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

1. Britain’s cranes have most successful year since 1600s

” Cranes had their most successful year in the UK since the 17th Century with a record-breaking 72 pairs, conservationists said.”

2. Happy Year of the Tiger: Tigers Are Beating the Odds Against Extinction

 “Since 2016, tiger numbers have been increasing – today there may be as many as 4,500 occurring across 10 countries, including Russia, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.”

3. Researchers prepare to rewild the platypus in New South Wales

” It’s been more than 50 years since platypus were last spotted in Sydney’s Royal National Park. WWF-Australia is working to change this with our partners at University of New South Wales (UNSW) Platypus Conservation Initiative, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.”

4. Cuba boosts marine protected coverage with new area spanning reefs to mangroves

” Cuba recently declared that it had established a new marine protected area off the country’s northwestern coast known as the Este del Archipiélago de Los Colorados. The new MPA spans 728 square kilometers (281 square miles), and will provide protection for a number of species, like hawksbill turtles, Antillean manatees, and reef fish like snappers and groupers.”

5. Iceland whaling: Fisheries minister signals end from 2024

” Commercial whaling in Iceland could be banned within two years, after a government minister said there was little justification for the practice. “

6. Meet the wildlife vet saving Uganda’s endangered gorillas

” Uganda’s first wildlife vet Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka has a unique way of protecting nature; she heals the local community. The UNEP has just awarded her efforts with the prestigious Champions of the Earth prize and she is the first-ever wildlife veterinarian of the Uganda Wildlife Authority.”

7. Earth has more tree species than we thought

” There are 14% more tree species than previously thought, according to what researchers are calling the first “scientifically credible” estimate. Of the 73,300 estimated species, the researchers predict there are 9,200 that are yet to be discovered. “

Have a story to share for our weekly round-up? Use #ConservationOptimism on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!

We are a global community dedicated to sharing stories and resources to empower people from all backgrounds to make a positive impact for wildlife and nature.