Ascension : Conservation Weekly
Submitted by The Islander (Conservation Office) 29.04.2010 (Article Archived on 13.05.2010)
When I first arrived off the plane I was struck by how baron and empty the island appeared.
Volunteering with the Conservation Department. By Katherine Househam
When I first arrived off the plane I was struck by how baron and empty the island appeared. However, I will always be thankful to the conservation team for quickly changing my opinion as they showed me so much of what the island had to offer. Not only was I lucky enough to see most the creatures on the island, from the Sooty terns to the Hawksbill turtles, but I also gained invaluable hands on experience with the activates undertaken by the conservation team.
My first trip will always be a memorable one as myself, Nathan and Dave were repeatedly dive bombed by brown noddies while we tried to record their nests. This trip was followed by many more observing masked boobies and yellow billed tropics around the coast line. I was especially thankful for my frequent trips up Green Mountain where the cooler climate was greatly appreciated. My time up there highlighted the true extent of habitat diversity present on the island and I also received expert information on the invasive and endemic species present. My most memorable trips would be when I helped rescue green turtles off the beaches, to get so close to such an amazing and rare animals is an experience I could never forget. Although I came to the island to learn about its unique nature, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I fallen in love with the Ascension Island people and culture. I have never met a nation of such warm hearted and relaxed people, it is a way of life I quickly got used to. I can’t thank the conservation centre enough for all they have shown me, particularly Stedson, Olivia and Natasha for allowing me to come out here, but also Matti, Dave and Nathan for showing me the island. Finally I would like to thank VT Group for providing me with accommodation. I have gained so much in every possible way I can only hope that the stories I have to share will bring awareness to the islands truly unique and beautiful nature.
Katherine Househam and Stedson Stroud
Farewell to Raymond Benjamin, Helen Tobin and Matti Niissalo.
On Friday 23rd April the Conservation Department held a farewell meal for Raymond, Helen and Matti. We would like to express our thanks and appreciation for all their hard work and valuable contribution to the Conservation work on Ascension. They will be greatly missed. I am sure we will keep in touch and hear from them in the future.
Olivia, Raymond, Helen, Matti and Stedson
Volunteers welcome. Please contact Olivia Renshaw or Natasha Williams. Ascension Island Conservation Department. Georgetown. Tel: 6359. Email: olivia.renshaw@ascension.gov.ac
natasha.williams@ascension.gov.ac
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