World Wildlife Conservation Day

The 4th of December has been recognised as World Wildlife Conservation Day since 2012. Created by Hillary Clinton – who was the US Secretary of State at the time – the day aims to raise awareness of issues facing wildlife. This includes issues such as extinction, endangerment, global wildlife trafficking and poaching. World Wildlife Conservation Day is a global day dedicated to raising awareness and promoting action for the protection and preservation of wildlife. This day focuses on educating people about the urgent need for conservation and the threats that wildlife face, such as habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. Organisations, activists, and communities come together to promote sustainable solutions that protect animals and their natural habitats. World Wildlife Conservation Day is a reminder that safeguarding wildlife is essential for maintaining biodiversity and the balance of our planet’s ecosystems.

There are many things you can do on World Wildlife Conservation Day, including:

• The charity International Aid for the Protection & Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) suggests signing petitions that help support wildlife, boycotting the purchase of animal products, and trying a plant-based diet.
• Learn About Local Wildlife: There are multiple charities, including the RSPCA, RSPB, and WWF that have lots of valuable information about the wildlife that is local to your area and where you can even see these species out in the wild.
• Research the trade of animal products, most notably the illegal trade in endangered species. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (also known as CITES) is a great starting point to understand which animals are most at risk and what to do if you suspect trade happening near you.
• Research conservation projects to see how conservation is being used and advanced across the world. One of my favourites at the moment is the Jane Goodall Institute and the amazing work that they are doing to further research into baboon behaviour, as well as working to end illegal animal smuggling.

Is there anything in particular you are doing to celebrate World Wildlife Conservation Day? Any resources you have found to be very interesting or helpful for learning more? Let me know in the comments as I am always looking for new resources to add to my little library!

T xxx