Global Nature Talks Strike a Deal but Money Still Unresolved; Loch Leven’s Geese Ask When They Get Their Share
Countries agree on protecting nature, with funding the sticking point. Perthshire wildlife says it is 'not cheap being this beautiful'.
Pink-footed geese over Perthshire, waiting for their invoice to be paid. Photo: Peter Trimming, “Squirrel posing”, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
Global talks on protecting nature have ended in a deal, but the question of who pays for it is still causing arguments, and Perthshire’s wildlife has views.
“We fly from Iceland every year,” a pink-footed goose at Loch Leven did not tell the Perthetic. “We put on a show every evening. We bring tourists. Where’s our money?”
Red squirrels in Perthshire are said to be equally concerned. “We do all the cute stuff,” said a squirrel spokesperson, also imaginary. “Have you seen the adverts? Visit Scotland is basically us. Not a penny.”
Environmental experts say the funding gap is a real problem for nature around the world. Perthshire’s wildlife groups say that local work goes on regardless, “with volunteers, wellies and the odd flask”.
The talks will continue. The geese say they will be at Loch Leven all winter, if anyone wants to discuss the invoice.
The real story: World news (BBC)
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The views expressed are those of the reader, and frankly that's on them.
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The geese at Loch Leven deserve every penny. They put on a better show than the telly.
— Graeme D., Kinross, 31 October 2026 -
The red squirrels near me are very aware of their worth. They’ve started posing.
— Ailsa M., Dunkeld, 31 October 2026
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