Thursday, October 20, 6:00 pm – Lessons from the Dodo: Saving Species and Rebuilding Ecosystems in Mauritius
Conservation pioneer Carl Jones, Chief Scientist, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and Scientific Director, Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, and recipient of the 2016 Indianapolis Prize for his efforts to save species on the brink of extinction, will discuss how his decades of work have directly revitalized multiple endangered animal populations and habitats—most famously, perhaps, the Mauritius kestrel. With only four kestrels left on Earth, Jones’ techniques not only changed the fate of those birds, but also ensured a thriving population, now nearing 400. Jones will offer insights into restoring both individual species and the ecosystems of Mauritius. He will highlight his journey to save the Rodrigues fruit bat, pink pigeon, echo parakeet, and others from disappearing forever and describe his innovative approach to rebuilding the Mauritian habitat using ecological replacements for extinct animals.
The Thursday, October 20 lecture is presented by The Harvard Museum of Natural History in collaboration with the Indianapolis Prize, and begins at 6 pm. This program is located at the Geological Lecture Hall, 24 Oxford Street. Free parking is available at the 52 Oxford Street Garage. Free and open to the public.
