Three weeks today I’ll be in Israel for the first time in my life. I’m participating in the Birdwatch-Birdguides Roadrunners team in the Champions of the Flyway event.
I’m curious to go to Israel for my first time as it’s definitely not the least controversial country in the world. I’ll write about the impression it makes on me when I return. And I’m not surprised to have got some stick for taking this opportunity, mostly on the grounds that birders shouldn’t go to Israel on political grounds, but also, fair enough, on greenhouse gas emission grounds. My next Birdwatch column (April) is on carbon footprints.
We now have a fourth member of our team: Andy Clements (BTO chief) has been added to captain David Callahan, Mike Alibone and myself. So that definitely strengthens our bird-spotting ability. But to be honest, I am much keener on raising money for a good cause than on seeing a few more birds than other teams.
We have passed basecamp in our quest to raise money for the Hellenic Ornithological Society’s work against illegal bird killing by passing the £3000 milestone. Thank you to all who have contributed so far – you have been very generous and we have momentum.
But we have much higher ambitions – we hope to be the team raising the most money for this good cause (although, of course, feel free to sponsor any of the other teams (as well!)) and to surpass last year’s total of £4700.
I’ve already chipped in a contribution of £50 and will add another £50 of my money when we get to within £50 of last year’s total and another £50 if we pass £5000. It’s the least I can do as I’m going to be out there chatting to other birders and seeing some new birds. I know you won’t be doing that, but it’s for a good cause, so why not get out your credit card and donate now to keep that total heading upwards. Please donate as much (or as little) as you are comfortable to give, but please do donate something as it really is for a very good cause.
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This draws together many complex issues, but put simply – if only the crazy loons spent more time fighting for nature and environment; less on tormenting and killing each other. It is a controversial trip – many feel the only actions that might get a change out there are boycott, dis-investment and sanctions. Worked in South Africa – peacefully.
Key to me woukd be knowing whether any of the sponsorship money is used to fund any of the cost of the trip?
Paul – that’s easy: none in my case and that is what I assume for other teams too.