Royal Critters: Some of the Prince of Wales’ Favourite Animals

The Prince loves animals; he even has his own species of frog named after him, The Prince Charles Stream Frog (HyloscirtusPrincecharlesi), which is found in the rainforests of Ecuador. The Prince is always trying to help protect different animals, just like Earth Rangers. That’s why we are proud to have His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales as an official patron of Earth Rangers! Here’s a list of some of the Prince of Wales’ favourite animals and how he’s helping to protect them.

Tapir

Tapirs are similar in size to a pig with a short, prehensile snout. They can be found in jungles and forests in South America, Central America and Southeast Asia. The Prince has called Tapirs, “One of my favourite creatures.” and has lent his support to the Birdlife International Sumatran Rainforest Campaign. This campaign aims to rehabilitate and conserve 60,000-80,000 hectares of lowland rainforest in Indonesia.

Red Squirrel

The Red squirrel used to be found all over England until they began to be squeezed out by Grey squirrels, an invasive species introduced from North America. The Prince helped create the Red Squirrel Survival Trust to protect these endangered animals. The Prince likes them so much he said, “My great ambition is to have one in the house…sitting on the breakfast table and on my shoulder.” Imagine that, a squirrel in the Palace!

Albatross

Albatross have the largest wingspan of any bird on the planet but 19 species of Albatross are currently endangered, mostly because of certain fishing practices. The Prince is patron of Southern Seabird Solutions, an organization that works with fishermen to find ways to protect this magnificent bird. The Prince thinks Albatross’ are “an iconic bird – one of the most remarkable and beautiful on this Earth”.

The Australian Stock Horse

Australian stock horses, also known as Walers (named after the Colony of New South Wales), are the descendants of the original horses brought to Australia. They are strong, sturdy horses used for ranching and exploring. The Prince is patron of The Australian Stock Horse Society, which works to preserve this special breed.

Atlantic Salmon

Salmon are born in fresh water streams and eventually migrate to the ocean where they grow to between 8-12 pounds. Some of the biggest salmon caught can weigh nearly 100 pounds! Since the 1970s the number of salmon returning to breed has gone down by 50%. The Prince supports efforts to protect Atlantic salmon through the Atlantic Salmon Trust, which he serves as patron. The Prince fishes regularly on the River Dee in Scotland, and is very concerned about the threats facing Atlantic salmon.

Earth Rangers is a non-profit organization that works to inspire and educate children about the environment. At EarthRangers.com kids can play games, discover amazing facts, meet animal ambassadors and fundraise to protect biodiversity.