By Caitlin Ambrose, Assistant Chief of Interpretive Services

There was a time in Ohio when bald eagles were a rare site—only four breeding pairs existed in the state in 1977. Through awareness, community and scientific outreach, you can now find a nesting eagle in all of Ohio’s 88 counties. This shows that humans can have profound effects on the environment in both negative and incredibly beneficial ways. As of 2022, the Endangered Species list has reached 177 endangered and threatened species in the Buckeye State. Some of the facts you will read may seem a bit doom and gloom, but that is not meant to have you sitting in despair. It is rather to spur you into action. Consider this while reading, if you were given endless resources to protect any species in Ohio, which would you choose?

All organisms play a key part in the delicate balance of an ecosystem. Without any single species, an entire habitat can be thrown off balance. Below is a list of species in decline and a small example of what it would mean if one went extinct.

Reptiles & amphibians: In Ohio, around 25 percent of these species are at risk of extinction, including the massasauga and timber rattlesnakes that control rodent populations. Less snakes = more rodents

Bats: More than 90 percent of bat populations have declined in Ohio. Bats are an important control for insect populations, including mosquitoes. Mosquitos spread diseases such as malaria.

Mussels: Approximately 70 percent of North America’s mussel population is in peril or already extinct. Mussels help maintain clean water and act as an important natural filter for fresh water sources, including the Grand River in Lake County.

Birds: More than 30 percent of America’s bird species are at risk of extinction, including the sandhill crane. Birds control insect populations and are also a food source for other animals.

Now I will ask you the same question as before, which species would you choose to protect? It may not be so easy to decide this time around. The actions we take in our own lives can make a positive impact on wildlife. Below are a few examples of what you can do.

1) Make your home wildlife friendly by planting a native wildflower garden and removing non-native species. Visit the American Horticultural Society website for resources.

2) Use alternatives to herbicides and pesticides as these can kill animals at all levels of the food chain.

3) Buy sustainable, earth-friendly or reusable products.

4) Support local agencies that conserve habitats for wildlife.

Discover other ways to help wildlife at this year’s Earth Day celebration at Penitentiary Glen Reservation on Sunday, April 21. Explore how you can take action through hands-on activities, live animal programs, exhibits and displays, local conservation organizations, vendors and more.