2021 has started off like a utter rocket-ship. You honestly cannot fathom it. 2 new whale species (SHIT OFF!), major conservation wins and population recoveries for several whale species, landmark rhino recoveries through Africa, the US goes into overdrive on climate and environmental improvements, the record for the worlds'  smallest species of reptile is reset yet again with another new species discovery, new bat species in African caves, oh, and a previously declared extinct mouse species rises from the dead in the volcanic islands of the Philippines. Deep breath........ there's a bit happening.  

It may well be close to the end of the year, but the natural world and indeed the world of conservation, environmental protection and discovery has NO intention of easing up. Staggering new developments into the behaviours and capabilities of bumblebees, a huge milestone and breakthrough win for Tasmanian devils in their fight against FTD, two colossal re-population and species population milestones reached for two massive and iconic species, the Gharial and the European Bison, and a hell of a lot more to add to it.

For Katrina. A tribute to the life and achievements of one of the very best in the wildlife conservation field in Mrs Katrina Reeve, who espoused and championed the fight for ecological balance and natural world health more than anyone, as well the never-ending thirst for discovery and learning. How appropriate then, that her life can be celebrated with yet more new snake species, a new fresh water terrapin species, uplifting evidence of coral reef recovery, range extensions for a highly endangered and unique Australian turtle species, and a groundbreaking conservation re-introduction win for one of the worlds' rarest amphibians. How remarkable it all is. How much Katrina would have loved it.