I know everyone is crazy busy getting ready for the holidays, but I wanted to share that today is World Wildlife Conservation Day. It is observed annually on December 4th and serves to raise awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats, as well as the critical role conservation plays in preserving biodiversity for future generations.
This day also highlights the challenges faced by wildlife, including habitat destruction, poaching, climate change, and pollution. It’s an opportunity for individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to support conservation efforts and push for sustainable practices that help protect the planet’s ecosystems and wildlife.
As you make your wish lists for Santa, please consider gifts that will support our animal friends as well. Birdfeeders and items for a wildlife friendly garden (seeds, plants, puddle stones, pond accessories, etc.) are obvious choices. But here are a few more:
Adopt an Animal
Many wildlife organizations offer symbolic animal adoptions where your gift supports conservation efforts. You typically receive a certificate, photo, and information about the animal you’ve “adopted.”
Examples: WWF (World Wildlife Fund), The Nature Conservancy, or local wildlife sanctuaries which offer animal adoption programs.
Donate to a Wildlife Charity or Purchase Conservation Gift Cards
Make a donation in someone’s name to a reputable wildlife conservation organization. Many of these charities also offer gift cards or acknowledgment of the donation, so you can present it as a gift.
Examples: WWF – Offers a range of donation options with a focus on specific species or ecosystems.
Wildlife Conservation Society – Supports global conservation projects.
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Supports elephant and rhino protection in Africa.
The Nature Conservancy – Protects the waters and lands which support our natural world.
Amazon – Offers opportunities to make donations to wildlife charities.
Wildlife-Themed Products (Eco-Friendly)
Many eco-friendly and wildlife-themed products donate a percentage of their sales to conservation efforts.
Examples: Eco-Friendly Apparel – T-shirts, hoodies, or socks featuring wildlife designs, where the proceeds go toward conservation.
Wildlife Jewelry – Companies that sell handcrafted jewelry or accessories made from sustainable materials, with part of the proceeds going to wildlife protection.
Wildlife Art Prints – Beautiful wildlife photography or art prints, with proceeds supporting conservation causes.
Wildlife Experience or Tour
Give the gift of a wildlife experience, such as an eco-tourism trip or a wildlife safari, which can contribute directly to conservation efforts. A donation to a wildlife sanctuary or reserve that offers educational experiences or animal encounters is one option. Another is to book a wildlife tour with a company that supports sustainable tourism and wildlife protection.
Books on Wildlife or Conservation
Many authors and experts in wildlife conservation have written insightful books. You can give a book that educates the recipient about conservation issues or the beauty of the natural world. Here are a few great books to consider:
The Sixth Extinction by Elizabeth Kolbert
The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony
Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams and Mark Carwardine
Biophilia by E.O. Wilson
The Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv
Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
Support for Local Wildlife Organizations
Many local wildlife organizations run fundraising events, such as raffles or auctions. Buying tickets or auctioning off special wildlife-related items supports their efforts. These groups not only provide a thoughtful and meaningful gesture, but they also directly support local wildlife conservation and preserve biodiversity for future generations.
Happy shopping!
Have a great day and a blessed week.
