The idea of beautiful, extraordinary creatures becoming extinct is devastating. But what can we do about it? Well, supporting the RSPB¹s fight to save endangered species would be a good start. The RSPB is at the forefront of efforts to bring amazing wildlife back from the brink, and with your support, it can be even more effective: influencing decision-makers, funding research, and taking direct action. Just consider the animals that are benefiting.

The Sumatran tiger

The stunning Harapan rainforest in Indonesia is the home of the spectacular Sumatran tiger, of which it is believed only 100-300 remain in the wild. A consortium of wildlife organisations ­ including the RSPB ­ is working to establish Harapan as a model for rainforest restoration, wildlife conservation and sustainable local development. These efforts mean that the tide of habitat destruction in Indonesia could be about to turn in the animals¹ favour.

The albatross

Each year, a staggering 100,000 of these magnificent birds drown on longline hooks. Of the 22 species of albatross,

19 are facing extinction. Longline

fishing involves the baiting of thousands of hooks on lines up to 80 miles long. The albatrosses are drawn to the bait, snared by the hooks, and drown.

Together with Birdlife International, the RSPB has established the Albatross Task Force, an international team that works with fishermen to demonstrate simple yet effective techniques such as using bird-scaring devices, which will help prevent this shocking waste of life.

The red kite

Persecution of red kites in the UK reduced their numbers to just a small population in Wales by the early 1900s. Since 1989 these superb birds have been reintroduced to the Chilterns, the East Midlands, Yorkshire, the Northeast and Southwest and North Scotland. Schoolchildren have been invited to see kites released, and ³kite country² tourism initiatives have been set up. This majestic raptor now has a brighter future.

Asian vultures

Vultures, so vital to the Asian ecosystem, are being pushed to extinction quicker than the dodo ­ in the past 12 years, their numbers have declined by a horrifying 99 per cent. The main reason is the use of diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory drug given to livestock. The RSPB is working to establish breeding centres and to remove veterinary diclofenac from the environment.

With the RSPB¹s help, this awesome creature may still have a chance of survival.

Join the RSPB today at www.rspb.org.uk/joinus , quoting AD09 to receive a free gift and become part of the fight for the futures of these and the many other wonderful creatures in desperate need of our help.