Ariana Klappert Speaks Out: Conservation in Crisis & The Ostrich Farm Situation

Hi, I’m Ariana Klappert, here with Starland Studios.

I’ve come to Wyoming for the Jackson Hole International Film Festival. Not only are we marketing my wolf film, but I’m also here to talk about Edgewood and the situation with these beautiful ostriches.

One of the first people I met here was a young, intelligent woman who got up to receive an award called “85NY1: Conservation in Crisis.” She’s also a Jackson Wild finalist, which makes her an expert on this situation.

From my biology background, I can say this makes sense — or at least it did at the beginning. But now, most countries have moved on to more humane and effective practices. They’re able to isolate animals that are actually affected, keep them separate from other wildlife, and in many cases, the animals develop natural immunity and stop getting sick.

That’s what I’m a fan of — if it’s possible to isolate instead of cull, to test all the animals, and to use science and compassion instead of destruction.

From my understanding, they won’t allow that testing here, and that’s very concerning.

This insight comes from an award-winning conservation expert and Jackson Wild finalist — a voice worth listening to.

Thank you.