How To Help Endangered Species

In this list, we look at the best ways to protect endangered animals and sustain their survival.

Understanding the Problem

Given that knowledge is power, let’s begin with the fundamentals. Since it was initially posted on the international network in 2000, the IUCN “Red List” indicates that the number of creatures that are endangered has increased. It is estimated that almost 70% of the world’s plant life, one-eighth of birds, one-third of amphibians, and one-quarter of all mammals are seriously threatened with extinction. Although figures differ according to source, annual figures often make for more painful reading. You start to contribute to the problem’s solution by showing interest in it. You don’t have to tackle global issues on your own; have a look at regional campaigns to change things closer to home.

Protecting Australia’s Endangered Native Animals

Any non-native plant or animal that penetrates the environment and somehow upsets its equilibrium is considered an invasive species. Errors in international commerce and transportation are frequently the root of the issue, as “alien” species gradually outcompete other species or function as unwanted predators, causing illness, or simply outnumbering them. Intentional acts can also result in invasions. For example, when cane toads were brought to Australia in the 1930s to control cane pests, the toads ended up taking over the whole nation! Although managing this issue is inevitably getting harder, certain attacks may be prevented by strengthening security protocols and shipping practices.

Raising Awareness

Word-of-mouth campaigns are incredibly effective, and continuing to raise awareness of endangered species is among the greatest methods to support them. Please share your knowledge with others if you are aware of the dire situation of certain animal species or tree species! Just get the word out—it doesn’t have to be a fundraiser or a big sum of money! Of course, authorities also have to make sure that government legislation pertaining to animal care are transparent and updated on a regular basis, and that endangered animals are taught as a subject in schools.

Reducing the Use of Harmful Chemicals

MMany producers view the use of pesticides and herbicides in agriculture as essential, owing to the strong incentive to do so. Pesticides prevent undesired animals from eating the crops, while herbicides prevent unwanted plants from growing on or near crops! Many regulations from all around the world control the use of chemicals on farms, and certain compounds are thought to be safer than others. But on a daily basis, these poisons endanger ecosystems and occasionally even us consumers! Try to consume organic vegetables whenever you can; it may look a bit different and cost a little more, but it’s far better for the environment!

Reducing Plastic Use

Endangered Species International estimates that humans consume 260 million tons of plastic annually, and that 60–80% of marine waste is made up of plastics. There are certain polymers that linger in the environment for centuries. Every day, human rubbish causes injuries to animals or they accidentally swallow it; floating plastic may even contribute to the spread of alien species. If nothing else, please don’t litter! However, one of the easiest things you can do to protect the environment is to recycle. More recycling would result in less items being needed, requiring less energy to produce, using less space and fuel, and displacing fewer animals. Reusing and recycling can help you contribute to the chain reaction.

Creating Wildlife-Friendly Spaces

It is possible to accomplish this on a big or small scale. While planting new trees is a wonderful notion in an ideal world, it’s not always feasible. Nevertheless, everyone with a small amount of open area may create a wild garden. There are an estimated 16 million gardens in the UK, according to the British Wildlife Trust. Imagine the benefits that would accrue to the natural world if each garden performed a specific function. To attract insects, build a pond, plant dense hedges in lieu of unkempt fences, and build taller ledges that will draw birds but impede the growth of weeds. Then, just relax and take in the beauty of nature blooming outside your window.

Volunteering

Your assistance is needed for many noble causes worldwide, but you don’t necessarily have to be on the front lines rescuing Borneo’s orangutans to have an impact. At every level, natural institutions and activities require assistance and backing. Volunteers that assist directly with animal care, drive, take pictures, speak in public, and work as rangers are essential to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA). In addition, it is the biggest and oldest organization of its sort. Working as a volunteer at a wildlife organization benefits endangered species protection and personal growth. A win-win situation!

Sponsorship and Fundraising

Here, you may enjoy yourself while also supporting endangered wildlife. A fantastic approach for people to generate money without too much interruption to their regular lives is through sponsorships. To gain attention and receive rewards, there are often two major strategies: either take on a challenging task or go completely bonkers. Climb a mountain, or chop off all of your hair; run a marathon, or spend a week dressing in only your underwear! But don’t forget to prioritize your career! It’s not about you; it’s about giving animals a second chance at life and protecting their environments everywhere!

Avoiding Illegal Wildlife Products

Although it might seem apparent, illicit trading is nonetheless a concern on a global scale. There is occasionally misunderstanding regarding national laws. The World Wildlife Fund offers a “Buyer Beware” advice that advises tourists not to buy any things related to tigers, rhinos, or turtles, or any raw or carved ivory, as well as any live monkeys or apes. Additionally, buying live birds, wild feathers, orchids, crocodile or snake skins, or live birds is discouraged on the list. To a certain extent, common sense does win out, though; if something appears to have been made without intentionally killing an animal or plant, don’t buy it.

Making Sustainable Choices at Home

Though change truly “begins at home,” there are moments when we feel a little helpless and wonder what we can actually do to save endangered animals that are far distant from our everyday lives. We have the power to change the world via the food we eat on a daily basis. Grow your own herb garden, cook in one pot with as little energy as possible, use natural goods in your meals and purchase them locally if you can, and favor small, independent companies over large, frequently untrustworthy ones. Nothing is more fulfilling than eating a meal that you know won’t negatively affect the environment, the natural world, or endangered animals.

Visiting Wildlife Sanctuaries

A wildlife sanctuary visit is one of the finest ways to make the planet a better place. There are sanctuaries for animals all around the nation. In actuality, there are 567 national wildlife refuges in the US with at least one in each of the 50 states. Additionally, there are stations on the Pacific islands and in U.S. possessions like Puerto Rico.

Whether they are adults or children, these animal sanctuaries provide a wealth of educational opportunities. These locations provide the chance to see vulnerable animals in cozy settings. This is your chance to go birdwatching in the reserve and get some great close-up shots of the wildlife. For individuals who wish to protect endangered animals, it’s an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.

A trip to a zoo or refuge can occasionally change someone’s life. It could motivate you to provide a hand and look for opportunities to work with these organizations. See what volunteer opportunities are available at a national park, zoo, or sanctuary if you feel compelled to do so. Animals are very important to many of these groups. To find out if there is an accredited zoo and aquarium association in your area, contact the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Over the past several years, the consequences of climate change have been more noticeable. If greenhouse gas emissions continue at the current rate, they will affect both plants and animals and may even cause extinction. Even though it may feel hopeless to hear that animals are in danger, there are things you can do to assist. By using these techniques, you can conserve endangered animals right in your own house. Every action matters, whether it is by volunteering, lowering plastic usage, providing wildlife-friendly environments, educating, or making sustainable decisions. We can all do a great deal to protect endangered animals for future generations, and change begins at home.