When trying to protect wildlife, the issue of exactly ‘how’ we do this often leads to different approaches. With no definitive rule book, each approach is always up for discussion. As the human race grows and develops with technology, wildlife conservation approaches need to keep pace so they don’t get left behind.
Broadly, I believe there are several factors to consider when conserving wildlife. In no particular order these are:
- Local wildlife biodiversity
- The local rarity of species
- The global rarity of species
- Population of local people
- Needs of local people
- Opinion of local people
As you can see, I believe that local people and local wildlife have equal importance when considering how to protect the natural world. A site I consider perfectly embodies this approach is Durlston Country Park near Swanage in Dorset.
Owned by Dorset County Council since the 1970s, it’s a masterful example of how local people, business and wildlife can all benefit by working together. The wildlife of the site has been conserved and researched heavily, so much so that each wall of the café has been covered in the species names discovered there.
Over 30 species of butterfly, 250 species of bird and over 500 wildflowers can be seen around the reserve throughout the year. This is a great example of how many species can live alongside each other when the space is created for them.
Next week I will be leading a winter bird watching holiday in Dorset for HF Holidays and I can’t wait to revisit Durlston Country Park. The management is conserving wildlife, building local community, raising employment, promoting heritage and producing excellent businesses all on one site.
That’s how it is done!
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If you’ve enjoyed this blog and would be interested in developing nature skills in communication, confidence and public engagement, why not sign up for my eco-tourism coaching service I am currently developing.
Want to make a difference to the natural world and considering a new career? This coaching service can help you do both!
Throughout my years in the eco-tourism sector, I have seen both an increase in public knowledge of the importance of protecting and an increase in the pressure that nature faces. I have always believed that showing people how incredible and essential nature can be is essential to the protection of thousands of species.
Drawing from my years of experience, this subscription service will provide support for people who also want to make a difference by learning or improving their skills in public education and engagement of the natural world. You will get access to detailed blog posts designed to help anyone in the eco-tourism sector, whether you are just starting in the UK and you want to improve you confidence or are an experienced guide in New Zealand and want to develop your skills further.
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Until then, take care and remember, stay on the wild side!
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