The first week of Inktober is complete and I am so thrilled to share my theme for this year! This year, I am focusing on endangered species and ways that we can help protect them from extinction. I am following along with the official inktober prompt list to help me choose what species to share. It was difficult to pin it down to only 31 species knowing there are well more than 31 that need our help. In fact, since the 70’s, world wildlife populations have declined by nearly 70%. Freshwater species have declined by 83% and Latin American & Caribbean wildlife populations have declined by 94%. This is very disheartening to say the least.

Many of these creatures are facing extinction, it’s a hard truth. But, if we can band together as a collective and create a lifestyle that works with the planet’s natural eco-systems instead of destroying them, there just might be a chance for us to all thrive together. It is going to take everyone, though.

The first thing to do for our animal brethren is research, learn and share. There is so much going on that the general public isn’t even aware of and if we are going to make a massive shift, we need everyone on the same page. Most problems these threatened species are facing are human-created such as pollution, agriculture, logging, mining, developments, poaching and much more. The sad part is, most people generally love animals and wish them no harm yet they are unaware of the dangers these creatures face everyday. If enough people knew how our regular, daily actions were affecting wildlife, we can start to create new “normals” and better ways to live out our day to day. Everything we do affects something else. In being conscience about how our actions affect the world around us, we can choose to affect it in a positive way, rather than a destructive one.

If you are as passionate about wildlife as I am, make sure to sign up for my newsletter and stay current on animal news! You’ll also get the first look at my latest artwork inspired by the amazing creatures we share this planet with.

Now, enough of my rambling! Let’s look at some pictures and get inspired to save some animals!

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7 of 31 sketches for endangered species. This is just the tip of the iceberg as I would love to expand upon this project further. I have so much excitement and drive to create for endangered species, I can hardly stay focused. My eyes are big and bright with the dreams of saving entire species with my artwork. Yet, I know this is a big dream that will take many, many little steps alongside like-minded individuals like you! Thank you for traveling with me on this journey.

I hope you enjoyed my first week of inktober sketches. Each one is drawn using fineliner ink pens. Which drawing was your favorite?

Do you have a conservation story you may have experienced on your own journey? I’d love to hear it! Also, don’t be shy to share any other ideas or ways to help! The first thing we can do is share information!

Stay wild free spirit!