At just 10 years old, Paige Bavin from Bardney, Lincolnshire, is proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. After inspiring children across the UK to walk hundreds of miles and raise nearly £10,000 for wildlife conservation last year, she is now launching an even bigger challenge for 2026. Her new initiative, Walk 4 Wildlife 2026, encourages children and their dogs to take part in sponsored walks to protect endangered species, with a special focus this year on pangolins—the world's most trafficked mammals.
Last Year's Success
In 2025, 29 children from across the UK joined Paige's campaign, collectively walking hundreds of miles and raising £9,774 for wildlife conservation. The funds supported Dogs 4 Wildlife, a charity that uses specially trained dogs to protect endangered species in Africa. Building on this momentum, Paige aims to grow the movement significantly in 2026, hoping to inspire even more young participants to get involved.
Focus on Pangolins
This year's campaign highlights the plight of pangolins—unique, scaled mammals facing severe threats from illegal trafficking and habitat loss. Over the past decade, an estimated one million pangolins have been taken from the wild, and all eight species are now at risk of extinction. Paige explained, "Lots of people have never even heard of them, but they desperately need our help."
Global Vision
Paige's long-term ambition is to make Walk 4 Wildlife a global event. "My vision is for Walk 4 Wildlife to become a global event—one month every year when people all around the world walk together to show they care about wildlife and our planet," she said. "The money we raise helps support organisations protecting endangered animals, tackling wildlife crime and preserving habitats. But it's also about bringing people together, inspiring children to care about nature, and proving that even small actions can make a big difference."
Every Dog Can Be a Conservation Hero
A central message of the 2026 campaign is that "Every Dog Can Be a Conservation Hero." While participants walk with their own pets, the initiative also highlights the work of Dogs 4 Wildlife's specialist detection dogs, which use their highly trained sense of smell to detect wildlife crime, locate endangered animals, and support anti-poaching operations across Africa. The initiative aims to educate young people about conservation and show how everyday actions, like walking a dog, can contribute to global wildlife protection.
Recognition and Support
Paige's efforts have gained recognition from prominent figures, including Sir David Attenborough. Her mother, Lisa Bavin, said, "Paige has always had a huge passion for animals and conservation. What makes us most proud is seeing her inspire other children to get involved. Walk 4 Wildlife isn't just about fundraising; it's about showing young people that they have the power to make a difference." Dogs 4 Wildlife founders Jacqui Law and Darren Priddle praised Paige as "a true inspiration" whose work is shaping the next generation of conservation advocates.
How to Take Part
The 2026 challenge runs throughout the summer. Children are encouraged to set personal walking goals, gather sponsorship, and share their progress as part of a growing national movement. Paige's message to young people is simple: "Grab your lead, bring your dog, and join Walk 4 Wildlife 2026. Together we can become Conservation Heroes and help save pangolins." For more information and a fundraising pack, email fundraise@dogs4wildlife.org.
