National Wildlife Day is celebrated each year on February 22nd and September 4th. These days serve to bring awareness to endangered animal species both nationally and globally as well as the organizations that help them through education and conservation efforts. Countries around the globe are working on research and helping improve the health and population of animals every single day. These efforts include educational work, tracking practices, and laws that scientists, conservationists, and policymakers put in place to help ensure the safety and health of these populations all over the world. This work has already helped improve populations and overall health of many endangered species including the bald eagle, American alligator, sea turtle species (green, Hawksbill), and manatees.
While it may seem that you need to do something big to make an impact, local efforts around the world can make a big difference. Below is a list of ways that you can help local endangered species in your community.
- Support local nature centers
- Local nature and wildlife centers educate about and support lots of the native wildlife in your community. By supporting them financially and with your time, you can have a direct impact on local wildlife.
- Vote
- Voting in your local elections and supporting environmentally friendly issues and politicians helps to impact the environment positively in your local area.
- Get involved
- Look around your community and get involved in local volunteer projects and conservation efforts including habitat restorations, beach clean-ups and planting projects.
- Re-vamp your backyard
- You don’t need to do a complete overhaul of your backyard to have it be more friendly to your local wildlife visitors. Creating small habitats can be as easy as setting up small areas where animals can rest and find natural food and water.
- Habitat awareness
- When traveling and exploring natural areas be sure to stay in designated areas. Otherwise, you could unintentionally interfere with habitat in a negative way.
- Education
- Help educate yourself and others about the local wildlife in your area and how you can coexist with them.