News

In November and December this year Falklands Conservation will undertake a penguin census which will provide essential information on breeding sites and colonies to determine action for the protection of the wonderful seabirds. Penguins are an extremely important feature to the Falkland Islands and Falklands Conservation need to raise £30,000 to undertake this vital work which will cover boat charter, essential survey equipment and data analysis. Please email sarah.brennan@conservation.org.fk for further information or to make a donation.

Dale Evans has always been interested in natural history and earlier this year he made an extremely important discovery near his home at Spring Point Farm, on West Falkland. He uncovered the skull of Warrah. The Warrah, or Falklands Wolf, is the Islands’ only native land mammal but has been extinct for over 130 years. There are actually only six complete specimens in the world, all of which were collected in the 1800s, so Dale’s discovery is extremely exciting. The specimen has recently been sent to the UK for testing.

(Penguin News)

The group outside the Houses of Parliment 10th August 2010

Eight Girl Guides from the Falkland Islands, accompanied by two team leaders, made the 15,826 mile round-trip to attend the Centenary Camp, at Harewood House in Leeds on 31^st – 7^th August. The group have been fundraising for 18 months organising a variety of children’s discos, bazaars, raffles, dinners and dances, sponsored activities and organising refreshments at Farmer’s Week and shows to raise the £20,000 needed for the trip. Before the group left, Christine Scipio-O’Dean (Branch Commissioner) said, “We’re extremely excited to be taking part in the Camp it is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

After completing the Centenary Camp, the group travelled to attend a second camp at Waddow Hall in Lancashire and did some sightseeing, including a trip to Falkland House and the Houses of Parliament in London, before enjoying the rest of the holidays in various locations.

Last Sunday dozens of Islanders turned out to complete a charity trek to raise money for the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. People of all ages raised over £250 for the worthy cause.

(Penguin News)

Restoration work has begun on two sites which were recently cleared of landmines in the Falkland Islands. A group of 20 volunteers, led by Dr Rebecca Upson from Falklands Conservation, planted grasses in two areas of Surf Bay. The grasses will prevent soil erosion whilst the areas are void of vegetation.

 (Penguin News)