The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of the dangers that threaten the survival of many animals around the world. Therefore, it is a fantastic time to explore and investigate endangered animals of the Greater Dyer Island ecosystem with our DEEP students. This is what the students had to say about endangered animals:
“When a species is defined as endangered, its numbers are unusually low – in the last few thousands, hundreds, or even tens. And when the last of the species is gone, they are gone for good. A species is classified as endangered when its population has declined between 50 and 70 percent. “
“This day was created to keep us aware of how fragile the existence of some animals, plants, and insects are and, most importantly, reminds us to take the time to learn about why it’s so important to protect endangered species from any further harm.” This global day of action and celebration was created and founded by David Robinson and the Endangered Species Coalition in 2006, and has continued ever since.
Since time began, there have been endangered species. Perhaps one of the earliest and most learned about extinctions in history is that of the dinosaurs. However, an endangered species is one which is still in the world today, but may not be much longer if the right steps aren’t taken. Reasons for endangerment are varied – this may be down to environmental changes, overfishing, poaching, bycatch, the changing or destruction of habits by humans, or natural disasters, ignorance, to name a few. National Endangered Species Day is designed to help people learn more about the environmental issues that the planet faces today.
From arid deserts to lush forests, to ancient folded mountains, meandering coastline: South Africa’s terrain is incredibly diverse, offering great living conditions for many different species of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and amphibians. Let us look at the endangered African penguin, Indo pacific humpback dolphin and the vulnerable great white sharks who will be extinct if nothing is done.
Great White Shark
The Great White Shark is one of the most feared animals on earth thanks to film productions like “Jaws “. Yet, our planet’s largest (known) predatory fish remains quite a mystery. In fact, we know very little about this shark species’ physiology and behavior. The Great White appears out of nowhere and suddenly disappears into the ocean