The Relics
Rescuing and restoring endangered ecological relics
Across the globe, myriad biological relics persist, offering windows into the natural history of regions before human impact took its toll. These relics are essentially small, surviving fragments of habitats, rich in biodiversity yet perilously close to obliteration. Often encircled by agricultural expanses, human settlements, or other forms of encroachment, they face constant threats. The remaining trees, vital for the survival of critically endangered plant species, are frequently cut down for firewood, unknowingly contributing to the loss of precious biodiversity. Meanwhile, the remaining wildlife faces unsustainable hunting practices, with little awareness of their critical role within the ecosystem.
We are focusing on three such relics in Kenya, Cha Simba (see images to right and directly below this text), Pangani and Njora Gorge (see video above and bottom image). All hold untold biodiversity, support their local communities and moderate waterways. We are working with these communities to make conservation impacts alongside providing sustainable livelihoods.
If you are aware of a relic in desperate need of help please apply for the assistance of LEAF with funding or any aspect of implementing its conservation or restoration.
The LEAF aims to find relics, identify threatened species and where possible propagate endemic plant species and expand their range in and surrounding the relic, employing local farmers and purchasing land when appropriate to ensure these species and habitats live on for future generations.