That’s Wild! Celebrating National Wildlife Day
National Wildlife Day is celebrated yearly on September 4th. Created in 2005 by animal behaviorist, philanthropist, and conservationist Collen Paige, National Wildlife Day is a day to educate the public on the importance of wildlife, including the wildlife in their own backyard, and bring attention the threats these animals face. It was also created in honor of the late Steve Irwin, a beloved and renowned conservationist!
It is estimated that more than 1 million species will face the threat of extinction in the coming decades. Species such as the black rhino, hawksbill turtle, and gharial are already considered critically endangered, meaning they are at an extremely high risk of extinction. But why should you care? I’m glad you asked! Wildlife is important to us for many different reasons. Here are just a few:
Ecological balance. Animals of all shapes and sizes help maintain the balance of the ecosystems they live in: predators help with population control, butterflies, bees, and even bats pollinate plants and flowers, small mammals maintain soil health, fruit-eaters disperse seeds, etc. An ecosystem must be in balance for it to function smoothly and remain healthy. Wildlife also helps maintain biodiversity within the ecosystem. Without a wide range of animals, plants, and microorganism, our ecosystems would collapse, which would be bad considering we rely on healthy ecosystems for clean air, fresh water, and food. Removing just one animal could cause the entire ecosystem to change.
Scientific value. Wildlife can be studied to learn more about the natural world and can help us create conservation strategies that will further aid in the preservation of many different species. Wildlife also has medicinal benefits!Did you know that toxins found in venom can aid in the treatment of certain medical conditions, and that there are already several venom-based medications already in use? For example, the main compound of Captopril, which is used to treat high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart failure after a heart attack, is derived from the venom of a pit viper species found in Brazil!
Economic value. While not always obvious, wildlife can benefit farmers greatly through the ecological services they offer. Pollination is one of the most valuable ecological services wildlife can provide. Many of the fruits and vegetables we enjoy on a daily basis require pollination. The more pollinators around the better crop yield there will be! Wildlife can also be a great form of natural pest control. Some of the best pest controllers are right in our own back yards. From raccoons to bats, wildlife help keep our gardens and farms free from pests that might destroy them.
So, now you know just a few reasons why its important that we celebrate wildlife, and there are many ways you can do this. You can visit a wildlife sanctuary, go on a nature walk, volunteer and an animal rescue or conservation facility, or even plant native plants! Take some time to get out into nature and appreciate all wildlife does for us.
Written by Emily Granville
Education Specialist
Lehigh Valley Zoo | Schnecksville, PA
