Community

Local zoo raises nearly £3000

Published

11 years ago

December 12, 2013

STAFF AND visitors at Anna’s Welsh Zoo raised nearly £3000 for conservation projects in South East Asia this year.

The fundraising efforts were part of the EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria) South East Asia campaign. Zoos across Europe work together to raise awareness and funds for conservation projects worldwide, and efforts in 2013 focussed on the plight of habitats and species in South East Asia.

Steve, Lisa and Bryn the gibbons, some of the most iconic residents of Anna’s Welsh Zoo, hail from South East Asia. Many of their fellow countrymen are at serious risk of extinction. The Western Hoolock Gibbon is one of the true ‘acrobats’ of the forest, but their population has declined by more than 90% over the past years, and it is now one of the 25 most endangered primate species in the world. Capture also presents a significant problem to the Siamang, which is one of the most heavily targeted gibbon species in the illegal pet trade. The mother is typically shot to obtain the young Siamang for sale. Zoos across the world are working together to maintain an ‘insurance’ population of Siamang gibbons, which could be used to strengthen the wild population if required.

The flagship species of the South East Asia campaign was the Saola. The Saola is also listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List, and can only be found in a thin strip of forest between Vietnam and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Scientists only found out about the Saola in 1992, and it is considered ‘the greatest animal find of recent times’. Photographed in the wild only three times, very little is known about the Saola. With its small range, it is threatened by habitat loss, hunting and snaring.

The zoo raised over £2900 for projects to protect animals like the Western Hoolock Gibbon and the Saola. This will go directly to fund things like field equipment for rangers, batteries for camera traps and snare removal by community forest guards.

The majority of the money was raised at the ‘Explore South East Asia’ event at the zoo in July. The event saw the zoo opened from 4pm – 9pm for a one-off low entry fee, and all takings at the gate went directly to the EAZA campaign. Nearly 500 people visited the zoo for the event and enjoyed keeper talks on the South East Asia campaign projects, lectures from experts who have visited the region, South East Asian specials in the cafe, and live music from local musicians on the Park’s very own Dragon Stage (formerly of Glastonbury fame!)

Anna’s Welsh Zoo is open weekends in December and January, and every day during the Christmas holidays (excluding December 2426 and New Year’s Day).

During December you’ll be able to decorate gingerbread shapes in the cafe (they make great home-made gifts or decorations for the tree), and on Saturday, December 7 and 14 you’ll be able to make your own nature-inspired Christmas decorations with ‘Ranger Sara’.

Special events for the Christmas holidays include Christmas-themed story telling in the Manor on Sunday, December 22 at 12 noon and 2pm, helping the keepers to make enrichment treats for the animals on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 December and a family friendly introduction to artic animals by local naturalist and polar guide, Mick Brown, on Saturday, January 4 at 12 noon.

Visit www.annaswelshzoo.co.uk or call 01646 651201 for details.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

6 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

6 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

6 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!