NATIONAL WILDLIFE DAY (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: National Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on September 4, encouraging people to pause, reflect and appreciate the wildlife.

National Wildlife Day

• Objective: This day aims to remind the importance of conservation efforts to improve the natural world. 
• Frequency of Celebration: Twice a year, first on February 22 and then on September 4, 2024.
• History: 

oCreation by: Colleen Paige established National Wildlife Day in 2005 to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.

oHonoring Steve Irwin: The observance was expanded to include February 22 to honor Steve Irwin, a prominent wildlife conservationist.

oIrwin's Contribution: Steve Irwin played a crucial role in wildlife protection, which is commemorated on this additional date.

• Purpose of the Day:

oThe day aims to address the challenges faced by wildlife due to human activities and environmental changes.

oIt encourages people to engage in practices that do not harm the natural environment.

• Significance: 

oNational Wildlife Day emphasizes the urgent need to address the rapid disappearance of species due to human activities and environmental changes.

oThe day encourages individuals to actively participate in conservation efforts, raising awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats.

oIt serves as a reminder of the impact of climate change and illegal activities on wildlife, stressing the need for collective action to safeguard natural ecosystems.