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Exotic species are organisms transported by humans, wildlife, wind, and water into regions where they did not historically exist. This ERIC Digest describes available materials and resources for teaching and learning about these exotic species. Sixteen Internet sources are provided along with six videotape resources. The digest also provides additional resource information found on CD-ROMs and curriculum packages. (MVL)

Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. The topic of this issue is "Diving Into Oceans." Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "The Physical Ocean," giving information and activities on the physical properties of the ocean including the composition of seawater, waves, currents, and tides, and the topography of the ocean floor; (2) "Life in the Ocean," providing information and activities on what life is like in three major regions of the ocean--sunlit surface waters, dim mid-waters, and dark ocean depths; (3) "Along the Coast and Close to Shore," giving information and activities on the characteristics of beaches, rocky shores, coral reefs, and kelp forests, and the plants and animals that live in these habitats; (4) "People and Oceans," providing information and activities on people's relationship with oceans, focusing on ocean pollution, how people use oceans, and what's being done to protect the sea and its wildlife; (5) "Crafty Corner," providing ideas for art projects; and (6) "Appendix," featuring a glossary and bibliographic information. (WRM)

Ranger Rick's Nature Scope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "What Makes a Bird a Bird?," which provides information and activities on how birds are classified, how birds are different from other animals, and the main characteristics of the bird class, Aves; (2) "Family Life," which offers information and activities on nesting, singing, finding a mate, incubating eggs, and raising the young; (3) "Finding a Place To Live," which provides information and activities on bird habitats, how birds have adapted to living in their habitats, and bird migration; (4) "Keeping Fit and Staying Alive," which includes information and activities on the many ways birds keep fit and are adapted to surviving their habitats; (5) "People and Birds," which offers information and activities on the way birds affect our lives and the ways in which we affect theirs; (6) "Crafty Corner," which includes ideas for art projects; and (7) Appendix, featuring questions, a glossary, and bibliographic information. (WRM)

Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. The topic of this issue is "Rain Forests: Tropical Treasures." Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "An Overview," providing information and activities on the characteristics of tropical rain forests, where rain forests grow, and some of the misconceptions people have about these special habitats; (2) "Life in Tropical Rain Forests," providing information and activities on the diversity of rain forest life, the adaptations of rain forest plants and animals, and interactions between rain forest plants and animals; (3)"People & Tropical Rain Forests," including information and activities on some of the ways in which people make a living in rain forests and some of the rain forest products that enrich our lives; (4) "Problems and Solutions," including information and activities on the reasons tropical rain forests are being destroyed and some of the ways people are working to protect these forests; (5) "Crafty Corner," giving ideas for art projects; and (6) "Appendix," featuring a glossary and bibliographic information. (WRM)

Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. The topic of this issue is "Let's Hear It for the Herps!" Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "Meet the Herps," giving information and activities on how reptiles and amphibians are alike and different, what it means to be cold-blooded, and how reptiles and amphibians evolved; (2) "Amphibians," providing information and activities on salamanders, frogs, and other amphibians, the process of metamorphosis, and some of the ways amphibians are adapted to surviving; (3) "Reptiles," providing information and activities on turtles, lizards, snakes, and other reptiles and on some of the ways they are adapted to surviving; (4) "Herps in Our Lives," including information and activities on people's past and present relationships with herps, some of the problems these animals are facing, and some of the efforts being made to help herps survive; (5) "Crafty Corner," providing ideas for art projects; and (6) "Appendix," featuring a glossary and bibliographic information. (WRM)

Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. The topic of this issue is "Endangered Species: Wild and Rare." Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "The Big Picture," giving information and activities on the process of extinction, how the increasing human population affects other species, and the reasons for helping endangered species; (2) "The Habitat Connection," providing information and activities on the causes of habitat destruction and the effects of habitat loss on animals and plants; (3) "Poachers, Poisons and Other Problems," providing information and activities on factors other than habitat destruction such as wildlife trade, and pollution that are putting species in danger; (4) "Bouncing Back," describing information and activities on the ways in which people are helping endangered species; (5) "Crafty Corner," providing ideas for art projects; and (6) Appendix, featuring a glossary and reference information. (WRM)

Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "The Primates," including information and activities on gorillas, chimpanzees, monkeys, gibbons, lemurs, humans, and other primates; (2) "The Carnivores," offering information and activities on bears, raccoons, lions, sea otters, weasels, and other carnivores; (3) "Mammals with Hooves," providing information and activities on giraffes, horses, sheep, zebras, deer, and other hooved mammals; (4) "Bats," including information and activities on bats; (5) "Rodents and Other Gnawers," offering information and activities on mice, squirrels, porcupines, rabbits, hares, and other mammals with chisel-like teeth; (6) "The Insect Eaters," providing information and activities on shrews, moles, hedgehogs, tenrecs, and other small mammals that eat mostly insects; (7) "Mammals of the Sea," including information and activities on whales, dolphins, seals, manatees, dugongs, and other aquatic mammals; (8) "Odds 'n' Ends," information and activities on pangolins, platypuses, echidnas, kangaroos, armadillos, and other unusual mammals; and (9) "Appendix," featuring questions, a glossary, and bibliographic information. (WRM)

Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. The topic of this issue is "Discovering Deserts." Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "What Makes a Desert a Desert?," giving information and activities on what a desert is, how deserts form, and the different types of deserts; (2) "Plants of the Deser," offering information and activities on the many ways desert plants have adapted to harsh desert conditions; (3) "Animals of the Desert," giving information and activities on the many ways desert animals have adapted to harsh desert conditions; (4) "Desert Communities," providing information and activities on plant and animal relationships found in desert communities; (5) "People and Deserts," offering information and activities on the people that live in deserts around the world and the ways in which people are changing desert habitats; (6) "Crafty Corner," giving ideas for art projects; and (7) "Appendix," featuring a glossary and bibliographic and reference information. (WRM)

Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "What Makes an Insect an Insect?," including information and activities on how insects are classified, how they are different from other animals, and the main characteristics of the insect group; (2) "Growing Up," offering information and activities on metamorphosis--the life stages that insects pass through; (3) "Finding a Place to Live," providing information and activities on insect habitats and microhabitats--what they are and why they are so important to insects and all animals; (4) "Staying Alive," providing information and activities on how insects are adapted to survive; (5) "People and Insects," including information and activities on how insects influence our lives; (6) "Crafty Corner," offering ideas for art projects; and (7) Appendix, featuring questions, a glossary, and bibliographic information. (WRM)

Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creative education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. Contents are organized into the following sections: (1) "What Makes a Dinosaur a Dinosaur?," including information and activities on how dinosaurs are classified, how they compare to other animals, how they are named, and how they vary in size; (2) "Growing Up and Staying Alive," providing information and activities on how the dinosaurs lived and how they were adapted to survive; (3) "When the Dinosaurs Lived," offering information and activities on the history of the earth and what life was like during the Age of Dinosaurs; (4) "Clues from the Past," including information and activities on how paleontologists solve dinosaur mysteries using fossil clues; (5) "A Creative Look at Dinosaurs," providing information and activities on ways to use dinosaurs in art, music, writing, and other creative mediums; (6) "Crafty Corner," offering ideas for art projects; and (7) "Appendix," featuring questions, a glossary, and bibliographic information. (WRM)

The article discusses a plan to reintroduce grizzly bears to the North Cascades Ecosystem in Washington state. The plan aims to establish a population of 200 grizzlies over a long-term period. The public is providing input on the plan, with concerns raised about potential conflicts with humans and impacts on livestock and tourism. The article also explores the historical relationship between humans and grizzlies in the region and the challenges of translocating bears for recovery efforts. Some tribal leaders express concerns about the bears endangering food and economic resources, but studies suggest that the bears are not expected to harm the fish population. The article highlights the ecological benefits of grizzlies and mentions the possibility of natural migration from Canada. The U.S. government is currently considering the reintroduction plan. [Extracted from the article]

The article "A Journey through the Lens with Wildlife Photographer: GURCHARAN ROOPRA" in Swara magazine explores Gurcharan Roopra's passion for wildlife photography. Roopra's unique "ant's eye view" photos, captured using a custom-built metal frame, offer non-invasive perspectives of wildlife interactions. While not a direct conservationist, Roopra's photography contributes to conservation efforts by documenting wildlife and their habitats. His innovative techniques and dedication to learning have earned him recognition as Africa's Best Male Photographer. [Extracted from the article]

Scientists and planners are working to create safe passage for wildlife in the South Bay and beyond. Busy roads and development pose challenges for animals trying to move between habitats, which can lead to genetic isolation and extinction. Researchers are using tools like tracking devices and wildlife cameras to study animal behavior and identify important locations for wildlife movement. Projects such as wildlife crossings and habitat restoration are being implemented to help animals safely navigate their surroundings. Land protection and habitat restoration efforts are crucial for preserving wildlife and creating a more climate-resilient future. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses four lodges in the Kruger National Park and Greater Kruger area in South Africa that offer a unique wine experience alongside wildlife safaris. The lodges mentioned are Singita Lebombo, Malewane Lodge, More Tinga & Narina, and Dulini Moya. Each lodge has made efforts to improve their wine offerings and provide knowledgeable wine stewards and sommeliers. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, curated wine lists, and the opportunity to ship wines they enjoyed on safari back home. These lodges prioritize conservation and ecotourism, contributing to the protection of the wildlife sanctuaries in the area. [Extracted from the article]

This article features an interview with Biosphere Dark Sky Ranger Elizabeth Tindal, who discusses her work as a ranger and running stargazing expeditions. Tindal emphasizes the importance of using appropriate equipment for stargazing, such as astro-binoculars or tracking telescopes. She also highlights the value of joining astronomy clubs or working with experienced guides for a more authentic stargazing experience. Tindal shares her expertise on navigating in the dark and the appeal of stargazing in protected forests. The article also includes a description of a campsite in Herefordshire that offers a pristine stargazing experience with a high Dark Sky rating. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores the concept of managed relocation as a response to climate change's impact on species in national parks. Managed relocation involves moving plants and animals to new habitats to protect them from climate change and invasive species. While controversial, this strategy is being considered to save at-risk species. However, there are practical constraints and risks involved, and scientists must carefully select which species to relocate. The article discusses the complexity of ecosystems and the potential negative consequences of moving species. The National Park Service has developed frameworks and tools to guide decision-making in response to ecosystem changes. The article highlights two case studies, the relocation of bull trout in Glacier National Park and the potential relocation of Joshua trees in Joshua Tree National Park, and mentions other parks considering similar moves. It also emphasizes the importance of genetic diversity and adaptation in preserving ecosystems in the face of climate change. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the urgent need for conservation actions to protect the Southern Patas Monkey (Erythrocebus baumstarki), a critically endangered species facing severe habitat loss and human encroachment in Tanzania's Serengeti. It highlights the rapid decline of the monkey's population due to factors like agricultural expansion, poaching, and competition for water.

The article discusses the efforts of two organizations, the Nature Trust of BC and the Cowichan Lake Salmonid Enhancement Society (CLSES), in protecting and restoring salmon habitat in British Columbia. The Nature Trust of BC has acquired over 73,000 hectares of ecologically significant land to save vulnerable wildlife, fish, and plants. They are currently raising funds to purchase 5.2 hectares along the Englishman River. The CLSES operates a small hatchery and is focused on restoring and enhancing the Cowichan River watershed. Both organizations work with partners to protect salmon and trout species and their habitats. [Extracted from the article]

Two new species of Zodariellum Andreeva & Tyshchenko, 1968 (Araneae: Zodariidae) are described on the basis of male holotypes collected in Central Asia: Z. doroshkini sp. n. from Gorno-Badakhshan in eastern Tajikistan, and Z. kattakum sp. n. from Surxondaryo in southeastern Uzbekistan. Additionally, Z. turanicum Zamani & Marusik, 2022 is recorded from Uzbekistan for the first time, and new distribution records are provided for Z. bactrianum (Kroneberg, 1875) and Z. mongolicum Marusik & Koponen, 2001. Detailed descriptions, figures, diagnoses, distribution maps and photographs of habitats of the studied species are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the extraordinary abilities and characteristics of tigers, revealing them as even more remarkable than myths suggest. Topics discussed include their impressive size and hunting skills; their diverse habitats and conservation status; the current challenges they face due to habitat loss and human activity; and their surprising behaviors and adaptations like camouflage and night vision, that challenge common perceptions.

This article explores the question of whether Eastern Red Cedars are good whitetail habitat. While cedar trees have long been associated with deer habitat, there is a growing movement among experts to question their value. While cedars do provide thermal and visual cover for deer, they are not considered to be the best deer habitat overall. Many experts believe that native grasses and other plants offer better benefits for deer. Additionally, mature cedars can reduce soil moisture and create a cold and shaded environment. However, cedars can still be beneficial when intertwined with other early successional habitat. Ultimately, the decision to include cedars in whitetail habitat plans depends on the specific circumstances and goals of the landowner. [Extracted from the article]

The Chesapeake Bay is a large estuary in the United States that has been heavily polluted by sediment and nutrients, causing the loss of ecosystems and dead zones. Efforts to clean up the bay have been ongoing since the 1970s, with a legally binding agreement setting pollution reduction goals for 2025. Agriculture and urban areas are the main sources of pollution, with farms contributing a significant amount. Stream restoration efforts, such as Natural Channel Design, have been implemented to improve water quality, but there is controversy surrounding its effectiveness. Low-impact development practices are also being introduced to mitigate urban flooding and stream pollution. Overall, there is a need for societal change and continued efforts to restore the bay. [Extracted from the article]

This document titled "Jost 4 Fun" is from the journal Ranger Rick and contains various activities and information related to Indian animals. It includes a puzzle where animals with certain characteristics are identified, such as having stripes or spots. There are also riddles involving a crocodile and a peacock, as well as facts about India's national mammal and bird. The document concludes with a section on peafowl, including questions about their characteristics and a quiz to test knowledge about them. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the ongoing 7.8 million U.S. dollar restoration project at Camas National Wildlife Refuge, aiming to enhance its habitat and infrastructure. Topics include the improvements to water delivery systems and habitat for wildlife, the enhancement of public access and roadways, and the project's support from the Great American Outdoor Act to promote conservation and local job creation.

The article discusses some sustainable strategies to address draught in agricultural areas in Canada. Topics mentioned include the reliability of wetland impoundments for the source of water across pastures, the construction of small dams for maintaining water distribution and habitat quality, and the advantages of conservation easements.

The Ohio River basin is facing significant environmental challenges, including pollution, invasive species, and the impacts of climate change. Despite these challenges, the basin is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species and holds cultural and economic importance. Efforts are being made to restore and protect the basin, but it will require cooperation, innovation, and investments. The basin also faces issues such as inadequate wastewater infrastructure and contamination from toxic chemicals, which disproportionately affect underserved communities. The Ohio River Basin Alliance is leading efforts to address these urgent threats, with local initiatives showing promise. However, additional funding and investments are needed to fully restore the river and protect the millions of people who rely on it. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides an overview of three eco-lodges in Brazil that are actively involved in preserving the country's diverse wildlife. The lodges, Casa Caiman, Cristalino Lodge, and Pousada Trijunção, offer unique experiences and accommodations while promoting sustainable practices and conservation. The article highlights the threats faced by these habitats, such as deforestation and industrial farming, and emphasizes the significance of conscious travel in protecting these ecosystems. Additionally, the article discusses two nature reserves, the Caiman Ecological Reserve and the Cristalino Private National Heritage Reserve, which have implemented conservation efforts to protect endangered species and support the local economy through wildlife tourism. The article underscores the importance of responsible travel and conservation efforts in safeguarding these habitats for future generations. [Extracted from the article]

The article presents the discussion on embarked on a journey to England for an old tree discovery trip. Topics include Westonbirt Arboretum exemplifies the value and reverence given to trees in England. It serves as a model for how we can appreciate and protect our natural heritage; and critical role old trees play in ecosystems, providing habitat, shade, and historical significance.

The article responds to criticisms of increasing affirmative language in conservation easements, proposing habitat leasing as an alternative. It challenges the economic framing of conservation easements, highlighting the need for a flexible approach integrating both affirmative language and habitat leasing to maximize biodiversity benefits while addressing cost concerns and adapting to changing conditions.

The article discusses the author's experience walking the 210-mile Chicago Outerbelt trail, which encircles the city of Chicago. The trail was created by the Outerbelt Alliance, a nonprofit organization that aims to promote eco-recreation in urban environments and engage diverse communities in outdoor experiences. The author describes their journey through various neighborhoods and natural areas, highlighting the beauty and diversity of the city. The article also provides tips for those interested in exploring the trail, including suggested itineraries and logistical considerations. Additionally, the author recommends several shorter walks along the Outerbelt for those who may not want to complete the entire trail. [Extracted from the article]

The article offers step-by-step instructions for constructing a Tylototriton paludarium, emphasizing materials, techniques, and challenges to create a naturalistic habitat for crocodile newts.

This article explores the author's personal journey of purchasing land for hunting and the significance of habitat improvement in determining the hunting experience. The author expresses their delight and fulfillment in creating and enhancing wildlife habitats. They also acknowledge the potential challenges and conflicts that can arise when hunting on others' properties. The article underscores the author's deep appreciation for nature and the satisfaction derived from habitat improvement projects. It emphasizes the crucial role of habitat in hunting and provides practical advice on creating successful wildlife plantings. The author shares their own experiences with planting trees and shrubs, highlighting the importance of water and timing during the process. They also recommend specific tree and shrub species that can thrive in challenging growing conditions. The article encourages readers to prioritize habitat improvement and offers resources for obtaining seedlings and financial assistance. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Digital Photographer offers practical advice for capturing winter wildlife through photography. It highlights the challenges and rewards of photographing wildlife in the winter, such as increased activity and improved visibility. The article provides tips on researching and locating wildlife, protecting equipment, selecting the right gear, blending in with the surroundings, and building core photography skills. It also emphasizes the importance of respecting the animals and their habitats. The document includes tips on camera settings, shooting techniques, framing, aperture settings, exposure in snowy conditions, and shooting during the golden hours. It also features pro tips from a wildlife photographer and showcases examples of captivating compositions. Additionally, it provides a list of top 10 places around the world for wildlife photography. [Extracted from the article]

The article delves into the disappearance of the plains-wanderer bird and its habitat in Australia, exploring the impact of habitat loss and local extinction. Topics include the interconnected relationship between urban development and the decline of the plains-wanderer, the concept of camouflage in the animal kingdom, and the environmental ignorance that leads to the oversight of disappearing landscape.

The article "The Betta of Semporna - are they extinct? (Betta unimaculata group 2/3)" reports on the discovery of new populations of the Betta unimaculata species group during a trip through Sabah in 2018. A surprising discovery was a population on the Semporna Peninsula, surrounded by oil palm plantations. The newly discovered population shows characteristics typical of Betta gladiator. Unfortunately, during a revisit in 2022, no mouthbrooding fighting fish population could be found anymore, as the oil palm plantations had significantly altered the habitat. However, there is hope that a small residual population may have survived in the bush forest. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the consistent high application numbers for the Arboriculture program in Göttingen, Germany, highlighting the ongoing demand for arborists and the evolving thematic shifts within the field towards topics like habitat tree. It mentions climate-resilient tree species, and tree management in construction sites, emphasizing the necessity of academic training to meet the increasing quality standards and professional demands in arboriculture.

This article discusses the changing depictions of giraffes in ancient Egyptian and Nubian art. Archaeologist Loretta Kilroe has studied giraffe motifs and found that during the Kingdom of Kush's rule in Nubia, giraffes were not depicted in royal or public art but were commonly found on handmade domestic pottery, possibly indicating their importance in local oral traditions. In modern Sudan, giraffes are associated with solar imagery, and this may have been the case in ancient times as well. The article also mentions that as the giraffes' habitat shrank, the quality of their depictions on pottery became cruder. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the impact of human activities and climate change on wildlife and habitats in East Africa, highlighting increased extreme weather events and habitat degradation. It emphasizes the role of greenhouse gas emissions from developed countries in exacerbating global warming, leading to adverse effects on East African countries, while also addressing local human activities like deforestation and overgrazing contributing to environmental degradation.

The nectarivorous common sunbird asity (Neodrepanis coruscans) is phylogenetically closely related to the frugivorous velvet asity (Philepitta castanea), yet it shares similar habitat and foraging behaviour as the Malagasy sunbirds (Cinnyris spp.). As ecological factors have been shown to influence blood parasite prevalence, it should be tested whether parasite abundance, prevalence and diversity of N. coruscans are more similar to the sunbirds than to its relative. Therefore, blood samples (n = 156) and smears (n = 60) were tested for different blood parasites (Haemosporida, trypanosomes, filarioid nematodes) using molecular and microscopic methods. High prevalence of haemosporidian parasites was observed in all bird taxa, with rates ranging from 23% in N. coruscans to 84.6% in C. notatus. The Malagasy Cinnyris spp. exhibited a high occurrence of mixed haemosporidian infections (>76%) with various specialized lineages. Within the Philepittidae family, no Haemoproteus infection was detected and just a few cases of mixed infections. Nectariniidae species predominantly had specialized haemosporidian lineages, while Philepittidae had infections mainly caused by generalist lineages. These findings emphasize the diverse range of blood parasites in Nectariniidae, while additionally highlighting the high diversity of trypanosomes and filarioid nematodes in Philepittidae. Additionally, several newly discovered haemosporidian lineages, Trypanosoma isolates and filarioid nematode isolates were identified. Notably, Philepittidae exhibited a lower prevalence of avian haemosporidian parasites compared to Nectariniidae, possibly due to potential resistance mechanisms. Despite N. coruscans sharing similar habitat and behavioural ecology with both Cinnyris spp., it closely resembles its relative, P. castanea , in all aspects of haemosporidian parasitism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive and nuisance plants, both introduced as well as native, have negatively impacted native flora and fauna and altered hydrological processes. Economic damage estimates range from $1.4 trillion globally to as high as $120 billion in the United States. Eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) is native to at least 37 states in the United States. A medium-sized tree, eastern redcedar is commonly used as a landscape ornamental given its ability to grow in a wide range of conditions and its tolerance to many environmental pollutants. A tenacious conifer, eastern redcedar is valued for its landscape value and other uses, including wildlife habitat, lumber, medicines, and more. However, with wildfires suppressed and prescribed fires often discouraged, eastern redcedar has grown outside its original habitat and is an example of the term "range change." This species' predisposition to be opportunistic has allowed it to encroach on both abandoned and cultivated fields as well as grasslands. When the tree exhibits nuisance tendencies, control measures are warranted including prescribed fire, mechanical control, and herbicides. Ultimately, integrated control measures culminate in the best long-term results. The objective of this article was to describe eastern redcedar's desirable ornamental features as well as landscape and utilitarian uses for humans and animals but also outline that it can be weedy to invasive depending on several factors discussed herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article from Western Art Collector features three wildlife artists, Ray Brown, Dustin Van Wechel, and Mark Kelso, who have formed a unique partnership based on their shared love for nature and wildlife. They regularly travel together to gather reference materials for their paintings and drawings, focusing on animals in their natural habitats. The artists explore various locations, from Glacier National Park to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, in search of wildlife and inspiration. Despite photographing the same subjects, they each bring their own unique style and vision to their artwork. The article also mentions upcoming exhibitions and shows featuring the artists' work. [Extracted from the article]

These conservation initiatives, and more like them to come, protect ecosystems, habitat and therefore species because they follow a sound, nature-based logic. Recent studies have shown convincingly that the best way to protect species is to protect their ecosystems and habitats. [Extracted from the article]

Developers are increasingly incorporating nature-based features into their projects to address the effects of climate change and boost biodiversity. This approach, known as nature-based solutions, involves integrating natural processes for wider social benefits. Developers are now seeking advice on how to design projects that meet biodiversity requirements and leverage their habitat credentials for a competitive advantage. Local authorities are also prioritizing the natural environment, and there is a global trend towards nature-based design features. The UK government has implemented planning policies and legislation to protect and restore nature, and developers may benefit from adopting nature-based solutions in the future. [Extracted from the article]