March 3rd is World Wildlife Day, and this year, the theme is “Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet”. According to the United Nations, World Wildlife Day is an opportunity to celebrate the many beautiful and varied forms of wild fauna and flora and to raise awareness of the multitude of benefits that their conservation provides to people. To celebrate World Wildlife Day, let’s learn about the wildlife that is native to the U.S.
The Canis rufus, or more commonly known as the Red Wolf, is an endangered species native to the eastern North Carolina region. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife services state that there are currently only 20 Red wolves still roaming their native area. The rest of the 245 Red wolves are currently being held in captive breeding facilities across the U.S.
The American Black Bear, or Ursus americanus, can weigh up to 600 lbs and stand up to 6 feet tall. These beautiful creatures are omnivores, eating whatever comes across their path, including small mammals, fish, berries, and human garbage. Luckily, these animals are not on the path to extinction as they are distributed across the U.S. and Canada.
A Puma concolor is also known by the name Cougar, Puma, Catamount, or Mountain Lion. This carnivorous animal can be found in Florida or the Western United States but is considered to be on the Endangered animals’ list as their habitats are being compromised.
Sylvilagus transitionalis, or the New England Cottontail, is native to New England and parts of upstate New York. Over the last 50 years or so, the population has dwindled down to only about 13,000 due to the destruction of their habitat.
Buteo solitarius is also known as the Hawaiian Hawk. Native to the Hawaiian Islands, these predatory birds prey on small rodents and insects. Although there are 3,000 Hawaiian Hawks left and they are not considered endangered, the destruction of their habitats is their greatest threat.
Kassidy Garland has had a great appreciation for reading and writing since she was young. She graduated from West Chester University in 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in English & Women and Gender Studies. With a concentration in creative writing, Kassidy has 5 years of experience writing blogs, articles, and for social media. Based out of Philadelphia, Kassidy loves to write about a number of topics and looks forward to sharing her passion with those at FunTimes Magazine.
