Unchecked extinction and unprotected wildlife mean losing more than just animals. We risk losing our greatest teachers, furry friends, and vital ties to the natural world—all within our lifetime.

However, through the Endangered Species Act and similar policies, we can ensure their safety.

Some native North American animals, though perhaps perceived as creepy, are undeniably cool and absolutely worth protecting. Their unique ecological roles are vital.

Defenders of Wildlife is dedicated to the protection and restoration of all native species across North America, ensuring even these often-misunderstood creatures thrive.

Witness the magnificent California condor in its natural habitat. As North America's largest land bird, it boasts an impressive 10-foot wingspan.

Watch it soar to heights of 15,000 feet, traveling up to 250 miles daily in search of its next meal.

Dr. Goodall, thank you for illuminating our understanding. Your insights highlight our profound responsibility to this world, our neighbors, and all life.

True care emerges only when we grasp this fundamental connection. It is our duty to protect and nurture our shared planet.

We all share a profound love for wildlife and our planet's wild places. These natural wonders are invaluable national treasures, essential for our future and the health of the global ecosystem.

Without collective action to protect them, these precious environments and the species they harbor face irreversible loss. It is imperative that we unite to safeguard them for generations to come.

We might deny being obsessed with public lands, but if constant thought, deep love, advocacy, and spirited debate count, then perhaps we are. Aren't you, too?

Let's continue our fight to keep them public. Happy Public Lands Day!

Watch Stu and Chris from "Aussie Snake Wranglers" Season 1, Episode 7, as they respond to an emergency call to relocate a highly venomous eastern brown snake. This investigative series follows Australia's busiest snake-catching team. Catch "Aussie Snake Wranglers" Wednesdays on EarthX.

EarthX, the official network of Earth Day, is a media company dedicated to inspiring conservation and sustainability. We believe our planet is special and are committed to protecting the environment through a 24/7 channel, original series, documentaries, and digital content offering sustainable solutions. Learn more at earthxmedia.com.

In this clip from "Wild Wonders with Brooke" (Season 3, Episode 2: "Zookeeper for a Day"), young conservationist Brooke Carter learns about giraffes and feeds Cosmo, the San Antonio Zoo's towering 17-foot resident. The series follows Brooke as she learns from experts and travels the world to protect animals and the planet.

EarthX, the official network of Earth Day, is a media company committed to inspiring environmental protection through conservation and sustainability. We offer original series, documentaries, and digital content across various platforms, providing entertaining and inspiring solutions for a healthier planet. Learn more at EarthX Media.

EarthX is a media company and the official network of Earth Day, inspiring conservation and sustainability. We protect our unique planet by delivering engaging content across a 24/7 linear channel, social, and digital platforms, offering sustainable solutions and expert insights to audiences of all ages.

Our "Law & Nature" series, developed by the EarthxLaw Advisory Council, features environmental thought leaders discussing critical legal and policy issues, including insightful pre-election analyses of environmental law's future.

Explore more at earthxmedia.com and follow us on social media: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Dailymotion.