Late in December of 2013, the UN established 3 March as an official observance called “World Wildlife Day”. The date was chosen because on that same day the UN General Assembly passed CITES, a resolution that sought to stop illegal poaching and trafficking in endangered species of the world, both plant and animal species being included.

World Wildlife Day is meant to raise public awareness and appreciation of the “intrinsic” and “derivative” value of our world’s wildlife. The wonder and beauty of plants and animals now in danger of extinction is highlighted, as well as their role in cultures, economies, education, and science.

Efforts are also made to influence governments to act to protect at-risk species and to crack down on illegal trafficking or in the destruction of the habitats they need to survive.

The World Wildlife Day 2019 theme is 'Life below water: for people and planet' and focuses on marine species, and will be an opportunity to highlight the critical issues and values of marine wildlife to our everyday lives. More information