13. The European Mink

Join us in a captivating episode of the Conservationists Assembled podcast, where we stay close to home with guest expert, Tiit Maran. Through an illuminating conversation, we uncover the near catastrophic past of the European Mink and the extraordinary recovery efforts they're making through the hard-work of some amazing conservation heroes.

Explore how the introduction of the much larger American Mink has forced the European Mink out of good quality habitat, and how conservationists are working diligently in research breeding programs, public education and a successful reintroduction programme to ensure their survival.

We delve into urgent wildlife conservation issues, discuss sustainable practices for individuals, and illustrate the profound positive effects politics and politicians can and should play in conservation. 

Tiit candidly shares his personal journey into the wildlife sector, revealing a family lineage in biology and wildlife through his grandmother in a museum and his father as a wildlife film maker, and the lessons learned along the way - including the importance of resilience in pursuing a career in conservation but also to acknowledge the physical and mental toll it can take and how there are alternative ways to still contribute towards conservation.