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National Endangered Species Day

Join us in protecting endangered species on National Endangered Species Day - let's work together to safeguard our planet!

Friday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEThird Friday in May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYWildlife

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

National Endangered Species Day on the third Friday of May is a special day to recognize and celebrate the species in our world that are endangered and at risk of extinction. This day was first established in 2006 as an opportunity to learn about, protect, and preserve threatened species and their habitats. By raising awareness about these issues, we can take action to help conserve endangered species for future generations to come. Let's all come together on this special day to show support for the many species facing extinction!

TIMELINE

National Endangered Species Day Timeline

Endangered Species Preservation Act

The U.S. Congress passes the Endangered Species Preservation Act, marking the beginning of legal protection for threatened species.

Endangered Species Act Signed

President Richard Nixon signs the Endangered Species Act into law, significantly strengthening protections for endangered and threatened species.

Creation of IUCN Red List

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) introduces the Red List, a comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological species.

Keystone Species Protection

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service implements a policy to focus on keystone species, crucial for maintaining the biodiversity of their habitats.

First National Endangered Species Day

The United States Senate passes a resolution marking the first official National Endangered Species Day, promoting education and conservation efforts.

Increasing Global Awareness

Endangered Species Day is recognized globally, encompassing events in schools, zoos, museums and community centers worldwide to raise awareness about the plight of endangered species.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Endangered Species Day

Learn about endangered species

Take some time to learn more about endangered species. Read up on the types of animals that are currently endangered, and look into what is being done to help them.

DONATE

Donate to an animal charity

Donate to a charity that focuses on helping endangered species. Many organizations work to protect these animals and need support from individuals in order to continue their efforts.

VISIT

Visit a wildlife sanctuary

Visit a wildlife sanctuary to get up close and personal with endangered species. This is a great way to learn more about these animals and gain an appreciation for them.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local zoo

Volunteer at your local zoo to help take care of their endangered species. This is a great way to give back and raise awareness of the plight of these animals.

SPREAD

Spread awareness

Share information about endangered species with your friends and family. Spread the word on social media, and encourage others to take action in order to help protect these animals.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Endangered Species Day is Important

We must protect them for future generations

It's our responsibility to ensure these precious species remain on the planet for future generations. By participating in activities related to National Endangered Species Day, we can help raise awareness both locally and globally and take action to protect these incredible creatures.

Endangered species are fragile

Many endangered species around the world are in danger of extinction due to human activities such as overfishing, poaching, habitat destruction, and climate change. National Endangered Species Day is an opportunity to recognize the importance of such species and draw attention to their plight.

Endangered species help maintain balance

Endangered species play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. They are integral parts of food chains and can influence not just the health of other animals but also the success of plant life within their environment.

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