Tuesday, February 6, 2007

Robert Wilson Pledges $1 Million to Halt Bird Extinctions

A mere drop in the bucket, but it will help.
American Bird Conservancy (ABC) and its partners seeking to acquire habitat for endangered and declining bird species received a major boost with the announcement of a $900,000 challenge grant and $100,000 for other conservation work from New York philanthropist Robert Wilson.
“We are thrilled by the huge opportunity Robert Wilson’s foresight and dedication presents for conserving the world’s rarest bird species,” said George Fenwick, President of American Bird Conservancy. “With the average cost to acquire land in South America only $100 per acre, this generous challenge grant means many more imperiled bird species will have a permanent place to call home.”
This year alone, ABC and its partners have so far protected 28 tracts of land in Central and South America that provide core habitat for more than 700 species of birds, including four that are globally endangered, the Santa Marta Parakeet, Jocotoco Antpitta, Black-breasted Puffleg, and Long-whiskered Owlet. The sites also provide key wintering habitat for dozens of migratory songbird species including the Cerulean and Golden-winged Warblers. Mr. Wilson has asked for a 3:1 match for his gift, to leverage additional support and encourage others to participate in this critical land acquisition campaign.
LINK

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I like it when wealthy people donate large sums of money. Sure it might not be THAT much in comparison to what they have, but it is a good statement of how if everyone contributed, great things could happen really fast!

Like the Whooping Cranes... it is so sad that 17 perished but hopefully a lot of good will come out of the publicity. New people will be drawn to our amazing wildlife and feel compelled to give, whether it's money or volunteering time.

It might only take one person to trigger a series of great things!!

Bird Advocate said...

That's true, Pard. If only Donald Trump or Bill Gates would notice this donation. Their pocket change could make a big difference!