The History of National Wildlife Day
National Wildlife Day was first celebrated in 2006 as a commemoration of Steve Irwin, the famous conservationist, and Australian TV host. Until this year, this holiday was celebrated on the day the world lost him, dying from a stingray to the heart. Steve Irwin was 44 years old and the date was the 4th of September 2006.
When Is National Wildlife Day?
From the year, 2018, National Wildlife Day will permanently change the date of celebration, and from now on, it will be celebrated on the 22nd of February, Steve Irwin’s birthday.
Who Was Steve Irwin?
Steve Irwin was a renowned Australian wildlife conservationist, actor, producer, and television personality. He is someone who has impacted the lives of people all across the world in one way or another.
Although he died when he was 44 years old due to a stingray barb piercing his chest in 2006, he leaves behind an impactful legacy through his work for animals and nature at large.
Numerous children have been inspired by Steve Irwin to take up animal studies or wildlife preservation because of his charismatic personality and legacy.
Steve Irwin was born on the 22nd of February 1962 in Essendon, Victoria to Lyn and Bob Irwin. As a child, he was not so good at his studies and instead loved to be around animals.
He started off as a reptile enthusiast at the tender age of four years when he arrived at an animal shelter with his father. This is where he got to hold a snake for the first time. He handled that snake successfully until it bit him.
What is National Wildlife Day All About?
Besides honoring Steve Irwin, we celebrate this day to raise awareness of the growing number of endangered and extinct species nationally and globally, to remind everybody of the demise of the animals each year and that we desperately need to make drastic and global changes.
This holiday inspires citizens to stand up and raise their voices for those who are speechless, to fight for the rights of animals, and to try to make a difference one day at a time. This holiday also encourages people who can donate or sponsor animals at their local Zoo or animal sanctuary.
The mission of this day is to raise awareness for the protection of our planet’s wildlife species and their habitats, as well as to educate people about the importance of conservation.
There are plenty of ways to get involved and join in on this special day, such as learning more about wildlife by visiting a local zoo or sanctuary, volunteering at your local animal rescue center, visiting a National Park or Wildlife Refuge, participating in a beach clean-up event, or joining a virtual discussion with conservation
How to Observe and Celebrate National Wildlife Day
It’s the day to celebrate the animals, plants, and natural habitats that are so integral to our lives. It’s also a day to learn about all of these amazing creatures and how they affect our world. This day is designed to give people an appreciation for our wild world and how it contributes to all life on Earth.
One of the best ways to celebrate National Wildlife Day is by completing an activity that will help you connect better with nature.
- Volunteer at a local no-kill shelter. These shelters always need an extra pair of hands and all the help they can get.
- If your state has an animal sanctuary, volunteer there.
- Be a part of WWF’s adventure tours. Their focus is on wildlife and conservation.
- Suggest to your local zoo, school, or library to host a non-profit event and educate children about the importance of wildlife conservation.
- Spread the word on social media and inspire someone to help
- Watching a documentary about coyotes or prairie dogs
- Going on a hike or walk
- Catching and releasing a fish
- Kissing your partner as someone else would kiss a tree
- Have a wildlife-themed party!
Some people celebrate National Wildlife Day by taking a walk and watching critters. . And some just sit on the couch and watch TV while their pets keep them company. Psst! There is even a National Wildlife Week too!
But it is also important to remember that we cannot protect wildlife without protecting our natural resources — air, land, water, and the remaining habitats of the earth.
Another fun and meaningful way to celebrate National Wildlife Day is by participating in a volunteer activity. Whether it’s picking up trash at the beach, planting trees in your local park, or joining an animal rescue organization, there are plenty of ways to help protect our wildlife habitats. Doing something positive for the environment can be incredibly rewarding, and it’s a great way to make a difference in your community. You can also consider taking part in a wildlife conservation group or event such as beach clean-ups, bird watching, tree planting events, and more.
Even something as simple as reducing your energy consumption at home or donating to an organization that helps fund wildlife initiatives can help make a difference. Taking the time to educate yourself and those around you about wildlife conservation can also help raise awareness and spark conversations. Additionally, be sure to research which species are at risk in your local area, so that you can do whatever you can to help protect them.
By joining forces with fellow animal lovers and doing something meaningful to celebrate National Wildlife Day, you can help maintain and preserve the habitats of our beloved wildlife for years to come.
Happy National Wildlife Day and Happy Birthday Steve!
