Today is the first day of Orangutan Awareness week and next Saturday is it the first ever International Red Panda Day! These two animals are very dear to me. I spent 2 months volunteering with orphaned orangutans in Malaysian Borneo and since moving to the Bay Area I often volunteer with the Red Panda Network. And seriously, have you ever seen an animal cuter than these two little orange beauties?
The top photo is of Walter, the first red panda I ever saw. He lives at the Bronx Zoo. (Photo by my lovely sister Laura). That little guy on the bottom is Sen, he was only a five months old when I first went to Borneo, I fed him his first banana. He is very special. I miss that little sucker. (Photo by Beddy Tiun, a Ranger at Sabah Wildlife Department).
It’s a great opportunity to teach your children about wildlife and what we can do to protect them.
Here’s a list of some things you can do:
1. Download the Red Panda Activity pack and help your child become a Red Panda Ranger: Download here
2. Visit your local zoo. Follow these links to find a zoo near you with Red Pandas.
3. Have your family wear orange on Wednesday November 10th, 2010 for ORANGE FOR ORANGUTANS. If you don’t have any orange Tea can help with that: Motoring Graphic Tee, Bicycle Tee, Bandana Lace Print Dress, Autumn Leaves Banded Dress.
4. I put together some “Orangutan Facts for Kids” after doing a presentation for my sisters second grade class. There’s lots of good information about what candy to avoid and FAQ’s from then 2nd graders.
5. Adopt a Red Panda or an Orangutan. Its a great way to support a good cause and fun to get letters and updates on the animal you are helping. The orangutan link I included is to adopt Sen (pictured above).
Let us know what activities you decide to do with your kids!