Editorial

THE YEAR EVERYTHING CHANGED

You don’t need me to tell you about the crisis facing us all; there has been nothing else in the news – and nothing else that has so seriously affected us all for as long as I can remember.

Italy suffered grievously in the early stages of the spread of the virus in Europe. LIPU followed the government laws and advice and closed all the nature reserves and centres as well as its national offices. Most of the conservation projects were cancelled or suspended because of the need for workers in the field to be in teams of two or more.

Soon after launching our annual appeal we learned that at least two of the projects we would be supporting would be cancelled or put on hold. Then, after a couple of months, the restrictions were relaxed slightly and with relief and enthusiasm all but one of the projects were resumed.

Yet in the face of all the problems and uncertainty our members and friends showed their faith in LIPU and the appeal this year has been one of the most successful in our history. I have spoken to our friends in Italy about their work, promising to help in any way we can, and they say they are inspired and touched by our loyalty.

I can only say, very humbly, a sincere Thank You to you all, and let us hope the international situation improves very soon.

Contents

• Rebirth
• LIPU under COVID 19
• New Red List for Birds in Italy
• Gulls – the street cleaners

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