Wildlife across the globe is threatened by many problems like climate change, pollution, habitat fragmentation, and many other anthropogenic activities. We, humans, share this earth with around 8 million species of plants and animals. Humans are mainly the reason behind the threats that wildlife is facing. Everyone thinks that wildlife conservation is a bigger problem and is beyond our ability to conserve. If each of us takes small steps for the well-being of wildlife, we will witness a different future.
Here are some steps you can take for wildlife conservation ourselves.
Learn about the wildlife of your area
Learn about the wildlife of our area and the threats they are facing. Teach your friends and family about them. Knowledge about them is essential for taking any step towards protecting them.
Plant trees
Trees are a significant constituent of an ecosystem. They provide us with oxygen and provide food and suitable habitat for many species, including birds, insects, and mammals. By planting trees, you will be helping all those species who are dependent upon those trees. Make sure to plant only native species.
Protect environment
Protecting a species’ environment is one of the significant contributions you can make to aid its conservation. Keep the environment clean and if it has lost its original form, try to restore it, for example, by planting new species or removing invasive species. Always pick up your trash as it pollutes the environment and disturbs the wildlife inhabiting the area.
Recycle more
Try to reduce the consumption of products that disturb natural ecosystems. For example, plastic bottles usually end up as waste in oceans disturbing the whole ecosystem. Try to buy products that can be reused while making less trash and reusing more. Always try to find products that can be recycled, if not reused. This will contribute to less waste which will benefit the environment.
Maintain a wildlife-friendly yard
Plant native trees and flowers in your yard to attract birds, butterflies, and other insects. They will get a place to live, but it will also help the plants as pollinators have decreased due to excessive use of pesticides. Avoid pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers in your garden, which can lead to wildlife poisoning.
Make your glass windows visible
Millions of bird deaths occur every year due to collisions with glass windows. You can avoid such deaths by adding some decorations to your glass window or using tinted glass or curtains.
Drive carefully
About one million animals die because of road accidents every year in the USA alone. Roads crossing areas in the wildlife habitat disturb their habitat and pose a serious life threat when animals cross the street. When you drive in those areas, always drive slow. Keep an eye on the roadsides to avoid collisions with wild creatures and look for signs indicating what animals may be close.
Be a responsible buyer
Tourists always want to buy souvenirs when on vacation, but some are made from endangered animal species. Poaching and illegal hunting are top wildlife crimes in many regions. Avoid supporting products made from ivory, corals, and shells. Try to be vigilant about buying furs, bags, belts, and other items involving animals.
Respect wild animals
Always respect wild animals and keep your distance from them. Don’t be tempted to touch or pamper it if you come across one. Leave it alone, and it will find its way home. Don’t try to feed wild animals, although it may seem they would like it. These habits will disturb their natural foraging behaviour making their survival difficult. Similarly, if you find an injured animal, contact the animal rescue services in your area.
Volunteer
Many organizations work for the conservation and betterment of different wildlife species. Every organization has its mission, so if you are interested in any particular aspect of protection, try to find an organization whose mission aligns with your interest. Become a member or volunteer for organized conservation efforts.
Donate
Many animal organizations and shelters lack funding. You can donate some money, food, or simply your time to organizations working for animal benefits. Your donation will be used for the betterment of animals.
Support National Parks and sanctuaries
National Parks and sanctuaries are playing a vital role in providing better habitat and protection to the area’s wildlife. You can plan to visit these parks and support them by supporting their economy and morale.
Use your vote wisely
When using your right to vote, make sure to research first. Vote for those candidates who favour animal conservation and will be happy to provide funding for wildlife and environment conservation. For the long-term impact of conservation efforts, it’s vital to have government support.
Use social media for awareness.
In today’s world, the power of social media cannot be denied. Use that power to raise awareness about wildlife’s importance and its conservation. Raise your voice to protect them. Celebrate various wildlife-related days for better understanding and awareness. Provoke others to join you in this mission. Make Facebook pages, Instagram posts, and Twitter posts to reach a broader audience.
This earth would surely be transformed if each one of you joined hands and took these steps for a better future not only for wildlife but indirectly for yourselves. Your actions today can bring a better environment for future generations.
