‘GMA’ In Africa: How You Can Help Wild Animal Conservation Efforts
— -- “GMA” is on safari in Africa, visiting some of the most the most breathtaking natural wonders in Africa this week.
Cutting-edge technology is bringing the trip to viewers in an unprecedented network TV virtual reality experience that will allow viewers to choose their own stunning safari experience. In addition, the trip will serve to highlight dangers Africa’s wild animals are facing from poachers.
“GMA”’s Amy Robach and world-renown animal expert Dave Salmoni appeared live from Tanzania on Tuesday and helped shine a spotlight animal conservation efforts, while ABC News' TJ Holmes reported from South Africa about anti-poaching efforts.
How You Can Help
Here is a list of conservation and anti-poaching groups that are working to combat poaching and protect the continent’s animals. Click on the links for the groups to learn more about their missions.
CONSERVATION GROUPS
World Wildlife Fund. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a fundraising organization for global conservation that works in 100 countries. The WWF is committed to finding solutions to end wildlife crime. CLICK here to find out more.
WILD Foundation. The WILD Foundation implements conservation solutions through targeted action. With historical and expert emphasis in the sub-Saharan region of Africa, the group has expanded its reach to projects around the world, including Brazil and Russia. CLICK here to find out more.
Wildlife Conservation Society. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) operates the largest field conservation program in Africa. The organization’s goal is to protect wildlife and wild places around the world through science, conservation action, education and inspiring people to value nature. CLICK here to find out more.
Endangered Wildlife Trust. Founded in 1973, this organization is dedicated to conserving threatened species and ecosystems in southern Africa. CLICK here to find out more.
ANTI-POACHING GROUPS
Tusk. Formed in 1990, Tusk supports more than 50 projects in 18 African countries to protect wildlife and alleviate poverty through sustainable development and education in rural communities whose residents live alongside the wildlife. The organization’s efforts have led to greater protection for about 36 endangered species, including the African elephant, black and white rhino, cheetah, chimpanzee, mountain and lowland gorilla, African wild dog, Grevy’s zebra, giant sable and hawksbill turtle. Britain’s Prince William is the group’s royal patron. CLICK here to find out more.
Air Shepherd. Air Shepherd, working with its partner organizations, provides drones that fly at night in certain areas in Africa to spot poachers who are targeting threatened animals. The drones are equipped with thermal imaging and GPS and are monitored at a command center. Once poachers are spotted, their locations are transmitted to rangers so the officials can stop the poaching before it happens. Air Shepherd’s parent company is the Lindbergh Foundation. CLICK here to find out more.
