Animal Awareness Days

Animals are a fundamental part of life on earth and vital for eco-systems to continue to thrive. A horrifying article emerged to suggest that humans have wiped out almost 60% of animal populations since 1970 – which is a truly heart-breaking number.

[Source: The Guardian]

During August, there are a number of animal awareness days that we were previously unaware of. We enjoyed researching these wonderful animals and learnt a lot about them in the process.

Continue reading to find out more about each of the animal awareness days in August.

There are over 200 species of owl currently known in the world and have been spotted on every continent except Antarctica. International Owl Awareness Day is an annual event that’s recognised across the world to spread awareness about their habitats and how to protect them. Over the years, owl species have been in decline, making owl awareness more crucial than ever.

Owl Trust Projects

[Source: Hawk Conservancy]

International Cat Day – 08^th August

The first historical human records of cats can be dated back to Ancient Egypt, where they worshipped cats as gods. Love them or hate them, you can’t deny that they are independent, inquisitive and incredibly fluffy – making them especially great to cuddle.

Cats Protection

[Source: National Today]

World Lion Day – 10^th August

Scientifically known as ‘Panthero Leo’, lions are one of the most well-known of the animal kingdom, often referred to as kings of the jungle. Despite this, their numbers are just below 50,000 worldwide due to continual poaching and hunting. World Lion Day, therefore, brings attention to this endangered species by raising funds and amping up protective measures to keep this beautiful animal safe.

Wildlife Conservation Volunteering

[Source: National Today]

World Elephant Day – 12^th August

Elephants play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance – but they are also beautiful animals who have an incredible memory. Elephants display emotions such as joy, grief, and empathy. 'They've been observed consoling distressed members of their herd and celebrating special occasions with playful behaviour.'

World Elephant Day was co-founded by Patricia Sims and the Elephant Reintroduction Foundation of Thailand. It  is designed to shed light on the threats they face, such as habitat loss and poaching, while encouraging efforts to safeguard their survival.

Adopt an Elephant

[Sources: World Elephant Day, World Animal Protection]

World Lizard Day – 14^th August

Nearly one-fifth of all known reptile species are considered endangered or dangerously close to extinction – despite this, world Lizard day has not been adopted by higher-level conservation groups and remains largely unknown.

Amphibian Conservation

[Source: National Today]

International Orangutan Day – 19^th August

Devastatingly, there are only 50,000 to 65,000 orangutans left in the wild. 'The International Union for Conservation of Nature classed orangutans as critically endangered in 2016. They are more vulnerable than ever before and rely on us to care about their safety.'

International Orangutang day aims to create awareness of this overwhelming fact and encourage the conservation of both orangutangs and their habitats. We have made huge progress with conservation and awareness – but there is always more that can be done.

Adopt an Orangutang

[Sources: WWF, International Orangutang Day]

International Dog Day – 26^th August

Can you believe that dogs have been with us for at least 14,000 years? Nor can we!

National Dog Day was first established in 2004 by pet & family lifestyle advocate Colleen Paige. Celebrating these wonderful furry friends, lots of people will be posting pictures of their beautiful dogs online (we might even join in). The aim of international dog day is to raise awareness about adopting these animals who are currently in rescue centres, as well as spread enjoyment online. 

Dogs Trust

[Source: National Today]

International Bat Night – 26^th – 27^th August

Bats play a crucial role in maintaining a nature's balance. They eat insects and even help to spread seeds - 'one of the major factors involved in the reforestation of tropical rainforests is the spread of guano seeds through the bats’ faeces'.

International Bat Night is on the last full weekend of August every year, aiming to raise awareness of the importance of our flying friends. There are over 1400 species of bats in the world and they can be found on nearly every part of the planet – so there is a lot you can learn about them.

Bat Conservation

[Source: National Today]