The Significance of World Wildlife Day
More than just a date on the calendar World Wildlife Day, celebrated on 3rd March, represents a global movement dedicated to creating a better future for wild animals everywhere. It invites us to reflect on the vital role wildlife plays in maintaining healthy ecosystems and reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect all species, particularly those closer to home.
Here in the UK, wildlife is under increasing pressure. Due to habitat loss, depleted food sources, climate change and human activities, the UK sadly remains one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. Over 70 bird species are now listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and even the much-loved European hedgehog is facing the risk of extinction. This sobering reality highlights the urgent need to safeguard our precious wildlife and restore the natural habitats they depend on before it is too late.
West Sussex plays a crucial role as a biodiversity hub across southern England, providing vital habitats for hundreds of native and migratory species. World Wildlife Day offers an opportunity not only to celebrate these wild animals, but also to reaffirm our commitment to protecting them and the landscapes that support them.
With a legacy spanning over 50 years, Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital (based in Sidlesham) is a charity wildlife hospital for all kinds of wildlife casualties (mammals, birds and reptiles) who may come in to us sick, injured or orphaned for treatment and rehabilitation. We are dedicated to giving wildlife a second chance with the ultimate goal of releasing healthy animals back into their natural habitats where they belong once recovered. At Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital, we see first-hand the devastating impact that human pressures can have on wildlife. Every day, we receive and admit multiple wildlife casualties into our care and every story represents a chance to make a difference.
Top Tips to help wildlife:
Creating a wildlife-friendly garden is one of the best and most fundamental ways to help wildlife thrive. There are many ways individuals can help:
- Planting native flowers, shrubs and trees to provide essential food and shelter for birds, mammals, bees and insects.
- Leaving areas of your garden slightly wild and adding log piles or leaf litter can also encourage natural food sources, as well as provide possible shelter.
- Checking for life before undergoing gardening work (particularly strimming, mowing and hedge cutting), outhouse restoration or lighting bonfires can prevent injury, nest disturbance and even tragic fatalities.
- Installing bird boxes, hedgehog houses and hedgehog 'highways' (holes at the bottom of fences) can create access to spaces for animals to rest and nest.
- Keeping pets under close control in gardens or green spaces, especially during breeding season, can protect fledgling birds, baby mammals/reptiles and their busy parents from harm.
- Providing safe access to a shallow water source can make a vital difference, especially during warmer months.
- Call Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital for advice if you have found a wild animal potentially in need of help: 01243 641672
By supporting local wildlife care and conservation organisations like Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital on and beyond World Wildlife Day, you can make a lasting impact on wildlife and the wider conservation efforts. You can support the work at Brent Lodge by making a donation, volunteering your time or organising a fundraiser and raising awareness about the importance of helping wildlife. Brent Lodge also offers school/youth group workshops, community group talks for all ages, and can provide awareness and new good stalls at local events to help raise funds for the animals in their care. Visit www.brentlodge.org for more information or any advice you may need.
