Be part of Socotra’s future

While we were still uncertain whether we would reach our target, we promised you, our kind and generous donors, that any surplus beyond what we needed for the production and marketing of our book would be shared among small, local groups or organisations working for the benefit of Socotra. There was indeed a surplus and we've been very happy to pass it on. It is (for example) helping a go-ahead group of villagers to replant and protect stands of mangroves along their stretch of coastline; helping a local team to research and record Socotra's ancient history, culture and traditions; and helping women in a number of ways, from enabling them to earn an independent living to increasing their access to various kinds of practical education. And more. Mangroves (which on Socotra have been devastated by cyclones) store carbon, protect against coastal erosion, shelter fish nurseries and provide useful wood; recording the historic culture is vital because it risks being diluted or distorted by that of incomers; and the women – speak for themselves! We've also spent a small amount on getting copies of our book to Socotra itself, where it can be useful to local tourism personnel. So - our very big thanks to you for having contributed to that too.

Socotra is sometimes called the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean. If you're interested in the wildlife of the other Galapagos, have a look at Hilary's Crowdfunding appeal (www.crowdfunder.co.uk/galapagos) where she talks about helping to save the critically endangered Floreana mockingbird and the chance to buy a very special book. But be quick, because the appeal closes at midday on Wednesday Nov 17th.