Former Manx National Heritage countryside warden John 'Dog' Collister shared his enthusiasm for Manx nature during a special walk at the Wildlife Park and the Ballaugh Curragh.

This event was held in celebration of World Wetlands Day, which is held annually on February 2 and marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands in 1971.

Due to the success of this free event, John decided to hold it again. But this time he asked for donations for the earthquake victims of Haiti and for the people of Cockermouth in Cumbria, where serious floods last autumn devastated many lives.

John, who is now a joiner in Kirk Michael, said: 'I am passionate about the Island and its wildlife – especially the wetlands of the Ballaugh Curragh. Ballaugh Curragh (not Curraghs – there's no "s") is the largest wetland area in the Island and I find it fascinating.

'It's a unique habitat. There is nowhere else in the world with the same mix of vegetation.'

The Manxman, originally from Andreas, said: 'The area is not subject to much disturbance, which is the reason why the feral wallabies are there. And it's one of Europe's biggest hen harrier winter roost sites.'

The co-author of Manks Flora, which lists all the flowers in the Isle of Man with their Latin, Manx and English names, said: 'I'm probably known as the Curragh "expert". Most people associate me with it.

Through my regular visits over many years I know the area like the back of my hand.'

He added: 'Wetlands are important because they are able to support a wide variety of plant species, birds, insects and mammals.

'Most wetland areas have now been drained or naturally dried out many years ago so any surviving areas should be protected and managed to enhance their attractiveness to all the natural species that normally abound there.'