We live in a world full of many animals, insects, plants, and creatures that are approaching risk of extinction – or are so close to extinction...

We live in a world full of many animals, insects, plants, and creatures that are approaching risk of extinction – or are so close to extinction – that their species need help immediately. When a species is defined as endangered, its numbers are unusually low – in the last few thousands, hundreds, or even tens. And when the last of the species is gone, they are gone for good.

This day was created to keep us aware of how fragile the existence of some animals, plants, and insects is – and, most importantly, reminds us to take the time to learn about why it’s so important to protect endangered species from any further harm.

History of Endangered Species Day 

Since time began, there have been endangered species. Perhaps one of the earliest and most learned about extinctions in history is that of the dinosaurs. However, an endangered species is one which is still in the world today, but may not be much longer if the right steps aren’t taken.

According to the IUCN, at least 40% of animals, insects, and plants are at risk of extinction across the world. Some ways of helping endangered species have included captive breeding, which sees endangered or rare species in captivity encouraged to breed to improve their numbers in the wild.

Reasons for endangerment are varied – this may be down to environmental changes, overhunting by predators, poaching, the changing or destruction of habits by humans, or natural disasters, to name a few.

At root, Endangered Species Day is designed to help people learn more about the environmental issues that the planet faces today. It isn’t about activism. Instead, it is to come together to find creative, win-win ways to solve the environmental problems that we have and protect the natural world. After all, we must all live in it!

How to celebrate Endangered Species Day 

You can show your support for worldwide wildlife conservation efforts through official channels too. For instance, you can join the millions of people who are already members of the Wildlife Federation.

You can also do small things like update your Facebook profile cover photo with your favorite endangered species. When people ask why you made the change, you can tell them that you’re celebrating National Endangered Species Day.

The bottom line is this: the more we take care of all the species on our planet, the better it will be. And that’s what makes this particular day of the year so important.