Go wild for wildlife!

3 March 2014 - It is often easy to feel overwhelmed in the face of species loss, habitat destruction or climate change and its implications for wildlife. Yet, we may only do a little bit in the grand scheme of things, but together our seemingly small actions add up to a lot.

On the 3rd of March, we celebrate World Wildlife Day. Wildlife has an intrinsic value and contributes to the ecological, genetic, social, economic, scientific, educational, cultural, recreational and aesthetic aspects of sustainable development and human well-being.

There are two sides to this day. On one hand, we should all take the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate the animals and nature that surround us, be it a walk out in the forest or just planting flowers for spring on your balcony.

On the other hand, World Wildlife Day also highlights the on-going battle against wild-life crimes such as heavy deforestation, overfishing or illegal trade, which may lead to the extinction of some of nature’s most breath-taking species.

These crimes against nature may also have wide-ranging economic, environmental, and social consequences for all of us. Therefore, no matter where you are or who you are, every single one of us is invited to celebrate the beauty and variety of animals and plants we share our planet with.

‘’While the threats to wildlife are great, we can reduce them through our collective efforts”, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says in his message for the international day. “ On this inaugural World Wildlife Day, I urge all sectors of society to end illegal wildlife trafficking and commit to trading and using wild plants and animals sustainably and equitably’’

Here are some tips on how you can contribute:

1. Protect Wildlife Habitat
2. Join a Conservation Organization
3. Reduce the Threat of Invasive Species
4. Recycle and Reduce Energy and Goods Consumption
5. Minimize use of Herbicides and Pesticides
6. Place Decals on Windows to Deter Bird Collisions
7. Slow Down When Driving - Many native animals have to live in developed areas and this means they must navigate a landscape full of human hazards.
8. Voice Your Concerns and Get Involved Locally

Tweet #WorldWildLifeDay to join the celebrations!