WASHINGTON, D.C. — March 12, 2026 — The Endangered Species Coalition today announced the theme for the 2026 Endangered Species Day: “Celebrating America’s Wildlife Comeback Stories. Championing the Endangered Species Act.”
Observed on Friday, May 15, 2026, and celebrated throughout the month of May, Endangered Species Day brings together people across the country and around the world to honor threatened and endangered species, the habitats they depend on, and the landmark conservation law that helps make their survival possible, the Endangered Species Act.
This year’s theme highlights the powerful recovery stories made possible by the Endangered Species Act, including species such as the southern sea otter, whooping crane, and American alligator. These comeback stories show what is possible when conservation is guided by science, supported by communities, and backed by strong federal protections.
“For more than 50 years, the Endangered Species Act has given imperiled wildlife a fighting chance,” said Susan Holmes, Executive Director of the Endangered Species Coalition. “Endangered Species Day 2026 is a chance to celebrate the species that have come back from the brink and to remind the country that these successes did not happen by accident. They happened because people chose to protect wildlife, defend habitat, and uphold America’s most effective conservation law.”
Now in its 21st annual year, Endangered Species Day has grown into an international celebration of wildlife and conservation. Each year, schools, community groups, zoos, aquariums, libraries, nonprofits, agencies, and individuals organize events that educate, inspire, and connect people to the importance of protecting biodiversity.
The Endangered Species Coalition is encouraging supporters, educators, partners, and local leaders to plan events and activities in their communities throughout May. Events may be virtual or in person, large or small, and can include panel discussions, film screenings, trivia nights, habitat cleanups, pollinator garden plantings, children’s activities, and other creative ways to celebrate endangered and threatened species.
“People and animals are deeply connected,” Holmes said. “When we protect endangered species, we also protect the healthy ecosystems that support clean water, resilient communities, and future generations. Endangered Species Day is about celebrating hope, but it is also about renewing our commitment to defend the Endangered Species Act and the extraordinary wildlife it protects.”
Organizers are encouraged to register their events on the Endangered Species Day event map so others can find local celebrations and take part.
More information, event-planning resources, and participation tools are available through the Endangered Species Day website: https://www.endangered.org/endangered-species-day/