World Wildlife Day

World Wildlife Day happens on March 3 every year...

...and celebrates the diversity of life on this planet, from the enormous blue whale to the delicate monarch butterfly. For over 60 years, WWF has sought solutions to protect wildlife by applying the best science available and working closely with local communities and Indigenous peoples.

Unfortunately, we’re losing biodiversity—the rich variety of life on Earth—at an alarming rate. We’ve seen a 69% average decline in the number of birds, amphibians, mammals, fish, and reptiles since 1970, according to the 2022 Living Planet Report. This loss affects our health and well-being—and the future of the planet.

But there is good news. WWF has been part of successful wildlife recovery stories ranging from southern Africa’s black rhino to black-footed ferrets in the Northern Great Plains. And this, in turn, is helping to protect rich and varied ecosystems while ensuring people continue to benefit from nature. World Wildlife Day gives us an opportunity to focus on solutions and see the importance of saving our planet’s incredible wildlife.

Two adults wear animal onesies and pose in a snowy environment © Shutterstock

Wear It Wild

WWF is challenging you to be fiercer than ever in nature’s defense. Set three fundraising goals, and for each, commit to wearing a wildlife-themed accessory, outfit, or costume on World Wildlife Day

Your friends & family will be thrilled to donate when they know that the more you raise, the crazier your costume will be.

So, get your wildest outfit ready and join us for Wear It Wild on March 3!

Sign up
Ear and eye of a tapir César David Martinez

Take Our Wildlife Quiz

See if you can guess the animal shown in each photo. Will you get all seven right?

Take the quiz
Portrait of smiling schoolboy doing his homework in classroom at school © wavebreakmedia / Shutterstock

Wild Classroom

Connecting educators and families with the tools and resources they need to help kids explore and understand the world around them. Together we can inspire the next generation to build a future where people and nature thrive! Explore a diverse library of free downloadable activity plans, games, videos, crafts, and more.

Learn more