Knowledge, the First Step to Change

Sumatran Orangutan - Photo Credit: Wikipedia

I have to admit, I was one of those kids who used to read encyclopedias for fun. When I grew up, my father purchased a set of Collier’s Encyclopedia to help with our homework.  So whenever I was bored, I would select a volume, randomly open it to any page and read.  I was captivated by exotic countries, the mysteries of science, events that made this country what it is today.

Years later, I do the same thing but now the internet has replaced those volumes of books. Random searches often glean ideas to write about and yesterday was no exception. While looking for natural history information about whitetail deer, I stumbled upon a website called EDGE – Environmentally Distinct and Globally Endangered. The organization, supported by the Zoological Society of London, takes a different direction in the protection of endangered species:

“Using a scientific framework to identify the world’s most Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) species, the EDGE of Existence programme highlights and protects some of the weirdest and most wonderful species on the planet.  EDGE species have few close relatives on the tree of life and are often extremely unusual in the way they look, live and behave, as well as in their genetic make-up.  They represent a unique and irreplaceable part of the world’s natural heritage, yet an alarming proportion are currently sliding silently towards extinction unnoticed.”  (http://www.edgeofexistence.org)  

I deliberately highlighted the focus of EDGE that distinguishes it from other wildlife protection agencies. Too often, we animal lovers focus our attention and money on those species that touch us emotionally. Who can resist the story of the Giant Panda or the Sumatran Orangutan especially when it includes a photograph of the animal? But what about the story of the Western Long-Beaked Enchidna http://www.edgeofexistence.org/mammals/species_info.php?id=1395&search=focal or the Long-Footed Potoroo. http://www.edgeofexistence.org/mammals/species_info.php?id=70  Bet you have never heard of these mammals. I know I didn’t until yesterday. But is the enchidna or potoroo any less worthy of protection?

I’m not saying that we shouldn’t support the efforts to protect the panda and the orangutan but we also need to remember the endangered species that fall under the radar because they aren’t as cute or photogenic. Endangered species aren’t limited to mammals either.  EDGE happens to advocate for mammals, but there are endangered birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, plants and invertebrates throughout the world.

This short-sightedness can also blind us to other needs throughout the world.  How many of us were aware of the Taliban’s crusade to prevent the education of girls until the assassination attempt on Malala Yousafzai or the cultural bias against women in India until the rape and death of Jyoti Singh Pandey?  Did any of us question the risk of deep water drilling until the BP Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico? Do we get a pass because it isn’t front page news? As citizens of this planet, it is our responsibility to be informed. The first step in taking any action is to learn what is happening in our back yards and around the world. Ask who needs help and what you can do. I guess all those hours reading encyclopedias weren’t a waste of time after all.