Reading the Nature Conservancy’s February 19th post on the challenges that Ocelots continue to face in our development-crazed country (http://blog.nature.org/2009/02/ocelots_rare_cat_america/) got me thinking about the countless additional species that continue to face an uphill battle for survival. According to a 1998 American Museum of Natural History-commissioned survey, 70% of 400 total scientists polled believe that we are in the midst of a mass extinction. One of the most respected biodiversity resources, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, released their Red List of Threatened Species (http://www.iucnredlist.org/) which also points to the eminent loss of at least ¼ of all known mammals within the next 30 years. Other sources, such as the Worldwatch Institute and the National Academy of Sciences speculate that the extinction figure will likely reach 50% of all known species within our lifetime.
That is a jarring piece of news, no matter the precise number of predicted casualties. Fortunately, we Earthlings have become highly skilled at crafting euphemisms to soften the edges of our ecological and wildlife crimes. “Human activity,” the universally-cited reason given for species decline and decimation, is really just an easier-to-swallow spin on the reckless corporate, governmental and societal behavior which has resulted in widespread habitat destruction, environmental pollution, disease, excessive hunting, poaching, species extermination, global warming, and/or numerous additional factors that prohibit population adaptation. While a few readers of this blog may be staunch supporters of wildlife and more likely to align themselves with causes and organizations that try to make a measurable difference, the actions of a few do not always outweigh the actions of many. No matter how we slice it, rephrase it, repackage it, or explain it away, humanity’s continued short-sightedness is to blame. The vast majority of threatened species are teetering on the balance due to the irresponsible, thoughtless, and oftentimes entirely selfish actions of mankind which continue to persist even though we know better.
Many of us may feel saddened, embarrassed and perhaps even enraged by these behaviors, especially if we are among the minority who continually revamp our lifestyles in the hope that our efforts will offset those of others. However, because the general lack of regard for our planet’s animal species occurs globally, on such a wide scale and with such alarming regularity, it is hard to imagine that we are capable of making the slightest dent in the problem. Scanning the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Threatened & Endangered Species List (http://ecos.fws.gov/tess_public/) makes the challenge of rising up and taking a stand in favor of embattled animals all the more daunting – after all, there are SO SOOOOO MANY to choose from. How on Earth can one person, let alone a few green-lovin’-walas, make a difference?
1. STOP THINKING AND STARTING DOING.
Although my personal attempt to rescue a colony of white-tailed Prairie Dogs threatened by land development did not yield the success story I hoped for, I do not regret finally trying to make a difference after years of passively lamenting their widespread demise. I learned a harsh lesson – that idealism and resourcefulness, while nice, are no match for large, power-wielding entities. Still, I have a better idea of what to do differently next time, and more importantly, I’m no longer just talking the talk. Find a cause that resonates with you and stick with it – and don’t forget — creatures that get the short end of the stick are entirely dependent on advocates committed to supporting their rights.
2. MAKE A COMMITMENT AND STAY THE COURSE.
If you are interested in protecting a family of foxes or ground owls or ocelots that happen to live on a parcel of land destined for yet another strip mall, define your goal and don’t give up when obstacles get in your way. Do not kid yourself – developers have one mindset, which is generally to remove unwelcome animal species and their human sympathizers. If your efforts are derailed by a developer or other powerful organization, stay the course and call for back-up assistance. Call attention to your cause by contacting local animal protection agencies – ask for referrals, contact numbers and information regarding what your options are. Don’t forget to alert the news media, residents in your area and anyone else who might be able to offer back up/assistance.
3. SEEK EDUCATION.
None of us are instantly endowed with the knowledge necessary to wage our own successful animal rescue campaigns, but now, with the magical help of the internet, we can all let our fingers do the walking in order to get a better idea of how to begin. Research the efforts of The National Audubon Society, The National Wildlife Federation, The World Wildlife Fund, The Nature Conservancy and The Sierra Club – and find out how they might be able to advise you on how to make a difference. Contact a resource librarian at your local university for recommendations. Speak to representatives at a local wildlife agency.
4. BAN TOGETHER WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE.
Join a community group that preserves or re-establishes wildlife habits. Volunteer with a wildlife advocacy group. Donate money to a wildlife sanctuary. Start a dialogue on your favorite green social network about wildlife conservation interests, brainstorm with eager participants and establish community-wide projects. Any takers?
5. TAKE BABY STEPS.
Although it is noble to embrace the plight of all endangered species, it is sadly unrealistic unless you have access to unlimited financial resources, a phenomenal team of attorneys, and insider information on how to most effectively alter humanity’s regard for wildlife. Instead of biting off more than you can chew at the onset, try waging your campaign with a good dose of practicality. Start small and move up the ladder as you achieve minor successes and gain your sea legs. Don’t ever forget to ask for assistance – the advice of a professional can make all the difference.
6. OTHER IDEAS.
If you feel particularly moved by animal population in need, enlighten your community via a letter to the editor of your local paper. Establish your OWN wildlife preservation organization. Create your own themed blog to educate other animal lovers in cyberspace. Write letters to corporate and governmental offenders asking for action. Refrain from purchasing products made by corporations that are notorious for decimating wildlife populations and their habitats. Regularly visit wildlife and rescue rehabilitation facilities – your entrance fee and gift shop purchases will support their efforts. Initiate a neighborhood, company, and social network-wide petition. Brainstorm with anyone who shares a similar interest and spring forward into action.
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IF YOU HAVE IDEAS OF YOUR OWN ON HOW CONCERNED CITIZENS CAN SAVE WILDLIFE SPECIES, PLEASE TAKE A FEW MINUTES TO SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW. YOUR PERSONAL EXPERIENCES, RECOMMENDATIONS AND FEEDBACK REALLY MATTER (and make this community what it is)!!!
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Land is so generous that it makes up for every piece of hard work. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
