News
It all started with a presentation by Sion Henshaw, our Fauna Manager in the kiosk next to the Pink Pigeon feeders in the cold and rainy weather. Sion provided an overview of our work to protect the five of the rarest birds of Mauritius namely the Pink Pigeon, the Echo Parakeet, the Mauritius Kestrel, the Mauritian Fody and the Olive-White Eye. The Fauna manager also took some time explaining how introduced invasive species like mice, mongoose and monkeys were a big threat to our endemic species’ chicks and eggs. As the rain calmed down the group went on the planned walk on the Macchabe Forest trail to the Macchabe viewpoint.
This trail has magnificent viewpoints showing the wonders of nature. Lovely waterfalls could be admired on the other side of the gorges while the spectacle of a beautiful rainbow enhanced the sight. White-tailed Tropicbird could be seen flying above our heads much to the delight of the participants.
Along the way, conversations were directed towards the birds that could possibly be spotted in this region. Soon enough, the journalists had a glimpse of some of them. A few Echo Parakeets were seen flying over the canopy while a couple of Mascarene Paradise Flycatchers were observing the passers-by. The group also saw a few Mauritius Bulbul perched on branches. As the group of journalists made it to the Macchabe Viewpoint, they were struck by the panoramic show that was offered to them with a view of the mesmerising landscapes and native forests.
These sessions with journalists are very important for the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation. Saving the endemic and native fauna and flora of Mauritius through well-thought and revolutionary projects has always been MWF’s prime objective but, to achieve this and make sure that these species survive in the long-term, creating awareness amongst the population is a must. By sensitising journalists, we are also contributing to helping sensitise the public as the press can reach large sections of the population through articles in newspapers or online and through radio and TV programmes.
The Connecting with Nature Programme was set up in 2020 following the Education Strategy workshop facilitated by Chester Zoo held in September 2019. The programme comprises awareness events relative to the conservation of endemic flora and fauna of Mauritius with various audiences. For example, school children get better acquainted with the biodiversity of Mauritius through presentations, discussion sessions and games. They are sensitised to the threats to the native ecosystem and learn about the problems caused by introduced invasive species.
In addition to students, the programme is designed to reach teachers and heads of schools. Furthermore, other sections of the Mauritian public are included as intended audiences in the programme.
The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation would like to thank our partners, the Forestry Service, and the National Parks & Conservation Service for their support in this education programme and the Mauritius Commercial Bank, who is the exclusive funder.
