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Filming the Firefox
One of the simplest aspects of wildlife conservation also happens to be one of the most challenging: spreading awareness. The simple part is putting the information out there; the challenge is getting people to pay attention to it. That’s why, in addition to their own awareness efforts, organizations like the Red Panda Network (RPN) actively […]
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A Unique Strength: How Ecotourism Can Save the Wild
Not everyone is familiar with the term “ecotourism” or the concept behind it, but even those who are don’t always understand the full extent of its impact. Essentially, ecotourism is an alternative to mainstream tourism that allows travelers to vacation in a more environmentally and economically responsible manner. When properly implemented, ecotourism minimizes waste, pollution […]
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The Changing Role of Women in Red Panda Conservation
Out of the Red Panda Network (RPN)’s 72 Forest Guardians in Nepal, Menuka Bhhatari is one of four women. Despite the fact that women tend to be the predominant forest users in Nepal, getting involved in conservation efforts isn’t always easy for them. Bhhatari has been threatened by poachers who try and convince her that […]
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RPN New Member Spotlight: Pema Sherpa
We’re pleased to welcome Pema Sherpa as the newest member of the RPN conservation team. As Conservation Coordinator, Pema will assist in implementing RPN’s activities in eastern Nepal by coordinating between RPN and its field partners. Some of her responsibilities include designing and establishing monitoring programs for red pandas and their habitat; collecting baseline data […]
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Eco Zoo Trips: Q & A with Trip Host Sarah Jones
A veteran zookeeper at Hamilton Zoo in New Zealand, Sarah Jones has been actively involved with the Red Panda Network for more than 10 years. Initially serving as a field research assistant for the organization, Sarah now plays an important role in hosting RPN’s Eco Zoo Trips, a unique field expedition specifically geared toward wildlife professionals. […]
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The Role of Zoos in Red Panda Conservation
Not only do they provide an opportunity to connect with red pandas — inspiring people to take action — but zoos also directly support conservation. At first glance, zoos might seem to exist purely for human entertainment, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Zoos play a key role in aiding and encouraging conservation […]
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An Alliance to Stop Red Panda Poaching
In the ongoing battle to save red pandas and their habitat, Red Panda Network (RPN) has added yet another weapon: an anti-poaching alliance. According to a 2014 RPN study, poaching and illegal trade are growing threats to red pandas. Their geographic location makes them vulnerable as it borders several known animal-trafficking routes. The anti-poaching network, […]
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First National Survey of Red Pandas in Nepal
Red Panda Network is excited to announce the completion of a national red panda survey in Nepal. The existing status of red pandas, Ailurus fulgens, is not well-known at this time. Studies in the past did not provide essential baseline data on the red pandas’ distribution, the number of red pandas in each area, habitat […]
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Red panda conservation through Nettle Fiber Extraction
Red Panda Network (RPN) leads a number of initiatives that help the local people of eastern Nepal earn income while supporting red panda and forest conservation. In this article, we highlight a sustainable livelihood program called Nettle Fiber Extraction. We interviewed RPN Conservation Coordinator, Sonam Tashi Lama, who explained to us the details of the […]
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