Background
Almost everyone is interested in wildlife, but most of us know little about why many wild species are at risk, or how we can help. You'll provide a much-needed service by educating your community about imperilled wildlife.
Some species are in trouble simply because many people don't like them. The timber rattlesnake is endangered in Ontario, and even the eastern garter snake has fallen in numbers. A good project idea is to design an advertising campaign explaining the good things snakes do. After all, they control rodents, and (like all creatures) are part of an ecosystem that needs all of its diverse parts to work in harmony.
Procedure
Publicize the problem. Your group could highlight one or more local species listed by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada.
• Contact your regional wildlife agency to obtain information about these species and what can be done to help them.
• Use this data to prepare an illustrated fact sheet on a species. Explain where it's found, how much its population has fallen, and the reasons for its decline. List ways your community members can help the species, such as participating in a recovery program, educating others, cutting down on chemicals in and around the house, composting, conserving energy, and so on.
• Distribute copies of your fact sheet to neighbours, family members, coworkers, community groups, and passers-by. Put copies up on public bulletin boards in your area.
• Community events are a great way to spread the word. Set up a small information booth with pictures and facts. By simply spreading the word, you can make a big difference.
• Members of your organization could make presentations to community groups such as Beavers, Scouts, Brownies, Girl Guides, a women's institute, or service club. Give copies of your fact sheet to those present.
