How you can help wildlife charity

Wildlife charity ASPAS depends on an active network of supporters who compile data, raise funds, lobby authorities, report infringements of the law, and raise awareness within their communities about protecting wildlife in France. There are many ways to help out, from simply signing an online petition, to legal undergraduates doing six-month internships in the organisation's legal department.

Current petitions include protecting foxes, wolves, badgers and other species classed as 'nuisances', demanding traps which kill animals are outlawed, and preventing hunters giving talks on so-called 'sustainable development' in schools. All are accessible via the website www.aspas-nature.org.

Another way of helping is to take part in information gathering about hollow pillars or posts, because these can be fatal to animals and birds who fall into them. The form to complete with information about your area can be found on their website.

Donations (which are tax deductible) are always welcome, as are legacies, which can be included very simply in a will. Fundraising activities are another good idea, and this can done on a specific theme (for example in support of one of their campaigns) or as a general fundraiser for ASPAS. They have ideas and materials available on their website.

If a specific campaign touches a nerve, like saving the grey wolves who have walked back into France over the Italian border, why not join a demo? Or if the issue is a local one, use one of the model letters available on the website to lobby the authorities. The Aspas website has details of all their current campaigns and lobbying efforts.

Every little counts. Raise awareness with your own children by taking them on nature walks and teaching them the names of wild plants and insects; talk to friends and relations, maybe even ask the local mairie what they are doing to protect wildlife and the environment.

You can become a member of Aspas from only €15 a year.