Both animals and humans share the Earth. Around 8.7 million animals live in and protect the Earth’s environment. Therefore, our planet must be preserved and protected for future generations. Without plants, animals, and water, the human population would be extinct. Fortunately for humans, many things can be done to help wildlife.
Supporting the planet and its animals can begin right in your backyard. For beginners, making a simple birdhouse creates habitats for birds, as well as installing bird feeders and baths. Planting native flowers and bushes provide more sources for animals to thrive. Animals like squirrels, birds, and insects, need to be given trees to create homes, which makes planting trees especially important. It also creates healthy oxygen for everyone, including us! Citizens can get involved with organizations that plant trees, such as the Musconetcong Watershed Association.
Picking up trash is also crucial for the survival of Earth’s creatures. The most common way of littering, with plastic bags, is incredibly deadly. The plastic can twine around an animal’s body, trapping it for prey. It can also be eaten by animals, killing them. Harmful chemicals are also leaked into the environment. They either spill out from trash or are scattered by humans to control pests and grass growth, spraying chemicals onto their property. These chemicals and fertilizers eventually reach water sources, polluting rivers and natural streams. As a result, aquatic animals and their environment become poisoned. Therefore, picking up trash and stopping the use of chemicals could be the difference between life and death.
If none of these hands-on activities can be completed, there are more ways to interact with wildlife. For example, donating to the World Wildlife Fund can help protect vulnerable animals and habitats. Learning about petitions and bills to be signed and writing to state representatives gives a voice to those without one. Lastly, educating yourself and others about endangered species goes the longest way. The Endangered Species Coalition aids others in identifying endangered species and what can be done to help them. The future of the environment and its animals relies on humans, and we all have a part to play in protecting our planet.