Celebrate World Animal Day 2021

04 October 2021

On the 4th October we celebrate an international appreciation for animals – World Animal Day. While it may seem that other countries are blessed with rich wildlife, we hope that some of our readers have found happiness in witnessing the wonderful animals that call our parks home.

Believe it or not, the UK was not always this seemingly barren landscape of farmland but a haven for wildlife of all kinds. Since the 1500s, we have lost 133 species on our islands, and 41% of all remaining species have declined since the 1970s. It’s obvious to say that we are in an ecological crisis in the UK – but it’s not too late to reverse it! And that is why celebrating World Animal Day is so important.

From our largest mammals like deer and whales, to the smallest underappreciated insects like weevils and aphids, every animal is important. All wildlife is impacted by human activity, destruction and attitudes. But equally, all can be saved by our hope, passion and determination.

So, what can you do?

Our lives are filled with so many opportunities to make noise, create waves and encourage change. Start small and make your own personal challenges – whether that’s to get involved in a local volunteer group or simply share a petition. Remember not to feel overwhelmed by the many issues that there are to deal with. If the whole human population cared passionately about one conservation issue each, then eventually we could solve all our problems.

And what are The Parks Trust doing?

With a dedicated team of biodiversity officers, landscape managers and community engagement staff, we have a multidimensional model to dealing with wildlife decline. Firstly, we record and monitor all habitats under our care, searching critically for endangered and scarce species. Secondly, we protect and manage these habitats to both encourage survival and growth of populations. And equally important, is our scheme to engage with local people and communicate the importance of our work. Not only do we inform, but we take feedback from the public and put comments to use in our management plans. You can even get involved with our work by becoming a volunteer, coming along to our annual public meetings, and supporting our team by attending events.

This World Animal Day, try to do something positive for the incredible species that live in our local parks. Learn about a new species, go on a walk, sign a petition, or simply read a book about animals. Every step to increasing our population’s appreciation of animals is a positive one!

Celebrate #WorldAnimalDay with us by sharing photos of animals you have seen in Milton Keynes’ parks with us on social media by tagging @TheParksTrust.

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