Each year on December 4th, World Wildlife Conservation Day seeks to spread awareness about preserving and protecting the natural world and its inhabitants. Additionally, the observance strives to put an end to wildlife crime and supporting the Endangered Species Act. Wildlife Crime Wildlife crime includes illegal poaching and smuggling of animals. Additionally, it includes transporting a specific animal product by criminal groups to make a profit. A few examples would be rhino horns and elephant tusks. Wildlife crime is detrimental to the ecosystem as it causes animals to become endangered or extinct. Because of poaching, these six animals are at risk of becoming extinct:

• Elephants
• Rhinos
• Tigers
• Sea turtles
• Lemurs
• Gorillas

Can you imagine living in a world where these fantastic animals no longer exist? If wildlife crime continues, it could very well happen. This is why Wildlife Conservation Day focuses on putting an end to wildlife crime. Hashtag for World Wildlife Conservation Day: #WorldWildlifeConservationDay