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When you hear of wildlife, safaris come to mind, or the woods at the very least, making it the least of our concerns. But there’s more to wildlife than safaris, though these are not exempt.

Wildlife refers to all living things that live free and wild in their natural habitats. These are animals, microorganisms, and plants that thrive in their original homes. You’ll find these ecosystems in forests, rivers, deserts, wetlands, wildlife corridors, and others.

The Importance of Wildlife

Wildlife plays a vital role in sustaining our planet and boosting food security. They also enhance tourism and help in the discovery of new drugs.

It’s World Wildlife Day; read on to learn about the importance of wildlife and the need for their preservation.

Ecological Benefits

Wildlife enables the earth’s recycling process to run smoothly. They play a crucial role in regulating the nutrient cycle (water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles). Animals feed on plants (herbivores) and return their waste to the soil.

Similarly, insects, worms, and fungi break down (decompose) dead plants and animals. As a result, they release essential nutrients into the soil. These processes improve the fertility of the earth and the continuity of life.

Some animals also help plants reproduce by transferring pollen, ensuring the availability of food. Bees, butterflies, and some birds are examples.

In addition, wildlife impacts water purification by acting as a natural filter. Plants and microorganisms in wetlands trap pollutants and debris, enhancing groundwater supplies.

Wildlife also acts as a natural buffer during storms and helps reduce the intensity and risk of floods. With the aid of forests and vegetation, they slow down runoff and allow the infiltration of water into the ground.

Also Read: Will a Bee Sting You for No Reason

Economic Benefits of Wildlife

These natural habitats provide financial rewards to both individuals and governments. Nature attracts tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, pulling visitors from all over the world.

Activities like birdwatching, diving, and national park visits generate a lot of revenue. Countries like Kenya and Namibia make significant revenue from wildlife tourism.

In the same way, hunting and fishing activities contribute to local economies. They create jobs in the travel and hospitality sectors and other related fields. Moreso, they lead to the improvement of local infrastructure.

Medicinal Benefits of Wildlife

Wildlife has long been used in traditional medicine before modern medical practice. For centuries, people have used remedies from the wild as sedatives, naturopathy, physiotherapy, and more. Seeds, roots, leaves, bark, and flowers of plants are common ingredients for herbal therapies.

Similarly, many modern drugs are made of compounds found in plants, animals, and microorganisms. 40% of medications come from nature, making it important for the discovery of new pharmaceuticals. 

Health Benefits of Wildlife

Besides its medical properties, wildlife contributes to mental well-being. Spending time in nature reduces stress and improves your mood and mental clarity.

Moreso, activities such as hiking, swimming, and biking contribute to physical fitness. Wildlife provides fresh air and sunlight, which boosts the immune system. As a result, they contribute to your quality of life and decrease the risk of chronic diseases.

Also Read: 12 Diseases of Global Concern and Contributing Habits

Scientific Research on Wildlife

Observing the interactions of wildlife helps us understand the earth’s natural processes. They serve as indicators of sustainability and are useful in monitoring changes in our environment.

Wildlife also makes us aware of the delicate balance between nature and humans. Furthermore, by studying diverse species, we can preserve biodiversity and restore depleted wildlife.

Similarly, wildlife research reveals the transmission of zoonotic diseases. These are diseases that can affect both wildlife and humans. Such research guides public health measures and wildlife management planning. 

Also Read: How to Increase Biodiversity in Urban Areas

Educational Benefits of Wildlife

The ecosystems in nature are rich educational tools for students of all ages. They enhance hands-on learning and help students build connections with nature early on. Also, they provide them with practical skills in field observation and data collection.

Observing the unique behaviors of organisms in the wild can impact their problem-solving skills. It also enables them to appreciate nature, and it promotes compassion and responsibility.

Art and Literature 

Nature is beautiful and rich in diversity, displaying the unique behaviors of many organisms. This makes it a source of creativity for artists and writers.

Wildlife influences expressions in paintings, sculptures, literature, music, and poetry. And so writers and painters illustrate the complexity and beauty of nature.

In the same way, photographers help capture their survival techniques and the interdependence of life.

Spiritual Significance of Wildlife

Many cultures believe in a connection between nature and spirituality. These places have confidence in the manifestation of divine energy through wildlife.

Native Americans, for example, consider animals as messengers. The same applies to some religions, which view animals as symbols of spiritual attributes.

In Christianity, the dove symbolizes peace, and the lion represents strength and courage. For the Hindus, elephants denote wisdom and prosperity, and monkeys imply playfulness and devotion.

In Buddhism, peacocks signify beauty, and deer symbolize gentleness and compassion.

Also Read: 9 Means to Achieve World Peace Amid Diversity

Recreational Benefits of Wildlife

Nature provides opportunities for recreation, outdoor activities, and social interactions.

Activities like birdwatching, fishing, hunting, camping, and wildlife photography are delightful. And many people enjoy watching organisms in their natural habitats. Relaxing in natural environments also promotes a bond and an appreciation of nature. 

Appreciate Nature

The importance of wildlife is real; without its functions, the earth will not be habitable. Its conservation is our duty, and we must put an end to practices that destroy natural habitats.