Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s Post

In animal welfare, it seems like a no breaker that animal content is first and foremost. But what if I told you that EVEN IN ANIMAL WELFARE sometimes it's too saccharine, too obvious, or even too UNETHICAL? Typically, these "allegations" are more of a for-profit problem but even non-profit organizations sometimes get precariously close to misuse and over use. How does anyone balance their usage of animal images with ethical considerations? 1) Starting with the obvious, are you using the animals image to promote someone that hurts the animal? An obvious example is a happy pig promoting a bacon product, but sometimes it could be something less obvious to the general public, like a dog with a child sitting on it while pulling its ears. 2) Are you engaging in manipulation or emotional blackmail? If your usage is channeling a sad ASPCA-vibe it needs to be authentic and sincere or at a minimum it will turn people off. If you just reacted 100 beagle puppies from a backyard breeder, go for it and use the images of those puppies and that situation. Do not use misleading or manipulated images, or images that aren't even connected to the rescue. And do not ever use images like that in a for profit situation (I would like to think that's super obvious). 3) Are you delaying care or help to promote a plea for help? This can get tricky. I used to volunteer in a shelter clinic, and we would kick ourselves when NO ONE got an incoming picture to show the reality of what we were dealing with. It is ok to snap some shots as you rush into action, but even better have someone that gets pictures as you are helping. But if you are withholding care or help to get great pictures for marketing? We all know that just isn't ok. That's just for starters, and realistically different people will have different views on what is "ick" in animal related marketing. The first step, however, is getting people to really think about it

Nearly all of the world's flowering plants need help with pollination. Pollinator Week (June 17-23) is an important reminder that we need to take care of the heroic pollinators that take care of us. I love the work Accenture did with National Wildlife Federation and their Garden for Wildlife program to help people create habitats with native plants to support wildlife in urban and suburban spaces. 🌻🐝🐞 #PollinatorWeek #NativePlants https://lnkd.in/ezzQnYiM https://lnkd.in/eJRTHkX4

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and San Diego State University (SDSU) are revolutionizing snake research through a groundbreaking collaboration. The project employs cutting-edge technology to study the elusive red-diamond rattlesnakes in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park's biodiversity reserve. Rattlesnakes are generally difficult to study, but by using non-invasive tools like external transmitters and accelerometers, we can study their movements without disrupting them. Through this collaborative study, we can build a behavioral baseline that helps us make better conservation decisions to protect red-diamond rattlesnakes. https://lnkd.in/gpnTYuNj

Exciting news for wildlife enthusiasts! At SXSW, we're diving deep into the ethical considerations of using animal content in digital spaces. Join us for a must-attend panel discussion that explores the delicate balance between engaging audiences and respecting wildlife. This session will not only spotlight the challenges social media managers and content creators face but also provide practical guidelines for sourcing and sharing content that's both ethical and impactful. Learn to discern if that adorable animal post is as innocent as it seems, and discover strategies to ensure your content supports wildlife conservation. We are thrilled to have Shawn Sweeney, M.Ed., Associate Vice President of Communications and Partnerships at the Jane Goodall Institute, join the panel. With his extensive background in humane education, storytelling, and conservation, Shawn's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to make a positive impact through their digital platforms. But that's not all — the panel will also feature distinguished experts who bring a rich diversity of perspectives to the conversation: - Luisa Arnedo, National Geographic Society - Preeti Desai, National Audubon Society - Elizabeth Sorrell, Green Jay Strategies Together, these experts will guide us through the complexities of creating and consuming content in a way that honors and protects the natural world. This is an unparalleled opportunity to learn from the best in the field and elevate your content strategy for the greater good. Mark your calendars and join us in making a difference. Let's inspire change with every post, like, and share. #SXSW #EthicalContentCreation #WildlifeConservation #DigitalImpact #JaneGoodallInstitute #NationalGeographic #AudubonSociety #GreenJayStrategies

In this Adirondack Explorer article, we learn about the Algonquin to Adirondacks Collaborative (A2A) and its momentum in identifying wildlife corridors and sustaining key connectivity linkages in eastern North America. https://lnkd.in/gBgDgETG

The eastern massasauga rattlesnake is one of four remaining paintings from my collaboration with Wildlife Preservation Canada - We have raised over $2700 thus far in 2024! “As Ontario’s only remaining venomous reptile, the Massasauga rattlesnake has faced widespread persecution despite the fact that it poses little threat to public safety. In First Nations traditions, the massasauga rattlesnake is the medicine keeper of the land— a reminder to tread lightly and to take only what we need.”— Learn more about how you can help at wildlifepreservation.ca In a collaboration to bring awareness to Canada’s species at risk, Wildlife Preservation Canada and signature member of Artists for Conservation Sarah McComb Turbitt created a challenge for Sarah to paint as many endangered Canadian species as she can during January 2024. In this collection, 15% of all original paintings and 50% of profits on prints will be donated to WPC. WPC saves critically endangered species whose numbers in the wild are so low that hands-on action is the last defence to save them from extinction. WPC is the only organization in Canada to provide this critical need for wildlife in recovery efforts across the country, from the single population of endangered frogs in BC to the disappearing pollinators across Ontario. Reference photography for inspiration was kindly provided by Lance Woolaver. https://lnkd.in/geHN6xer

Join DEEPSEA MGZN x The Shark Research Unit / Mossel Bay in recognizing Endangered Species Day! The National Wildlife Federation spearheaded the establishment of Endangered Species Day by Congress, and we take this opportunity each year to share the importance of wildlife conservation and restoration efforts for all imperiled species. It is also a perfect time to learn about and celebrate the progress made to protect wildlife since the creation of the Endangered Species Act in 1973. Four Ways to Celebrate 1. Support our shark research and conservation projects. 100% of your adoption fee is allocated directly to the projects undertaken by the Shark Research Unit. Additionally, you have the option to designate your contribution to support shark research, conservation initiatives, or educational outreach programs. Learn more by going to www.shark-research.com 2. Become a Member of the National Wildlife Federation Join millions across the country in supporting wildlife conservation efforts. 3. Update Your Facebook Cover Photo Show your support for endangered species with a photo of your favorite wildlife species. Let us know you did it by tagging the National Wildlife Federation and DeepSea MGZN 4. Attend an Endangered Species Day event Events are held across the country to highlight endangered species stories. Find an event near you.

10 Fascinating Facts About America's Most Unlikely Wildlife Star: The Possum 10 Fascinating Facts About America's Most Unlikely Wildlife Star: The Possum I... Read More - https://lnkd.in/dGvcx57p

🌿📚 Special JWM Issue: Indigenous Wildlife Research and Management 📚🌿 The Journal of Wildlife Management (JWM) has released a groundbreaking special issue highlighting the vital role of Indigenous knowledge in wildlife research and management. This collection of studies emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) with contemporary scientific practices to achieve sustainable conservation goals. Here are some key insights from the issue: 🌱Holistic Ecosystem Management: Indigenous practices often view ecosystems as interconnected wholes. This perspective is crucial for developing management strategies that consider the intricate relationships within ecosystems, ensuring the health of all species. 🌱Cultural Significance of Wildlife: For many Indigenous communities, wildlife species hold cultural, spiritual, and subsistence value. Incorporating these values into wildlife management plans fosters more comprehensive and culturally sensitive approaches. 🌱Community-Led Conservation: Indigenous communities have successfully managed their lands for millennia. Empowering these communities to lead conservation efforts ensures the application of deep-rooted ecological knowledge and promotes local stewardship. 🌱Case Studies and Success Stories: The issue features several case studies demonstrating successful collaborations between Indigenous groups and wildlife managers. These examples highlight the potential for innovative and effective conservation solutions when TEK and scientific research are combined. 🌱Policy and Collaboration: The special issue underscores the need for policies that support the inclusion of Indigenous voices in wildlife management. Building strong partnerships between Indigenous communities and scientific institutions is essential for advancing conservation efforts. This special issue of JWM is a testament to the invaluable contributions of Indigenous knowledge to wildlife conservation. By embracing a collaborative approach, we can enhance biodiversity and ensure the resilience of our ecosystems for future generations. 🌏🤝 🔗Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gZ-RRfRr #IndigenousKnowledge #WildlifeManagement #ConservationScience #TraditionalEcologicalKnowledge #JWM #SustainableConservation

A Message to Our Community on World Wildlife Day This World Wildlife Day, Green Lens Uganda reaffirms our commitment to using the power of digital storytelling to champion wildlife conservation in Uganda. We believe the lens of a camera can be as powerful as a shield. Through captivating videos, social media campaigns, and online content, we strive to transcend geographical boundaries. We want to bring the wonder and vulnerability of Uganda's wildlife directly to your screens. Imagine the impact of a heart-stopping video of a playful chimpanzee family, or a majestic close-up of a Rothschild's giraffe, shared with the world. These digital encounters spark a connection, fostering a sense of responsibility for these incredible creatures. Green Lens Uganda recognizes that knowledge is power. By making our content accessible online, we empower individuals everywhere to become advocates for wildlife. We aim to educate the public about the threats faced by our animals, inspiring action and support for crucial conservation efforts. This World Wildlife Day, join us in celebrating the remarkable wildlife of Uganda. Share our stories, raise awareness, and be inspired to use your own voice – online and off – to champion their future. Together, let's create a brighter tomorrow for Uganda's wildlife heritage. #worldwildlifeday #wildlifeconservation #wildlife #conservationstories #digitalinnovation #greenlensugWWD24