Over the years we have developed a number of techniques that characterise our commitment to animal conservation. Durrell aims to build a single link between the skills and expertise that exist with the staff working at its site in Jersey to scientists working in the field and the local communities who rely on the resources that the habitats provide. In all cases Durrell experts work with local communities to generate knowledge concerning the species in question. Little scientific knowledge exists for many of the species that we work with – some have not even been scientifically named. So we often start by trying to understand the ecology and distribution of the species in its natural habitat. This can be very gruelling and many of our species are found in very remote locations that are several days trek from roads and towns. We work closely with local communities which often have invaluable knowledge concerning where animals are found and what their habits are. Where possible Durrell develops monitoring techniques that can be implemented either by local nature conservation authorities or non-governmental organisations. Through this approach we can assist the development of policies at the regional or national level that will protect the species and assist their recovery and raise awareness of their importance at a local level. In some cases, it is necessary to take individuals into captivity to both ensure that the species does not go extinct and also build up a population that can be re-introduced into the wild. Here we provide our internationally renowned skills in captive breeding and management to assist the recovering of populations, either at our site in Jersey on in the country of origin. The skills developed in the management of these species can then be transferred to local conservation workers. Since 1977, we have been training conservationists from around the world in the theory and practice of endangered species recovery. In 1984, Gerald Durrell’s vision came to fruition when the International Training Centre (ITC) was established within the Les Noyers manor complex adjacent to the animal collection at the Trust's headquarters in Jersey. To date, over 1800 students have graduated from the training programme from more than 120 countries. We currently run a range of courses designed primarily for conservation practitioners working in the world’s most biodiversity-rich countries. For more information on our projects and the different ways you can support our international efforts visit http://www.durrell.org/