Wondering what went right this week in the conservation world? We’ve got you covered with our Conservation Optimism Round-Up! We are collating stories of optimism from around the globe so that you never miss your dose of weekly motivation.

1. Researchers rediscover oak tree thought to be extinct

” Researchers led by The Morton Arboretum and United States Botanic Garden (USBG) were thrilled to find a lone Quercus tardifolia (Q. tardifolia) tree standing about 30 feet tall, though it is in poor condition. First described in the 1930s, the last living specimen was believed to have perished in 2011.”

2. Hundreds of ‘lost’ species identified in new research

” This is the first study to examine how many lost vertebrate species there are globally, and the first to explore in detail why these lost species are important for wildlife conservation.“

3. Vast group of southern fin whales filmed feeding in Antarctica, sparking hope of recovery

” Up to 150 southern fin whales have been filmed feeding together in a “thrilling” Antarctic spectacle, hailed by scientists as a sign of hope for the world’s second-biggest animal. ”

4. Thailand commits to reducing destructive bottom trawling an UN Ocean Conference

” “I am pleased to announce today that there will be no more new licences for bottom trawlers in Thailand. This builds on our fisheries reforms implemented over recent years, as we work to protect our coastal waters and artisanal fishing sector,” said Dr. Chalermchai Suwannarak, Director General of Thailand’s Department of Fisheries.”

5. Colombia, WWF and Partners Announce $245M Agreement to Permanently Protect Vital Systems of Nation’s Protected Areas

” The Government of Colombia recently signed a joint declaration to launch a new Project Finance for Permanence (PFP) initiative called Heritage Colombia (or Herencia Colombia in Spanish), which secures $245 million USD of public and private finance to permanently protect 32 million hectares of iconic Colombian landscapes and seascapes. “

6. The Official Population Census of Kakapo in New Zealand shows increase in population for the first time in three years

” After 3 years of decline, the official kakapo population has just started to increase! In the last week, 6 chicks have become juveniles (150 days old), so count to the official population of 203. The population will keep rising over the next few weeks.  “

7. Mote Marine, Florida counting 2,700 turtle nests so far, making this season a top 10 record

” This year’s turtle nesting season will be at least the 7th highest documented on record, according to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program. More than 2,700 nests have been counted so far during the current nesting season. “

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