisted were invited to the prize giving event and exhibition at the Natural History Museum in March. It was a wonderfully inspiring day, where the students took ownership as a group to display their incredible art and poetry. Special congratulations to all our deserving winners and to Spratton Hall School who were awarded the Overall Winner prize for their in depth understanding of the theme. The
whole school embraced the message, learning about the environment, creating exceptionally impressive artwork and implementing changes in their school to help save our world. Judges David Shepherd and Michaela Strachan had a very difficult job choosing the winners from such an incredible array of entries. Michaela found the day a real inspiration and David, as always, was astounded by the creativity of the children saying: “This competition is a fantastic platform for young people to learn and express their ideas. It gives me great hope that the next generation not only understands but will take positive steps toward conserving our beautiful planet.” We are already extremely excited about next year’s competition with its title:
Details of how to enter the 2016 competition are available on the website at: http://davidshepherdeducation.org/competitions
6 100% of donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full, with no administration costs deducted
2015 anvas
We can heal our world ...
THANK YOU!
Thank you to all our sponsors who helped make it such a special event. To Marwell Zoo, Godalming Art Shop, World of Animals and Stuart Stevenson for supplying the prizes and to Marks & Spencer for their continuing event sponsorship.
Above: actress, Joanna Lumley and Carmel McQuaid of M&S present our Education Manager, Tiffany Cavanagh (right) with the 2016 Global Canvas sponsorship
Photos of the event (L to R from top left) Michaela Strachan’s Choice winners from St James Primary, Malvern; Pupils from Lovelace Primary School; David Shepherd with his Personal Choice winner Amber Peacock from Norwich High School; South Farnham collecting their third place prize; one of the colourful entries from Hong Kong; Ashdell Prep pupils entertained David and Michaela with an accompanying song; Dottidoodles Art Club travelled from Pembrokeshire and pupils at the Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust in Zambia put their entry together
The winning entry from Spratton Hall and pupils and teachers receiving their prize from David Shepherd and Michaela Strachan
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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Zimbabwe
Anti-poaching and community outreach to save the painted dog A community comes together for painted dogs With less than 7,000 painted dogs spread throughout Africa each individual dog is vital to the survival of the species. The loss of any individual is significant and can make all the difference to a pack’s survival. So when the alpha female of the Tariro Pack, MK, was killed in a snare leaving the alpha male, Surf, alone and the pack breaking apart, the team at the DSWF-supported Painted Dog Conservation (PDC) in Zimbabwe were devastated. However, the team’s spirits were lifted by the local community when the Chief of the area, Chief Nelukoba, visited the PDC Director, Peter Blinston. “The Chief talked quietly but with passion about what PDC has done for his people, what the dogs have done for his people and that no other organisation has done so much and committed so much,” explains Peter.
At community meetings with the PDC team local people stood up and spoke just as passionately about PDC and the dogs. Fifty individuals volunteered to form anti-poaching units, eight women amongst them, who would patrol daily under PDC supervision. It was quite a statement and the sort of decisive action the team, and the painted dogs, needed. This amazing community has already undertaken 11 patrols and recovered 144 snares. As an ultimate statement, Chief Nelukoba told Peter that three known poachers who had been arrested in the past would now be expelled from his Chiefdom; expulsion is a strategy used by traditional leaders to deal with undesirable elements in their community when all else fails. There could be no greater testament to the value this community puts on the dogs and the work PDC has done.
Birmingham goes wild after treatment
After a month of caring for this spirited dog, the day came to release Birmingham back to the wild and back to the Makwa pack.
2015 has started extremely well for one lucky painted dog in Zimbabwe .
Birmingham was anaesthetised just long enough for the team to handle him safely into a purpose built transport crate and drive to where the Makwa pack were resting. As the crate was lifted from the back of the Land Rover the pack looked at the team with nervous curiosity.
Birmingham, a wild painted dog from the Makwa Pack (pictured below), had to be captured by the team on Christmas Eve last year because he was struggling to keep up with the pack. Unable to put pressure on his left leg due to a debilitating bite wound the monitoring team felt Birmingham needed treatment at the rehabilitation facility so that he could be released back to the wild in full health.
The crate was opened and Birmingham ran out, circled around, sniffed the air and hoo called the sound the painted dogs make when they are looking for their pack mates.
“Tendai and Argos ran over to him,” explained Peter Blinston, Director of PDC. “They greeted in typical excited dog fashion with high pitched twittering, the two pups joining in, jumping about all over the place as if they were totally beside themselves with joy.“ Hackett, the other male in the pack, was less impressed to see his pack mate return and the position of the aplha male is clearly an issue for them to settle. As Peter concluded, “There is nothing we can do now, they must deal with this themselves. Birmingham is back in the wild where he belongs.”
How you can help
Help us save the painted dog - Africa’s most endangered carnivore: £25 buys field kit for the anti-poaching unit; £150 buys a protective, anti-snare collar that helps to track and protect the dogs. Donate online at www.davidshepherd.org or call us on 01483 272323
Photos courtesy of PDC
Deepest sympathy We are devastated to report the untimely death of Greg ‘Gibby’ Gibbard, the accountant at the Painted Dog Conservation Project in Zimbabwe. Greg’s great contribution to the work of PDC and his devotion to conservation spanned decades and he will be greatly missed. Our deepest sympathies go out to Greg’s family and all the staff at PDC.
8 100% of all donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full with no costs deducted
Zambia
Raising awareness and funds for wildlife rescue, education and park protection
Wildlife conservation brings positive change to rural communities
Call of the wild too strong to ignore
Involving local communities in conservation is a vital element of all DSWF projects. In Zambia, we support the work of Game Rangers International (GRI) who, like us, believe that the key to the sustainable, long term utilisation of a country’s natural resources is best achieved with the full participation of its citizens.
In Zambia in 2001, DSWF rescued Phoenix. She became the first elephant, orphaned by poachers, to be cared for by DSWF and led to the creation of the country’s first elephant orphanage.
Community outreach is central to this work and the recent opening of a rural health clinic for women has helped engender a real understanding of the benefits that conservation can provide to the wider community. Britius Munkombwe, a local resident and Project Manager of GRI’s Community Outreach Project (COP), had envisioned expanding Basanga Rural Health Clinic for several years. With financial help from the German Embassy that dream became a reality and a new maternity ward with medical equipment provided by The Ministry of Health, officially opened in April.
Photos courtesy of GRI
After the work was finished, GRI distributed questionnaires to the locals and discovered a profound understanding that had it not been for wildlife conservation, and GRI’s place in their community, this development would not have been possible. The motivation of Britius and GRI, along with the support of the German Embassy and DSWF had made the Mother’s Shelter maternity ward a reality.
Now run by Game Rangers International (GRI) with ongoing support from DSWF, the two oldest elephants being cared for at the Elephant Orphanage Project have come full circle as they begin their return to the wild. First brought together seven years ago, Chodoba and Chamilandu (pictured) were the innocent victims of the poaching crisis that is gripping Africa and, like the other elephant orphans that have arrived since, they have received round-the-clock care from the dedicated team of keepers. “Our aim has always been to return the orphans to the wild and to see Chodoba and Chamilandu beginning that journey is both sad and incredibly exciting,” says DSWF CEO, Sally Case. But leaving your home of seven years is never easy and while Chodoba, the oldest male elephant, has been popping in and out of the Kafue Release Facility for a while, few thought that Chamilandu - with her strong bonds to the smaller elephants - would follow so soon. “Chamilandu has been showing signs of coming into oestrus since the beginning of the year and although in the wild elephants don’t normally go into oestrus until they are between 10 -14 years old, elephants that grow up in semicaptive conditions often start as young as seven or eight,” explains GRI’s Lisa Oliver. Both elephants, it seems, were ready for adventure...
In February, after a 22 day excursion into the wild, Chodoba and Chamilandu returned briefly to the Kafue Release Facility to visit the orphan herd and caused chaos! In her excitement Chamilandu rushed up and alarmed the little ones who ran off into the bush. The keepers split into teams and with radio contact managed to regroup all the highly excited and confused orphans and a lot of emotional greetings, rumbling and trumpeting followed. The team had thought that Chamilandu's close relationship with little Rufunsa would tie her to the orphan herd for a while longer. But her decision was clear and rather then follow them home she diverted her course and followed Chodoba. “It was wonderful to see them both in excellent condition; Chamilandu was almost chubby,” adds Lisa Oliver. “Their experiences in the wild are obviously suiting them.” Although Phoenix, who contracted a rare form of biliary, never made it back to the wild, DSWF’s overarching aim has always been to ensure that those who followed her be returned to Zambia’s protected wild spaces. “It’s now imperative that we keep the wild spaces they are moving into safe,” adds Sally Case. “So please support our current appeal to fund training and equipment for new rangers and a GPS collar for Chamilandu. These amazing elephants have come so far with your support, but now, away from 24 hour protection, they need you more than ever.”
You can donate online at ‘Appeal: Nowhere Safe to Roam’ or call us on 01483 272323. Thank you. Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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Namibia
Protecting the desert adapted black rhino I am one of the lucky few, writes CEO, Sally Case. I have stood on the edge of a rocky outcrop in the Namibian desert watching one of the last few truly wild black rhino walk across the sand in her quest to find a place to snooze away from the unforgiving sun. I have to confess the sheer majesty of the animal, surviving in such a formidable and challenging environment against all of the odds, bought a tear to my eye. How have we let it get to this? Just 4,800 of these magnificent creatures are left, and it is only down to the devotion of small teams of conservationists that we have not reached extinction already. Save the Rhino Trust in Namibia have been dedicated to monitoring this vital population for over 30 years. Their teams of trackers have worked for long hours, day after day in the scorching sun to ensure every rhino in the area is recorded and its movements monitored. Should a rhino not be seen for some time, their system will alert them and all efforts can be made to locate it and check it is safe. You can imagine the horror when in 2012 our worst fears were realised. One rhino was found to have been poached for its horn. In 2013 another rhino was taken, and in 2014 twenty three were found killed by poachers. These numbers, taken together with the terrible effects of the two year drought in the country mean the numbers of desert adapted black rhino are declining drastically. If the 7000% increase in rhino poaching seen in South Africa were to reach this area, the rhino would all be gone in a matter of weeks. This subspecies of rhino meets every challenge that nature throws at it - except man. Their story puts them on the brink of being a conservation disaster or, it could be one of conservation’s best success stories. The Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism must now ensure that there is joined up, focused and decisive action between their teams, the country’s law enforcement networks, and the dedicated NGOs who have worked in the area for many years to keep these rhino safe. What was once monitoring and recording of rhino will have to now focus on human disturbance; people in an area where they have no business to be, using dogs to track and with one aim - to hack the horn from the face of the animal as quickly as possible with no regard for the animal, its offspring or the species. Anti-poaching patrols will need to work in tandem with trained professional investigators, who in turn will need to engage with prosecutors and judicial systems to ensure cases are presented with all of the necessary evidence to ensure the right penalty is achieved. With the right focus and impetus, this precious population can be protected until the world has addressed the current wildlife poaching crisis. Images ŠDSWF
10 100% of donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full, with no administration costs deducted, donate today
Support these projects DONATE at www.davidshepherd.org or call 01483 272323
Uganda
Anti-poaching and protection for wildlife and waterways
WILDLEO helps brings poachers to justice The DSWF supported WILDLEO project which launched in Murchison Falls, Uganda last year is proving invaluable in bringing poachers to justice. The project enables a ranger carrying a geolocation camera - a camera with integrated GPS - to record patrols, taking pictures of evidence of poacher activity with every image mapped with time and date. With the evidence gathered and dated, literally putting the poachers at the scene of the crime, there has been an amazing increase in prosecution rates to over 90 per cent. It is also helping wardens and rangers carry out intelligence led patrols. Thanks to the WILDLEO project technology and the evidence it gathered, three poachers recently discovered at Mupiina will now spend the next few years behind bars.
"We've helped supply over 20 GPS cameras to Murchison Falls NP creating a better understanding of offenders, their practices and the routes they use," says DSWF CEO, Sally Case. Since 2011, when the Ugandan Wildlife Authority asked UCF to step in and help counter the huge surge in poaching, DSWF has backed all UCF's efforts allowing them to complete the construction of three ranger posts, one marine ranger post, the purchase of two new patrol boats and engines and the training of marine rangers and now the roll out of the WILDLEO project.
Top: rangers on patrol. Above: WildLeo training for staff and below Richard Cox from the British High Commission sees the technology in action (©UCF)
"None of these great results would be possible without the ongoing help of DSWF supporters," adds Sally. "So on behalf of UCF, DSWF and the wildlife of Uganda, thank you."
VIDEO: Putting UCF’s work in focus Catch up with all DSWF supports in Uganda through UCF by watching their great new video - ‘Catching Poachers in Murchison Falls’ on Vimeo at:
http://www.davidshepherd.org/project/uganda-conservation-foundation-ucf-waterways-project/
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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Thailand
Anti-poaching, community outreach, education and undercover investigation
Reaching out to save tigers: poachers turn protectors “Given a choice, most people would prefer to have legal work with an honest income rather than engage in poaching”
Ensuring a safe future for tigers requires a more comprehensive approach than merely fortifying protected areas and limiting poachers access to hunt them. Engaging communities close to tiger habitats helps ensure that local populations understand how intact eco-systems, including all the wildlife that resides in them, are important to their daily lives, writes Tim Redford of DSWF supported Freeland Foundation. One solution which Freeland has been using is a ‘poacher to protector’ approach. Violators are offered a chance to receive vocational training, usually in farming, to steer them away from poaching and towards a legitimate livelihood. Small loans are made available to those who have made a pledge to reform and after training they are guided through small-scale farming enterprises, such as organic vegetable or mushroom farming. One person who received such support and abandoned poaching is Ms. Nuan Muanchan. After initially receiving support to start a small mushroom farm she was able to save, buy some land and develop it as a mulberry farm. Ms. Nuan found out that there is demand for mulberries due to its numerous beneficial health properties and in Thailand the leaves are even used as food for silkworms, which produce the renowned Thai silk. Nuan has just started her mulberry farm and is hoping it will turn into a successful self-pick venture where local Thai tourists can walk through and pick their own fruit. Mulberry plants grow very quickly and if well watered produce the delicious fruit
year round, providing a long-term sustainable income. Ms. Nuan was not a tiger poacher, but her activities collecting valuable aloewood was causing forest disturbance and the tiger habitat to shrink. Since Thailand does not have a social security system there are few choices to generate income to survive. Farm labouring for the healthy is seasonal, poorly paid and often the wages are insufficient to support a family. It is common during times of crisis to borrow money from money-lenders at exorbitant interest rates. The repayments sometimes cannot be met, which further indebts the borrower until such time that they can either default or commit a crime to pay off the debt. Loan-sharks know this and encourage villagers to take up poaching, as sometimes the moneylenders are also middlemen who buy poached products. These are the most common reasons why villagers decide to engage in poaching. This criminal activity is financially lucrative, but its also very dangerous, takes the poacher away from home and could end up with them getting caught, fined or sent to jail. Given a choice, most people would prefer to have legal work with an honest income rather than engage in poaching. Poachers willing to change are the people that the Freeland outreach team looks for, engages, supports and guides towards protecting the wild.
Ms Nuan Muanchan and the mulberries that are helping to protect the tigers of Thailand - captured on camera-trap by Freeland (right) ©FreelandFoundation
12 100% of donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full, with no administration costs deducted, donate online today
TigerTime
The DSWF campaign raising awareness and funds for tiger conservation and calling for an end to the trade in tiger parts Since it was launched by David Shepherd in 2011 DSWF’s TigerTime campaign has gone from strength to strength, writes campaign manager, Vicky Flynn. Our goal was to help raise awareness of the plight of the 3,000 wild tigers left on earth, to increase funding to DSWF’s already established tiger conservation work in India, Thailand and Russia and to campaign for an end to the trade in tiger parts from all sources. The aim was to engage new audiences through social media - something that was fairly new to DSWF in 2011 - and after a slow build up the last twelve months have brought a cascade of success. In March 2014, the TigerTime Facebook page had 32,000 followers - today it exceeds 500,000. Twitter followers are close to 32,000 and over 334,000 people have lent their name to our ban tiger trade petition. With all our celebrity supporters activated and tweeting the campaign can reach 18 million people - a huge reach for tigers! This growth has attracted much support and working in collaboration with photographers, writers, artists, supporters and other NGOs, TigerTime is pushing to raise funds and to keep tigers on the international agenda in 2015/16. While the attention of the world is focussed on the alarming depletion of elephant and rhino populations, the surviving 3,000 wild tigers are receiving less of the limelight making 2015 an important year for the tiger. Following intense discussions at CITES in July 2014 some very specific recommendations on tigers were adopted: •
• • •
Countries are to ensure that their legislation prohibits domestic trade, including in derivatives of captive bred tigers Those who are currently trading are required to report the scale of that trade Countries must report on the volume of existing stockpiles Countries must destroy the bodies of deceased captive tigers
Between now and the next meeting in January 2016 progress will be assessed by a working group being chaired by China. TigerTime wants to demonstrate how important we feel these recommendations are to the survival of the tiger and our aim is to deliver over half a million signatures to the Chinese Embassy in London in October 2015 respectfully requesting that China, in its key role as chair of the inter-sessional working group,
Photo courtesy of Michael Vickers - www.tigersintheforest.co.uk - one of the amazing photographers who support the TigerTime campaign
guarantees the compliance of CITES members to all of these recommendations. Without that compliance, the future of the wild tiger remains uncertain.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
You can be part of it. We already have over 300,000 signatories but need more. You can help us reach the 500,000 mark by signing up at www.bantigertrade.com and asking your friends and family to do the same.
Social Media Links Twitter: @TigerTimeNow Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigerTimeNow Instagram: TigerTime Tumblr: tigertimenow Website: www.tigertime.info Petition: www.bantigertrade.com Shop online: http://bit.ly/ShopTT
As the uncontrolled breeding and trade in tigers and tiger derivatives grows in China and Laos (see the EIA report on page 16) your voice counts.
Bid for a celebrity drawing of a tiger this summer as part of DSWF’s week of wildlife art at the Mall Galleries, London, June 30-July 4. Art from Joanna Lumley, Deborah Meaden & many more keep an eye on the website, twitter & Facebook.
There is a saying that if you didn’t fight for what you want, don’t cry for what you’ve lost please help us fight for the tiger before it’s too late.
Come and see Richard Symond’s life-size tiger - oil on canvas - at the DSWF Gallery, Shalford, Surrey June 22-26 and at the Mall Galleries, London June 30-July 4. All proceeds will support our tiger conservation work.
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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India
Anti-poaching, community outreach, education and undercover investigation
Rhino numbers up despite poaching increase According the latest census rhino numbers in Kaziranga National Park are now at 2,401 - an increase of 71 since the last count.
Slender Loris and leopards receive emergency funding
“This is positive news for the rare onehorned Indian rhinos of Kaziranga but the number of poaching incidents remain of great concern,” says DSWF CEO, Sally Case. “We will continue to fund anti-poaching and undercover investigation work in the area to ensure a safer future for these amazing animals and the other endangered wildlife, including tigers, that share this rich and bio-diverse landscape.”
DSWF praised as ‘pillars of success’ We are delighted to announce that the Assam-based conservation organisation Aaranyak, which we have supported for over 20 years, has been awarded the Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar (IGPP) award by the Indian Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change. Commenting on the award CEO of Aaranyak, Dr Bibhab Talukdar (pictured) said: "We would like to thank the continued support of DSWF. Since 1994 the Foundation has helped form the pillars of our success and I take this opportunity to express our continued commitment towards wildlife and the habitats of North Eastern India."
Track Record The anti-poaching tracker dog Jorba, funded by DSWF, with his handler Anil took scent from a poachers water bottle and shoes (pictured below) which were left at the scene of the crime leading to the arrest of suspected poachers in a hide-out near Kaziranga National Park.
Images couresy of Aaranyak
The Dog Squad was also called on by the Divisional Forest Officer of Orang NP when poachers shot dead a rhino and a forest guard. Jorba led the police and forest officials to a suspect’s house near the park who was apprehended as he tried to flee.
We are delighted to be responding to wildlife emergencies through the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI). We are funding research into the increasing trade-related threats to the Gray Slender Loris in Tamil Nadu, southern India and to prompt law enforcement agencies to take corrective action. Superstitions and myths around this small, nocturnal primate mean that it now faces an uncertain future. As well as being kept as pets, parts of the Loris are used to make love potions, to treat leprosy and eye ailments. They are also threatened by excessive pesticides which are killing insects, their primary food source, increased road traffic and electricity lines running through the forests.
says WTI. “With DSWF’s support we’ll create the teams and spread awareness of the issues among locals and the media to try and reduce the sensationalism of leopard stories.” Eighteen awareness camps involving talks, interactive games and a signature campaign as well as poster and leaflet distribution aim to bring every sector of society together to tackle conflict situations without negative side-effects.
We have also provided help to address human leopard conflict in Assam. Leopards are highly resilient and adaptable cats and exist in many of India’s urban areas. Habitat loss and lack of prey drives them from the wild bringing them into conflict with people and creating fear and retaliation killings. In Guwahati, Assam the conflicts are increasingly frequent. “Our aim is to create volunteer response teams who can react promptly to conflict situations and help trigger the rescue of the leopards,” Photo ©Leopard by Sathya Vagale, ©Slender Loris by Angad Achappa
14 100% of donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full, with no administration costs deducted, donate online today
Kaziranga’s tigers increase in latest all-India census
Russia
Anti-poaching and educational awareness to protect the Amur tiger
“The number of tigers is definitely increasing in Kaziranga and is evident from more sightings of cubs in the current season,” Kaziranga Park Director M K Yadava said. Altogether 18 to 20 tiger cubs have been sighted in different pockets of the national park. “The most positive aspect of Kaziranga is that tigers are rarely targeted by poachers here,” says Park DFO S K Seal Sarma. In contrast, Kaziranga is struggling to prevent rhino poaching - 27 were killed in 2014 and in 2015 numbers are rising steadily. The three tigers known to have died in Kaziranga last year are all said to have died due to natural causes. "This is very positive news for the tigers of Kaziranga," says DSWF CEO Sally Case. "But protecting them and the rhinos that share the park remains an ongoing, longterm commitment for DSWF. Thank you to everyone whose contribution to our work has helped create this amazing news but please help us maintain tiger numbers and protect the rare one-horned rhino by continuing your support."
Image couresy of Phoenix Fund
The all-India tiger estimation report has put the total number of tigers in the Northeast of India at 201, a significant increase from the 148 recorded in 2010. Of the 167 tigers counted in Assam, more than 125 are believed to be in Kaziranga National Park, where DSWF have worked to protect tigers for over twenty years.
New technology joins the fight against poachers Technology is developing fast and so are new methods to tackle poaching. Thanks to support from DSWF, the Phoenix Fund in the Russian Far East has managed to suppress poaching and illegal woodcutting in key Amur tiger habitat for over twenty years. DSWF support has helped keep the antipoaching teams supplied with all the essentials including fuel, spare and repair parts, equipment and field expenditures - everything needed to continue patrolling the hunting grounds and protected areas. In 2011, DSWF also helped fund the introduction of a user-friendly spatial Management Information System (MIST) that has proved to be an invaluable tool in monitoring law enforcement activities. To further strengthen protection the team has invested in the latest technology. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) also known as drones, are being used to detect poaching activities and locate wild fires - two of the main threats to the survival of Amur leopards and tigers. The remote-controlled mini-helicopters with mounted GoPro cameras are cost-effective
compared to traditional manned flights, for example by paraglider, and also reduce the risk to humans. With experience gained in using this latest technology Phoenix staff have also hosted a number of presentations for representatives of other nature protection agencies in the Russian Far East. “We believe that these advanced technologies will bring many benefits to managers and law enforcement staff in the protected areas as well as scientists and aerial forest protection services,” says Phoenix Fund Director, Sergei Bereznuk. “To date, directors of four protected areas have all expressed great interest and would like to introduce UAVs in their territories in order to monitor anti-poaching activities, wildlife and forest fires.” “In the fight against wildlife crime we have to enlist help of every kind and DSWF is proud to be able to fund these new technologies, to help protect precious populations of Amur tiger” says DSWF CEO, Sally Case. “ None of this would be possible without the help of DSWF supporters so thank you for helping to protect the Amur tiger.”
First tiger census in a decade underway
Photos: Top, a huge male walks the forests of Kaziranga and above, setting up the camera traps for the census
The first Amur tiger census in a decade kicked off on January 31 in the Russian Far East with early indications suggesting a stable population of c.450 tigers. 2,000 trackers took part covering an area of 150,000 km2 . The full results will be released in May. Photo of Zhorik courtesy Graham Mitchell
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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China & Vietnam Support continues to grow for campaign in China and Vietnam to end Bear Bile Farming
Three more bears find sanctuary...
Bringing Change to China
Working with EIA on China’s domestic trade As a leading consumer country of wildlife products the role of China in the fate of many endangered species, including rhino, elephant and tiger, has long been recognised. DSWF has supported the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) to research and expose how China’s domestic laws and policies promote the “breeding, domestication and utilisation” of wildlife including tigers. They uncovered a legal domestic trade in the skins of captive bred tigers, which is perpetuating the desirability of tiger parts, stimulating demand and fuelling poaching of wild tigers.
Above: Coco accepts a treat during the journey ©AA
Three moon bears arrived at Animals Asia’s Vietnam sanctuary in April after a gruelling 2,000km rescue that spanned almost the full length of Vietnam. The rescue party arrived around 8pm on a Monday night, after the truck carrying the bears broke down in the afternoon. The remote stretch of road meant that no mechanic could be found, but fortunately a passing Forest Protection Department official directed the team to a nearby town where a new truck was sourced. The bears arrival marked the end of a five-day rescue which freed two bears from a bile farm in Ben Tre province, and a third from nearby Ba Ria. The moon bears, now called Coco, Yogi and Bern, were all voluntarily transferred to Animals Asia’s care by their captors with the help of provincial Forest Protection Departments.
on protecting domesticated animals. The Animal Protection Law should also be considered.” It was also pointed out that the current system of wildlife domestication and breeding licences can be a “whitewashing” process for illegal businesses - an important element of the wider issue of tiger and bear farming within China as previously reported in Wildlife Matters. Zhang Yue, the director of Beijing Aita Animal Protection Foundation explained: “The current Wildlife Protection Law provides legitimacy for ‘rational use’ of wildlife as a resource. Due to this loophole, illicit wildlife trade is openly in operation under legal cover.”
For China to change attitudes and reduce demand for wild animal products is a huge task but DSWF is delighted to report on the positive steps being taken by the National People’s Luo suggested the revised Wildlife Protection Congress (NPC) in China as they work toward Law should be clear about its purpose: “to the revision of the Wildlife Protection Law and protect wildlife and the habitats thereof; to suggest that the Animal conserve the biodiversity It was also pointed out that Protection Law should also and restore eco-balance; be looked at. to withdraw the provisions the current system of wildlife containing the term ‘use’ domestication and breeding In March, the NPC deputy, or similar expressions; Dr Luo Liansheng, along licences can be to strictly distinguish with 35 NPC deputies, a “whitewashing” process commercial breeding from called to speed up the rescuing and breeding with for illegal businesses revision process of the conservational purpose; to Wildlife Protection Law avoid inter-departmental interest conflicts and stating that, besides the revision in 2004 on suggest the forestry police to be managed under individual articles, the Wildlife Protection Law has Ministry of Police Security." not been amended as a whole and the legislation no longer reflects the current economic and This suggested range of revisions is a welcome cultural development of China. step change and one that DSWF hopes, wholeThe NPC deputy chairman Zheng Xiaochang, heartedly, will be adopted as China looks to added: “Under Chinese current legislation, only redefine its status as a world power. wildlife is protected but there is no legislation
Animals Asia’s founder and CEO, Jill Robinson MBE said: “We are over the moon to have these three long suffering bears back at our sanctuary where we can begin their rehabilitation. At last, decades of suffering is over for Coco, Yogi and Bern and they can look forward to finally living the life which the poachers and bile farmers stole from them so long ago. “It’s been an incredibly hard rescue for the entire team, but we believe every single bear who has suffered at the hands of the barbaric bile industry deserves their sanctuary. We won’t give up on a single bear in Vietnam and if we have to rescue them one by one then so be it.” You can continue your support of this amazing work by adopting Beau, the Moon Bear. Call us on 01483 27232 or visit our website at: www.davidshepherd.org
Changing laws and seeking an end to China’s domestic trade in wild and farmed species is an important step in protecting endangered wildlife (photo ©EIA)
16 100% of donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full, with no administration costs deducted
Mongolia
Research, anti-poaching and community programmes to protect the snow leopard
Mother and cubs caught on camera trap in the Tost Mountains ©SLT
Mining licences reduced by 80 percent in important snow leopard landscape Thanks to Wildlife Matters readers and DSWF supporters, the number of mining licences being granted in Mongolia’s Tost Mountains has fallen significantly. In 2008, DSWF helped the Snow Leopard Trust and its partners launch the first-ever long-term study of snow leopards in Mongolia’s South Gobi, in the rugged Tost Mountains. Today, we know that an estimated 17 to 20 snow leopards - including both adults and young cubs - inhabit the area and share the landscape with 200 herder families. Our long-term study has further revealed that the Tost region is not a “sink”, or genetic dead-end, for snow leopards as was once assumed, but is instead an important source of ‘new blood’ for nearby landscapes. In early 2010, we found to great concern that much of Tost, and the surrounding district, was blanketed in mining licences. While mining is vital to the Mongolian economy, we worried about
the environmental impacts of unsustainable mining in rich snow leopard landscapes. DSWF helped the Tost community mobilize and successfully apply to convert Tost into a ‘Local Protected Area’ (LPA) covering 6,689 square kilometres of vital snow leopard habitat. When the Local Protected Area application was approved by the Mongolian Government in December 2010, mining companies held close to 100 licences in the district, most for exploration but also for extraction. When the protected area status went into effect, no new licences could be issued, and old licenses couldn’t be renewed once they expired. Today only 18 active licences remain in the Tost region - a reduction of more than 80%. When the LPA status expires in late 2017, this could bring renewed threats to the region. That’s why DSWF continues to partner with the Snow Leopard Trust and its Mongolia
NGO partner, Snow Leopard Conservation Foundation, to work even harder to save Tost. We’re developing a formal management plan for the protected area, and advocating at a national level to upgrade the Local Protected Area into a National Reserve. National Reserve status would drastically limit mining development, but still allow for families to continue their traditional herding practices, as long as they are sustainably managed. It is thanks to DSWF supporters and Wildlife Matters readers that so much has already been achieved and we hope that together we can convert the LPAs into a new national reserve for snow leopards.
You can support the project in Mongolia by donating either online at www.davidshepherd.org or by calling 01483 272323 in office hours. Thank you!
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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NTS E V E R NDA E L CA
Get involved!
Guildford Rotary Club Sponsored Walk - 10 May
Community Fundraising
Wildwood fore! Wildlife - 15 May
By supporting the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, you can make a real difference to wildlife conservation. By getting involved, you can feel a great sense of satisfaction in achieving a personal goal, while raising funds at the same time. Just look at what the amazing people have done on these pages!
Enjoy a relaxed spring walk and bring your dog - an ideal way for you to raise money for DSWF.
Join us for our second golf day and the fabulous Wildwood Golf and Country Club.
Cranleigh Parish Boundary Challenge - 17 May
There are lots of ways you can be part of it. We have a range of physical challenges - see the calendar - or you might want to set a challenge of your own. It really doesn’t matter what you like doing or how little or much time you have, we can find something that we can do together.
Walk, jog or run 23 miles of public footpath or join as a team and take on 6 miles each.
National Three Peaks 15/16/17 May
Advocate Events are hosting this unforgettable weekend. Usually over 24 hours but also available over three days, this adventure includes climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon back to back and is a tough but magnificent weekend away. New challenge events from Advocate Events: 23/24 May - Ben Nevis climb over a weekend with accommodation. 27/28 June - London to Brighton endurance walk over 20 hours.
Surrey Bacchus Fun Run and Marathon - 13 September
Starting at the beautiful Denbies Vineyard, choose from a half marathon, full marathon or even a 2.5km fun run. Run for DSWF.
Three Peaks Three Days 25/28 September
Under the expert guidance of Advocate Events, this gives you the chance to take on the three highest peaks in the UK for an unforgettable weekend!
London to Brighton Walk 26-27 September
Join us on this magnificent adventure as we embark upon a two day endurance walk from the hustle and bustle of London through busy streets, across beautiful hills and down meandering country lanes all the way to the fresh sea air of Brighton.
Events 2016
We have places in the London Marathon and RideLondon - Surrey 100. Beat the crowds and register your interest today.
For more details on all the events see: www.davidshepherd.org/help-us/ raise-funds Or call 01483 272323
18
Amanda and Barry Butler, long term supporters of the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, rose to the DSWF30 challenge last year, driving through 30 counties in 30 hours. Their fundraising efforts achieved over £2,500 and now Amanda has agreed to be one of our first Regional Volunteer Fundraising Ambassadors. Here’s her story … “Until recently I would have described myself as having had a love of Africa, now I would have to say it has become a passion. “The role of the Regional Volunteer Fundraising Ambassador will now allow me to spread my passion further. I hope to enthuse others into wild fundraising ideas, introduce a wide variety of people to the work of DSWF and to excite interest in the minds of young people, who will be the future supporters of DSWF. “I love returning to Africa but I don’t want to find empty spaces where animals once roamed. Now is the time to act.”
“Wildlife's ability to survive the challenges of the twenty-first century is rapidly becoming outpaced by events that are transforming our world, such as habitat degradation, pollution and the illegal wildlife trade,” says Rebecca. “The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation is making a fundamental difference in securing a future for endangered animals in Africa and Asia through anti-poaching and conservation projects. “Inspired by the charity’s work and my lifelong interest in wildlife I have taken on the role of Regional Volunteer Fundraising Ambassador and my aim is to engage with new audiences through entertaining and participatory events for all ages, as well as competitions for children.”
If you’d like to get involved contact our Fundraising Ambassadors at: Amanda Butler (Wilts & Glos) ambassadorfordswf@yahoo.co.uk Rebecca Ward (Oxfordshire) dswf.oxford@gmail.com
If you’d like to join our Ambassadors or for more info on the events, please get in touch with:
Marianne Watts, DSWF Community Fundraiser on tel 01483 272323 or email: marianne.watts@davidshepherd.org
Thank you
To all the amazing people who raise awareness and funds for wildlife and attend our events...
Nadia Gibbs An inspiration to us all! Nadia Gibbs is on a mission - her aim is to do 30+ physical events in 2015 raising money for the DSWF supported elephant orphanage project in Zambia. “My events will consist of races from 5k to half marathons, triathlons, mud/obstacle races, cycling events and open water swims! This is not going to come easy to me, I’m fairly unfit but feel I must push myself in order to expect people to sponsor me,” says Nadia. “Without the kindness of you all, we may not see an elephant in the wild in ten years time. This is scary and very sad.”
Snowdon Challenge - 18 September
“I was more than happy to have taken part in such a great challenge whilst helping to protect the beautiful animals that call Africa home” Matt Peel of Andrew Winch Designs pictured above. Raised £500.
To-date Nadia has completed: 1 Hadleigh 10k run 2 Great Bentley half marathon run 3 Tarpley 10 mile run 4 Aerobathon 3 hours 5 Sudbury 5 mile run 6 Boxford tornado 40 mile cycle Her seventh challenge is part of a relay team for the Milton Keynes marathon on 4th May. Please support her at: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/NadiaGibbs
Wildwood Fore! Wildlife 26 September
Our first golf day raised £3,575. Thank you to golfers, sponsors, volunteers and to Wildwood for hosting. There’s still time to join our 2015 golf day at Wildwood Golf and Country Club in Surrey - please call 01483 272323 for details!
Shepherd (pictured above) spoke of her love of art inspired by her father, David, and the school embraced an ongoing programme of fundraising. “We raised over £4,800 and the girls have got so much more out of the events than just fundraising and the benefits to them continue with their trip to Zambia in August. It has been richly rewarding on so many levels,” Fran Flammiger, Marketing and Foundation Office Events Officer, St Catherine’s School.
And many more: Cranleigh School for
Three Peaks in 24 Hours 18/19 October
“We were honoured to support DSWF, which does such fantastic work and it’s great that we could coincide this fundraising effort with important anniversaries for both of us!” say the Clarke Gammon team (above). Seven climbed and raised £8,500. They had atrocious weather with gales at the top of each peak but still achieved it in less than 24 hours.
St Catherine’s School 27 February
Teaming up with St Catherine’s School brought art and conservation to the fore. Artist Mandy
fundraising at their mufti day. All the runners in this year’s London Marathon Rory Miles, Lauren Smith, Paul Holmes, Suzie Sparling, Pam Moscrop and Isla Christensen. Ali Sheen for running the Hyde Park 10K, Michael Mehta, who is taking on America’s toughest road race for Moon Bears and Abigail Horn for her passionate support of our work (pictured below with her cat Rocky)
Free-falling for elephants! Huge thanks and much admiration for an intrepid group from Wales who flung themselves out of an aeroplane for elephants! "The skydive was AMAZING!" says Tina Cooper (pictured above) who led the charge. "The experience was well worth the flapping of the cheeks!" Indeed it was as it raised over £750 that will go toward the onward care of the orphaned elephants that we help support in Zambia. Thank you to Tina Cooper, Emma Keeling, Emma Hanlan-Baker, Jo-Anne Davies and Danny France and Swansea Skydive.
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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Adopt Nkala
We have a new elephant to adopt!
We’re adding a wonderful new elephant adoption to our family - Nkala, the little elephant featured on the front cover of this issue of Wildlife Matters with presenter Paul O’Grady. After losing his mother to poachers, Nkala has been steadily finding his feet at the elephant orphanage near Lusaka but he’s got a long way and many years to go before he’s ready to return to the wild. That’s why he needs your help. Adoptions make great gifts - for yourself or your loved ones - and most definitely for wildlife! For just £32 you receive a wonderful pack with lots of goodies and information about Nkala including an exclusive pencil sketch by Mandy Shepherd. Don’t forget we have seven other great adoptions on offer too!
You can buy online at www.davidshepherd.org or call us on 01483 272323
Chamilandu update As Chamilandu, our other elephant adoptee, begins her exciting return to the wild we’d like to thank everyone who has supported her. She has been a wonderful ambassador and by adopting her you have made her rehabilitation and return to the wild possible.
We hope that you’ll continue your adoption of Chamilandu to help protect her in the wild. We’ll bring you updates on her wild wanderings whenever we can! See page 9 for her latest adventure.
Are you a Friend of DSWF? Not sure?
Not yet
Yes!
We have changed the term ‘member’ to ‘Friend’. If you are unsure if your membership has lapsed please call or email us today.
Your friendship helps us protect precious wildlife populations. If you like what we do please become a Friend today.
We are so grateful for your support. We would love to reach more people who are as committed to protecting wildlife as you are.
Friendships start from just £32 a year. Please call or go online to find out more: www.davidshepherd.org
Exclusive Friends Event We will be holding an exclusive Friends event this summer - sign up now to receive your invitation!
GETTING IN TOUCH:
Can you introduce us to your friends? • Introduce a friend and receive a thank you gift when they sign up. • Your friend will receive this Wildlife Matters magazine and some information about us with no obligation to join.
You can become a Friend online at www. davidshepherd.org - by calling us on 01483 272323 - or by email dswf@davidshepherd.org
20 100% of donations marked for specific projects in the field go in full, with no administration costs deducted
Events Petworth House Antiques Fair Fri 8th - Sun 10th May 2015 Join the Antique Dealers Fair in the grounds of historic Petworth House, Sussex this May.
The event is being held in a purpose built marquee by the Upper Pond and visitors to the fair may also enjoy free admission to Petworth House and Park with a ticket or fair programme during the three day event. The event will be raising funds for DSWF and The Lighting Project at Petworth House. Admission is £10 on the door but Petworth Park Fair has kindly provided complimentary e-tickets for DSWF supporters (donations welcome!) Download and print off the complimentary ticket and present to the stewards on the day.
Events are an important part of our fundraising and provide the perfect opportunity for us to meet our fabulous supporters! We hope to see you all soon...
An Evening of Style Thursday 4th June - 7pm-9.30pm DSWF Gallery, Shalford What will you be wearing this summer? Join us for a fun, friendly, interactive evening with multi award-winning personal stylist and fashion editor, Anita Feron Clark. Colour and styling advice - key trends fantastic raffle prizes - beautiful Lalique jewellery and luxury accessories for sale.
Tickets £20 per person, including wine & soft drinks. Only 25 places available: Call 01483 272323 to book today!
Much Ado About Nothing - June & July 2015 DSWF is delighted to be one of the chosen charities for this year’s out-door performances of Shakespeare’s classic tale of love, intrigue and deception - Much Ado About Nothing. Staged by the Marmalade Theatre Company in the magical gardens of Hogg End, St Albans there are six performance nights across 25th to 27th June and 2nd to 4th July 2015. To book your tickets go to: www.marmaladetheatre.com
See the events page on the website: www.davidshepherd.org/news-events/
Emily Lamb - Solo Exhibition - Rountree Tryon Gallery, London 2nd - 18th December 2015 Artist Emily Lamb returns to the Rountree Tryon Gallery in London this winter with a new collection of original works inspired by her African travels. Stunning multi-media canvasses with sales supporting DSWF makes this the perfect opportunity to buy something beautiful and support wildlife conservation.
Dinner & Dancing at the Dorchester
Book your place today... Friday 9th October 2015
Join us at the Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane, London for our black tie dinner and dance. This spectacular fundraiser brings together sparkling entertainment and wonderful food in the Dorchester Ballroom. Standard ticket price includes champagne reception with canapés, sumptuous four course dinner, entertainment and dancing! Members: £200 - Non-members: £220 - Table of 12: £2,400 Or upgrade to our Platinum package which includes: an exclusive invitation to a pre-dinner VIP reception, table of 12 with premier placement, champagne reception, four course dinner, entertainment and dancing PLUS premium sponsor listing in the event programme and all related print material. All for £5,000.
For tickets call us on 01483 272323 21
Shopping that saves wildlife Rarely available David Shepherd prints
These three wonderful prints are some of David’s finest works.
Ahmed, A very, very wise Elephant
This is one of the most collectible of all David Shepherd’s prints. Published in 1996 in an edition of just 65, to celebrate David’s 65th birthday. 66cm x 48cm. £1,600
Winter of 43
A very rare limited edition print in pristine condition. Published in 1977 in an edition of 850. 94cm x 51cm. £1,500
Winter in Wolong
This beautiful print of giant pandas was published in 2003 in an edition of 950. 47cm x 56cm. £350
Postage & packing £14.95 To order call 01483 272323
Original works by David Shepherd
We are delighted to announce that there will be a collection of David Shepherd’s original paintings for sale as part of our Wildlife Artist of the Year exhibition at the Mall Galleries this summer (June 30-July 4) Here’s a sneak preview of two of the wonderful sketches that will be available as part of this collection. Please call 01483 272323 if you would like more information.
BUY ART TO SAVE WILDLIFE Our online shop has a huge collection of wildlife art. Visit www.davidshepherd.org and select ‘Buy Art’ If you are in Surrey do visit the DSWF Gallery. We have a wonderful collection of wildlife art, including sculpture, prints and original artwork. And of course, we hold one of the largest collections of David Shepherd’s work. We are open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm, and by appointment at other times.
Find us at: DSWF Gallery, 7 Kings Road, Shalford, Guildford, Surrey GU4 8JU. Tel: 01483 272323 We’re also on Facebook at: David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Gallery And don’t forget that everything we sell helps fund our work to protect endangered wildlife across Africa and Asia. Shopping with us really does make a difference.
22 Don’t forget our online shop has a huge collection of David Shepherd prints and work by other artists, as well as all the latest offers
Inspired by Art
Designed by artists
New scarf collection We are delighted to launch an exciting new range of luxury scarves which turn beautiful pieces of art into fabulous, fashionable accessories. Bringing art directly into your wardrobe! There are five wonderful designs by four amazing artists, Anna Borkowska, Claire Harkess, Karen Laurence-Rowe and Richard Newby and with prices starting at £60, these unique scarves are a must have accessory for your wardrobe. To see the full collection and to order please call 01483 272323 or go to www.davidshepherd.org Postage and packing is £4.95. Scarves are currently in production and delivery for orders will be by the end of May.
Look out for our collection of scarves at the Wildlife Artist of the Year exhibition at the Mall Galleries from 30 June - 4 July. David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation is very grateful for the artists for the use of their images in this brand new collection. If you would like your artwork to be considered for the next collection, then please contact Lisa Langridge on 01483 272323.
Tiger by Claire Harkess 90% modal, 10% cashmere 130cm x 130cm £70
The Newborn by Karen Laurence-Rowe 90% modal, 10% cashmere 70cm x 200cm £70
GALLERY EXHIBITIONS British Wildlife Sculpture by Simon Griffiths Wednesday 1st Apr - Friday 29th May
‘Wild Calling’ by Sue Payton Monday 1st - Tuesday 30th Jun
Visit the DSWF Gallery, Kings Road, Shalford, Surrey, GU4 8JU for a fabulous exhibition and sale of work by British sculptor, Simon Griffiths.
We are delighted to welcome Sue Payton’s exhibition ‘Wild Calling’.
Working in clay, the sculptures are fired and glazed to stoneware temperatures, which makes them suitable for use indoors or out. Pictured right, Barn Owl £540. Alongside the ceramic pieces there is also a range of cold cast bronze reproductions with prices starting at just £40.
After a number of years painting local landscapes, Sue took up painting in oils. At about the same time, she started to paint wildlife and immediately became hooked. Many of Sue’s paintings are detailed portraits, as she loves painting the eyes and the detail of the fur. Browse and buy from Sue’s amazing oil paintings.
All sales support endangered wildlife. Exhibition pieces also available to view and buy online www.davidshepherd.org
and gifts too. Visit us at www.davidshepherd.org
Wildlife Matters Issue 46
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Wildlife Artist of the Year
Mall Galleries, London SW1 June 30 - July 4
DSWF is proud to host the eighth annual wildlife art exhibition and sale featuring:
Wildlife Artist of the Year The 2015 shortlist from nine categories Plus work by special guest artists Simon Max Bannister, Adam Binder Sevina Yates and Stefano Zagaglia
Private View Reception 5.30pm - 9pm Monday 29 June
With special guests - invitation only
Public Viewing and Sales
Tuesday 30 - Saturday 4 July 10am - 5pm (4pm Saturday) Some late night openings see website: www.davidshepherd.org Entry by donation
Images: main picture Sky Creature by Sarah Soward Above L to R: courtesy of 2015 shortlist artists - Martin Aveling, Jamel Akib, David Filer, Radka Kirby, Nick Oneill and Dafila Scott
BEAUTIFUL ART SUPPORTING WILDLIFE CONSERVATION This exhibition is generously supported by: Mr and Mrs Covey, Tilney Bestinvest, Barlow Robbins, Powertraveller, The Oliver Foundation, SilverSurfers.com, Carol Cordrey, Gary Hodges, Simon Trapnell and The Artist magazine