Falklands Conservation: Celebrating 26 years of Action for Wildlife

The Falkland Islands have such an abundance of wildlife that you cannot fail to be aware of it the moment you step ashore. The Islands are home to vast colonies of seabirds, including the world's largest black-browed albatross population and several endemic species such as the tiny Cobb's Wren. Southern giant petrels and Peale's dolphins follow launches in the harbour, and around any West Falkland settlement the rare Johnny Rook will follow your every step and steal your lunch, given half a chance.

This amazing diversity provides the setting for much of the work of Falklands Conservation, a non-governmental environmental charity that takes action for Falklands' wildlife. In the 26 years since its foundation, Falklands Conservation has grown to cover many wide-ranging projects. Our tourism research led to the production of the 'Countryside Code' and the highly successful 'Visitor's Guide to the Falklands', now updated and in its second print run.  Our Albatross and Petrel Programme conducts research to assess the risks to the Falklands seabird population from oil activity, and has developed innovative techniques to reduce seabird deaths associated with the fishery.  Conservation scientists are involved in a restoration programme, which hopes to eliminate rodents from small islands to the benefit of native wildlife such as the Cobb's Wren. We also conduct research on penguins, albatross and wild flowers.

Threats to the delicate Island environment are ever increasing as agriculture and lifestyles diversify and access to all off-shore islands increases, making education and site protection two of our most pressing aims. As a result we manage 17 offshore island nature reserves, and run a junior 'Watch Group' for young people, with the aim of increasing the children's awareness of their own environment and how to look after it.

We are easily found in Stanley, on the first floor of the Jetty Visitor Centre.  Our wide range of sales goods forms an essential part of our fund-raising activity, as does the recruitment of new members. If you would like to help protect the unique environment of the Falkland Islands, and support Falkland Islands wildlife, please contact us as we rely on your support.

Published in the Penguin News Visitor's Guide 2005/6 sponsored by the Falkland Islands Tourist Board

www.penguin-news.com      www.tourism.org.fk     www.falklandsconservation.com 

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