That is the motivation for Cape Town’s Urban Caracal project. Charismatic apex predator is an even better choice than owls - against rat poison is killing predators. Both are also roadkill victims.
3 Likes
Interesting!
Whitebark Pine comes to mind. It’s under threat from mountain pine beetles and white pine blister rust, and a warming planet is erasing its habitat. The seeds are essential food to the survival of the Corvid species Clark’s Nutcracker, and Grizzly Bears also consume the seeds to prepare for winter. We love these species and the habitat.
6 Likes
That is a thought-provoking question, and I’m glad I don’t have to answer it. It would be too hard to choose.
I think you were wise to choose an under-studied, misunderstood and under-appreciated species, instead of the more familiar, charismatic and beautiful species, like whales, polar bears and monarch butterflies, that some of the other applicants may write about.
@Ajott is correct that flashy species are important for getting the interest of the public and starting the dialog, but in terms of the internship, I think you are demonstrating that you have put a lot of thought into it, and recognize that all species are important and worthy of preservation.
I wish you Good Luck!
2 Likes
Thank you, that really means a lot. I hope the people who run the program and review my essays have the same thought process as you haha
1 Like