Today is World Habitat Day.
A habitat is any place that a living thing resides. Unfortunately, many habitats throughout the world are disappearing thanks to things like urban development and pollution. World Habitat Day is a worldwide observance that’s meant to remind us all of how important habitats are for everyone.
History
The United Nations started World Habitat Day in 1986. It was designated to be held every year on the first Monday in October. The purpose of it is for people to think about the right for all living beings to have adequate shelter and to bring awareness to issues that affect habitats around the world.
Facts About Habitats
-The word “habitat” usually refers to just plants or animals.
-The largest habitat on Earth is in the oceans. This is because around 70% of the Earth is covered by water.
-Habitats can be any size and can occur virtually anywhere in the world.
-Different types of habitats include grasslands, deserts, mountains and forests.
-Each habitat usually has many different types of species in it. Most of them are able to cohabitate together peacefully.
-Animal habitats vary greatly with the type of species living in it. Well-known animal habitats include nests and burrows.
-Habitats are always changing. Things like weather and natural disasters can wipe out a habitat fairly quickly.
-The tropical rain forest has more species in it than any other habitat in the world. It covers about 12% of the planet Earth.
How You Can Help
One of the biggest destroyers of habitats are people. While traveling, you can do some things to protect the homes of many plants and animals.
-Stay on designated paths. This will keep you from stepping on and altering delicate habitats.
-Do not leave anything behind. Be mindful of what you bring with you and throw litter away in designated areas.
-Choose to travel in a responsible manner. When you can, utilize public transportation and stay at hotels and resorts that utilize environmentally friendly practices.
-Volunteer some of your time to build new habitats by planting trees or flower gardens. They will become homes to numerous animals and insects.
We should all be conscious about being responsible with the habitats all around us. Traveling in a responsible manner is good for all living things around the world as it brings awareness to needs in other countries, helps their economy and gives travelers opportunities to help out where they can.
