On #EarthDay, I found myself reflecting on the challenges of #conservation as a profession. From tough working conditions to modest pay, the journey is not always easy. Yet, during a recent visit to #Velebit National Park in #Croatia, I was reminded of the profound rewards this work brings.
This is an amazing place for many large carnivores and has been part of the European LIFE #Lynx project in which some lynxes have been translocated to reinforce the existing population. Rewilding Europe and its local partners are also doing a great job to promote the connectivity across the landscape.
While hiking in the national park, I encouraged my two children to search for #bear poop. They eagerly explored the terrain, visiting caves and hollows where bears might spend their days (of course with noise to ensure that they do not surprise a #bear). They examined every discovery without hesitation. They even found a skink lizard (my daughter holds the lizard in photos) 🐻 🌲
This experience highlighted how my training in ecology has not only shaped me as a #conservationist but also as a #parent. I felt completely at ease as my children climbed rocks and even inspected potential bear #poop. I realize many parents might feel apprehensive about such activities, preferring to keep their children from straying too far in exploration. However, for over two decades, exploring and enjoying nature has been integral to my life, and I now encourage my children to embrace the same. 🌳 🍀 💕
This is one of the underrated privileges of working in #nature conservation. We learn to trust nature and enjoy discovering its wonders, from the tiny bugs to big bears. 🐻 🐍 🐞 🐛
Accompanied by several kids, including my two, we embarked on a lengthy hike through Velebit National Park. Afterwards, some of the kids told me that it was the highlight of their trip. This is the sentiment we need to foster and share—encouraging others to step into nature, embrace its beauty and wonders, and simply enjoy.
Now, in addition to #LukaModrić (Croatian #footballer ⚽ ), my son knows something else about there, the Velebit National Park, with its lynxes, bears, etc.
Lynx photo from Marko Matešić/Rewilding Velebit Foundation
