To make long term changes for wildlife and our environment, every individual must take personal responsibility for their actions. Here is a short list of some things you can do to help.
Simply Learn More. Read books and magazines, watch nature programs on TV, experience a SWI wildlife presentation with your family and learn about the natural world. The more you know and understand the environment, the more you can do to help!
Share what you know about the environment and what can be done to help save endangered species to your friends and family. Modeling environmentally friendly practices (e.g. parents who recycle, pick up trash and conserve water) demonstrate a reverence for our environment.
Write constructive (but respectful) letters to government officials and big businesses. Express your concerns about wildlife and the environment. If enough people write, someone will listen.
DO NOT buy products made from wild animals and exotic hard woods! If people do not buy products made from wild animals, the people who hunt and trap wild animals will have to stop making products. Products made from exotic hard woods often come from the rainforest that is home to many endangered animals. Ask if you are not sure what a product is made of and where it comes from.
DO NOT buy live animals that have been taken from the wild. When even one animal is taken from the wild it encourages trappers to catch more. This includes all animals: mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish, and even insects. If you would like an exotic animal for a pet, ask the seller if it was bred in captivity and have them show you proof.
Work with and support environmental organizations. You can support organizations through donations of money, materials, and your time.
Plant a tree. Trees provide shelter and food to animals. Trees also help fight global warming caused by the greenhouse effect, hold together soil, create shade, and make the world a more beautiful place.