Good news.
The song thrush, redwing, pied flycatcher, black redstart and grey wagtail have moved from red to amber on the Birds of Conservation Concern list. However, the song thrush and pied flycatcher remain close to the red list threshold. Much loved species which have recently joined over sixty others on the red list include the greenfinch, cuckoo, nightingale, house martin and swift. The reasons for decline vary - disease (greenfinches), adverse conditions on the wintering grounds and on stopover sites for migrant species, habitat destruction, pollution, certain agricultural practices, climate change and associated insect decline.
It can feel overwhelming can’t it? We are all aware of the biodiversity loss crisis. We see the landscape changing as ash trees afflicted by Chalara are felled. What can we do? How can we help, and sustain hope?
Art is a great communicator. Visual storytelling can bring joy and pleasure, emotion. It can inform and educate. The focus on seagrass at RBC this summer reached many people who knew little or nothing about this modest coastal plant, a vital habitat and a sequester of carbon. Viewing works of art featuring and inspired by seagrass, and learning more from experts, raised environmental awareness, inspired action and raised funds for conservation.
Henry Moore said that a work of art “may be … a stimulation to greater effort in living.” In May/June 2025 RBC will exhibit beautiful works of art, inspiring us to take action, to get involved.
Philip Walker - Workmanship of Risk - Vessel III (ash, 33 x 33 x 11 cms)
Follow RBC on Instagram or sign up to the newsletter to keep in touch with the developing exhibition for May/June 2025.
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