May 15 - National Endangered Species Day

Happy National Endangered Species Day! Each year on the third Friday in May, this day offers an opportunity for everyone to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species.  

  

The observance also encourages learning about wildlife habitats and the actions necessary to protect them.  

  

Every year, you can participate along with thousands of others at events hosted by wildlife refuges, zoos, parks, community centers, aquariums, botanical gardens, libraries, and schools. 

In 2013, rhe 40th anniversary of the Federal Endangered Species Act was observed. 

The observance is designed to protect critically imperiled species from extinction as a “consequence of economic growth and development untempered by adequate concern and conservation.”  

On December 28, 1973, 37th U.S. President Richard M. Nixon signed the Federal Endangered Species Act into law. 

The Act is administered by two federal agencies, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). 

  

The FWS maintains a list of all the endangered species, which includes birds, insects, fish, reptiles, mammals, crustaceans, flowers, grasses, and trees.  

  

In late 2019, 45th U.S. President Donald Trump announced a major overhaul to the law that would reduce regulations. Because of this, it’s more important than ever to support the Endangered Species Act (ESA). 

  

HOW TO OBSERVE  

  

Many conservation groups, zoos, and wildlife organizations hold a variety of events. These events focus on saving endangered species, improving conservation and education.  

They also host seminars and exhibits aimed at raising awareness across the nation. They also offer discounted or free passes to their facilities. Some ways to participate in the day include:

• •  Don’t buy illegal wildlife products, such as ivory 

• • Avoid unsustainable food products, such as palm oil 

• • Donate to a conservation group or wildlife organization 

• • Educate yourself on endangered species 

• • Learn more about the Endangered Species Act 

Use #EndangeredSpeciesDay to post on social media. 

HISTORY 

In 2006, the United States Senate enacted this day's observance. The research by National Day Calendar® found that the National Endangered Species Day was enacted in 2006 by the United States Senate. 

How can you do your part to participate in the protection of endangered species? 

#EndangeredSpeciesDay 

@SenateFloor 

@NOAA 

@usfws 

#EndangeredSpeciesAct 

@nichecinema

DATES
May 21, 2021 
May 20, 2022 
May 19, 2023 
May 17, 2024 
May 16, 2025 
May 15, 2026 
May 21, 2027 
May 19, 2028 
May 18, 2029 
May 17, 2030