Wolverines

Did you know that North America's most ferocious predator needs your help?

Photo by Jeffrey C. Lewis / Wikimedia

Don't worry--you don't need to get too close to lend a hand. 

Because wolverines use deep snow as an advantage when hunting and denning to rear young, the warming trend associated with climate change is a significant threat to their survival. 

Last month, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed listing the wolverine under the Endangered Species Act.

Want to know more about how you can make a difference? Click here.

Movies Can Make a Difference

Sometimes, the best way to learn about--and develop empathy for--endangered species is by watching a good movie. 

This is especially true for kids, who are in the midst of developing their perspectives and interests about the world at large. So, I created a list of eight movies that have been tested and approved by my own offspring, ages 6 to 12, and are guaranteed to impart some sort of lasting impression regarding the species that star in them. You can see the list here.

One movie that I forgot to add is called Spirit Bear. It actually inspired my kids to write letters to the Canadian government in effort to help protect the rare white phase black bear from extinction in British Columbia.

Making a list, checking it twice ...

If you've ever wondered exactly which birds and mammals are deemed endangered here in the United States, I've compiled the most recent list from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for easy reference. It's even organized alphabetically by common name. Check it out here. 
 

Emblem of the USFWS

Of Red Spruce and Flying Squirrels

They say you learn something new everyday. Some days, though, you might even learn two new things. Like today, for instance, I "discovered" the rare red spruce forest of Appalachia and the lovely little flying squirrels that call the red spruce habitat home. 

This is a Virginia Northern Flying Squirrel photographed by the USFWS.

For years, the forest and its squirrel have been in danger of disappearing, but recent conservation efforts are making a difference.

Hey, creative kid conservationists, take a look:

Kids in grades K through 12 are invited to participate in the Endangered Species Day art contest sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Endangered Species Coalition, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the International Child Art Foundation

Drawing of an Ozark Hellebender by my daughter, age 11.

Entries must be postmarked by March 15, 2013. For more information, including judging criteria and an entry form,visit this page: Endangered Species Day Art Contest and Activities.