Stella and Pip and Ladybird Luck—produced in English, Greek and Turkish versions—uses stories, activities and photos to familiarize children with amazing examples of the variety of life on the island

The first step in conserving biodiversity is recognizing it all around us!

As part of a larger project focused on biodiversity in Cyprus, and with support from the USAID-funded UNDP Action for Cooperation and Trust program, the Turkish Cypriot Biologist Association, Friends of Nature, Cyprus, and Animal Responsibility Cyprus have published a colorful and informative booklet for children. Stella and Pip and Ladybird Luck—produced in English, Greek and Turkish versions—uses stories, activities and photos to familiarize children with amazing examples of the variety of life on the island.

Biodiversity is a fundamental part of the Earth’s life support system and the Mediterranean region has the world’s second highest percentage of endemic species. Cyprus’ location at the crossroads of three continents combined with its particular climatic and historical conditions have resulted in considerable diversity of species and habitats and the presence of endemic, rare, and—unfortunately, now endangered—flora and fauna.

Stella and Pip and Ladybird Luck is the result of collaboration between groups on both sides of Cyprus’ dividing Green Line—groups committed to protecting Cyprus’ rich natural environment together and for future generations. Funding for the booklet’s publication, and for the larger ACT-supported Cyprus Environmental Stakeholder Forum (CESF) under whose umbrella it was produced, was provided by USAID. Like all U.S.-funded programs in Cyprus, it is aimed at facilitating reunification of the island, including through better protection and management of the island’s natural and cultural resources.