Canisius and Buffalo Toronto Public Media Present “Wild Hope” Screening

September 18, 2023
Wild Hope Screening

Canisius University’s Animal Behavior, Conservation & Ecology Department (ABEC) in partnership with Buffalo Toronto Public Media, present a screening and discussion of “Wild Hope” on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. in the Science Hall Commons on the Canisius University campus. 

At a time when news about the environment is filled with doom and people around the world feel fearful about the future, “Wild Hope” is changing the narrative with surprising stories that show we can still change course. Each 30-minute episode highlights the intrepid changemakers working to restore and protect our planet and inspires audiences with stories of bold interventions, unexpected alliances, and nature’s resilience.

The episode "Salamander of the Gods" will be screened during the event. The axolotl—an amphibian with incredible regenerative abilities—is ubiquitous in pet stores, science labs and pop culture, yet almost extinct in the wild. Now, scientists and farmers in Mexico City are using ancient Aztec farming techniques to secure the creature’s future. Meanwhile, another team is partnering with salamander-breeding Dominican nuns to save a closely-related species.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A facilitated by Canisius University ABEC faculty and students.

Sue Margulis, PhD, ABEC professor, will serve as moderator.  Panelists include:

Genevieve Fontana ’24, ABEC and digital media arts major

Robin L. Foster, PhD, assistant professor of ABEC (Studies herpetological conservation) 
 
Jon O’Brien, PhD, associate professor of biology (Studies ecosystem ecology in freshwater rivers, streams and wetlands) 

For more information, contact Malini Suchak, PhD, chair and professor, ABEC, at @email.

Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.   
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