Threatened Species Day

Threatened Species Day History

Threatened Species Day is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats. This day encourages conservation efforts, highlighting the need for sustainable measures to preserve at-risk flora and fauna. Threatened Species Day underlines the significance of safeguarding Australia's native ecosystems and the unique biodiversity they support.

Threatened Species Day marks the anniversary of the death of the last known Tasmanian tiger in 1936. A significant figure in Australian history, the extinction of the Tasmanian tiger serves as a painful reminder of the consequences of neglecting the conservation of native species and their natural habitats. Today, Australia's unique wildlife and natural landscapes face numerous challenges, including habitat degradation, invasive species, pollution, and climate change. Several prominent Australian species, such as the Koala, the Northern Corroboree Frog, and the Grey-headed Flying-fox, are currently listed as threatened, making the observance of this day especially relevant for Australians.

On Threatened Species Day, Australians are encouraged to participate in various events and activities that foster awareness and action for threatened species conservation. These may include educational talks, community tree planting, bush regeneration initiatives, and the support of local wildlife sanctuaries. Some initiatives specifically focus on educating the Australian public on the importance of protecting their unique native ecosystems and the incredible biodiversity they harbor. Threatened Species Day occurs annually on the 7th of September.

Top facts about Threatened Species Day

• In 2022, there are more than 300 endangered animals in Australia.
• Some of the most endangered species in Australia as of 2022 are:
  1) Koala
  2) Mountain Pygmy-possum
  3) Long-footed Potoroo
  4) Greater Glider
  5) Numbat
• Australia's wildlife is impacted by pollution, habitat destruction, and urban development.
• Australia experienced its worst wildfire season in 2019-2020, with more than 18 million hectares burned nationwide. This disaster impacted the country's biodiversity severely, pushing many species closer to extinction.

In the News and Trending for Threatened Species Day

Top things to do for Threatened Species Day

• Support the conservation of specific endangered species by adopting an animal through a wildlife organization or sanctuary, which will help fund their ongoing protection and care.
• Reflect on your daily habits and make small changes to reduce your ecological footprint and contribute to the conservation of threatened species, such as reducing plastic waste, choosing sustainable products, and supporting responsible tourism.
• Participate in citizen science programs to contribute to data collection and research on threatened species.