World Wildlife Day, commemorated every March 3rd, is a global initiative dedicated to celebrating and raising awareness of the world’s wild flora and fauna. Initiated by the United Nations, the day serves as a reminder of the intrinsic value and significant contributions of wild species to human well-being, socio-economic growth, and the importance of maintaining ecological balance.
The day also emphasizes the urgent need for addressing issues such as illegal wildlife trade, habitat loss, and climate change which pose serious threats to wildlife worldwide. Through united and concerted actions, World Wildlife Day encourages a future where humans can harmoniously exist with wildlife on this planet.
History of World Wildlife Day
World Wildlife Day originated during the United Nations General Assembly’s ession on December 20, 2013. The United Nations declared March 3rd as World Wildlife Day, setting aside this special day to celebrate the diversity of flora and fauna worldwide, and more importantly, to raise conscious awareness about them.
The particular selection of March 3 traces back to the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973. This global agreement is dedicated to ensuring that wild plant and animal species are not put at risk by international trade.
The premiere celebration of World Wildlife Day was in 2014. Since then, there have been various themes every year to highlight specific species or aspects of concern. For example, the maiden theme was “Big Cats: Predators under Threat”. Other significant themes include “Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet” (2021), “Sustaining all Life on Earth” (2020), and “Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation” (2023).
World Wildlife Day is now observed globally on an annual basis; this is largely due to the extensive promotion and outreach conducted through media and press. Activities commemorating this day are held worldwide and involve the participation of government bodies, corporate entities, conservation groups, and private individuals committed to fostering awareness about the urgency of preserving biodiversity and wildlife.
World Wildlife Day Timeline
International Union for Conservation of Nature
Non governmental organisation working in field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources was established.
Signing of CITIES
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITIES) was signed on March 3rd, 1973.
World Conservation Strategy
Developed by IUCN, WWF, UNEP and FAO, the strategy aimed to put conservation on the political agenda.
Rio Earth Summit
The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), where the Convention on Biological Diversity was opened for signature.
1st World Wildlife Day
The United Nations General Assembly designated 3rd March as World Wildlife Day, to celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s wild fauna and flora.
Sustainable Development Goals
17 goals to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.
Ideas to Celebrate World Wildlife Day
Organize a Wildlife Awareness Rally
Publicize World Wildlife Day by organizing a rally in your local community. Discuss the importance of wildlife conservation and the steps individuals can take to protect it.
Host a Wildlife Documentary Viewing Party
Generate awareness and interest by hosting a viewing party of documentaries focusing on wildlife and conservation issues. This can be a virtual event where you screen a wildlife documentary and follow it with a discussion.
Arranging a Cleanup Drive
Arrange a park or forest clean-up drive to make a direct impact on your local wildlife habitat. This also helps raising awareness about the impact of pollution on wildlife.
Wildlife Photography Contest
Commemorate World Wildlife Day by organizing a wildlife photography contest. It can help raise awareness about various species and the threats they're facing while encouraging creativity.
Plant a Tree Initiative
One of the best ways to help wildlife is to plant more trees, which serve as their habitat. Involve your community or school in a collective tree planting initiative.
10 Interesting Facts About Wildlife
The Fastest Bird on Earth
The peregrine falcon is the fastest bird on the planet, with speeds recorded at over 186 miles (300 km) per hour.
A Whale's Heartbeat
A blue whale's heart is so big that a small child can swim through the veins. The heartbeat can be detected from two miles away.
The Tiniest Mammal
The bumblebee bat is the world's smallest mammal. It weighs less than a penny.
Elephant's Memory
Elephants have a longer memory span than any other animal, they are believed to be capable of remembering other elephants and humans for many years.
The Sleepy Sloth
Sloths are the slowest mammal on the planet and they spend around 70% of their lives sleeping.
The Age of Tortoise
A tortoise named Adwaita lived to be 255 years old in captivity in India, making it one of the oldest known animals in history.
Squirrel Teeth Growth
A squirrel's teeth never stop growing. They constantly wear them down by gnawing on tree trunks and nuts.
Color Blind Bulls
Contrary to popular belief, bulls are not enraged by the color red. They are color-blind to red and green.
Polar Bear's Fur
A polar bear’s fur isn’t white, it’s actually clear, and their skin is black. They appear white as the hollow fur reflects the light.
Kangaroo's Jump
A red kangaroo can jump as high as 10 feet and leap as far as 25 feet – almost the length of a school bus.
World Wildlife Day FAQs
Next World Wildlife Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | March 3rd | Friday |
| 2024 | March 3rd | Sunday |
| 2025 | March 3rd | Monday |
| 2026 | March 3rd | Tuesday |
| 2027 | March 3rd | Wednesday |
| What is the pattern? | Every March 3rd | |
World Wildlife Day Word Search
- Wildlife
- Conservation
- Habitat
- Species
- Nature
- Fauna