Earth Day Reminder: Preserve the Habitats.

The other day, my eldest and I had an interesting conversation about animals. He loves learning about different kinds of animals and asks many questions about them (I honestly run out of answer sometimes, LOL).

The discussion led to animal extinction- one of the major reasons of which, is the destruction of their natural habitats.

What are habitats?

Habitats are the natural environments where the animals and plants live. Just like how we humans have our homes, animals also live in places they consider best and suitable for their survival.

Habitats provide the basic resources that animals need in order to survive like food, water and even suitable weather conditions. A habitat that is good for one does not really mean it is good for another. Example is a polar bear lives in the icy lands of the North Pole. It will not survive in the tropics, the same way that a monkey does and vice versa.

Animals and their habitats face constant threats both from natural causes and of course, because of humans. Often, the negligence of humans and lack of responsibility and concern lead to the destruction of our environment. If the habitat is destroyed, then animals become homeless and will be forced to move to another space which may not be suitable for them so they would eventually disappear.

Climate Change

_{Bird died from extreme heat.}

Global warming or the gradual increase of the Earth's temperature also has a big impact on animal habitats.

From burning of fossil fuels (running machines and vehicles) to cutting down of trees and usage of household chemicals, we all contribute to global warming and climate change thus, subsequently putting animals and natural habitats in danger.

Marine and Freshwater Habitats

Earth is two-thirds water hence water form the biggest animal habitat. Human wastes often end up in the waters. As human population get bigger, our waters become more and more polluted and endanger its inhabitants. Over-fishing and destruction of coral reefs are also major concerns with regards to this kind of habitat as it disrupts the food chain and eventually put the water animals and organisms in danger.

A school of baby fish swimming at the shallow part of the sea.

Land Habitats

Forests, grasslands, deserts and tundra. These habitats are as important as the water habitats as lots of species live here too. These species all play roles in the ecosystem and benefit one another. It is also important to maintain the balance in these habitats so animals may continue to survive.

Earth Day is just around the corner...

April 22 is Earth Day. We all can make a difference in taking care of our environment and our natural habitats. Small contributions can collectively make a big change.

While it is great that we have this day to remind us how important it is to care for Mother Earth, we should treat everyday as Earth Day. Here are some simple ways in which we can contribute:

_{Stux, Pixabay}

• Reduce, Reuse & Recycle. All of us can do this. We just need to be conscious of what we use in our daily lives and how we use them. Sort out the garbages/trash accordingly so that they may be recycled into something that can be of use again.

• Plant trees and flowers. We all know how important plants and trees are. They give us food, shade, home for animals, protect the soils and many more.

• Respect animals and their homes.

• Conserve water and energy.

• Don't litter.

How about you? Can you think of other ways we can take care of our environment?

_{All photos are by the author, taken via Samsung Galaxy Note 3, unless otherwise stated}

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