June webflash

European Roller at a nestbox provided by the A Rocha France team (Photo: Peter Waghorn)

Action for Rollers

The European Roller Coracias garrulus is a stunningly beautiful bird which has seriously decreased in recent years. In 2005 it was classified by BirdLife International as Near Threatened, mainly due to a marked decline in Turkey and Western Russia. Studies by the A Rocha team in France show that the Vallée des Baux in Provence holds one of the highest densities in Europe. Two major A Rocha studies have been completed on Roller nest site selection and hunting and practical action has been taken, involving the provision of nestboxes and hunting perches, to increase their numbers in the valley. A Rocha France recently organised the 1st national Roller workgroup, at Saint-Martin de Crau, on 26 May. We hope that this new network will enable Roller specialists to learn from each other and that it will facilitate joint conservation efforts that will benefit this bold and charismatic bird.

New USA Director – Dr Matthew Sleeth

Dr. Matthew Sleeth took up his appointment as Executive Director of A Rocha USA in May. He is well known as the author of Serve God, Save the Planet. Matthew is a former Emergency Room doctor and hospital chief of staff whose concern for the environment was prompted by the increase in environment-related illnesses among his patients. We are excited about the skill and commitment that Matthew and his wife Nancy bring to the US team. Grist interview Hear Matthew talking about the Parable of the Good Samaritan and climate change: Google Video.

Encouraging children to explore the natural world and enjoy watching wildlife is an important part of A Rocha’s work in Canada, and in many other countries too.

A Rocha Canada wins award

The winners of the RL Petersen Awards for Non-Profit Innovation were announced by the Bridgeway Foundation on 26 April, and an Honourable Mention and award of $5,000 was awarded to A Rocha Canada for a project which will offer environmental education to 10,000 youth at 10 camps this summer in three Western Canadian provinces. Executive Director Markku Kostamo received the award, acknowledging the need for new generations to nurture their connection with the creation and the Creator. This year’s main award of $25,000 went to Health Partners International of Canada who deliver donated pharmaceuticals and medical supplies to the developing world. The RL Petersen Awards are given annually to a Canadian charity that meet five criteria relating to innovation, strategy, impact, clear outcomes and transformation.