How will your family celebrate World Wildlife Conservation Day this year? Falling between Thanksgiving and the December holidays, this national celebration of everything wild, furry, scaled, and feathered began in 2012, and continues to be one of the most significant days on any animal lover’s calendar. Here are just some of the reasons that wildlife conservation is one of the most important tasks of our lifetimes, not only here in Hawaii, but throughout the world.

Local

Some refer to Hawaii as the endangered species capital of the world, due to the large number of rare animals on our islands. Unfortunately, 28 bird species have gone extinct over the past 200 years, including the Kaua`i O`o - `O`o `a`a, who sang its last song in 1987. There are currently 66 endangered animal species in Hawaii, some of which occur nowhere else. These endemics include the charismatic Hawaiian monk seal and the secretive Hawaiian hawk.

Wildlife conservation efforts on the islands focus on monitoring species of greatest need and protecting their habitats from human encroachment. The state’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife works to restore disturbed wetlands to their natural state and to remove exotic invasive vegetation. Citizens can also do their part by planting native flora to benefit wildlife and installing appropriate outdoor lighting to help young seabirds like the Newell’s shearwater and Hawaiian petrel navigate on their first flights.

National

Before European colonists arrived in North America, animals roamed freely and abundantly across what is now the United States. Since that time, animal populations have declined dramatically, and more than 150 species have disappeared completely. The National Wildlife Federation estimates that approximately 500 more are likely extinct, and that one-third of all animals in the United States could be wiped out in the near future.

Beginning with the establishment of the world’s first national park in 1872, however, the U.S. has taken unprecedented steps to conserve wildlife. For example, legislation such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 and the Endangered Species Act of 1972 mandate protections for vulnerable animals. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officially oversees wildlife conservation, but dozens of nonprofit organizations reinforce this government effort by enlisting the aid of countless citizen volunteers.

Global

As climate change intensifies and world temperatures rise, many species are suffering the effects of altered habitat conditions. Polar bears who depend on arctic ice sheets must swim long distances in search of food, and migratory birds are altering the centuries-old timing of their journeys. As the human population continues to increase past 7 billion, people desperate to their feed families poach wildlife such as elephants and rhinoceroses, bringing them to the brink of extinction.

All over the world, concerned people are coming together to demand that something be done about climate change, and leaders have begun to take notice; for example, the U.N. Secretary-General recently called for carbon neutrality among developed nations. Non-profit organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund help local communities find ways to improve their economies without relying on wildlife poaching or unsustainable farming techniques in critical animal habitats.

Pet Hospitals of Hawaii

Pet Hospitals of Hawaii recognizes the grave dangers that your pets’ wild cousins face every day, and we support the cause of local, national, and international wildlife conservation efforts. Contact us today to discuss ways we can help keep your pet happy and healthy. We provide specialized care not available at other facilities, along with routine wellness exams, vaccines, and alternative medicines. We wish you and your pet, along with wild animals everywhere, a happy World Wildlife Conservation Day on December 4.