The EAZA European Carnivore Campaign 2008/9 was launched on 17 September 2008 with the aim to raise awareness for nature in Europe in general and large carnivores in particular. A relaunch, extending the campaign into 2010 with the addition of some new species, is planned for the EAZA Annual Conference in September 2009.

When we, Europeans, think about nature conservation, we tend to think in terms of exotic species in faraway places. We often forget that here, in our own continent, we still have beautiful landscapes, complex habitats and a diverse fauna, which also need help.

As carnivores more and more move into 'our' space, they become competitors for 'our' resources and living space. As a result, we no longer seem to respect them and see them as pests which damage our profit margins or safety.
We should however be aware that they are objects of beauty and wonder and, as carnivores are usually so easily recognizable by the general public (e.g. wolf, bear, lynx), that they make excellent flag ship species that can be used to raise awareness of conservation needs.

The EAZA European Carnivore Campaign has its own dedicated website where you can find regular campaign updates, information about the projects that will be funded by the campaign, fact sheets about the species covered, and a Kids Corner. You can also find information about how to participate in raising funds for the campaign or make a direct donation.

 www.carnivorecampaign.eu 

Photo: Programa de Conservación Ex-situ del Lince Ibérico

Carnivore Campaign Merchandise

To assist participating zoos and aquariums in setting up a special Carnivore Campaign corner in their gift shops, the campaign planning group has made arrangements with a number of companies to prepare special merchandise with the official Campaign logo. These companies have agreed to donate a percentage of the sales revenue from each product to the Carnivore Campaign. Download the catalogues below.

 Ravensden - plush toys, mugs, writing materials, etc. (Updated for 2010)
 Zoo Trend - plush toys, etc.