World Endangered Species Day: understanding and acting in Guadeloupe

Every year on 11 May, World Endangered Species Day is an opportunity to recall a simple reality: a large part of wildlife is now in danger.

Behind this day, it's not just about numbers or lists of species. These are very real animals, fragile ecosystems... and a balance that can still be observed here in Guadeloupe.

In the heart of the Mamelles Park, the Guadeloupe Zoo precisely makes it possible to better understand these issues, while discovering fascinating species.

What is World Endangered Species Day?

World Endangered Species Day aims to raise awareness among the general public about the gradual disappearance of numerous animal and plant species.

Today, according to data from the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature), thousands of species are classified as vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered.

These statuses make it possible to assess the threat level:

• Vulnerable (VU) : the species is beginning to decline
• Endangered (EN) : the risk of extinction is becoming high
• Critically Endangered (CR) : the species is on the verge of extinction

The objective of this day is simple: to better understand in order to better protect.

“You protect what you love and you love what you know” - Angélique Chaulet

Endangered species: a very real issue

The disappearance of species does not only concern distant regions.

It also affects tropical territories, such as Guadeloupe.

The causes are multiple:

• Destruction of natural habitats
• Urbanization
• Pollution
• Climate change

In tropical environments, biodiversity is particularly rich... but also very fragile.

Forests, wetlands and mangroves are home to unique wildlife. When one of these environments disappears, an entire ecosystem is unbalanced.

Endangered species to discover at the Guadeloupe Zoo

The Guadeloupe Zoo presents several species directly concerned by these issues.

Emblematic species

Among them, we find:

• the jaguar, a major predator of American forests
• the Spider Monkey, classified as endangered
• The Macaw Hyacinth, threatened by deforestation
• or even the Lesser Antillean iguana, a critically endangered local species

These animals make it possible to put a face to the concept of endangered species.

By browsing the zoo, visitors understand that behind each species, there is a habitat, a way of life... and very concrete threats.

The role of the Guadeloupe Zoo in the preservation of species

The Guadeloupe Zoo plays an active role in raising awareness about biodiversity. Each course is designed to explain ecosystems, animal behaviors and conservation issues.

The park is also part of a wider approach with actions such as the SOS Faune Sauvage Antilles-Guyane care center, which intervenes to protect local wildlife.

Observing animals in a suitable environment makes it possible to create a link. And that connection is often the first step towards awareness.

How to act at its own level?

The protection of species does not only rely on large organizations.

Everyone can act, at their own level:

• Respect wildlife in its natural environment
• Avoid feeding or disturbing animals
• Focus on responsible activities
• Support structures committed to the protection of biodiversity

Even when traveling or during your vacation in Guadeloupe, these actions make a difference.

A day to raise awareness... all year round

World Endangered Species Day is a highlight, but the protection of biodiversity is an issue every day.

In Guadeloupe, the wealth of wildlife is exceptional. But it is still fragile.

Taking the time to understand these issues is already taking action.

And a visit to the Guadeloupe Zoo is also a concrete way to better understand this balance.