Recent News
Micro Forests set to get biggerSaturday, August 27, 2022
More microforests are set to appear around the island as a Bermuda Zoological Society project to plant more trees and shrubs continues to grow.
The BZS Awards Four Students Environmental Science Scholarships
Wednesday, August 24, 2022
Four Bermudian students have been awarded a combined $15,000 in educational funds as part of the Bermuda Zoological Society’s (BZS) annual BZS Steinhoff programme. Osei Agyapong, Imogen Peckett, Logan Soares and Naphisa Smith were selected for their academic achievements and their commitment to protecting the environment.
From Block Island to Montauk Through Sharks, Currents and Cramps
Tuesday, August 23, 2022
Lori King of Long Island finished a nearly 24-mile trip in 8 hours 39 minutes 45 seconds. Once her swim is certified, King will be recognized as the first person to complete the journey.
Hamilton Lions pump up the cash for local charities
Wednesday, July 06, 2022
Two charities reaped $11,000 each thanks to an enduring fundraiser by Hamilton Lions Club.
The proceeds from the club’s 53rd annual Gas-O-Rama and raffle draw were presented to Vision Bermuda and the Bermuda Zoological Society.
Aspen Plants First Red Mangroves on Trunk Island
Wednesday, June 22, 2022
On Friday 3rd June, employees from Aspen were excited to plant the first young red mangrove trees in their sponsored Coastal Red Mangrove Forest on Trunk Island – the Bermuda Zoological Society’s (BZS) ‘Living Classroom’.
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Latest News
All the latest updates and news from the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo, one of Bermuda's leading visitor attractions!
Simon Jones
Published Oct 23, 2015 at 8:00 am (Updated Oct 23, 2015 at 2:49 am)
Trunk Island conservation
Volunteers have given up nearly 2,000 hours of their time to help transform Trunk Island into a living classroom for schoolchildren.
The Bermuda Zoological Society purchased a 2.4-acre lot on the pristine islet in Harrington Sound at the beginning of the year and three months ago embarked on a major conservation project under the watchful eye of David Wingate. The initiative has involved tackling invasives species and ensuring the island’s natural fauna and flora is restored and preserved to help youngsters to better understand Bermuda’s unique ecology.
This week Ian Walker, principal curator of the Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo, thanked the two principal sponsors; Butterfield & Vallis and Axis, for their invaluable financial support for the scheme that has already seen schoolchildren take part in four one-day camps and a weeklong residential camp on Trunk Island.
Hard work: the Trunk Island Conservation project
“Knowing that BZS is not only committed to conserving Bermuda’s natural environment, but to also educating future generations on the importance of preserving their home was a major factor when we decided to donate to the campaign,” said Albert Benchimol, CEO of Axis.
“We are pleased that the island will be transformed into a sanctuary for Bermuda’s wildlife, similar to Nonsuch Island, and in doing so create a permanent classroom for Bermuda’s future environmentalists.” Weekend Warrior volunteers have dedicated 520 hours on the island this year, while corporate “giving days” have seen nine companies send 250 employees to Trunk Island and complete 1,335 hours work.
Jim Butterfield, CEO of Butterfield & Vallis added: “Being able to give students the opportunity to physically engage in nature and discover the importance of our fragile environment is imperative to Bermuda’s ecological future.”
The island, in Harrington Sound, is home to the only Palmetto Palm forest in Bermuda outside of Paget Marsh, and its isolation makes it the ideal venue for conservation efforts.
Trunk Island conservation?
BZS plans to use the island to expand its school educational programme and transform the old caretaker’s cottage — one of two properties on Trunk Island — into a classroom.
Dr Wingate said: “The Weekend Warrior programme is vital to ensuring the eradication of invasive species.
“Without the dedication and support of volunteers we would find it very difficult to reach our ultimate goal of returning the island to its native and endemic environment.”
BZS has been able to raise just over $3 million, and 50 per cent of its target, through a series of fundraising efforts.
To find out more about the volunteer programme contact Joanne Chisnall on 293-2727 extension 2130 or e-mail volunteers.bzs@gov.bm