{"id":16502,"date":"2025-12-30T12:20:12","date_gmt":"2025-12-30T12:20:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/?p=16502"},"modified":"2026-01-27T12:00:40","modified_gmt":"2026-01-27T12:00:40","slug":"2025-a-year-of-growth-milestones-and-moments","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/2025-a-year-of-growth-milestones-and-moments\/","title":{"rendered":"2025: A Year of Growth, Milestones and Memorable Moments"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Rob and I always said 2025 would be a quiet year as we restructured to make the charity stronger and more transparent ,  and to find a proper direction for our <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/support-us\/travel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">responsible travel programme<\/a>, at the heart of Explorers Against Extinction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As we roll into 2026 as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), with our new UK Registered Charity No. 1212387, it feels good to have achieved a milestone. The CIO replaces the Charitable Trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether or not it\u2019s been a quiet year is up for debate\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a light-hearted look at some of the standout moments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"january-the-longest-journey\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">January &#8211; The Longest Journey<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/55c1a574-d78e-4a23-840d-7e20971c561e.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16503\" style=\"width:683px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/55c1a574-d78e-4a23-840d-7e20971c561e.jpg 480w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/55c1a574-d78e-4a23-840d-7e20971c561e-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/55c1a574-d78e-4a23-840d-7e20971c561e-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/55c1a574-d78e-4a23-840d-7e20971c561e-90x68.jpg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/55c1a574-d78e-4a23-840d-7e20971c561e-320x240.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Explorers\u2019 beanies reached Antarctica.<br>Our friend Shaun (also known as Shaun the Builder) sent photos from Deception Island, where he was helping restore historic buildings. A reminder that conservation comes in many forms. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/support-us\/our-shop\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">beanies and bobbles<\/a> get about, but this is the first time we&#8217;ve seen any in Antarctica. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"february-catching-up-with-the-wildebeest\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">February &#8211; Catching Up With the Wildebeest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"747\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-1024x747.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16505\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-1024x747.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-300x219.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-768x560.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-1536x1120.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-2048x1494.jpeg 2048w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-120x88.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-90x66.jpeg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-320x233.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-560x408.jpeg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-800x584.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-1160x846.jpeg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-1920x1400.jpeg 1920w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_2641-scaled.jpeg 2560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>February followed the rhythm of nature in Tanzania. Time in the bush for me at a low-impact seasonal mobile camp with brilliant local guides reinforced why responsible tourism matters more than ever. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/support-us\/travel\/\">travel programme<\/a> is just one way you can support our work at no additional cost to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"march-end-of-year-giving\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">March &#8211; End-of-Year Giving<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16506\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-90x68.jpg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-560x420.jpg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-800x600.jpg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium-1160x870.jpg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/20211101_EcobagNipah1Month9-medium.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We closed the financial year with three small but meaningful grants:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>a grassroots programme in Rwanda helping communities living alongside mountain gorillas improve food security through sustainable organic farming<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the Community Scout Programme run by Grevy\u2019s Zebra Trust in northern Kenya<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>reforestation work in Indonesian Borneo with the Orangutan Foundation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"april-tigers-temples-and-travel-agents\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">April &#8211; Tigers, Temples and Travel Agents<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16509\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-120x68.jpg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-90x51.jpg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-560x315.jpg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-1160x653.jpg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3-1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/30503b50-461a-46bf-b606-89a6573cc2f3.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Rob &amp; I returned to India for a a full-on fortnight with three main goals. To:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>attend a responsible tourism conference in Delhi;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>explore Amangarh Tiger Reserve, and meet partners so we could submit a project partnership report;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>visit established tiger reserves in Central India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>And then there was Rob\u2019s video taken at the ranger station where we stayed inside Amangarh Tiger Reserve&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>&#8220;It was like sleeping in a crisp packet.&#8221;<\/p>\n<cite>Robert Ferguson<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-video\"><video controls src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/34f8718a-302d-43f7-b12d-ff62eb7b2fcc.mp4\"><\/video><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"may-planning-for-a-big-birthday\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">May &#8211; Planning for a Big Birthday<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"921\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-1024x921.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16514\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-1024x921.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-300x270.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-768x691.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-120x108.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-90x81.jpeg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-320x288.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-560x504.jpeg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-800x720.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552-1160x1044.jpeg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1384-e1767094813552.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Planning began in earnest for Sketch for Survival\u2019s 10th anniversary in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/the-big-elephant-auction-spring-2026\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Big Elephant Auction<\/a> was born as a way to honour the art initiative&#8217;s roots, and \u201cJumbo June\u201d took its first steps onto the calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"june-i-am-the-walrus-and-top-dog\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">June &#8211; I Am the Walrus (and Top Dog)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16252\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-120x80.jpg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-90x60.jpg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-320x213.jpg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-560x373.jpg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-1160x773.jpg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-1920x1280.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/DSC_0179-scaled.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A special holiday to <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/exploring-svalbard-arctic-wildlife-icefields-midnight-sun-at-80-degrees-north\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Svalbard<\/a> for the White family delivered an Arctic epic: walrus, minke whales, reindeer, spectacular scenery, multiple polar bear sightings, and even a polar dip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Meanwhile, clients returning from <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/support-us\/travel\/africa\/zambia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zambia<\/a> shared a wild dog clip from South Luangwa with us, which went on to reach more than <strong>1.3 million views<\/strong> on our safari social <a href=\"https:\/\/fb.watch\/EkD_23f_YB\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Real Africa.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And also in June, we announced a <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/stick-your-neck-out-for-giraffe\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">new partnership<\/a> for <strong>Real World Conservation<\/strong> to represent and support <strong>Giraffe Conservation Foundation\u2019s<\/strong> mission and activities in the United Kingdom, enhancing awareness, fundraising, and engagement in support of giraffe conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"july-highs-lows\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">July &#8211; Highs &amp; Lows<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16513\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-2048x1151.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-120x67.jpg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-90x51.jpg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-560x315.jpg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-1160x652.jpg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-1920x1079.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1000023513-scaled.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image courtesy of Sarah Ogston Bernard<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We were sky-high when Sarah Ogston-Bernard skydived for her 60th, raising over \u00a32,000 for Explorers Against Extinction\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2026and then came a sobering low as guide Nick Kleer exposed <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/when-wildlife-tourism-crosses-the-line\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">unacceptable scenes from the Serengeti<\/a>. A reminder that progress is fragile and advocacy still matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"august-decisions-decisions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">August &#8211; Decisions, Decisions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16523\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-120x160.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-90x120.jpeg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-320x427.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-560x747.jpeg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-800x1067.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453-1160x1547.jpeg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_1453.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>After sorting thousands of Sketch for Survival entries, our judges gathered in Brighton for the final selection days. The standard was exceptional. Choosing the final 100 was no small task. We had a couple of new nationalities take part in the competitions in 2025 taking our country participation tally to <strong>119.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Back in the office, Rob and I were busy report-writing as part of our contribution to a steering group for Kangchenjunga&#8217;s UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve application. Biosphere status recognises landscapes where conservation, culture and sustainable development work hand-in-hand &#8211; and it has the potential to bring long-term benefits to both wildlife and the communities who live alongside it. Supporting Nepal&#8217;s mission for a first World Biosphere Reserve is exactly the kind of partnership work we\u2019re proud to champion through <a href=\"https:\/\/realworldconservation.org.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Real World Conservation<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"september-miles-mountains-results\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">September &#8211; Miles, Mountains &amp; Results<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"461\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-1024x461.jpg\" alt=\"Robert Ferguson and Dr. Tshering Tempa\" class=\"wp-image-16359\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-1024x461.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-300x135.jpg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-768x346.jpg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-1536x691.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-120x54.jpg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-90x41.jpg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-320x144.jpg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-560x252.jpg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-800x360.jpg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003-1160x522.jpg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG-20250918-WA0003.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Robert Ferguson and Dr. Tshering Tempa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It was Rob&#8217;s turn for a holiday! Rob and wife Fiona travelled to Bhutan, meeting tiger conservation specialist Dr Tshering Tempa, hugging a tsenden (Himalayan cypress), spotting a takin, and climbing to Tiger\u2019s Nest along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Back home, Results Day for Sketch for Survival arrived &#8211; a milestone for artists and supporters alike &#8211; and our Vitality 10k runners laced up for wildlife. Thank you, team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"october-films-frames-first-pink-foots\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">October &#8211; Films, Frames &amp; First Pink-Foots<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16515\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW.png 1000w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-80x80.png 80w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-120x120.png 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-90x90.png 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-320x320.png 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-560x560.png 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ACT-NOW-800x800.png 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A full month, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>the launch of <em><a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/act-now\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Act Now<\/a><\/em>, our short film created with the help of Nick Stone and AI &#8211; narrated in separate versions by Sir Stephen Fry and Dame Joanna Lumley &#8211; alongside framing days, the Explorers Autumn Dinner, and the opening of our exhibition at Nature in Art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Above Norfolk, the first pink-footed geese appeared &#8211; autumn signalling its return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"november-oxo-the-big-finish\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">November &#8211; OXO &amp; The Big Finish<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"934\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-1024x934.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-1024x934.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-300x274.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-768x700.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-120x109.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-90x82.jpeg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-320x292.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-560x511.jpeg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-800x730.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487-1160x1058.jpeg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_4952-e1767096467487.jpeg 1365w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>November brought the culmination of so much work: our exhibition at London\u2019s Oxo Gallery, and the climax of the fundraising auction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Praying for Kelp<\/em> by Louise Hancox achieved a record hammer price of \u00a35,500 &#8211; the highest Sketch for Survival 100 sale to date. The final auction hammer total was \u00a348,000 &#8211; not bad for<em> &#8216;a quiet year.&#8217;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"december-reflection-gratitude\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">December &#8211; Reflection &amp; Gratitude<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>December is a time to take stock, tidy loose ends, acknowledge what worked, and learn from what didn\u2019t, as we prepare for the year ahead. Progress is rarely linear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"the-bigger-stage-reasons-to-be-hopeful\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bigger Stage &#8211; Reasons to Be Hopeful<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16298\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-120x80.jpg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-90x60.jpg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-320x213.jpg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-560x373.jpg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18-1160x773.jpg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/z-Projeto-Ariranhas-Nutria-gigante-recinto-arnes-06-2025-Lucinda-Di-Martino-18.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Giant Otter &#8211; Projeto Ariranhas<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>2025 also brought important global milestones that give context to our work and the broader conservation landscape:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The United Nations recognised Indigenous Peoples not only for their rights, but as essential leaders and stewards in climate, biodiversity, ocean and ecosystem governance, grounding international policy in traditional knowledge and partnership.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India announced a new tiger reserve and celebrated supporting around 75% of the world\u2019s remaining wild tigers &#8211; roughly 3,600 animals, more than double the number a little over a decade ago.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Green sea turtles, after decades of protection and community-led conservation, moved from <em>Endangered<\/em> to <em>Least Concern<\/em> on the IUCN Red List.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Giant river otters <a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/giant-otters-return-to-argentina-after-40-years\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">returned to Argentina\u2019s Iber\u00e1 wetlands<\/a> after more than 40 years.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The High Seas Treaty continued its journey toward full ratification,  a historic step toward protecting 30% of the world\u2019s oceans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>And globally, renewables overtook fossil fuels as the leading source of electricity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These milestones are reminders that long-term commitment, collaboration and science-based action can move the needle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"voices-who-inspire-us\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Voices Who Inspire Us<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16458\" srcset=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-120x80.jpg 120w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-90x60.jpg 90w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-320x213.jpg 320w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-560x373.jpg 560w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-1160x773.jpg 1160w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-1920x1280.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Iain-douglas-hamilton-2-credit-indianapolis-zoo-scaled.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image credit: Indianapolis Zoo (Save the Elephants)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This year we said goodbye to two towering figures in conservation whose legacies will continue to guide us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr Jane Goodall taught generations to see the natural world with empathy and respect, reminding us that every individual matters and every action counts. Her pioneering work with chimpanzees and her lifetime of advocacy showed that science and compassion can change minds and policies alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/explorersagainstextinction.co.uk\/blog\/in-tribute-iain-douglas-hamilton-1942-2025\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dr Iain Douglas-Hamilton<\/a> dedicated his life to understanding and protecting elephants. His work helped shape modern approaches to elephant conservation and brought vital attention to the threats these animals face. His influence on protection strategies, policy and public understanding will resonate for decades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Their work, grounded in science, community and unwavering commitment, echoes in the stories we share, the fieldwork we support, and the change we pursue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"thank-you\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Thank You<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With so much suffering going on in the world around us, it has been a challenging year to remain positive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is great strength in connection and community, and we are thankful for the tide of support that has come our way in 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s stick together to achieve even more in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Happy New Year to you all.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Rob and I always said 2025 would be a quiet year as we restructured to make the charity stronger and more transparent , and to find a proper direction for&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":16519,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[807,806],"powerkit_post_featured":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>2025: A Year of Growth, Milestones and Memorable Moments - Explorers Against Extinction<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Rob and I always said 2025 would be a quiet year as we restructured to make the charity stronger and more transparent , and to find a proper direction for our responsible travel programme, at the heart of Explorers Against Extinction.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" 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