Conservation Message
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Wildlife conservation is as much about working with people as it is about safeguarding iconic creatures. Science author David Quammen refers to large carnivores as alpha predators. He writes in his book Monster of God, "the hardships of living with alpha predators are borne largely by the world’s poorest and most disenfranchised people." Therein lies what is arguably the greatest gap between those advocating on behalf of alpha predators like wolves and lions and tigers and those living with the brutal reality of what they are capable of. To bridge that gap will involve much more than clinging to sensationalized docudramas or fancifully idealistic notions of nature, despite sometimes overwhelming temptations to do so. What it will take is fastidious research, scientific and practical solutions, making difficult decisions, and listening intently to, and learning from, those living with wildlife. For the conservation of nature to work in areas like Africa, indeed anywhere on Earth where these amazing animals still thrive, it is imperative to start by paying heed to the voices of local people―wildlife's greatest hope for survival. |
Karamojong farmers protecting their crops and livestock.
A fisherman heads out at dusk.
A lioness on the border near South Sudan.
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