If you love reptiles as much as we do, you will want to celebrate Reptile Awareness Day on Tuesday, October 21, 2014.
What’s the big deal you ask? Reptiles are quickly losing habitats and extinction looms heavy on the horizon for many species. And the reason for this annual celebration is to dedicate awareness of the reptile’s plight, including the environmental challenges they face on a daily basis.
Here’s Who is Involved
The word “reptile” includes more than just snakes and lizards. There are turtles, terrapins, crocodile and alligator. Reptiles live on every continent except Antarctica and there are somewhere between 6,500 and 10,000 different species of reptiles.
Reptiles Are Really Cool
Here’s something cool we recently learned on ReptileChannel.com that involves geckos. Scientists were inspired by the gecko’s amazing ability to climb walls and have developed a new adhesive called “Geckskin.” This remarkable stuff can hold up to 700 pounds without slipping … even on a smooth surface like glass.
Ways to Celebrate
Donate: You can pay it forward for reptiles everywhere by donating to the dozens of conservation or legal programs. Two organizations that fight for reptile rights are the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council and the United States Association of Reptile Keepers.
Start a Grassroots Campaign: Write letters to local and national representatives and urge them to enact legislation that protects reptile health and safety.
Show and Tell: Bring your pet reptile to school or even the office to educate others about how wonderful they are.
Reptile Day at the Zoo: On October 21, go to the zoo with your kids. Go see the reptile exhibits and enjoy a day being together.
Turtles: If you live in a beach community, get involved with the local turtle habitat protection groups. These folks regularly comb the beaches to make sure that turtle nests haven’t been disturbed.
Make every October 21 a reptile celebration.
Photo Credit: istockphoto.com
