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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004 • VOLUME 26, NUMBER 6 CONTENTS 1

PAGE 2 PAGE 3 PAGE 4 Take Action New Spiny Forests of for Oceans Madagascar Discovered by FOCUS Grantee Black Rhinos on the Increase in Africa

WWF PROTECTION EFFORTS While the increase in black rhino num- PAYING OFF, BUT MORE NEEDS bers since the 1990s is encouraging, two TO BE DONE African rhino subspecies still face a high risk of extinction. The northern white ears of conservation investments rhino has been reduced to a single, small by WWF are paying off in Africa population of just over 20 in the Yas scientists report that the criti- Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is cally endangered black rhinoceros highly vulnerable because of the emer- could be on its way to recovery if pres- gence of well-organized and well-armed ent trends continue. In addition, poaching. In Cameroon, the western Africa’s white rhinoceros also appears black rhino is in an even worse state with stable at much higher numbers than only a few animals scattered widely. the black rhino. “One of the greatest challenges fac- Black rhino populations declined ing the future of rhinos in Africa is drastically from about 65,000 in the maintaining sufficient conservation 1970s to only 2,400 in the mid 1990s. expenditure and field effort,” said Taye The latest findings show black rhino Tefari, WWF’s African rhino coordina- numbers have increased to just over tor. “Illegal demand for horn, high 3,600, a rise of 500 over the last two unemployment, poverty, demand for years. The white rhino population, land, wars, the availability of arms, and down to just 50 individuals a hundred internal instability pose a threat to years ago, now stands at 11,000. rhino populations.” “Intensive field protection efforts Dozens of species of rhinos once since the 1990s have paid off with dra- roamed the Earth, but only five exist matic results,” said Tom Dillon, direc- today—all of them threatened and tor of WWF’s Species Conservation pro- most in grave danger. While habitat gram. destruction and fragmentation have WWF provided funding for the contributed to the rhino’s decline, the African Rhino Specialist Group of the main cause is poaching to satisfy demand IUCN Species Survival Commission, CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 ➤ Howard Buffett which produced these new population- Years of conservation efforts by WWF estimates. Rhino populations were and our partners are paying off for the monitored by placing identification endangered black rhinoceros: the lat- est findings show populations have tags on rhinos and through aerial sur- increased to over 3,600—a rise of 500 veying of larger populations. over the last two years. The 10 Most Wanted SPECIES THREATENED BY WILDLIFE TRADE MEMBER NEWS The humphead wrasse and the pig- Tax-Wise Giving at Year’s End nosed turtle may not sound like the world’s most desirable animals, but in As we enter this season of giving, remember that year-end gifts to WWF can fact they are among the most wanted also provide significant tax benefits. species internationally. The Asian turtle You can help save life on Earth and qualify for a 2004 tax deduction by and fish are so sought after in some mailing a check postmarked by December 31, 2004. Make a donation at parts of the world that the two species worldwildlife.org/support, transfer shares of stock or mutual funds to WWF have joined the official ranks of wildlife before year-end, or fund a charitable gift annuity that also gives you lifetime at risk from international trade. income in return. As delegates from 166 countries pre- Please call WWF’s gift-planning office, toll-free, at 1-888-993-9455 or email pared for last month’s meeting in [email protected] for more information. Bangkok of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)—the world body reg- BREAKING NEWS ulating wildlife trade—WWF identified Russia Ratifies Global Warming Treaty 10 of the world’s most in-demand species bought, sold, smuggled, killed, Earlier this fall, Russian ministers approved ratification of or captured for the global marketplace. © WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey the Kyoto Protocol to curb global warming, clearing the way CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 ➤ Leaf-tailed gecko for it to become international law and leaving the United States isolated in its continued inaction on the problem.

“With approval by its ministers, Russia began the final Steven Morello countdown toward ratification of the global climate treaty,” said Alexey Right Whales Safer in Bay of Fundy Kokorin, head of WWF’s Climate Change program in Russia and a key player ALTERED SHIPPING LANES A CONSERVATION SUCCESS in efforts to achieve Russian ratification. President Vladimir Putin must forward the ratification documents to the A year after the Canadian occurred within the new lanes, while Russian Parliament’s lower house, the Duma, to complete Russian ratification. UPDATE government moved com- almost 30 percent of the sightings put Within 90 days of the Duma endorsing the protocol, the climate treaty comes mercial shipping lanes in right whales in the former path of ship into force. the Bay of Fundy to avoid the area traffic. This is evidence that moving the “As Russia joins the world’s fight against global warming, it throws the ques- where North Atlantic right whales lanes has put the whales out of harm’s tion squarely to us here in the United States—as the world’s biggest carbon spend the summer, it appears the most way. emitter—will we continue to sit on the sidelines or act responsibly to prevent endangered large whale in the world is “By making this one-time change, further environmental damage?” asked Brooks Yeager, vice president of safer. we’ve proven that we can significantly WWF’s Global Threats program. The government officially moved the reduce the risk of whales being hit by The Kyoto Protocol is the world’s only international agreement to reduce commercial fishing lanes in July 2003 ships,” said Karen Baragona, deputy emissions of carbon dioxide, the main contributor to global warming. It can after five years of hard work by WWF director of WWF’s Species Conservation only enter into force once 55 countries have ratified, including enough indus- and our partners convincing the gov- program. “This was a critical move since

trialized countries to account for at least 55 percent of the total CO2 emissions ernment that moving the lanes would ship strikes are the leading culprit in from industrialized countries in 1990. In 2001 the United States declared it reduce the risk of ship-whale collisions human-caused right whale deaths.” would not seek ratification, making Russia the pivotal country whose ratifica- by 80 percent. A recent analysis found The Bay of Fundy—just north of tion makes the Kyoto climate treaty become international law. that after the lanes were moved, only 1 Maine, between New Brunswick and percent of all right whale sightings CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 ➤ 2 FOCUS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004

TAKE ACTION! Protecting the Marvels

of Madagascar Lu Zhi Important Ocean Treaty Under Fire PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The Law of the Sea Convention— marine life. The treaty sets stan- an international treaty that promotes dards and calls for establishing glob- n this issue of FOCUS, WWF takes you into sustainable ocean use, protects navi- al and regional rules to help govern Ithe dry spiny forest of southern Madagascar, gation, and serves as a “constitution” the conservation, protection, and a region of fauna and flora so unique—from for the world’s oceans—has run into management of marine species. leaping lemurs to bizarre baobab trees—that it a serious roadblock in the U.S. The treaty was first put forward is a top conservation priority for WWF and our Senate. Although the Senate Foreign under President Reagan. At the partners. Sam Kittner Relations Committee, led by Richard time, the United States voiced con- While much of WWF’s work in Madagascar focuses on the 6.5-mil- Lugar, R-Ind., approved it cerns about a section lion-acre spiny forest ecoregion, we also are present in other areas of unanimously, a small but dealing with deep sea- the island, which boasts a remarkable diversity of ecosystems—from influential group of con- bed mining. This sec- lush tropical forests and mountain peaks to mangrove forests and coral servative opinion leaders tion was renegotiated reefs. Together, these disparate systems support a stunning array of has been successful in over the ensuing years species found only on the world’s fourth largest island. keeping it from moving to and President Clinton A long-standing emphasis of our work in Madagascar is helping local the floor. Without an out- signed the new agree- communities better manage natural resources. This is incredibly impor- pouring of public support, ment in 1994. The tant in Madagascar, rated the fifth poorest country in the world, where one the treaty won’t get back treaty has been ratified in five people survive on $1 a day. on track and be approved by 145 nations. It has Much of the island’s wildlife and habi- by the full Senate. broad support in this “WWF is forging tat is threatened by increasing popu- Full implementation of country, including from lations that depend totally on what the treaty is desperately business and industry solutions as forests, freshwater, and marine sys- needed. The combined Shane Patterson and the Bush adminis- tems provide. stresses of overfishing, wildlife trade, tration. diverse as the Faced with the rapid depletion of pollution, and climate change have Visit World Wildlife Fund’s free their natural resources, local com- put oceans and the plant and online Conservation Action Network challenges we munities and the government have species they sustain in peril. One of at takeaction.worldwildlife.org to face.” teamed up with the conservation the treaty’s basic obligations is for all urge your senators to support the community to protect those re- states to protect and preserve the Law of the Sea Convention. sources. The biggest step came last year when President Marc marine environment and to conserve Ravalomanana committed to tripling the country’s protected area sys- tem, including forests, marine areas, and wetlands. In order to make this ambitious commitment a reality, WWF helped launch the Madagascar Foundation for Protected Areas and Biodiversity to build ON THE WEB the sound financial base needed to protect the country’s environment for the long term. In addition to establishing protected areas, WWF pursues other HELP PROTECT POLAR BEARS approaches to protect Madagascar’s endangered marine species, including its sea turtles. All five species of sea turtle in the Indian AND SNOW LEOPARD Ocean—including hawksbill, olive ridley, and loggerhead turtles—can The polar bear is built to withstand swims in be found in the coastal waters of Madagascar. In concert with local the icy waters of the Arctic. The snow leopard’s communities, WWF monitors turtle populations and safeguards them thick fur allows it to thrive in the bitter cold of from poaching. And, we work with coastal communities to improve Asia’s rugged mountains. But in addition to being fishing practices and manage tourism so that it benefits rather than perfectly adapted to freezing environments, these depletes the resources upon which people rely. two species share something else: a growing Whether creating long-term conservation programs that reflect the threat to their existence due to habitat loss. needs and aspirations of local people, establishing innovative financial WWF is conducting research and habitat con- mechanisms, or helping the government designate protected areas, servation projects to protect these majestic WWF is forging conservation solutions as diverse as the challenges we species and preserve their environments. Now face. Thanks to your support, we are bringing about a better future for you can help by symbolically adopting a polar the people and wildlife of Madagascar. bear or snow leopard. Adoption papers will be

© WWF-Canon / Martin Harvey delivered by email and your donation will go Snow leopards directly to support polar bear and snow leopard conservation programs. With your help, we can ensure the survival of these animals. Visit worldwildlife.org/adopt today!

World Wildlife Fund SPECIES SPOTLIGHT 1250 24th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20037 Interesting Fact: Because they cannot (202) 293-4800 Black Rhino sweat, black rhinos spend part of each day Published bimonthly (Diceros bicornis) wallowing in mud and standing in open FOCUS water to lower body temperature and elimi- The black rhino is a browser. It uses its prehen- nate skin pests. President:...... Kathryn S. Fuller World Wildlife Fund is the leading U.S. organi- sile lip to feed in the morning and evening and To learn more interesting facts on the black zation working worldwide to preserve the rests in the shade during the heat of the day. rhino, visit worldwildlife.org/species. Editor:...... Jennifer Seeger abundance and diversity of life on Earth. WWF Years of conservation work by WWF are paying Contributors:...... Florence Miller is affiliated with the international WWF net- off for imperiled African rhinos, and in particu- work, which has representatives in more than ...... Debra Prybyla lar the black rhino, as scientists report that 50 countries and an international office in ...... Patricia Sullivan Gland, Switzerland. All contributions are tax- populations have rebounded in recent years ...... Jan Vertefeuille deductible. despite a dramatic decline in the last century...... Paul Volpe Habitat: The black rhino is found mainly in Copy Editor:...... Alice Taylor Unless otherwise noted, all material appearing in FOCUS is copyrighted and may be reproduced African grassland-forest transition zones, but Proofreader:...... Ruth Franklin with permission. is also present in habitats ranging from Namibia’s deserts to Kenya’s montane forests. Photo Research:...... Deborah Gainer Volume 26, Number 6 (ISSN 0774-3315) Diet: Vegetarian—twigs, branches, and leaves Production:...... Claire Piason FOCUS is published bimonthly by World Threats: While habitat destruction and frag- Member Services: ...... (202) 778-9599 Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street, NW, ...... (800) 960-0993 Washington, DC 20037. Annual membership mentation have contributed to the black dues are $15.00. Nonprofit postage paid at rhino’s decline, the main cause is poaching to Email: ...... [email protected] Washington, DC and additional mailing offices. satisfy demand for rhino horn in traditional POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Asian medicines and in decorative dagger FOCUS, World Wildlife Fund, Attn: Member Services, 1250 24th Street, NW, Washington, handles in the Middle East. DC 20037. Sven Olof/Linblad Expeditions NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004 FOCUS 3

CONSERVATION NEWS CONSERVATION PROFILE Steve Goodman

NEW BIRD SPECIES DISCOVERED BY WWF GRANTEE Discovery Affirms Importance of Education for Nature Brian Day uring a wildlife survey of a DPhilippine forest in May, Carmela Española spotted some unfamiliar brown Steve Goodman: Uncovering with distinctive bright red legs and Madagascar’s Wildlife Treasures bills. Her notes and photographs, cou- pled with recordings of the birds’ calls, Scientist is Training a New Generation of Malagasy Biologists helped establish the existence of a previ- ously undocumented species: the espite his assertion that he is just a Calayan rail. Found nowhere else on D“typical American biologist,” Steve Earth, only about 200 pairs of the nearly Goodman is as unique as the extraordi- flightless bird exist on this remote island. nary island of Madagascar where he A Russell E. Train fellow, Española works and lives. Working for the Carmela Española received support from WWF’s Education Calayan rail Chicago Field Museum and based in for Nature program (EFN) to pursue a the WWF-Madagascar office, Goodman master’s degree in wildlife biology. “This group in the Philippines. Ornithologists is recognized by his peers for his ability remarkable discovery is as much EFN’s last surveyed Calayan, the island where to get results while working under dif- as it is mine,” said Española. “If not for the bird was discovered, 100 years ago. ficult conditions, including occasional the training and education I got through WWF’s EFN program provides poten- bouts with parasites, malaria, and other the EFN grant, I wouldn’t have been in a tial and proven leaders with financial sicknesses. Despite these challenges, this position to discover the Calayan rail.” support for the higher education, short- 15-year veteran of fieldwork in Española is writing her thesis on the term training, and practical experience Madagascar has personally identified birds of Capual Island in the Sulu archi- they need to take on conservation chal- dozens of species new to science, and pelago and is a member of a team of vol- lenges in their home countries and the biologists he has trained have dis-

unteers surveying the Babuyan island regions. covered hundreds more. WWF Most recently, Goodman recruited Steve Goodman is uncovering the secrets of Madagascar while training a almost 300 world-renowned scientists future generation of Malagasy conser- MUSK DEER THREATENED IN RUSSIA, MONGOLIA to contribute to a reference book that vationists. Poaching, Illegal Trade Causing Rapid Decline details the ecology and history of Madagascar. Jointly published by WWF of scientists and the advancement of con- ment efforts significantly, and China in January, and coedited by Goodman, servation biologists in Madagascar. The must cooperate closely with Russia and The Natural History of Madagascar program has facilitated the training of Mongolia to address any illegal cross- provides the world’s most comprehen- several hundred students, and more than border issues,” said Simon Habel, direc- sive study of the island’s biological 30 Malagasy field biologists—including tor of TRAFFIC North America. “Even treasures. Nearly 70 of the contributing the current chief biodiversity scientist at though musk deer are protected under authors were Malagasy scientists, a WWF-Madagascar—have earned gradu- international law, enforcement and, positive sign according to Goodman, ate degrees in conservation-related therefore, protection is often minimal. who believes that the preservation of fields. It’s important that we take action before the natural wealth of the world’s fourth “Financial and political limitations this species becomes extinct.” largest island depends upon developing over the past few decades have slowed Musk deer are small members of the a strong foundation of Malagasy con- the advancement of the Malagasy scien- deer family and are recognizable by servation biologists—a goal he is help- tific community,” said Goodman. “The their distinctive jumping movement. ing to achieve. current emergence of a new generation Musk secreted from the scent pods of In the early 1990s, Goodman and WWF of committed biologists is very exciting © WWF-Canon/Grigori Mazmanyants Musk deer male musk deer has been used for thou- created the Ecological Training Program for the conservation of Madagascar.” sands of years in traditional East Asian (ETP) to respond to the scarcity of the Having watched the island’s impor- usk deer populations in parts of medicines to treat a variety of ailments qualified conservation biologists that are tant habitats being destroyed at an MRussia and Mongolia are rapidly relating to the heart, nerves, and needed to address the burgeoning envi- alarming rate, Goodman believes that declining as a result of poaching for the breathing. Musk can be produced syn- ronmental issues facing Madagascar. The “the clock is ticking” and feels a sense deer’s scent glands, or musk pods, thetically—and often is for nonmedici- first program of its kind, ETP has served of urgency about making a lasting con- according to a new report released by nal products—but natural musk is still as a model for similar ventures through- tribution to this special place. Through TRAFFIC, WWF’s wildlife trade moni- preferred in traditional medicine and by out Africa and has become one of the ETP and his fieldwork, his contribu- toring group. Highly valued for its use in some perfume manufacturers. most important programs for the training tions will shape Madagascar’s future. traditional medicine, musk derives from male musk deer and is one of the most expensive products in the natural med- PROTECTING FORESTS vides huge economic benefits to nearby icinals business, with a retail value BENEFITS ADJACENT CROPS coffee plantations and increased profits three to five times higher than that of Bees Boost Coffee Plantation’s Value, for farmers in developing countries. gold. “The study illustrates that there are WWF Researcher Finds An estimated 80 percent of all musk compelling economic reasons for con- deer killed in Russia during the period serving native ecosystems,” said Dr. 1999 to 2000 were estimated to have What do bees and forest conservation Taylor Ricketts, principal author of the been poached, and trade data for that have to do with your morning cup of cof- study and director of WWF’s Conser- time indicates that the volume of illegal fee? A lot, according to a new study by a vation Science program. “It also tells us trade was five times that of the legal WWF scientist, who found that the pol- that the goals of conservation and eco- trade. In neighboring Mongolia, despite lination of coffee plants by an adjacent nomic development can be more Steven Morello the fact that hunting musk deer has forest’s wild bees resulted in greater aligned than we often think. Protecting Coffee beans been illegal since 1953, an average of yields and healthier coffee beans. The natural ecosystems can benefit both 2,000 male musk deer were poached research, recently released in the biodiversity and local people.” percent of a Costa Rican farm’s annual annually between 1996 and 2001. Proceedings of the National Academy The study, which is the first to quan- income—$62,000—comes directly from “We are urging officials in Russia and of Scientists, shows that conserving tify in such detail the value of pollina- the “pollination services” of two adja- Mongolia to strengthen their enforce- tropical forests—where bees nest—pro- tion services from forests, shows that 7 cent forests. The research also indi- cates that the value of tropical forests is likely greater than other land uses for SCIENCE UPDATE which forests are often destroyed. Honeybees and other native species Q: How does WWF determine if a species is endangered? are in decline all over the world due pri- marily to habitat loss, and this report A: WWF doesn’t determine which species are considered endangered. The IUCN—the World Conservation Union—is illustrates the economic consequences the organization that WWF and other conservation groups, government agencies, scientists, and academics look to for of these declines. But it also opens the that information. The IUCN brings together the world’s leading scientists, including those from WWF, to assess the con- door to conservation by demonstrating servation status of species, subspecies, varieties, and subpopulations on a global scale, highlighting species threatened its potential economic benefits. with extinction and promoting their conservation. “Linking coffee production to forest conservation could provide powerful IUCN maintains a complete list of all the species it considers critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable. It’s called conservation incentives in some of the the Red List of Threatened Species and can be found at redlist.org. most important and threatened regions on Earth,” said Ricketts. 4 FOCUS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004

The spiny forests of Madagascar nearly defy description: not quite a forest and not quite a desert, with a range of n amazing 98 percent of Madagascar’s unusual animal species and a wealth of cultural diversity. Aland mammals, 92 percent of its reptiles, and 68 percent of its plants are endemic—they exist nowhere else on Earth. Here’s a look at some of Madagascar’s most unusual and threatened species: BAOBAB Seven species of the baobab tree (left) are found only on Madagascar, compared to one species of baobab in all of Africa.These giants grace the landscapes of the deciduous forests of western Madagascar Madagascar boasts The Spiny two-thirds of the

Forests of Kevin Schafer/WWF

Madagascar GIANT A LIVING LABORATORY OF EVOLUTION © WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey

wildlife that live in them. These efforts received a big boost at the World Parks Congress in June 2003 when Madagascar’s President Marc Ravalomanana committed to tripling the protected area coverage, adding more than 19,000 square miles,

© WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey and placing more than two-thirds of the country’s remaining forests under formal LONG A WORLD UNTO ITSELF, ever-growing needs. Cattle-raising and protection. charcoal production are the major eco- “The expansion of the protected area SPECIAL THE TEXAS-SIZED ISLAND OF MADAGASCAR nomic enterprises for people living in the system will not only protect endangered REPORT REMAINS AN IRREPLACEABLE LIVING LABORA- region, where 88 percent of the popula- wildlife and habitats, but also provide TORY OF EVOLUTION. MILLIONS OF YEARS tion live below the poverty threshold. economic and other livelihood benefits Already, thousands of acres of forest have to local communities,” said Adam of isolation from the African continent have given the island thousands been cleared, and unchecked burning Tomasek, senior program officer with of species found nowhere else on the planet—many of them still not continues to eat away at the few remain- WWF’s Endangered Spaces program. ing forest fragments. By some estimates, Likewise, WWF’s long involvement in classified by science. Much of this wildlife dwells in the dry spiny forests only 15 percent of Madagascar’s original Madagascar has made it possible for us of southwestern Madagascar, a region that receives only 12 to 24 inches forest cover remains. of rain per year, yet is one of the most biologically significant places on WWF at Work in Madagascar Earth. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most imperiled. Protecting it is WWF has been working in Madagascar a conservation priority for WWF and our partners. since the early 1960s. Our initial support M A D A G A S C A R of research on the island’s lemurs even- atlike fossas speed through the tually led to a nationwide survey of its lower branches of trees in search protected areas in the mid-1980s. In the Cof their next meal. Birds call 1990s, WWF brokered a $4.5 million from every direction, their appearances debt-for-nature swap that has helped the as unusual as their names—the sickle- government of Madagascar protect the billed vanga, the long-tailed ground island’s imperiled forests. Building on Spiny Forest roller, the running coua. Verreaux’s sifa- the strength of these initiatives, WWF Ecoregion ka lemurs leap from one spiny tree to has today developed an even more ambi- the next. Distant relatives of cacti loom, tious program for protecting the 25,400- some reaching as high as 50 feet into square-mile Spiny Forest Ecoregion. the air. WWF has forged partnerships with Despite this biological splendor, the both the Malagasy government and the spiny forests are being depleted by an local people to protect the remaining

© WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey expanding human population and its spiny forests and the awe-inspiring Angonoka tortoise NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004 FOCUS 5

WILDLIFE OF MADAGASCAR world’s chameleons. In addition to habitat as food and illegally harvested for the collector LEMURS destruction, the exportation of chameleons for market. Its relative the angonoka tortoise is the Having evolved a wide variety of lifestyles, the pet trade has greatly reduced the popula- world’s most endangered tortoise. lemurs fill ecological roles similar to monkeys, tions. Striking colors and bewildering behaviors squirrels, woodpeckers, and even large FOSSA make chameleons among the most sought- grazers. Today, 40 species of lemurs—which Madagascar’s dry forests are one of the last after species in the world. are unique to Madagascar—are believed to strongholds for the country’s largest predator, a live on the island. Since the arrival of the first RADIATED TORTOISE cat-like animal called the fossa, which is relat- human settlers 2,000 years ago, at least 12 The radiated tortoise is one of southern ed to the mongoose. Though only the size of a species have gone extinct, Madagascar’s enduring symbols. Its survival cocker spaniel, the fossa is and today many more are at depends on the remaining natural habitats of a fierce predator, feeding risk from habitat loss. the spiny forests. It is hunted for consumption on a steady diet of lemurs and other mammals, birds, RADIATED TORTOISE reptiles, amphibians, and Kevin Schafer/WWF insects.

FOSSA © WWF-Canon/Olivier Langrand © WWF-Canon/Russell A. Mittermeier

VERREAUX SIFAKA PARSON’S RING-TAILED LEMURS BROWN LEMUR Kevin Schafer/WWF © WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey © WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey

to expand our work from protecting wildlife and their habitats to involving It is taboo, or fady as we say, to local communities. For example, WWF hunt them.” The sacred tree is an is helping rural Malagasy communities Saving Sacred Forests, enormous ficus, thought to be a gain legal rights over their sacred thousand years old. Nearby are forests by supporting the development Protecting Traditions two ancient mounds of rocks and of unique policies that can transfer nat- stones—tombs of the Mahafaly ural resources management responsi- royal family. bilities from the government to local Sakoantovo is also special to

communities. conservationists. “This area is a © WWF-Canon / Richard Hamilton “Effective conservation can happen striking example of a forest tran- Mahafaly perform a tradi- tional dance during the through many locally managed forms,” sition zone,” said Mark Fenn of June 2003 Gift to the Earth said Mark Fenn of WWF’s Madagascar WWF-Madagascar. “Along the ceremony. office. “Rural communities are very inter- riverbed, you find riparian forest ested in managing the forests they have. with lush vegetation, juxtaposed The Sakoantovo Forest provides They realize the dependence they have with succulent plants storing a promising example of how to on the forest and its cultural importance.” water in the adjacent dry spiny begin reversing these destructive Because there remain many threats to forest.” trends. In June 2003, the Malagasy the island’s remarkable habitat, WWF will Madagascar’s forests are dis- government legally transferred the continue to expand our efforts and pio- appearing quickly and sacred management rights for the 24 neer innovative solutions to ensure that forests are no exception. “What square-mile forest to the local future generations will continue to dis- was once a large sacred forest Mahafaly community. This transfer cover the many wonders found only here. might now just be a small patch was not simply symbolic. It came of natural vegetation around a from the belief that the people tomb or a tree that has spirits,” who best know how to look after said Fenn. the land are those who actually Reaching Out to Traditional practices, which in live on it. “One of our principal Rural Communities the past have helped protect conservation strategies is to rein- wildlife and habitats, are also force social and cultural traditions Over the Air Waves eroding. Southern Madagascar is and norms that are favorable to

Many rural communities in southern Kevin Schafer/WWF one of the most economically the environment,” said Fenn. To Madagascar are isolated from urban The Sakoantovo Forest is and climatically disadvantaged recognize this innovative approach centers and do not have ready access to adagascar’s Sakoantovo considered sacred by the parts of the world. When people to conservation, WWF celebrated amenities such as electricity, running Forest is extraordinary. local Malagasy community. need to eat, social taboos break the sacred forest of Sakoantovo as M “One of our principal con- water, and transportation. However, they Skinny, green, tube-shaped servation strategies is to down. “Many people do illegal a Gift to the Earth. are important partners in protecting this plants covered in spines grow reinforce social and cultur- things, but they do so out of So far, the concept has been unique ecoregion and its amazing wildlife. alongside tall trees topped with al traditions and norms necessity. Cutting down trees is accepted by the local people. “I that are favorable to the WWF, in collaboration with our partner crowns of needle-like leaves. environment,” said WWF’s not something they do willingly,” think it’s an excellent idea,” said the Andrew Lees Trust, is using solar-pow- Squat baobabs with swollen Mark Fenn (below). said Avimary, a Mahafaly prince. Avimary. “If the felling of trees ered and wind-up radios to engage com- trunks stand beside tangled continues, there will be nothing munities throughout the spiny forests of masses of thick, thorny branches. left for us except bare earth.” southern Madagascar. Radio programs are Venture farther in, and the dry But, this conservation approach developed that focus on the importance of spiny forest gradually changes to is not really new to the Malagasy conservation, sustainable agriculture, anti- riparian forest. Here, the forest people. They have a phrase, tonto- poaching campaigns, and energy efficient offers tamarind trees, figs, and lo iainana, which means “the cookstoves.The programs are broadcast in tall grasses. The local Mahafaly world about us,” a concept of man local dialects and allow messages to reach people have known for a long and nature living together harmo- even the most isolated communities. The time that this forest is special. niously. This bodes well for the broadcasts reach about 1,500 people and But for them, it is also sacred. future of Madagascar’s forests, its have become a popular way of distributing “This forest is a burial site for our people, and their traditions. conservation messages in an enjoyable ancestors,” said Evoriraza, a village and educational format. elder. “There is a sacred tree in the –Richard Hamilton is a middle of the forest that cannot be freelance journalist touched, and also sacred animals such as tortoises, lemurs, and birds. WWF Photo credits: 6 FOCUS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004

are increasingly targeted. So lesser- 10 Most Wanted known wildlife like the humphead MARKETING Continued from page 1 wrasse join the magnificent tiger and “Our list this year reflects the varied Asian elephant on the list of most want- nature of the modern wildlife trade,” ed species in trade.” PARTNERSH\IPS said Ginette Hemley, WWF’s vice presi- Learn More! dent for species conservation. “As well- Visit worldwildlife.org/cites to learn Kevin Schafer/WWF known species have become overex- more about CITES and what happened ploited for trade, more obscure species at last month’s meeting. Business has an important role to play in today’s conservation efforts. The following companies support World Wildlife Fund by raising envi- ronmental awareness as well as important funds for conservation. 1O Most Wanted ORGANIC BOUQUET.COM OrganicBouquet.com is proud to announce the World Wildlife Fund Collection. Five percent of each floral purchase from this new collection will be donated to WWF to help protect endangered species and their habitats. All bouquets are shipped directly from 2 the grower to any address in the United States. WWF also receives 15 percent 6 of any purchases on Organic Bouquet’s Web site that originate on world- 3 wildlife.org/shop. (877-899-2468) 8

BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP® Polar Bear is the fifth stuffed toy animal in a series creat- ed and sold exclusively by Build-A-Bear Workshop® to bene- 1 4 fit WWF. For every Polar Bear sold, Build-A-Bear Workshop® donates $1 to WWF to help support conservation efforts around the world. Giant Panda, the first animal in the WWF series, is still available online through world- wildlife.org/shop. (877-789-2327)

EZIBA WWF continues to benefit from a partnership 5 7 with Eziba, a global bazaar that sells handcrafted items created by artisans from around the world 1. Tiger 6. Yellow-Crested Cockatoo through its catalog, Web site, and retail stores. This In the last century, the population has This exotic Indonesian parrot’s popu- tin lion, crafted from recycled cans and other scraps diminished by 95 percent since 1900; larity in the international pet trade is recovered from businesses in Harare, Zimbabwe, is perhaps less than 5,000 are left in the decimating the population—there are Eziba’s third Gift that Gives Back. For each tin lion wild. Threats include poaching for fewer than 10,000 cockatoos left in the sold, WWF receives $5 to help support our global tiger parts used in traditional Chinese wild. conservation efforts. (888-404-5108) medicines—the bone is used as a pain 7. Asian Elephant reliever—and poaching of the tiger’s Habitat loss and poaching for ivory TY INC. prey species. and meat are threatening the Asian On October 4, Ty Inc. introduced BahatiTM, an 2. Humphead Wrasse elephant population, which stands African elephant and third in a series of limited edi- This blue reef fish—which could be between 35,00 and 50,000—a tenth of tion Beanie Babies® to benefit WWF. Li MeiTM, a giant straight out of Finding Nemo—has the population of African elephants. panda, and NamiTM, a black rhino, were the first two large lips that are a culinary delicacy ® 8. Irrawaddy Dolphin animals in the series. The WWF Beanie Babies col- in East Asia, fetching hundreds of dol- The biggest threats to this extremely lection is available only through Ty’s Web site at lars a plate. rare Asian dolphin are entanglement ty.com/wwf_Bahati. 3. Great White Shark in fishing nets, injury from explosives The largest predator among sharks, it is used in dynamite fishing, and capture MESSAGE!PRODUCTS caught for its jaws, teeth, skin, and fins, for the aquarium trade. which collect high prices and are in The WWF check series features images of 9. Leaf-tailed Gecko demand worldwide. It is also threatened eight animals that WWF is working to pro- Found only in Madagascar, all 10 by incidental capture in fishing gear. tect. WWF checks are printed on recycled species of the leaf-tailed gecko are paper using soy-based inks and are available 4. Ramin threatened by the international pet from Message!Products. Check book covers, This tropical hardwood from Indonesia trade and habitat loss. return address labels, and a mouse pad are and Malaysia is used to make mass- 10.Asian Yew Trees also available. WWF receives 10 to 15 per- produced pool cues, moldings, doors, Yew trees across Asia are unsustain- cent of the purchase price. (800-243-2565) and picture frames. Logging is often ably harvested for their bark and nee- illegal, driven by significant global mar- dles, which are used to make a cancer Visit worldwildlife.org/shop for more ket demand. drug. information on the products and WWF partnerships mentioned above. 5. Pig-Nosed Turtle This giant freshwater turtle found in Tigers © WWF-Canon/Christopher Hails; Humphead wrasse Genevieve Johnson/Ocean Alliance; Great white Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and shark Jêrome Mallefet; Ramin FRIM-UNDP/GEF Peat Swamp Australia is a popular collectors’ item Forest Project; Pig-nosed turtle WWF Papua New Guinea; Yellow-crested cockatoo © WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey; and its population is suffering from Asian elephant © WWF-Gerald S. Cubitt; Irrawaddy dol- high demand for the pet trade. phin© WWF-Canon/Alain Compost

Right Whales whale’s feeding grounds. For some rea- Continued from page 1 son, right whales tend to not move out of the path of oncoming ships, making Nova Scotia—is the favored feeding both adults and calves especially vul- ground for up to two-thirds of the North nerable to ship strikes. With only 350 Atlantic right whale population. New North Atlantic right whales left, even mother whales take their calves there one death is a significant loss to the after giving birth off the coasts of species’ viability. Florida and Georgia. Before the Learn more! Canadian government moved the ship- ping lanes 4 nautical miles to the east, Visit worldwildlife.org/whales to learn the bay was a dangerous spot for the more about North Atlantic right whales

whales, as lanes used by oil tankers and and what WWF is doing to protect them Steven Morello The Bay of Fundy is the favored summer feeding ground for up to two-thirds of the commercial ships cut through the from ship collisions and other threats. North Atlantic right whale population. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004 FOCUS 7

ers all five species and includes field WORLD WILDLIFE FUND Black Rhinos projects throughout Africa and Asia. Continued from page 1 “To ensure the long-term recovery of for rhino horn in traditional Asian med- rhinos, we must continue working with TRAVEL icines and in decorative dagger handles a broad spectrum of stakeholders— in the Middle East. Despite an interna- from local communities to the highest tional ban on the trade of rhino prod- levels of government—to safeguard rhi- © WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey UPCOMING ADVENTURES! ucts, the high price paid for a single nos and their habitats,” Dillon said. horn has fed a flourishing black market. “The rhino’s survival depends on such PANAMA: LAND BETWEEN THE OCEANS To combat this illegal trade, WWF has commitment.” Explore this wildlife-rich country on WWF’s inaugural journey worked for more than 40 years to sup- Learn More! to Panama. From pristine forests to coral reefs, cool mountains port antipoaching patrols and commu- Visit worldwildlife.org/rhinos to learn to tropical islands, the natural wealth of Panama is remark- nity conservation. Today, WWF has a more about WWF’s conservation efforts able. Search for tiny tamarin monkeys, exquisite resplendent comprehensive rhino program that cov- to protect endangered rhinos. quetzals, brilliant blue morpho butterflies, acrobatic monkeys, and a riot of orchids, bromeliads, and other tropical plants.

Dennis Glick Accompanied by naturalist guides, embark on forest walks and riverboat excursions into the many waterways of the Canal Zone, including a partial tran- sit of the Canal, from Balboa to Lake Gatun. This unique exploration of the natural gems of Panama is sure to be highlight for any wildlife enthusiast. Panama, January 15-23

ON THE WILD SIDE: COSTA RICA Journey with WWF on board a comfortable 60-passenger vessel to the “wilder side” of Costa Rica. Joined by a team of expert naturalists, and on Zodiac excursions, visit some of the

most remote and pristine national parks of the Pacific coast, Olga Sheehan/WWF including Isla Coiba National Park in Panama, Corcovado National Park of the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica, and famous Manuel Antonio National Park with its abundant wildlife. Snorkeling opportunities abound in colorful coral gardens and amid myriad schools of iridescent tropical fish. Complement this voyage with a week in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, where WWF has long worked to support endangered quetzals. Costa Rica, March 5-12

FLIGHT OF THE CONDOR: ULTIMATE SOUTH AMERICA BY AIR On this unforgettable South American air safari, discover South America’s most impressive natural wonders and places of great ecological importance. Your travel through five countries— Chile, Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador—aboard a 46-passen- ger private plane allows you access to remote destinations, avoiding delays and idiosyncrasies of locally scheduled air trav- Connie Bransilver

© WWF-Canon/Michel Günther el. Begin in Chile’s spectacular Atacama Desert, and then travel The main cause of declining rhino populations is poaching to satisfy demand for to Brazil’s grand savanna, the Pantanal. Continue to Bolivia to explore the cultural and geo- rhino horn in traditional Asian medicines. To combat this illegal trade, WWF sup- graphic wonders of Lake Titicaca and the 9,800-foot-deep Colca Canyon. With naturalist ports antipoaching patrols and community conservation. guides, explore the remarkable biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon at Manu, and end at the world-renowned birding site of Otavalo, Ecuador. South America by Air, April 2-20 EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES ALSO COMING! PENNIES FOR THE PLANET WILD FLORIDA: EVERGLADES AND BEYOND.....January 7-14 $60,000—most of it in small change they’ve donated through local Coinstar LANDS OF THE MAYA: HONDURAS, Pennies for the Planet 2003-2004 will machines (find locations at coinstar.com). GAUTELMALA AND BELIZE ...... January 24-February 4 run through December, so there is still Help us raise $90,000 this year: Join in AMAZON RIVERBOAT VOYAGE ...... April 16-24 time to learn about and help support the fun and make a difference! this year’s target ecoregions: the Rivers Starting to think about winter and INDIAN OCEAN SAFARI VOYAGE II: and Streams of the American spring activities? Pennies for the Planet TANZANIA TO THE SEYCHELLES ...... February 23-March 11 Southeast, the Sulu-Sulawesi Seas of 2005 will begin in January with a focus Let WWF take you to the best places on Earth to see spectacular wildlife in its natural habitat! Southeast Asia, and the Madagascar on big cats. We’ll be posting education- Traveling in comfort and safety with small groups of congenial people who share your interest Dry and Spiny Forests. Kids all over the al activities and fund-raising ideas, as in wildlife and wildlands, learn firsthand about WWF’s conservation priorities. And remember country have educated their families, well as information about big cats and by traveling with us, you are supporting WWF’s conservation work around the globe. neighbors, and fellow students about the conservation projects that Pennies the unique and often endangered donations will support, at world- We take care of all the planning so come along—for the adventure of a lifetime! species and habitats of each ecoregion. wildlife.org/pennies. Check out the Web To receive detailed itineraries for these or other exciting WWF membership trips to North and At the same time, they’ve raised almost site in January for more information. South America, Africa, Asia, the Arctic, Antarctica, or Australia, please complete and return the form below, or contact us at Phone: 202/778-9683 or toll-free 888/WWF-TOUR (993-8687) A copy of World Wildlife Fund’s latest financial report may be obtained by writing to World Email: [email protected] Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20037; (202) 293-4800. Residents of Visit: worldwildlife.org/travel the following states may obtain information directly by contacting the state agencies listed below. REGISTRATION WITH OR LICENSING BY A STATE AGENCY DOES NOT CONSTI- TUTE OR IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THAT STATE. Please send me brochures for the following trips: Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL- ❏ Panama ❏ Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize FREE, WITHIN THE STATE, 1-800-HELP-FLA. Registration No. SC00294. Maryland: ❏ Costa Rica ❏ Indian Ocean Safari Copies of documents and information submitted by World Wildlife Fund are available for the ❏ South America by Air ❏ Trips to other destinations: cost of copies and postage from the Secretary of State, Statehouse, Annapolis, MD 21401, 1- ❏ Everglades ______800-825-4510. Mississippi: The official registration and financial information of World Wildlife Fund may be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office by calling 1- Name ______888-236-6167. New Jersey: Information filed with the Attorney General concerning this charitable solicitation may be obtained from the Attorney General of the State of New Jersey Address ______by calling 973-504-6215. New York: New York residents may obtain a copy of World Wildlife Fund’s annual report by writing to the Office of the Attorney General, Department of Law, City ______State______Zip ______Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. North Carolina: Financial informa- WWF membership number______tion about World Wildlife Fund and a copy of its license are available from the State (FROM THE MAILING LABEL ON THIS ISSUE) Solicitation Licensing Branch at 1-888-830-4989. Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of World Wildlife Fund may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Panda Tracks, a monthly email newsletter, will keep you informed about WWF membership trips Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1 (800) 732-0999. Virginia: A throughout the year. It features reports and photos from past expeditions, information and itiner- financial statement for the most recent fiscal year is available upon request from the State aries on current trips, and special announcements about new trip offerings. Division of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23209, 1-804-786-1343. Washington: World Wildlife Fund is registered with the Secretary of State. Washington res- If you would like to receive Panda Tracks, please provide your email address: idents may obtain information relating to World Wildlife Fund’s financial affairs by calling toll- ______free, 1-800-332-4483. West Virginia: West Virginia residents may obtain a summary of the registration and financial documents from the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, Return to: WWF Travel Program, 1250 24th St., NW, Washington, D.C. 20037-1132 WV 25305. 8 FOCUS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004

FOCUS ON … CONSUMER CORNER PLANNED GIVING

Dreaming of a get involved with wildlife conservation. Curious About SUPPORT All gifts are tax deductible and 90 per- Increasing Retirement WWF AT YOUR Green Christmas? cent of the money raised supports WORKPLACE TIPS FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY WWF’s conservation efforts. Income? FRIENDLY HOLIDAY GIFTS Depending on where you work, Give the gift of time you may be able to help WWF pro- This is the time of year when con- f Some of the best gifts are born tect endangered wildlife and threat- sumerism soars—and with it, our envi- of our time and labor. Homemade cer- ened habitats through a charitable ronmental impact. Regardless of which tificates good for a massage, babysit- giving campaign in your workplace. holiday you celebrate, here are some ting, yard services, or home-baked WWF participates in workplace ideas to make your presents less waste- goodies are especially welcome pres- campaigns through Earth Share, a ful—and perhaps the shopping less ents to those pressed for time. Family national federation that represents stressful. members might appreciate oral histo- 60 leading conservation and envi- ries, written memoirs, or journals. Low ronmental organizations. You can Buy organic environmental-impact, alternative gifts donate to WWF through payroll f From coffee to clothing, organ- can also include movie passes or admis- deductions by signing up for Earth ically produced gifts are always good sion to the local zoo or aquarium. © WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey Share campaigns at many private choices. In selecting food items—cof- WWF Charitable Gift Annuity is one companies and state and municipal fee, teas, nuts, and fruits—for gift bas- Select gifts made Away to supplement retirement income for yourself or a loved one as you help save government agencies. If you are a kets, look for the USDA Certified f of recycled materials life on Earth. federal employee you can give Organic label that certifies that produce Many artists are now crafting through the Combined Federal has been grown without synthetic pesti- gift items from recycled materials. Also Benefits Include Campaign (WWF’s CFC campaign cides and fertilizers, using methods that be on the lookout for gifts made from ■ Reliable Fixed Payments for Life number is 0927). minimize impact to the soil. On average, hemp or bamboo, which are tree-free ■ Immediate Tax Savings ■ You can learn more about Earth organic produce has two-thirds less fibers. And don’t forget to use recycled A Living Legacy for Conservation Share campaigns from your person- toxic pesticide residue than food that is and/or recyclable wrapping materials. Single-life Gift Annuity Rates:* nel office or by visiting their Web conventionally grown. Age.....Rate Age.....Rate site at earthshare.org or calling Buy locally made products 65 ...... 6.0% 80 ...... 8.0% 800-875-3863. Look for online f Choosing gifts made locally 70 ...... 6.5% 85 ...... 9.5% Don’t forget to mention that f alternatives saves on shipping and transportation, 75 ...... 7.1% 90+.....11.3% you are a WWF member— Many charitable organizations which in turn reduces energy costs and *These rates are for illustration purposes and sub- and thanks for sup- offer opportunities to buy a gift online emissions. In addition, select gifts with ject to change. Contact us for rates for other ages or for two-life gift annuity rates. Minimum age for annu- porting our con- and make a donation at the same time. a minimum amount of packaging. itants is 65; minimum gift amount is $10,000. servation work This year, for example, you can symbol- For more information and to request your gift through Earth ically “adopt” a polar bear or snow leop- annuity proposal, please contact WWF at our Share. ard on our Web site, worldwildlife.org, To learn about other ecofriendly toll-free number or via email: on behalf of a friend or relative. actions you can take, visit 1-888-993-9455 Adopting one of these endangered ➤ worldwildlife.org/consumer [email protected] species is a fun and educational way to For general membership inquiries, please call 1-800-CALL-WWF

For A Living Planet... NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2004 • VOLUME 26, NUMBER 6 Support World Wildlife Fund FOCUS Jeremy Woodhouse/photodisc Meerkats ✁ I’ll help save endangered wildlife wherever it is threatened, whenever it is YES! threatened. I have enclosed a check to World Wildlife Fund for $ ______. Mr./Mrs. Miss/Ms. ______

Address ______Ruffed lemur © WWF-Canon/Martin Harvey City ______State______Zip ______Member I.D.# ______Phone (______) ______(see mailing label) Email Address ______■ Check here if this is a change of address. IN THIS ISSUE: Important: To help us serve you better, please provide your old address. ■ Please send information on how I can include WWF in my will, trust, or 10 Most Wanted: Species estate plans, or make a gift to WWF that provides me with income for life. Threatened by Wildlife Trade Please enclose your tax-deductible check along with this form and return to: Black Rhinos Increasing World Wildlife Fund in Africa 1250 24th St., NW Washington, DC 20037 Madagascar: A Living AMF050400000 Laboratory of Evolution