|
Endangered species are species that are at risk of extinction, meaning that the entire species would no longer exist, or die out. Extinction can happen from hunting, habitat loss, or competition. More than 47,000 species are at risk of extinction. That is 28% of all assessed species that live on earth. Humans are just one species that share the earth with these endangered animals, plants, fungus, and more. Unfortunately, we are the root cause of these species becoming endangered, but with such influence, we could also facilitate thriving biodiversity on our shared planet. The California spotted owl is at risk of extinction because of habitat degradation and destruction like logging, fire, land development including construction, and a novel competitor, the Barred owl, that takes over habitat. It was added to the endangered species list in 2020 as threatened with extinction. Species’ listed under the Endangered Species Act are protected from hunting, harming, or harming of habitat. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 has been proven effective at stabilizing populations, preventing extinction of species at risk, and protecting essential habitat. This Act has succeeded in bringing species back from the brink of extinction with hard work and protection. Unfortunately, the current administration is trying to remove endangered species protections by removing habitat protections. For the California spotted owl to survive, it needs a home or habitat to live. If the Endangered Species Act of 1973 is altered to remove habitat protection, we could lose irreplaceable habitat and entire species would become extinct. Let’s bring awareness and attention to our fellow animals we share Earth with! Join us as we celebrate Endangered Species Day on May 16, 2025. Every year on the third Friday of May, people around the world participate in Endangered Species Day by learning about, celebrating, and protecting threatened and endangered species. This special day was established by the Endangered Species Coalition in 2006. Ancient Forest Society is helping endangered species by working to protect giant sequoias through research, preservation initiatives and education and outreach. Giant sequoias provide essential habitat for endangered species, including the California spotted owl. The first step in protecting endangered species is to understand the habitat they call home. The more we can understand how sequoias are using water, responding to fire, responding to beetle attack, and producing seeds, the more we can do to protect these essential, majestic giants and all the species they support. Additionally, the forests of the future will be critical for providing habitat for these species. Our seed collection program is providing seeds for Park reforestation efforts in severely burned giant sequoia groves to ensure they persist in those areas in the future. This will help safeguard critical habitat for endangered species into the future. You can help endangered species including the California spotted owl by supporting Ancient Forest Society! Donate, purchase swag, volunteer, and join us for events!
|
