It may come as a surprise to learn that elephants use their ears to control their body temperature. “How?” you may be thinking. “Why?” “It’s amazing!”. I know you’re curious about the answers to these questions. In this article, we’ll look at the whys and hows of elephants utilizing their ears to regulate their body temperature.

Elephants, the animal kingdom’s giants, have a unique ability to deal with the challenges of harsh temperatures. Consider an elephant on a hot African grassland; its gigantic ears spread like natural sun shields. Those huge flaps aren’t just for show. They are, in fact, an important part of the elephant’s technique for keeping a healthy body temperature.

But how do they accomplish this? Elephants, unlike humans, do not have a dense network of sweat glands covering their bodies—the secret is hidden in the amazing structure of their ears. Elephant ears are not only big but also remarkably thin, acting as natural fans. This unusual architecture plays an important role in the intricate process of thermoregulation (the ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal body temperature within a certain range despite changes in external conditions.).

Here are some ways elephants use their ears to regulate their body temperature:

• Flapping: By flapping their ears, elephants generate a breeze that aids in cooling down their blood supply. The ear’s substantial surface area-to-volume ratio is instrumental in reducing their body temperatures.
• Dilating blood vessels: By widening their blood vessels, elephants enhance blood flow to their ears, promoting increased cooling.
• In the heat, elephants cool down through a process called “flooding with blood.” They boost blood flow to their ears, using the extensive vessels in these large flaps as a natural radiator to release excess body heat. This clever adaptation showcases their ability to thrive in diverse climates.
• Fanning: Elephants can fan their ears to increase airflow over their skin and lose heat faster.
• Elephants occasionally spray water on their ears to cool down the blood in the vessels before it circulates throughout the rest of their bodies.

So, in answer to your question of “How?”—elephants use their ears as natural radiators, employing a combination of blood circulation and increased surface area to release heat effectively.

Now, let’s address the “why.” Why do elephants need to regulate their temperature in the first place? Much like humans, elephants need to keep their bodies within a specific temperature range for their well-being. The ability to dissipate excess heat is crucial for their survival, especially in the scorching heat of the African savannah or the humid jungles of Asia.

Understanding the complexities of how elephants utilize their ears to regulate their body temperature goes beyond simply curiosity. In a world where climate change is having a worldwide influence on ecosystems, recognizing and protecting these adaptive processes is critical. Take a minute the next time you see an elephant to admire its ears—not only as appendages (the part that extends from the main body of an organism) but as marvels of survival, expertly honed by a creator to traverse the obstacles of their different habitats.

Have you ever pondered the hidden world of venomous snakes? Join us in this series as we reveal the mysteries of these misunderstood creatures. From deserts to rainforests, each snake is a unique marvel, not just predators but nature’s own pest control. They play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of life and ensuring harmony in our ecosystems. Let’s dig into why these snake guardians are important in our complex natural world.

We’re going to uncover each snake based on the manner they were arranged in the previous article, we’d look at their habitat, behaviour, feeding habits and ecological importance

Puff Adder (bitis arietans)

Habitat: Resides in lots of different places, from hot deserts to dense rainforests.

Behaviour: Solitary and nocturnal [prefers to be alone and active during the night.], puff adders are skilled ambush predators using chemical and heat signals for prey detection. Learn more

Feeding Habit: Feeds on various prey, mainly keeping rodent populations in check, and adapts its dining style depending on the size of its meal.

Ecological Importance: Acts as nature’s pest control, preventing overpopulation of pests that could impact ecosystems and agriculture.

Forest Cobra (naja melanoleuca)

Habitat: Adaptable to various altitudes, found in forests, savannahs, and near water sources.

Behaviour: Nocturnal, arboreal [active during the night and loves hanging out in trees], and a secondary consumer that helps control rodent populations.

Feeding Habit: Contributes to the balance by preying on potential crop pests and disease vectors.

Ecological Importance: Venom is used in cancer and protein research while aiding in controlling rodent-borne diseases.

African Bush Viper (atheris squamigera)

Habitat: Inhabits tropical forests and dense vegetation areas with abundant small prey.

Behaviour: Nocturnal [active at night], ambush predator with rapid striking abilities.

Feeding Habit: Contributes to pest control by preying on small rodents.

Ecological Importance: Farmed for venom, used in antivenom production and medical research.

Black-necked Spitting Cobra (naja nigricollis)

Habitat: Frequently found in the savanna and semi-desert areas of Africa.

Behaviour: Solitary [prefers being alone], adaptable to both nocturnal and diurnal [can be active both during the day and night] activity, excels in tree climbing.

Feeding Habit: Known for venom projection and efficient pest control abilities.

Ecological Importance: Contributes to regulating pest populations, especially in agricultural areas.

Egyptian Cobra (naja haje)

Habitat: Inhabits diverse landscapes, from open fields to areas with slight moisture. Frequently found in proximity to human settlements where rodents and domestic fowl attract them.

Behaviour: Primarily ground-dwelling, active during twilight [the time of day when the sun is below the horizon but its rays illuminate the sky roughly 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset], occasionally engaging in sunbathing. Displays a preference for secure shelters such as abandoned burrows and termite mounds.

Feeding Habit: Actively forages [actively looking, hunting, or gathering food to meet its dietary needs], sometimes venturing into human spaces, particularly targeting domestic fowl. Displays a preference for toads but also consumes a variety of prey including small animals, birds, eggs, lizards, and other snakes.

Ecological Importance: Plays a crucial role in pest control around human habitats. Exhibits defensive behaviour when threatened. Contributes to ecological balance by controlling potential pest populations, showcasing adaptability to diverse ecosystems.

Boomslang (dispholidus typus)

Habitat: Found in various ecosystems, from karoo scrubs [arid conditions, low rainfall, and unique vegetation adapted to semi-desert environments] to lowland forests, preferring moist areas.

Behaviour: Solitary, diurnal, arboreal [loves being alone, active during the day and loves and lives on trees], and a skilled ambush predator.

Feeding Habit: Carnivorous, preying on small arboreal [tree-living animals] lizards and frogs.

Ecological Importance: Provides food for various birds, including falcons and eagles. Learn more

Spotted Night Adder (causus maculatus)

Habitat: inhabits the forests, savannahs, and semi-deserts, active during all times of the day.

Behaviour: Slow-moving, strikes quickly, and feeds mainly on frogs.

Feeding Habit: Specializes in consuming frogs and toads.

Ecological Importance: Plays a role in maintaining balance within its habitat.

Venomous snakes, from puff adders to boomslangs, play indispensable roles in our ecosystems. They serve as nature’s pest controllers, maintaining the balance of species and preventing the overpopulation of pests that could disrupt ecosystems and agriculture. Understanding their habitats, behaviours, and feeding habits sheds light on the complex pattern of our natural world, where these serpents are not just inhabitants but vital guardians of the delicate balance that sustains life.

Photo credit (American Tarantula & Animals)

We all have a thing or two about snakes that give us the shivers. But it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Nigeria is home to a bunch of snakes, some of them pretty potent, but they’re not the monsters they’re made out to be. In this article, we’re going to introduce you to some of Nigeria’s most venomous snakes, in a way that’s easy to understand. Say goodbye to unnecessary fear, and let’s get to know these creatures for what they really are. Ready to dive in?

But hold on a second! When we talk about why we’re not fans of snakes, we tend to say, ‘Snakes are poisonous.’ But is that really true? Actually, no. They’re not poisonous. They’re dangerous, sure, but the correct term is ‘venomous.’ So, snakes are venomous, not poisonous. Now, let’s take a closer look at seven of the most venomous snakes in Nigeria. We’ll cover their key features and how to recognize them.

 Puff Adder (bitis arietans)

The Puff Adder, with its robust body and distinctive slit-like eyes, is a true camouflage artist amidst Nigeria’s grasslands and scrub. Measuring between 3 to 5 feet, it’s characterized by the classic viper traits: a triangular head, narrow neck, and a short tail. Recognizing a Puff Adder is made easier by its broad, triangular head and a pattern of dark, chevron-shaped markings along its back.

Forest Cobra (naja melanoleuca)

Allow us to introduce the diurnal (diurnal species are primarily active during daylight hours and rest or sleep during the night) Forest Cobra –  an agile climber and a daytime hunter. With its glossy black body and striking white-edged scales around the mouth, this cobra is both swift and keen-eyed. It’s known to scale trees up to a staggering 33 feet high, showcasing its remarkable climbing abilities. Identifying a Forest Cobra can be done by its sleek black body paired with a cream-coloured underbelly, along with its distinct white-edged mouth scales.

African Bush Viper (atheris squamigera)

As the night descends, the African Bush Viper awakens for its nocturnal (Night-active) hunt. These stealthy ambush predators strike from upside-down perches, boasting a broad, flat head and an impressive mouth gape. Females, typically larger, can reach up to 24 inches in length. Identifying an African Bush Viper is aided by its distinct triangular head, large mouth, and unique colouration – often featuring shades of green with dorsal scales that form a rough, keeled texture.

Black-necked Spitting Cobra (naja nigricollis)

Moderately sized, the Black-necked Spitting Cobra varies in colour but shares a fondness for small rodents. What truly sets it apart is its ability to eject venom up to an astonishing 23 feet, making it a formidable force when provoked. Recognizing a Black-necked Spitting Cobra can be done by its size, typically 3.9 to 7.2 feet in length, along with its colouration – often featuring a dark body with a distinct pattern of light bands and spots.

Egyptian Cobra (naja haje)

Sporting a large, hood-capable head, the Egyptian Cobra feasts on toads, small mammals, birds, and more. Its sturdy body and cylindrical shape are complemented by a moderately broad snout, distinguishing it from its cobra counterparts. Identifying an Egyptian Cobra is facilitated by its sleek, solid-coloured body, typically in shades of black or brown, along with the distinctive hood that it can expand when threatened.

Boomslang (dispholidus typus)

The Boomslang is a slender snake with a distinctive blunt head and captivating large eyes. These serpents can grow up to 2 meters, and their mesmerizing gaze is a hallmark of their species. Recognizing a Boomslang is aided by its slender, elongated body, along with large, forward-facing eyes and a distinct, broad head.

Spotted Night Adder (causus maculatus)

Compact yet powerful, the Spotted Night Adder boasts a stout, short-tailed frame. With a moderate-sized head and an obtuse canthus, this snake reaches a maximum length of about 0.75 meters. Identifying a Spotted Night Adder is facilitated by its small size, distinct spotted pattern along its back, and short, stubby tail.

While these seven venomous snakes may instil fear in many, it’s crucial to recognize their vital roles in their respective ecosystems. Understanding their traits and behaviours enables us to coexist safely with these captivating creatures. So, let’s celebrate the diversity of Nigeria’s snake population and continue to learn about these incredible reptiles.

*Photo credits (Wikipedia, A-Z Animals)

Let’s stay tuned for the next series of this article titled “Vital Guardians: Understanding the Role of Venomous Snakes in our Ecosystem”.

On the 26th of  October, west African conservationist Iroro Tanshi was honoured with the 2023 Pritzker Emerging Environmental Genius Award from the UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability. Tanshi won the award for conserving West Africa’s last two primary forests– the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary and Cross River National Park.

In her speech, Tashi said: “This is not just for me this is for all of us and for the nominees,” adding that “nature” was the biggest winner.

The Pritzker Award, presented annually, carries a prize of $100,000 that is funded through a portion of a $20 million gift to UCLA from the Anthony and Jeanne Pritzker Family Foundation. It is the field’s first major honour specifically for innovators in their early career — those whose work stands to benefit most from the prize money and the prestige it conveys.

Tanshi implemented an effective wildfire prevention program, informed by ecology research and community input, to warn people against dangerous burning activities on high-fire-risk days. Like many places worldwide, West African forests are threatened by wildfires that are increasing in frequency and severity due to climate change. Logging and poaching pose additional threats to the forest ecosystems.

Tanshi serves as the co-director of the Small Mammal Conservation Organization, a grassroots initiative dedicated to preserving endangered species like drill monkeys and the short-tailed roundleaf bat, all while prioritizing the well-being of local communities.

Raised in a modest oil town in southern Nigeria, Tanshi experienced the detrimental impacts of the petroleum industry on the Niger Delta firsthand. This fueled her interest in ecology and led her to initially focus on bat conservation. Over time, her dedication expanded to encompass the conservation of entire ecosystems in West Africa. Tanshi aspires to extend her efforts continent-wide through collaborative work with like-minded, community-centred conservation and research groups.

“My team has moved from just one or two staff to 75 people” in the past five years, Tanshi said. “This army of people staffing the field will work together to change firescapes, which is what they are, back to forest-scapes.”

Tanshi was nominated by Timothy Watkins Sr., president and CEO of the Watts Labor Community Action Committee, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life of South Los Angeles residents.

The other two finalists for the award were Juan Carlos Monterrey Gómez, executive director of environmental nonprofit Geoversity, and Hana Raza, chairperson of Leopards Beyond Borders.  

The panel of judges who chose Tanshi as this year’s winner was made up of Antonio Bernardo, dean of UCLA Anderson School of Management; Darnell Hunt, UCLA executive vice chancellor and provost; Jeanne Holm, deputy mayor of finance and innovation for the city of Los Angeles; Hans Mehn, a partner at Generation Investment Management; and Abel Valenzuela Jr., interim dean of social sciences and a professor at UCLA.

Tanshi received the Pritzker Award from Tony Pritzker, who founded the award and is a member of the Institute of the Environment and Sustainability’s advisory board.

UCLA Chancellor Gene Block noted the importance of the moment to the university in his remarks.

“One of our university’s great roles is to act as a convener — bringing together brilliant minds from diverse backgrounds to better understand and address the world’s pressing challenges,” Block said. “This award is a perfect example of that.”

In the rugged, water-starved landscapes where camels reign supreme, their ability to endure extended periods without a sip of water is nothing short of astonishing. Picture this: a barren environment, with less than 25 centimetres (10 inches) of rainfall annually. In this harsh setting, camels can go for weeks without a drop to drink. When they finally do take a drink, it’s a spectacle in itself – a camel can guzzle up to 25 gallons of water in one go. Now, here’s the kicker: many believe that all that water must be stored in those iconic humps. But hold on, that’s not quite right, where then does that enormous amount of water go? First, let’s find out what the deal with the hump is.

So, what’s the deal with a camel’s hump? It’s actually a storehouse of fat, meticulously stashed away to provide vital nutrients when food is scarce. When the going gets tough and sustenance is hard to come by, the camel’s body taps into this reserve, converting fat into energy to keep the camel going strong. Ever notice a sagging hump? That’s a sign that the camel’s been on a diet, so to speak. Once food’s back on the menu, the hump perks right back up. But wait, there’s more to this hump tale. It’s also a temperature regulator.

The Hump- A Thermal Regulator

In the scorching daytime heat, the fats in the camel’s hump act as a shield, soaking up the sun’s rays. Then, when the cool night descends, that stored warmth spreads throughout the camel’s body, ensuring it doesn’t catch a chill in the desert’s chilly embrace.

Bloodstream

Now, let’s tackle the second question: where does all that water go? Turns out, camels are like walking water tanks. They don’t store it in their humps, but rather in their bloodstream. And here’s where camels truly shine. Their blood cells are oval-shaped and stretchy – they can expand and contract. When water is scarce, these unique cells shape-shift to accommodate more liquid, keeping the camel hydrated even in the driest desert stretches.

So, there you have it – a camel’s hump is a multitasking marvel. It’s a fat reserve for lean times, a thermostat for temperature control, and even a water distribution centre. In the unforgiving desert, these humps are a lifeline, helping camels not just survive, but thrive. The hump is tailor-made for a harsh and demanding habitat.

Economic trees, found in urban areas, hold more than just ornamental value. They contribute significantly to both local communities and the global economy. These trees bear fruits, provide valuable timber, and play a vital role in environmental preservation. In this article, we will delve into the utilization and significance of economic trees, emphasizing their pivotal role in sustainable development. We’ll explore specific examples, the benefits they offer, and the challenges they face in today’s world, such as deforestation and climate change.

Versatile Utilizations of Economic Trees:

Timber Production: One of the primary uses of economic trees is for timber production. Trees like oak, teak, and mahogany are highly sought after for their quality wood, which is used in construction, furniture making, and various industries.

Fruit Trees: Trees like apples, mangoes, walnuts, and cashews are cultivated for their edible fruits and nuts. These provide essential nutrition and income for communities, contributing to food security and livelihoods.

Medicinal Properties: Many trees have medicinal properties. For instance, the bark of the cinchona tree is a source of quinine, used to treat malaria. The Neem tree is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Oilseed Trees: Trees like the oil palm and coconut trees are cultivated for their oil-rich fruits. These oils have various industrial applications and are used in cooking, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Environmental Benefits:

Carbon absorption: Economic trees are vital in mitigating climate change. They absorb and store carbon dioxide, helping to reduce greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.

Biodiversity Conservation: These trees provide home and food sources for a diverse range of wildlife, supporting ecosystems and biodiversity.

Economic Significance:

Employment Generation: The cultivation and harvesting of economic trees create jobs for millions of people globally, particularly in rural areas.

Income Generation: Through the sale of timber, fruits, nuts, and other products, economic trees contribute significantly to the income of individuals and communities.

Challenges and Conservation:

Deforestation: Cutting down trees and using land in an unsustainable way is a danger to many valuable economic tree species. Efforts to combat deforestation and promote sustainable forestry are crucial.

Pest and Disease Management: Economic trees are vulnerable to various pests and diseases. Research and management strategies are essential to protect tree populations.

So in summary, economic trees are an integral part of our global ecosystem, providing a wide array of benefits from economic prosperity to environmental sustainability. Recognizing their significance and implementing sustainable practices in their cultivation and management is essential for a balanced and thriving future.

World Food Day, on October 16, marks the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1945. This year’s theme, “Water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind,” spotlights water’s crucial role in agriculture and survival. It’s more than just celebrating food; it’s a call to action against global hunger. This day also aims to educate on healthy diets. Observed in 150 countries and 50 languages, World Food Day, established by the FAO in 1979, advocates for responsible food practices globally.

The theme “Water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind” stresses water’s significance in agriculture and its impact on food production. Recognising water’s finite supply, World Food Day underscores its vital role in sustaining life on Earth.

What Can You Do To Celebrate This Day?

1. Donate to a Food Bank or Charity: Provide essential food items or monetary donations to local food banks, including cookies, canned goods, beverages, and grains.
2. Contribute to Charitable Causes: Support charities through fundraising efforts, ranging from events to sponsored activities. Raise awareness and funds for those in need.
3. Explore Food Origins: Visit farms, dairies, or open-kitchen restaurants to gain insight into the effort behind food production.
4. Participate in Events: Attend local World Food Day events, including concerts, contests, cultural performances, exhibitions, hunger marches, and marathons.
5. Learn about Global Hunger: Research how different countries, like Kenya, address food scarcity. Understand the challenges and initiatives in combating hunger worldwide.
6. Discover Worldwide Initiatives: Investigate how over 150 countries observe World Food Day through conferences, campaigns, and events.
7. Promote Food Security: Engage in conferences like Mongolia’s Food Security conference, emphasizing research and policies to enhance food security.
8. Educate in Schools: Organize special ceremonies in schools to educate students about the significance of World Food Day, as seen in Cyprus.
9. Engage in Exhibitions and Conferences: Participate in events hosted by NGOs, international agencies, research institutions, and ministries, as seen in Italy.

Support Vulnerable Communities:

Contribute to initiatives targeting urban families facing food insecurity, as practised in the Philippines and Pakistan.

These activities offer various avenues to engage with World Food Day and make a positive impact on global food security.

Despite the world producing more than enough food, one in nine people still suffer from hunger, mainly in rural areas. This lack of food leads to health problems like malnutrition and chronic diseases.

Shocking figures from the FAO tell us that 670 million adults and 120 million kids (ages 5 to 18) struggle with obesity. This is because many are turning to processed, unhealthy foods. That’s why World Food Day focuses on spreading the message about balanced, healthy diets. It also supports farmers and teaches about sustainable farming. Educating people about how to fight global hunger is crucial for saving lives.

According to an article posted by panda.org a while ago, about 200 and 2000 extinctions occur every year, and loss of animals due to poaching, to stop this, wildlife conservation is of prime importance. There are many reasons for wildlife conservation, and this article will discuss them, but to better understand this article, we need to get some terms right.

Ecosystem: A community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) in conjunction with the nonliving components of their environment (such as air, water, and mineral soil), interacting as a system.

Extinction is the process of species, family, or other group of animals or plants having no living members; and no longer in existence.

Poaching: Illegal hunting, capturing, or killing of wildlife, often for trade, food, or other purposes.

Ecosystem Services: The benefits that humans derive from ecosystems, including provisioning services (e.g., food, water), regulating services (e.g., climate control, disease regulation), and cultural services (e.g., recreation, spiritual and cultural values).

Wildlife Conservation is the practice of preserving wildlife by protecting them and their habitat  

Alright, with these terms in mind, let’s see the importance of wildlife conservation:

Importance of Wildlife Conservation

In the first three, note the importance of wildlife conservation to the ecosystem 

1. Biodiversity Conservation – Wildlife consists of variations of life forms on Earth, Biodiversity is essential for maintaining the stability and resilience of the ecosystem, since different species play unique roles in their respective habitats. Learn more 
2. Ecosystem Services – Many wildlife species provide essential ecosystem services for human survival. For example, pollinators like bees and butterflies are essential for the reproduction of countless plant species.
3. Ecological Balance – Predators like lions and tigers can help keep the populations of prey like antelope in check, preventing the overpopulation of some species, without this, the ecosystem will be unstable. Learn more

The other importance are these:

1. Human Livelihoods – Many communities depend on wildlife for their livelihoods, through tourism, hunting (regulated and sustainable practices), and the use of natural resources. Conserving wildlife ensures the economic well-being of these communities.
2. Scientific and Medical Discoveries – Wildlife and their habitats are sources of inspiration for scientific research and medical discoveries. Studying wildlife can lead to advancements in various fields, from genetics to pharmaceuticals, as well as our understanding of natural processes.
3. Aesthetic and Cultural Value – Wildlife has intrinsic value and is an important part of many cultures and traditions. It enriches our lives through its aesthetic appeal, and many people derive joy and inspiration from observing and interacting with wildlife.
4. Climate Change Mitigation – Forests and other natural habitats, which often house diverse wildlife populations, play a critical role in sequestering carbon dioxide and mitigating climate change. Protecting these habitats helps combat climate change.
5. Education and Awareness – Wildlife conservation efforts provide opportunities for education and raising awareness about the importance of nature and the need to protect it. This can lead to more informed and environmentally conscious citizens.
6. Moral and Ethical Considerations – Many people believe that all species have an intrinsic right to exist and that humans have a moral and ethical responsibility to prevent species extinction caused by human activities.
7. Genetic Diversity – Wildlife populations often harbour unique genetic traits and adaptations that may be valuable for breeding programs, research, or future conservation efforts.

In summary, wildlife conservation is vital for maintaining the health of our planet, preserving biodiversity, supporting human well-being, and upholding ethical and cultural values. It requires the collective efforts of individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to ensure the survival and thriving of the Earth’s diverse wildlife.

Every year on the 4th of October, the annual festival of animals is celebrated, acknowledging the diversity of the animal kingdom and reflecting on the importance of the welfare of animals around the world. Today, the 2023 celebration of World Animal Day is celebrated under the theme: “Great or small, Love them all”. Just as the theme implies, it implores us —Each and everyone that no matter how small an animal may seem to be, their lives matter. This year’s festival is a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for the welfare of animals. This special day reminds us that animals, regardless of their size or species, play a vital role in our ecosystem and deserve our love, respect, and protection. It emphasises the importance of cherishing every creature and the equal value of lives that share our planet.

Just like it’s been previously mentioned, every animal has its role in balancing our ecosystem. Predators, like lions and tigers, help regulate prey populations, ensuring that ecosystems remain healthy. Insects, often disregarded, are the heroes of pollination, enabling the reproduction of countless plant species and providing the foundation of many food chains.

Domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, offer companionship and support to humans, demonstrating the profound impact animals can have on our emotional well-being. Additionally, farm animals like cows, chickens, and pigs provide us with sustenance and livelihoods for millions of people worldwide.

Significance 

The Significance of World Animal Day:

Originated by cynologist Heinrich Zimmermann and first organised on 24 March 1925 in Germany, World Animal Day was conceived as a platform to spotlight the plight of endangered species and galvanize efforts towards animal conservation. Over the years, it has transformed into a powerful day of action, education, and celebration, uniting animal enthusiasts, advocates, and organizations on a global scale.

This commemorative event serves as a unifying force, uniting for kinder treatment of animals worldwide. It stands as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to safeguard and nurture the diverse species that coexist with us on this planet.

Support The Movement

What are some wonderful ways you can contribute to the welfare and conservation of animals? Here are some ways you can support them:

1. If you’re thinking of having a pet, adopt from a rescue organisation or a shelter instead of buying from a breeder. This helps to care for animals in need.
2. Offer your time and skills to local animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centres, or conservation organizations.
3. Support organisations working to protect wildlife by donating.
4. Choose products and services that are environmentally responsible. This helps protect the habitats of wildlife around the world. Learn more
5. Reduce meat consumption, and eat more plant-based foods to minimise harm to farm animals.
6. Avoid the use of harmful pesticides.
7. Learn more about different species, ecosystems, and conservation efforts and share this knowledge with others to raise awareness.

On this World Animal Day, we want to come together to celebrate the incredible diversity of life on Earth. From the smallest insects to the largest mammals, every creature has a vital role to play. By appreciating, respecting and protecting animals of all sizes, we ensure a more harmonious and sustainable future for our planet and all its inhabitants. Great or small, let us love them all. Show some extra love for your companions at home, this day is for them!

A Sit-Down with Martins Egot, Executive Director of Panacea for Developmental and Infrastructural Challenges for Africa Initiative (PADIC-AFRICA), Formerly Known as Development Concerns (DEVCON). In the interview with Mike Abang, the discussion primarily revolved around various issues concerning the Cross River National Park and the Community forest. One key topic addressed was the government’s decision to grant licenses to two mining firms within the Cross River National Park. Regarding this, Abang expressed his sentiments in the following statement:

“Apart from the fact that the environmental organisation is very concerned about the environment of Cross River State and its forest communities, we have been in very close partnership with the Cross River National Park for over ten years now. They have been part of building the capacity of the community eco-guards that we train and support to take care of, manage and carry out surveillance and protection of community forests. The National Park has been very cooperative and they have been seeing results from our partnership but this same National Park is being encroached. For example, in Ofumkpa, where this mining activity is happening, for two years now we have been having joint patrols with the National Park officers, Rangers and the community eco-guards that we put together in Ofumkpa, and they have been protecting the forests together. But suddenly, we hear that there is a licence given to companies to mine, there is so much disaster in that place and for us, it is very disheartening.”

Abang also voiced his concerns for the National Park facing imminent mining. He highlighted that Cross River State has been in a prolonged struggle against deforestation, an ongoing challenge. The region has witnessed significant damage due to activities like timber exploitation and uncontrolled deforestation, resulting in severe environmental harm. Amidst this ongoing battle, three distinct forest management systems played pivotal roles: Community Forests, Government Reserves, and the last stronghold of conservation, the National Park.

The Sanctity of the National Park

During the interview, when asked about the mandate of the National Park, Martins emphasized its significance. Established under the National Park Service Act, the National Park serves as the ultimate guardian of its ecosystem. Its primary directive is straightforward: safeguard and foster the diverse array of life within its confines. However, despite explicit prohibitions against mining, trespasses continued, posing a fundamental threat to its sanctity. This quote underscores his claim:

“The National Park Service Act (2006) unequivocally underscores that national parks are sanctuaries meant exclusively for the propagation, protection and management of vegetation and wildlife. Notably, Section 22 of the Act delineates the functions of Management Committees, reinforcing the exclusive dedication of national parks to the propagation, protection and management of vegetation and wildlife.

Section 29 makes an offence for any unauthorised person to go into the National Park without the permission of the Conservator-General. Mining activities are explicitly prohibited in section 30(1) of the Act which says, a person who, unless authorised to do so under this Act or the regulations under this Act, carries out an undertaking connected with forestry, agriculture, grazing or excavation or does any levelling of the ground or construction or any act tending to alter the configuration of the soil or the character of the vegetation; or does an act likely to disturb the fauna or flora; or engages in drilling, mining, prospecting or exploration of any kind of natural resources, is guilty of an offence.

The National Park, therefore, has the mandate to manage and protect the National Park and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development should not in any way, give out leasing rights to any mining company in the National Park and they know this. We are trying to get to the appropriate authorities to ensure that this is reversed as soon as possible. As we speak, it is still happening in Ofumkpa.”

Martins Egot fervently believed that the National Park held the potential to not only sustain the ecological balance but also to benefit the state and its people economically. Responsible tourism, he argued, could transform the park into a source of sustainable revenue, bridging the gap between conservation and livelihoods. While dissenting voices questioned the tangible benefits of the National Park, Martins Egot understood that its true value transcended monetary reckoning. It was the lifeblood of a delicate ecosystem, a sanctuary for a myriad of species, each playing a crucial role in the intricate web of life.

Empathy for Communities

Martins Ergot spoke on the threat these actions have to the communities. He said: “Yes. At some point, we pity them and want to reason with them, even though they are not completely right. I have been engaging directly with the Ofumkpa people, we have been working closely and they have been part of our patrols, listening closely to our conservation debates and discussions and they participate. When this happened, we took them on and they said they were accepting these people because they were promising roads, schools, employment and little stipends for working with them at the mining site. These are the things that pull and push communities to be part of it and we do not blame them, it is life survival as a community; because these communities neither have good roads nor schools and the people there are very poor. Our governments that are supposed to be supporting communities with all these amenities are not forthcoming. Again, the National Park Authority which is supposed to be empowered to engage well in these communities and provide for the communities, is not doing that. We talk about livelihood but what degree of livelihood projects are we pushing to these community people? We empathise and sympathise with the community people and so in that direction, I will be calling on the Federal and state governments, even international NGOs to intervene.”

A Call for Collaborative Action

Martins Egot’s wisdom echoed through the trees, urging governments and NGOs to join hands with the communities. Building bridges, he believed, was the key to safeguarding both the cherished lands and the livelihoods of those who called them home. The battle for the Cross River National Park continues, a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who dare to stand as guardians of the forest. In this emerald realm, voices rise in unison, unwavering in their commitment to preserve this natural wonder for generations.