3rd Year Marine Biology student - Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT)
Today’s Date: April 8, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
The very first time I encounter a hawksbill turtle nesting during my internship with WWF-Malaysia in April 2007.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Malaysia's National Zoo
Now? Any beach
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
The owl in general because the animal is a symbol of wisdom to many and an excellent predator.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Currently would be global warming, and I predict that the greatest challenge in the future would be having to find ways to control the world's population.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Be more proactive to save environment by taking whatever steps necessary to save our home for the future.
Thanks to my sister Michelle McIlroy for designing the logo!
May 03, 2008
Satya Prakash Mehra
Senior Project Officer - WWF-India
Today’s Date: 8 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Decline in population of very common species -House Crows (Corvus splendens) in my residence area (Ganeshnagar, Udaipur, rajasthan, India). (There is rituals among Indians when they call crows to eat food as we feel that our ancestors come in this form and give blessings of well being.) But in 1980s when we use to call them I could not found them in nearby localities. This caused my concern towards adopting career in the field of wildlife when I will enter my graduation.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Natural places (especially which is not commonly visited) in the world's oldest hill ranges – Aravallis - which surround my childhood place Udaipur.
Now? Again the deep forest patches of aravallis especially Mt Abu (Sirohi, Rajasthan, India) and Sitamata Forests (southern parts of Rajasthan distributed in Udaipur, Chittorgarh & Pratapgarh districts)
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Very hard to say, but still I will love to state the name of our endemic bird species Green Munia or Green Avadavat (Amandava formosa).
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
In my views, it is loss of forests (habitat of wild animals) all over the world is the greatest challenge which we are facing now. Increase in Carbon dioxide level and resulting
Climatic change is the greatest challenge of future.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Individual effort could contribute lot to check the further environment deterioration at every step of our normal schedule works.
Today’s Date: 8 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Decline in population of very common species -House Crows (Corvus splendens) in my residence area (Ganeshnagar, Udaipur, rajasthan, India). (There is rituals among Indians when they call crows to eat food as we feel that our ancestors come in this form and give blessings of well being.) But in 1980s when we use to call them I could not found them in nearby localities. This caused my concern towards adopting career in the field of wildlife when I will enter my graduation.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Natural places (especially which is not commonly visited) in the world's oldest hill ranges – Aravallis - which surround my childhood place Udaipur.
Now? Again the deep forest patches of aravallis especially Mt Abu (Sirohi, Rajasthan, India) and Sitamata Forests (southern parts of Rajasthan distributed in Udaipur, Chittorgarh & Pratapgarh districts)
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Very hard to say, but still I will love to state the name of our endemic bird species Green Munia or Green Avadavat (Amandava formosa).
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
In my views, it is loss of forests (habitat of wild animals) all over the world is the greatest challenge which we are facing now. Increase in Carbon dioxide level and resulting
Climatic change is the greatest challenge of future.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Individual effort could contribute lot to check the further environment deterioration at every step of our normal schedule works.
Tim Gamble
Sustainable Future (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SustainableFuture)
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I grew up spending most of my free time in nature. My grandfather on my father's side owned a small family farm. Both he and my other grandfather would take me hunting and fishing often. I was in the Boy Scouts during my teen years and loved the hiking and camping. As an adult, my career has been in natural history museums. I've had the opportunity to participate in a number of biodiversity studies and wildlife conservation programs. I've always felt a great connection with nature and have always felt most comfortable - most at home - outdoors, surrounded by all of Creation.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I was happy wherever I was, as long as it was outdoors. But if I had to name a favorite place it would probably be my grandfather's farm. It was a real old-fashioned family farm, not a modern factory farm. There was lots of open space, meadows I could play in, as well as wooded areas. I remember my grandfather teaching me the names of the trees, birds, snakes and the other living things that abounded on his land. I also worked on many of my Scouting merit badges on his farm. I earned most of the nature oriented badges - forestry, nature, bird study, animal science, botany, environmental science, insect life...
Now? I am still happiest when I am outdoors, no matter where I happen to be. I most love the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Wow, that is a tough question. So many come to mind. Oddly enough, I've never been much of a pet person, though I have had a few over the years. Mostly, I prefer the wild animals. I guess I envy their freedom. If I had to pick a favorite, I think I would choose the birds of prey, especially the hawks. There is something about their power, majesty and freedom that draws me to them.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Deforestation. Trees are an incredibly valuable resource. In fact, trees are at least part of the answer to virtually every environmental and economic problem the world faces. If we are to solve our planet's ills, reforestation efforts are vital.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Plant trees. Lots and lots of trees. Trees to fight climate change. Trees to improve air quality. Trees to control flooding. Trees to stop soil erosion. Trees to maintain freshwater supplies. Trees to restore ecosystems and to increase biodiversity. Trees to feed the world (trees are much more productive per acre than livestock or grain crops).
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I grew up spending most of my free time in nature. My grandfather on my father's side owned a small family farm. Both he and my other grandfather would take me hunting and fishing often. I was in the Boy Scouts during my teen years and loved the hiking and camping. As an adult, my career has been in natural history museums. I've had the opportunity to participate in a number of biodiversity studies and wildlife conservation programs. I've always felt a great connection with nature and have always felt most comfortable - most at home - outdoors, surrounded by all of Creation.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I was happy wherever I was, as long as it was outdoors. But if I had to name a favorite place it would probably be my grandfather's farm. It was a real old-fashioned family farm, not a modern factory farm. There was lots of open space, meadows I could play in, as well as wooded areas. I remember my grandfather teaching me the names of the trees, birds, snakes and the other living things that abounded on his land. I also worked on many of my Scouting merit badges on his farm. I earned most of the nature oriented badges - forestry, nature, bird study, animal science, botany, environmental science, insect life...
Now? I am still happiest when I am outdoors, no matter where I happen to be. I most love the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Wow, that is a tough question. So many come to mind. Oddly enough, I've never been much of a pet person, though I have had a few over the years. Mostly, I prefer the wild animals. I guess I envy their freedom. If I had to pick a favorite, I think I would choose the birds of prey, especially the hawks. There is something about their power, majesty and freedom that draws me to them.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Deforestation. Trees are an incredibly valuable resource. In fact, trees are at least part of the answer to virtually every environmental and economic problem the world faces. If we are to solve our planet's ills, reforestation efforts are vital.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Plant trees. Lots and lots of trees. Trees to fight climate change. Trees to improve air quality. Trees to control flooding. Trees to stop soil erosion. Trees to maintain freshwater supplies. Trees to restore ecosystems and to increase biodiversity. Trees to feed the world (trees are much more productive per acre than livestock or grain crops).
William Adams
Calif. State Parks
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Birding
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The woods
Now? Oregon coast, Oregon woods
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I think I am deeply in love with the big cats, cheetah, leopard and puma. They seem to embody the beauty and wild of nature.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Human encroachment on habitat, now and into the future. Every animal except homo sapiens will be extinct some day.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Vote Democrat
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Birding
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The woods
Now? Oregon coast, Oregon woods
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
I think I am deeply in love with the big cats, cheetah, leopard and puma. They seem to embody the beauty and wild of nature.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Human encroachment on habitat, now and into the future. Every animal except homo sapiens will be extinct some day.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Vote Democrat
Kaitlin Fahey
Graduate Student - Dalhousie University
Today’s Date: April 7, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
the redwoods in northern CA
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
my backyard, the Maine woods! And Sebago Lake which was down the street
Now? the Atlantic Ocean
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Right now it is the leatherback turtle- why? b/c I am writing my graduate thesis on them and they are amazing creatures!!
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
getting people to care enough to alter they way they do everyday things..
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
stop ignoring the voice in your heart that wants to care about all the little green things on our planet..
Today’s Date: April 7, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
the redwoods in northern CA
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
my backyard, the Maine woods! And Sebago Lake which was down the street
Now? the Atlantic Ocean
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Right now it is the leatherback turtle- why? b/c I am writing my graduate thesis on them and they are amazing creatures!!
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
getting people to care enough to alter they way they do everyday things..
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
stop ignoring the voice in your heart that wants to care about all the little green things on our planet..
Jeff Holmes
Private citizen
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
This is a tough question, but it may go way back to when I was a kid and had a pet cat that slept on my chest each night. Interestingly now I do not own a cat and despise those that stalk my birdfeeder. Or it could be the fact that my parents used to take us camping.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The woods behind my house in Massachusetts.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Used to be a zebra (don't know why). Now, probably a snowy owl because they are so cool.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
The use of fossil fuels. Human population.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Treat it like it is your own, because it is.
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
This is a tough question, but it may go way back to when I was a kid and had a pet cat that slept on my chest each night. Interestingly now I do not own a cat and despise those that stalk my birdfeeder. Or it could be the fact that my parents used to take us camping.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The woods behind my house in Massachusetts.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Used to be a zebra (don't know why). Now, probably a snowy owl because they are so cool.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
The use of fossil fuels. Human population.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Treat it like it is your own, because it is.
D. Jody Owens
PhD candidate, USF Applied Anthropology (and teacher, Hillsborough County, Florida)
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
First, growing up in a small town and playing outdoors every day. As an adult, spending 3 days in Ely, Minnesota for a black bear field study, where we observed, followed and to some extent interacted with black bears in the wild. The organization is Wildlife Research Institute. Although I am a big nature fan anyway, this was a huge life changing experience.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the woods near my home.
Now? Wooded areas with few signs of humans (wetlands, uplands, hills, mountains are all special to me)
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Bears in general, and black bears in particular. They are solitary in nature, extremely intelligent, generally good natured, have a highly developed sense of play, are loving and extremely caring mothers, and have amazing communication skills (and yes, I realize that humans do not typically agree that "loving" can be attributed to animals - obviously I disagree).
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Overpopulation combined with overconsumption. Future - Same, resulting in continued deterioration of water and air and loss of biodiversity.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Continue to maintain and protect sufficient habitat for other forms of life, including the food, water and shelter that these life forms need. If we can do this, we will also be focused on preserving natural resources for humans.
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
First, growing up in a small town and playing outdoors every day. As an adult, spending 3 days in Ely, Minnesota for a black bear field study, where we observed, followed and to some extent interacted with black bears in the wild. The organization is Wildlife Research Institute. Although I am a big nature fan anyway, this was a huge life changing experience.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the woods near my home.
Now? Wooded areas with few signs of humans (wetlands, uplands, hills, mountains are all special to me)
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Bears in general, and black bears in particular. They are solitary in nature, extremely intelligent, generally good natured, have a highly developed sense of play, are loving and extremely caring mothers, and have amazing communication skills (and yes, I realize that humans do not typically agree that "loving" can be attributed to animals - obviously I disagree).
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Overpopulation combined with overconsumption. Future - Same, resulting in continued deterioration of water and air and loss of biodiversity.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Continue to maintain and protect sufficient habitat for other forms of life, including the food, water and shelter that these life forms need. If we can do this, we will also be focused on preserving natural resources for humans.
Raju Acharya Sharma
Friends of Nature Nepal (www.fonnepal.org)
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I have involved a decade period in participatory biodiversity conservation program. People are suffering from the different predator species. When people ask, how to conserve their lives? How to conserve their livestock? I never can answer in well manner. I am always thinking, how to resolve it.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Lake near my home, Pokhara, Kaski , Nepal
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Cheer Pheasant, very difficult to locate them in natural condition.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Conservationists are really not working by heart and political parties not supporting the nature related works
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Do not expect any results; just do conservation work for your own existence in the earth.
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I have involved a decade period in participatory biodiversity conservation program. People are suffering from the different predator species. When people ask, how to conserve their lives? How to conserve their livestock? I never can answer in well manner. I am always thinking, how to resolve it.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Lake near my home, Pokhara, Kaski , Nepal
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Cheer Pheasant, very difficult to locate them in natural condition.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Conservationists are really not working by heart and political parties not supporting the nature related works
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Do not expect any results; just do conservation work for your own existence in the earth.
Warren W. Aney
Senior Wildlife Ecologist (self-employed/semi-retired)
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Impact? Wild animals generally have tried to avoid me so we have never had an impact event. And I tried to avoid falling off cliffs or running into trees, so never had this kind of impact event with nature. That is, unless you count the time I tried to avoid impacting a rabbit with my pickup and my wife slid off the slick seat and impacted the dashboard (no seat belt). Seriously, I have had many events with animals and nature that had an effect on me and it would be difficult to pick out one as the "biggest" -- there's the effect of the first deer I killed, seeing a cougar skirt through the trees while on a wilderness horseback trip, watching otters play on a beach in Alaska, or just taking a group of city kids on an exploratory walk through a bit of wildland forest.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The riverbed, islands and cliffbanks of the bedrock channel of the Umatilla River right off our backyard.
Now? Steens Mountain in Oregon's portion of the northern Great Basin
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
The river otter -- because it knows how to play and avoid taking everything too seriously
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Economic growth and human overconsumption, both now and in the future.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
My advice would be to avoid saying "impact" when you mean "effect" -- or maybe my better advice would be to effectively invest yourself and your time in the natural world; be a firsthand participant in nature by observing, interacting, exploring, examining, sketching, recording, camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, watching, calling, climbing, listening, smelling, eating and otherwise being a part of this wonder-filled realm. And make sure your our children have the same experiences.
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Impact? Wild animals generally have tried to avoid me so we have never had an impact event. And I tried to avoid falling off cliffs or running into trees, so never had this kind of impact event with nature. That is, unless you count the time I tried to avoid impacting a rabbit with my pickup and my wife slid off the slick seat and impacted the dashboard (no seat belt). Seriously, I have had many events with animals and nature that had an effect on me and it would be difficult to pick out one as the "biggest" -- there's the effect of the first deer I killed, seeing a cougar skirt through the trees while on a wilderness horseback trip, watching otters play on a beach in Alaska, or just taking a group of city kids on an exploratory walk through a bit of wildland forest.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The riverbed, islands and cliffbanks of the bedrock channel of the Umatilla River right off our backyard.
Now? Steens Mountain in Oregon's portion of the northern Great Basin
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
The river otter -- because it knows how to play and avoid taking everything too seriously
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Economic growth and human overconsumption, both now and in the future.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
My advice would be to avoid saying "impact" when you mean "effect" -- or maybe my better advice would be to effectively invest yourself and your time in the natural world; be a firsthand participant in nature by observing, interacting, exploring, examining, sketching, recording, camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, watching, calling, climbing, listening, smelling, eating and otherwise being a part of this wonder-filled realm. And make sure your our children have the same experiences.
Maiken Winter
Dr. – Cornell University
Today’s Date: April 7, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
My first observation of a winter wren when I was about 10 years old, realizing that that loud song came from such a small bird.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, and old chestnut tree in a park in Munich.
Now? The prairies in the Northern Great Plains
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
The European Robin. It has beautiful big black eyes, and sings very beautifully.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Climate change, combined with habitat loss - climate change combined with disease outbreaks in the future
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Realize that we are part of nature and are dependent upon it entirely.
Today’s Date: April 7, 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
My first observation of a winter wren when I was about 10 years old, realizing that that loud song came from such a small bird.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, and old chestnut tree in a park in Munich.
Now? The prairies in the Northern Great Plains
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
The European Robin. It has beautiful big black eyes, and sings very beautifully.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Climate change, combined with habitat loss - climate change combined with disease outbreaks in the future
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Realize that we are part of nature and are dependent upon it entirely.
Scott A. Smith
Eastern Region Ecologist – MD DNR, Wildlife & Heritage Services
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I have had so many interactions my whole life I don’t know that I could say any one has had the greatest impact on me. I have lived and studied wildlife in 3 North American deserts, been out to sea studying whales and seabirds, studied rattlesnakes, bog turtles, etc.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The woods and floodplains of the Quinnipiac River, central CT, which were behind my house on a neighbor’s property – I trespassed daily. That was the start. However, my soul will always be in the high peaks of the White Mountains in NH, which I backpacked every chance I could in my mid-late teens and 20’s.
Now? Now, the Whites would still be my favorite, though the Chihuahuan desert in New Mexico and Sonoran Desert In AZ are close seconds.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Tough question. For much of my life it was Bald Eagle due to their beauty and power, plus they were the first animal I got paid (pittance) to study (in AZ) in an awesome place. Now, its probably bog turtles, just because I have studied them for so long and am hooked on their behavior and tenacity. They have survived so far while the world around them has changed dramatically. Living here you learn to appreciate the small, small patches of remnant grandeur compared to many places I have lived and worked. Bog turtles are a reminder of the value of small things, part of larger systems.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Us. Us.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Discover coprophagy. Cats not kids. Oops, that’s two pieces of advice.
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I have had so many interactions my whole life I don’t know that I could say any one has had the greatest impact on me. I have lived and studied wildlife in 3 North American deserts, been out to sea studying whales and seabirds, studied rattlesnakes, bog turtles, etc.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The woods and floodplains of the Quinnipiac River, central CT, which were behind my house on a neighbor’s property – I trespassed daily. That was the start. However, my soul will always be in the high peaks of the White Mountains in NH, which I backpacked every chance I could in my mid-late teens and 20’s.
Now? Now, the Whites would still be my favorite, though the Chihuahuan desert in New Mexico and Sonoran Desert In AZ are close seconds.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Tough question. For much of my life it was Bald Eagle due to their beauty and power, plus they were the first animal I got paid (pittance) to study (in AZ) in an awesome place. Now, its probably bog turtles, just because I have studied them for so long and am hooked on their behavior and tenacity. They have survived so far while the world around them has changed dramatically. Living here you learn to appreciate the small, small patches of remnant grandeur compared to many places I have lived and worked. Bog turtles are a reminder of the value of small things, part of larger systems.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Us. Us.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Discover coprophagy. Cats not kids. Oops, that’s two pieces of advice.
Jesse Rothacker
President - Forgotten Friend, Inc. www.forgottenfriend.org
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Hard to narrow it down to one experience, but generally finding and photographing reptiles and amphibians in the wild is the greatest impact for me. Timber rattlesnakes, vern pools full of amphibs and eggs, gators in the south, hognoses playing dead, red efts dotting the forest floor with brilliant orange, bald eagles soaring, beavers chopping up branches and swimming back to the dam with them....amazing!
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Not really. Didn't see the wild much when I lived in suburban Orange County, CA. But I was captivated by wild lizards and other herps, like most boys.
Now? I definitely have a few favorite spots, but it's hard to narrow down. Ohiopyle, PA has the rapids and beautiful surrounding area. A couple spots around PA are full of herps and great for exploring. My wife always gets annoyed when we walk the dogs because I have to check under rocks and logs :)
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Can't claim a favorite, but if I had to choose only one reptile species to keep it would be my sulcatta tortoises. It is amazing getting up in the morning and watching their routine. They wake up cold and stretch out in the sun. Then they warm up after basking for a little bit, and start moving. Then they walk the yard and graze all day long, sometimes interacting with each other. They take a siesta when it's too hot, and stir again in the late afternoon. It is fascinating to watch them and care for them, and it helps me gain a better understanding of the way reptiles spend their days; how simple they are, and also how complex they are.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Habitat loss for sure. We have huge human populations that continue to grow, and they have to live somewhere. I think many people understand the fact that we need to appreciate and conserve wildlife. But when people need a place to live, they are going to continue building. I think habitat loss will continue to be our biggest challenge (I'm still not 100% sold on man-made global warming).
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Our wild resources are NOT INVINCIBLE just because they've been here for thousands of years. Treat them like a valuable bank account or mutual fund. Know that you must invest and protect your assets wisely if you want to see them grow and expand. If you don't pay careful attention to your funds, you will go BROKE, and the same is true with our wild resources.
Today’s Date: 7 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Hard to narrow it down to one experience, but generally finding and photographing reptiles and amphibians in the wild is the greatest impact for me. Timber rattlesnakes, vern pools full of amphibs and eggs, gators in the south, hognoses playing dead, red efts dotting the forest floor with brilliant orange, bald eagles soaring, beavers chopping up branches and swimming back to the dam with them....amazing!
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Not really. Didn't see the wild much when I lived in suburban Orange County, CA. But I was captivated by wild lizards and other herps, like most boys.
Now? I definitely have a few favorite spots, but it's hard to narrow down. Ohiopyle, PA has the rapids and beautiful surrounding area. A couple spots around PA are full of herps and great for exploring. My wife always gets annoyed when we walk the dogs because I have to check under rocks and logs :)
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Can't claim a favorite, but if I had to choose only one reptile species to keep it would be my sulcatta tortoises. It is amazing getting up in the morning and watching their routine. They wake up cold and stretch out in the sun. Then they warm up after basking for a little bit, and start moving. Then they walk the yard and graze all day long, sometimes interacting with each other. They take a siesta when it's too hot, and stir again in the late afternoon. It is fascinating to watch them and care for them, and it helps me gain a better understanding of the way reptiles spend their days; how simple they are, and also how complex they are.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Habitat loss for sure. We have huge human populations that continue to grow, and they have to live somewhere. I think many people understand the fact that we need to appreciate and conserve wildlife. But when people need a place to live, they are going to continue building. I think habitat loss will continue to be our biggest challenge (I'm still not 100% sold on man-made global warming).
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Our wild resources are NOT INVINCIBLE just because they've been here for thousands of years. Treat them like a valuable bank account or mutual fund. Know that you must invest and protect your assets wisely if you want to see them grow and expand. If you don't pay careful attention to your funds, you will go BROKE, and the same is true with our wild resources.
Alan Binks
Partner/Guide – Ker & Downey Safaris, Kenya
Today’s Date: 3 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I developed what I believed was a personal relationship and understanding with a wild elephant that lasted over several years, only ending when he was killed by poachers.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the woods around our house in England.
Now? The short grass plains of the Serengeti.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
The elephant - see 1 above. But also because it is obviously intelligent, caring and emotional.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Human population and the control of it.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Put back as much as you can of what you take out and keep your personal impact to the minimum (take only photos, leave only footprints).
Today’s Date: 3 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I developed what I believed was a personal relationship and understanding with a wild elephant that lasted over several years, only ending when he was killed by poachers.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the woods around our house in England.
Now? The short grass plains of the Serengeti.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
The elephant - see 1 above. But also because it is obviously intelligent, caring and emotional.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Human population and the control of it.
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Put back as much as you can of what you take out and keep your personal impact to the minimum (take only photos, leave only footprints).
Anonymous
Private Citizen - India
Today’s Date: 2 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
My travels from high school into the Himalaya. The high school campus and the informal interaction with nature. I have also been influenced by the awe during my thesis work at the Corbett National Park, India.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The treks into the Himalaya
Now? Opportunities to travel are few and far between. Yet, I have treasured my travel to the Corbett National Park. Given a chance, I would like to explore the Western Ghat s and the North East of India.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Direct interaction with animals has been minimal. As a pet, I would prefer a dog (had one, as a child). In the wild, big mammals attract me.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Consumption. And the lack of will to do anything about it
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
The pressure on natural resource does not necessarily come from those living in its vicinity, but from the cities, the dens of consumption. Our consumptive nature has to reduce, so that the earth can sustain us.
Today’s Date: 2 April 2008
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
My travels from high school into the Himalaya. The high school campus and the informal interaction with nature. I have also been influenced by the awe during my thesis work at the Corbett National Park, India.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The treks into the Himalaya
Now? Opportunities to travel are few and far between. Yet, I have treasured my travel to the Corbett National Park. Given a chance, I would like to explore the Western Ghat s and the North East of India.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?
Direct interaction with animals has been minimal. As a pet, I would prefer a dog (had one, as a child). In the wild, big mammals attract me.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Consumption. And the lack of will to do anything about it
5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
The pressure on natural resource does not necessarily come from those living in its vicinity, but from the cities, the dens of consumption. Our consumptive nature has to reduce, so that the earth can sustain us.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)