How to Save Endangered Species

Scientists have identified five major waves of animal extinction throughout Earth's history, including the extinction of dinosaurs, and many believe we are now facing the sixth wave. However, unlike the past, humans are the primary cause this time. Actions such as habitat destruction, rampant hunting, environmental pollution, disrupting the food chain, and introducing non-native species are all contributing factors. Aside from the risk of losing these species forever, extinction also threatens scientific and medical progress derived from animals, and may even jeopardize the food supply for humans through the disruption of pollination. While this issue may seem too large for any one individual to tackle, we all have the power to bring about the necessary changes to protect endangered species from extinction.

Identify local species in need of help. Endangered species may seem distant, but there are likely animals in your area, from birds and bears to insects, that are at risk.

• Invasive plants destroy local vegetation, and invasive animals that haven't been hunted yet harm native animal populations. It's important to recognize the difference between invasive species and non-native species; invasive species are those that spread rapidly and dominate native species. Many non-native species do not have negative effects, and in fact, most of the food we consume comes from non-native plants and animals.
• When planting, choose native plants and flowers. Local plants are more likely to attract birds, butterflies, insects, and other endangered species.
• Remove invasive weed patches or non-native plants to make room for local species.
• Install bird feeders that cater to local species.

Natural farming. Avoid using chemical pesticides in your garden to support natural inhibitors. Let endangered or at-risk native plants thrive without dealing with unnecessary toxins. Runoff may cause chemicals to spread beyond your property, so you're benefiting larger ecological areas than you might think.

• "Integrated pest management" on crops is a method based on "natural" ways of dealing with pests and unwanted plants. For instance, if aphids are a problem, try attracting ladybugs to eat them. The general feeling among sustainable farmers (and many others) is that if you have an abundance of snails or slugs in the garden, the issue isn't necessarily the sheer numbers but rather a lack of ducks to control them by eating them.
• Additionally, compost locally to create fertilizer rather than relying on supermarket brands packed with chemicals.

Consider your space requirements. Many people dream of a spacious backyard with lush green grass, but the growing encroachment on wildlife habitats is a key factor in making species endangered.

• Think about transforming your backyard into a garden with edible plants. In drought-prone areas like California, focusing on native and/or drought-tolerant plants can help local wildlife survive.
• If you're moving, think carefully about the space you actually need. Also, consider the benefits of a smaller living space (less lawn mowing, for instance!) and the possibility of living in an already-developed area rather than a newly subdivided suburban lot.
• If moving isn't necessary, consider reducing your ecological footprint in the space you already occupy. Could you allow part of your property to revert to a more natural state—like replacing a lawn with native, self-sustaining plants?

Buy locally grown organic products. Support farmers who don't use chemical pesticides and who can get their products to market with minimal fuel consumption (therefore less pollution). Each action to prevent pollution helps endangered species, and by doing so, you will make organic farming a socially and financially viable option for growers.

Reduce, reuse, and recycle. If your local area has a recycling program, take full advantage of it. If there isn't one, try to establish one. Minimize the amount of waste going to landfills.

• Landfills occupy a lot of valuable space, and it's inevitable that many types of waste (like plastic bags and bottles) invade wildlife habitats or swirl into the oceans, negatively affecting animal life.
• Whenever possible, buy products and food that aren't packaged. Bring your own bags to stores. This will reduce your waste, as well as the pollution caused by packaging production and distribution.
• Start initiatives to share tools and infrequently used household items with neighbors. There are many examples of people working with local libraries to create tool-lending kiosks.
• Donate used toys, books, games, clothing, etc., to hospitals, shelters, preschools, or charitable organizations.
• Before discarding something, think creatively about ways to repurpose it. A flower pot made from a toilet bowl might not be your style, but an old, broken kitchen table could be turned into a small workbench.

Consider alternatives to driving. Walking or biking to work or the grocery store is not only good for your health but also helps protect the fragile balance of the Earth's climate. Whenever possible, opt for public transportation.

• When you must drive, try to reduce your speed. Car collisions with wildlife have become more frequent as human and animal habitats continue to overlap, which is a significant threat to many endangered species.

Save energy by switching off lights and electronics when not in use. Unplug your TV, computer, and other gadgets that still draw electricity even when turned off. This will prevent them from 'leeching' power.

• This simple action not only cuts down on pollution harming endangered species' habitats, but also saves you a little money. It's a win-win! Make it a habit, and spread the word. Tell others you can help them save money while saving polar bears!

Don't waste water. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth and use water-saving devices for your toilet, faucets, and shower. Fix any leaks in your pipes or faucets immediately. Even small leaks can waste large amounts of water over time.

• Install a drip irrigation system or other water-saving devices in your garden. If it's legal in your area, consider setting up a 'gray water' system to reuse wastewater from your bath and sink for irrigation. For the bold, consider composting toilets.
• The growing demand for water not only depletes water supplies but also disrupts freshwater ecosystems. For example, reservoirs built for water storage block migrating salmon from reaching their spawning grounds.

Support national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife areas that protect the habitats of endangered species. Visit these places, spend money there, or volunteer at one of them.

• Teach young children how to protect endangered species. Many parks offer special programs and tours for kids.
• When traveling, consider eco-tourism in places struggling to protect endangered species. For example, many locals in Madagascar, an island in East Africa with a unique and fragile ecosystem, are committed to preserving endangered species. Offer financial support to help them achieve this goal.

Preserve nature's state after interacting with it. Whether you're visiting a national park or simply taking a walk in the forest, follow the rules and make simple efforts to maintain the pristine condition of the environment: pick up litter, follow fire safety guidelines, and leave flowers, eggs, stones, and logs where you find them. Take only photographs and leave only footprints.

Join a group dedicated to protecting wildlife. There are numerous local and international organizations working to safeguard endangered species, and you can find groups in your own area. They might be doing simple things like removing invasive species and planting native plants in local reserves. Join them or start your own group.

Encourage farmers and landowners to create habitats for wildlife and preserve old-growth forests. If you know anyone in such positions, tell them about the benefits of such actions. If not, get involved in supporting these individuals and help them make informed decisions.

Speak up with others to be heard. The saying "a child must cry before the mother will feed" holds some truth. If you believe endangered species need protection for their sake and ours, let others know. Raising awareness is the first step toward creating positive change.

• Contact your locally elected officials. Ask them to support not only legislation protecting endangered species locally or abroad but also efforts to reduce pollution and address climate change.
• Raise your voice in your community. Help distribute flyers, or speak at schools, libraries, or community centers. With a friendly yet firm approach, help people understand the big picture and realize how small actions (or inactions) affect the entire ecosystem, including the plight of endangered species. Tell them that the ripple effect from the loss of species impacts not only the animals they see in zoos but also affects them directly.