One giant leap...

Any parent understands the basic, primal urge to protect their young, and it’s no different in the animal kingdom. Which is why Suzi Eszterhas’s photos of a mother leopard and her cubs are so precious. The level of trust that Suzi built up with the leopard, who allowed her to spend a year photographing her leap, is most unusual, and we’re privileged to be able to bring you their story from page 28.

How well we humans are protecting our own young is the subject of much debate, not least thanks to the school strike movement, sparked last year by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg. So, we thought we’d ask one of Britain’s school strikers – and her father – to tell us about the movement and why it’s gathering such momentum around the world. You can read their views on page 36.

Of course, there are many other things that we – and our children – can do to create a brighter future from our own backyards. Dave Goulson has some top tips for creating a wildlife oasis in your garden on page 18.

For more inspiration, be sure to look out for our guide to the ultimate British wild summer next issue!