From the big challenges to the little things, when it comes to saving nature more is definitely merrier...It’s no surprise that people have been talking a lot about the recent Cardiff Half marathon; the idea of going further and proving your ability has always fascinated our naturally aspirational minds. Throw into the mix the fact that many use the marathon as a chance to boost their karma by running for charity, and you’ve got a rather special annual event.
It’s fitting that this challenge takes place in Cardiff, headquarters of RSPB Cymru, the Welsh wing (if you will) of the UK’s largest wildlife charity; this year saw their first involvement in the event. Several brave individuals – all of whom have made my very exclusive ‘legends’ list – threw themselves, heart and soul, into the course’s 13.1 miles. And they did it for wildlife.
Their reasons for doing so are evident throughout Cardiff. Crane your neck upwards, and you might spot one of wildlife conservation’s poster stars, the enigmatic Peregrine falcon, resplendent in all the fairytale, archaic glamour such a name evokes. Its reappearance across our cities shows that conservation works, and it’s just one of a vast array of examples. Look closer to the earth: there’s an increasingly slim chance you’ll spot a hedgehog. These tiny creatures, once so woven into our history and the very fabric of British culture, have all but disappeared – their 12-year predicted extinction a gaunt reminder of the huge hurdles conservation must still clear.
From the majestic to the miniature - conservation helps protect vast varieties of wildlife...
People supporting the RSPB in events like the Cardiff Half is vital for two reasons. Firstly, it makes the RSPB’s work more visible, putting nature and the fight to save it back where it belongs: in front of our eyes, at the forefront of our minds, on everyone’s lips. The fast, violent destruction of nature – and of our world – is not something we can afford to forget, to ignore. History is a harsh judge.Secondly, the cash. That hard-won sponsorship money works flat out funding conservation projects or just keeping the RSPB’s offices and staff ticking over. It’s all urgently needed: change can’t run on good intentions alone, but filling up the kitty allows for both the big things and the day-to-day work that makes the big things happen. Whether it’s campaigning against the destructive M4 relief road plan or starting education projects in Bute park that help to put children in touch with the natural world around them, the right resources and funding can genuinely brighten natures’ future.
The Cardiff Half Marathon is just one example of events where people can get involved in building that future. It’s by no means all gruelling stuff, either – the vast majority of ways to support the RSPB are simple and effective, from becoming a member to putting up that extra bird feeder. The important thing is that you’re on board. The more people on nature’s side, the more people talking about it and pitching in, the more that can be done. It really is as simple as that.
Find out more:
Sign up for the Cardiff Half Marathon 2014 (to run for the RSPB, contact Lucy Johnson after signing up – lucy.johnson@rspb.org.uk or 029 2035 3009)
Help the RSPB staff runners go further for wildlife by donating to their justgiving page.
- Alena Matsyova and Steffen Abend also took on the Cardiff Half Marathon for the RSPB. Donate to their justgiving pages for the event here - Alena's page and Steffen's page.
Our gardens make up the UK’s largest nature reserves – want to help the wildlife in yours? See the RSPB’s top garden advice or check out the BBC’s nature tips page.
Keep up to date with what’s going on – follow @RSPBCymru on Twitter or Like their Facebook page. Or do both!