Raising Awareness About Native Reptiles and Amphibians at the University of Malta
Ecostack Innovations, in collaboration with Friends of the Earth Malta, recently hosted an engaging awareness event at the University of Malta, spotlighting the importance of protecting native reptiles and amphibians. The initiative aimed to educate students and the public about the herpetofauna of the Maltese Islands and the threats these species face, including habitat degradation and persecution.
The event commenced with a seminar designed to help participants identify local herpetofauna species. Following the seminar, attendees explored the Wied Għollieqa Nature Reserve, using the iNaturalist app to document flora and fauna observations. These citizen science contributions support the development of robust biodiversity databases, complementing traditional research efforts.
During the field activity, participants not only observed the valley's rich biodiversity but also took part in a clean-up, underscoring the importance of preserving natural habitats for both wildlife and the community. This hands-on approach provided a deeper appreciation of local ecosystems and the role citizens can play in their conservation.
The event was organised as part of the EU-funded HerpTrust project, which seeks to foster positive human-herpetofauna interactions in Malta and Cyprus. By raising awareness of the ecological value of reptiles and amphibians, HerpTrust aims to challenge negative perceptions and encourage public engagement in conservation efforts.
As a key member of the HerpTrust consortium, Ecostack Innovations has contributed to the creation of an open-access e-course. This resource delves into the evolution, identification, and conservation of reptiles and amphibians while dispelling common myths, such as those surrounding snakes. By making this knowledge widely available, the course empowers individuals to become active stewards of biodiversity.
The e-course can be downloaded by anyone seeking to host an event about these species and can be adapted to the audience based on the suggestions in the replicability package, whether they be school children, policymakers or landowners. The e-course and replicability package can be accessed by clicking on their respective links.
Through initiatives like this, Ecostack Innovations continues to leverage education and technology to promote sustainable interactions with nature, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the ecosystems that surround us.
