On September 4th each year, people around the world gather to celebrate National Wildlife Day. This day honors the beauty, diversity, and suppleness of the animal kingdom. It pays tribute to the delicate balance that wildlife creates within nature. While initially the day was only observed on September 4th, it is now also celebrated on February 22nd, in memory of and the birthday of wildlife warrior Steve Irwin. The day encourages the resplendence of wildlife, the importance of nature and plantlife, and the essential need for conservation and sustainability of these elements of the natural world and the fauna that inhabits it.
National Wildlife Day, Since 2005
Although World Animal Day has already been celebrated for far longer (since October 4th, 1925, to be precise), animal behaviorist, author, animal advocate, conservationist, and philanthropist Colleen Paige established National Wildlife Day in 2005. Colleen had a deep passion for animals and their welfare and saw an opportunity to create a day that would inspire people to appreciate and protect these fauna. Since then, the day's primary objective has remained to raise awareness on the need for wildlife conservation.
This special day, essentially, brings awareness to endangered animals nationally as well as globally. Animals need to be protected and rescued from danger. National Wildlife Day also acknowledges zoos and outstanding animal sanctuaries globally for what they do to help protect the planet's animals and educate the public about conservation. This is especially so for children. Since its inception, National Wildlife Day has grown into a global movement that brings together individuals, organizations, and governments to advocate for the preservation of wildlife and the environment.
With each passing year, the celebration has evolved and become even more providential. It now encompasses broader themes, including sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and the important role of nature in human lives. National Wildlife Day is observed on two dates to double the effort required to bring awareness of the plight of wild animals around the world. On these two dates, wildlife lovers are encouraged to stand up and fight for animals that need a voice, visit their local zoos, and donate what they can to make a difference in the animals' lives.
Global Observance of National Wildlife Day
Across the world, National Wildlife Day is now enthusiastically and creatively observed from schools and community centers to wildlife reserves and botanical gardens. Numerous events and activities take place to mark this occasion. So, here are some ways through which people all over the world celebrate this day.
Engaging in Wildlife Tours and Educational Programs
In this case, schools and educational institutions use the occasion to raise awareness among students about wildlife conservation, ecological balance, and the importance of preserving natural habitats. There usually are lectures, workshops, and field trips to zoos and wildlife sanctuaries to inspire the next generation of conservationists to take care of the natural environment and the fauna that thrives therein, since, without one, the other will not exist.
Wildlife Photography and Art Exhibitions
This is where nature enthusiasts and photographers showcase their stunningly captured wildlife snapshots and visual artwork. Such exhibitions not only showcase the splendor of wildlife and nature but also provide a visual statement of collective responsibility to protect these beings and their natural habitats.
Taking Part in Nature Walks and Eco-Tours
On National Wildlife Day, many people take the opportunity to engage, relax, and unwind in nature. They, for instance, organize nature walks, eco-tours, and birdwatching excursions. In such cases, connecting oneself with the natural world creates a deeper appreciation for the flora and fauna that surround us.
Engaging in Conservation Projects
National Wildlife Day is also a catalyst for launching conservation projects and initiatives. Such projects may include habitat restoration, species protection, and community-driven efforts to support sustainable living and the protection of wildlife and nature.
Fundraising Events for Wildlife Welfare Causes
Various organizations use this day to raise funds for wildlife conservation. Such include charity runs, walks for nature conservation, and activities that are aimed at raising money and awareness towards the cause of wildlife conservation. Donations and contributions raised are then channeled into programs that support the protection and well-being of endangered species.
Growing Plants and Gardening to Conserve Wildlife Habitats
Still, on this day, different individuals participate in planting native flowers and trees to create welcoming habitats for wildlife. Creating hospitable and habitable ecosystems is a particularly important and effective way to show concern for wildlife populations. A garden full of wild flowers, a backyard with native species of plants for foraging and grazing animals like deer, or trees planted strategically to attract birdlife, do the trick.
Nature's Language of Conservation and the Effect of Flowers Therein
As is common knowledge, flowers have a long history of providing beauty through their colors, shapes, and scents. Throughout history, they have been given symbolic meanings, reflecting emotions, virtues, and sentiments. In the language of flowers, the blooming petals of the varieties narrate different tales, and on the occasion of National Wildlife Day, these languages can, in different ways, be 'spoken' as a voice from nature; a call for all to cherish and protect natural ecosystems.
Therefore, the essence of National Wildlife Day lies in deploying these elements and leveraging them in the interconnection of nature and humanity. And this is the beauty of wildlife and the language through which plants convey nature’s message of living in harmony, as well as taking note of the fragility of life. Recognizing and acknowledging this delicate balance of the world’s natural ecosystems creates a better understanding of the urgency of nature conservation and sustainability.
Conservation and Sustainability of Nature
The language of conservation speaks of responsibility, stewardship, management, and the impact of humans’ actions on the natural world. Engaging in sustainable practices and the protection of the flora and fauna shows a commitment to preserving biodiversity, safeguarding habitats, and combating climate change. This is just as a gardener would nurture a plant or flower to full bloom, which is the same way humans need to collectively care for the planet and its inhabitants to ensure its sustainability, be it the animals that inhabit the natural world, or the plant life in it.
There Is a Need for a Shared Responsibility in Conserving Wildlife
National Wildlife Day is not just a one-day celebration; it is an observance that should be a continuous prompt for the shared responsibility that all humans have for conserving nature. The well-being of the wildlife and the environment is inextricably linked to human beings’ own well-being. When people protect nature and embrace sustainable practices, they create a better world for themselves and future generations.
The day is therefore all about humans’ need for the natural world, and nature's need for humans to preserve and conserve it. It is all about the possibilities that lie in conservation and sustainability. It is a day that speaks to the notion that humans need not be just spectators but active participants in the conservation of wildlife and plants.
So, What Can One Do?
National Wildlife Day helps bring out the connection that people have with nature and recognizes that this natural world is not just a source of beauty and inspiration. It is a call for collectively nurturing and safeguarding the planet for future generations. On the celebration of this day, it is worth it if people unite in the pursuit and commitment to protecting wildlife, preserving habitats, and focusing on sustainable practices.
Through education, empathy, and collective action, and putting all the required measures into practice, there can be a brighter future for all living beings, including the flora and fauna that inhabit the world.
P.S. - Don't mix up National Wildlife Day with World Animal Day, which is every year on the 4th of October.
Feature image by Jay Sadangi. Header image by mana5280.
