March 3 – World Wildlife Day
World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on March 3 to draw attention to the problems of biodiversity conservation. This holiday was proclaimed by the United Nations in order to raise awareness of the need to protect flora and fauna. The date was chosen in honor of the adoption of CITES – the international convention on trade in wild fauna and flora.
On this day, educational events, conferences and environmental campaigns are held in different countries. Zoos play an important role in the conservation of rare and endangered species of animals. Many modern zoos participate in international breeding programs for animals that are under threat of extinction. They cooperate with organizations such as the World Wide Fund for Nature to support conservation projects. In addition, zoos conduct scientific research that helps to better understand the needs of wild animals. An important component of their activities is the environmental education of visitors and the formation of a responsible attitude towards nature.
Here are just a few examples of animals that have disappeared from the wild. These animals were saved precisely thanks to the activities of zoos.
Przewalski's horse – in the 20th century, this species disappeared from the wild, but thanks to breeding in zoos, its population was restored.
European bison – after World War I, not a single individual remained in the wild, but thanks to animals kept in zoos, the population was restored.
Golden lion tamarin – this rare primate from Brazil was threatened with extinction, but breeding programs in zoos have helped to increase its numbers and maintain the wild population.
These examples demonstrate that modern zoos can play an important role in preserving biodiversity and restoring endangered species.
Mykolaiv Zoo contributes to the preservation of wildlife by keeping and breeding rare animals, such as great white pelicans, white-naped cranes, Steller's sea eagles, cinereous vultures, siamangs and many others. World Wildlife Day reminds us of our shared responsibility for preserving life on the planet and supporting initiatives that help protect wildlife.
