Of Geckos and Cats

Fourth of July weekend represents one of the busiest weekends for our nation’s coastlines – and as you work to find the perfect perch on the beach this weekend, don’t forget the animals who call those beaches home! 

Amidst all the holiday fun, it can be easy to forget to pick up those plastic soda bottles, lighters, food wrappers and straws you brought with you to the beach. The trash and debris we leave behind can easily make it into our ocean – and into the lives of the marine wildlife that calls it home. Trash is a major threat to ocean life and ecosystems, so doing your part to pick up after yourself on the beach can have a profound, positive impact on the lives of animals like this Laysan albatross and chick inspecting a pile of disposable cigarette lighters picked up during a single beach cleanup event in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. 

This weekend, save some plastic and save a life! Opt to bring re-usable containers and pick up your trash as you leave the beach.