Endangered Species Day

Endangered Species Day is an opportunity for people young and old to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species and everyday actions that people can take to help protect our nation’s disappearing wildlife and last remaining open space. Protecting America’s wildlife and plants today is a legacy we leave to our children and grandchildren, so that all Americans can experience the rich variety of native species that help to define our nation.

Started by the United States Senate, Endangered Species Day is the third Friday in May. Every year, thousands of people throughout the country celebrate Endangered Species Day at parks, wildlife refuges, zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens, libraries, schools and community centers. You can participate in festivals, field trips, park tours, community clean-ups, film showings, classroom presentations, and many other fun and educational activities.

To learn more about Endangered Species Day, visit the Endangered Species Coalition and the Alliance for Zero Extinction, of which VCE is a member.

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) is the country's main legislative act to protect endangered species. The ESA was weakened during the last few months of the Bush administration, removing scientific review requirements for government projects and limiting restrictions for polar bears. On April 28th, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced the restoration of these rules, ensuring that science, not politics, will guide the preservation of endangered species. Read more....

Here are 10 actions you can take to protect endangered species (from the Endangered Species Coalition):
1) Learn about endangered species in your area
2) Visit a national wildlife refuge, park or other open space
3) Make your home wildlife friendly
4) Provide habitat for wildlife by planting native vegetation in your yard
5) Minimize use of herbicides and pesticides
6) Slow down when driving
7) Recycle and buy sustainable products
8) Never purchase products made from threatened or endangered species
9) Report any harassment or shooting of threatened and endangered species
10) Protect wildlife habitat