National Endangered Species Day
May - 21
National Endangered Species Day falls on May 21 this year. Annually celebrated on the third Friday of May, this is a global event that is aimed at the protection of the endangered species of our planet. 2021 marks the 16th National Endangered Species Day.
Established by the US Senate, the historic National Endangered Species Day came into being in 2006. On December 28, the Endangered Species Act of 1973 was officially signed into law to facilitate the monumental effort of prevention of endangered species extinction. It has been reported that there are around 16000 species (including algae, fungi) whose existence is at a critical juncture.
In India, according to the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, hunting of wild animals has been banned to eradicate the risk of endangered species extinction. Emphasizing the importance of conservation of the planet’s flora and fauna, the activities of the National Endangered Species Day have always been aimed towards educating about the ways of conservation, restoration of the ecosystem; and understanding biodiversity.The endeavor is to ensure that awareness spreads to every nook and corner of the world so that the endangered species can be saved from the perils of extinction.
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Observance of the National Endangered Species Day is a wonderful opportunity to be mindful of the vast, rich flora and fauna that Earth is endowed with. It is important to learn and broaden our knowledge about wildlife, the species under extinction threat as they form such an integral part of the food chain and human existence.
