World Lion Day: Help Save Big Cats #5forBigCats

More than ever the plight of lions has been in the news with the horrific killing of Cecil in Zimbabwe. Countless individuals have spoken out against the killing of this beautiful animal via Facebook, but now it’s time to go further. Words create a movement, but action fosters change. 

In support of World Lion Day (August 10), National Geographic Big Cats Initiative has created, “High-Five. Give $5. Save Big Cats,” a worldwide virtual high-five chain in support of big cats. Big cats, like lions are disappearing at an alarming rate in the wild and to raise awareness National Geographic is urging individuals to share high Fives on social media.

Participants can also donate $5 or more as part of the campaign to help preserve big cats and their habitats. The funds will go to National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative, which provides on-the-ground conservation and education support to projects that preserve big cat populations worldwide. Examples include building livestock enclosures to save snow leopards in Nepal and combating lion snaring and poaching in Zambia. To donate visit donate.ngs.org/5forbigcats or text FIVE to 50555 to donate $5. 

It’s easy to participate. Share National Geographic‘s suggested Facebook and Twitter posts with your social networks. Tag five friends to send them a virtual high five. Then watch the chain grow across Facebook, Twitter, and other social sites!

Check out these recent tweets of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Leonardo DiCaprio in support of #5forBigCats.

Want to get creative? Instead of using one of the provided #5forBigCats photos when you share on social media, create your own high-five photo or video masterpiece. I encourage you to think outside the box! Make sure you use #5forBigCats, and then visit causeanuproar.org/5forbigcats to see your creation in our gallery.

To get your kids involved with World Lion Day pick up National Geographic Kids Mission: Lion Rescue book. With fun and amazing adventure stories, gorgeous photography, hands-on activities, fascinating information, and more, this book taps into kids’ interest in animals and their passion for saving them. Meet real-life lions and learn about their habitats, challenges, and successes, plus learn how you can take action and save these amazing endangered creatures.

Disclosure: I am part of the National Geographic Kids Insider program. I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.