Carly, Monday 15 January 2007
Welcome to the first EDGE blog. These pages will keep you informed about the latest EDGE news and developments as they happen. You will be able to follow the progress of EDGE researchers and conservationists with reports direct from the field, and learn about how this innovative project is supporting the conservation of some of the most distinctive species on the planet.
From the largest mammal in the world (the blue whale) to the smallest (the tiny bumblebee bat), EDGE (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered) species are a diverse group of one-of-a-kind animals that are on the verge of extinction.
Our research has revealed that a massive 70 percent of the top 100 EDGE mammals are receiving little or no conservation attention, and a further 42 percent are receiving none at all. These species desperately need protection, and this website offers you the chance to help – and truly make a difference to the survival of these species.
You can support one of the ten focal species or our first EDGE Conservation Fellow, (Uuganbadrakh Oyunkhishig, a 22 year old Ecology student from Mongolia) who is currently preparing to research the threats facing the Critically Endangered long-eared jerboa. During his training Uuganbadrakh will learn crucial techniques for monitoring and conserving threatened species, which will enable him to manage and protect EDGE species well into the future.
We hope you enjoy learning more about EDGE species – don’t forget to check out the exciting EDGE regions page to find out which countries are EDGE hotspots, or to post a comment in our forum.