9th July 2023
Dear Friends of Saola, Happy World Saola Day! Today, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have been part of our incredible journey so far. Since World Saola Day last year, we’ve been hard at work assembling our dedicated Saola Search Team. And now, we’re thrilled to announce that we have a fully operational team in Laos, comprised mainly of local villagers from the Saola’s range. They form our multidisciplinary field conservation team of wildlife trackers, detection dog handlers, logistics support staff, and field technicians. Together, we are poised to embark on an intensive two-year search for the elusive Saola. Today, as we celebrate how far we’ve come, we have a special treat for you.
We’ve captured a fascinating discussion of the remarkable story of Saola and the history of its conservation. We are honored to have the world-renowned biologist, conservationist, and author, Dr. George Schaller, as our featured guest. George, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday, has dedicated an astonishing 70 years to studying wildlife in the field – and for most of the span, little-known large mammals, including Saola.
Dr. George Schaller with a snow leopard cub.
(Photo by D. DeMello, Wildlife Conservation Society)
We are also honored to have Bill deBuys with us, acclaimed writer, and author of the book about Saola conservation “The Last Unicorn”. Bill is an accomplished environmental historian, nature writer, essayist, and conservationist. Also joining the discussion is Bill Robichaud, co-founder of the Saola Foundation. Bill’s tireless efforts and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in driving forward the mission to protect the Saola. To listen to their fascinating discussion, click on the following link below:
Bill deBuys (second from left) and Bill Robichaud (right) with villagers in the Saola’s range in Laos.
Listen to the discussion by clicking here!
We invite you to be a part of this extraordinary endeavour to find and save Saola. Your generous gift on the occasion of World Saola Day will bring us closer to our goal of conducting uninterrupted searches for Saola in the Annamite Mountains over the next two years. There are various ways you can contribute. - Click the donate button here or below and donate to fund the field costs of our search for Saola in Lao
- Consider sponsoring one of our highly intelligent sign detection dogs, Bertie and Norman.
Your donation, no matter the amount, can make a significant difference. Reach out to us at info@saolafoundation.org if you’d like to learn more.
We also offer “The Last Unicorn” through our online bookshop. Renowned primatologist Jane Goodall described it as a “must-read”. By purchasing this book, you’ll enjoy a captivating read AND contribute to our cause.
For the latest updates on our progress, we invite you to follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. There, you’ll find additional information about our ongoing efforts.
Thank you once again for joining us in celebrating World Saola Day. Together, we can make a difference in the conservation of Saola and the Annamite Mountains.
The Saola Foundation team. | 
