How to Protect Endangered Species

Reduce your fossil fuel consumption, recycle and reduce consumption in general. Every new product you buy uses up raw materials and energy. The extraction of fossil fuels causes habitat destruction and can lead to lethal spills. The less you consume and the more you recycle, the less pressure on the environment and the animals and plants in it.

Don't buy endangered species. A tiger skin rug might be an obvious thing not to buy but many species of fish commonly sold in supermarkets are in fact endangered. Check Monterey Bay Aquarium's or the Marine Conservation Society's lists of which species are endangered and which are not before making your choice of fish. Also, don't buy coral, tortoiseshell products, or shells when traveling. Exotic pets including amphibians, reptiles and marine fish may be wild individuals from vulnerable populations. Always check if a new pet is captive bred or not endangered before purchase.

Sponsor a tract of rain forest or coral reef. These environments are hotspots of biodiversity and a variety of endangered animals and plants depend upon them. Many conservation charities have programs whereby you purchase a small area of habitat, thus protecting it from development.

Create a wildlife garden. Protect wildflowers, birds, bats, bees, butterflies, small mammals and a host of bugs by creating a garden friendly to wildlife. Use organic products, plant native species and put up bat, bird and bee boxes. Feeding some animals, such as birds, supports their populations, especially during the winter.