Jordan Husvar, Freshman
October 21st is not only for reptile lovers to celebrate, but it also serves as a day to bring recognition to the many species of reptiles. National Reptile Awareness Day takes place on the 21st of October every year. Although it is not a commonly known day, it is still an important day of the year. Reptiles have been on the planet for about 310 million years now. With that being said, a day of recognition for these cold-blooded creatures is well deserved.
National Reptile Awareness Day was first created by a group of reptile lovers. The day was formed as a celebration of the Endangered Species Act, which was passed in 1966. The group intended for the day to be a way of changing the public view of reptiles. They wanted a specific day to recognize and bring awareness to reptiles. Many reptiles across the U.S. are losing their homes, so it is important to promote conservation for these animals.
There are currently over 10,000 species of reptiles in the world. Reptiles are very unique creatures. What makes them different from other mammals is that they are cold-blooded and have either scales or scutes. Almost all species of reptiles also lay eggs. There are a wide variety of reptiles: crocodiles, snakes, turtles, lizards, and many more. Each and every reptile has an important role in the ecosystem. Without them, some animals would not be able to survive, and nature itself would be different.
Most reptiles tend to live on land, however, some spend a lot of time in the water. Unfortunately, many habitats, which are home to reptiles, are being destroyed. People tend to get the wrong impression of reptiles based on inaccurate information they may see online. Often, they fear that reptiles are violent and harmful. As a result, many reptiles’ habitats have been wrecked by humans. Due to habitat loss, more and more reptiles are dying off or becoming endangered. National Reptile Awareness Day serves as a much-needed day to help bring awareness to this situation.
There are many ways that people can help to celebrate National Reptile Awareness Day. Visiting a zoo or reptile sanctuary/shelter is a great way to get a better look at reptiles. Researching facts about the types of reptiles and their habitats can help people to get a better understanding of the animals. Sharing posts about the day on social media platforms can also help promote awareness. One of the biggest ways people can help to make an impact on National Reptile Awareness Day is by donating to a reptile charity. This can help to go toward the endangered species and their habitats.
Overall, National Reptile Awareness Day is key in helping raise awareness to reptiles. Reptiles are truly amazing creatures and definitely deserve the recognition the day can bring. With the increasing numbers of endangered reptile species, as well as the amount of habitat loss, conservation for the reptiles is much needed. By visiting a zoo, adopting a reptile, or even just posting about the day, people are helping reptiles on National Reptile Awareness Day.
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