National Roadkill Day is an unusual observance that highlights the often-overlooked potential of roadkill as a sustainable food source. Celebrated annually on September 25, this day encourages people to rethink their perceptions of roadkill, promoting it as a valuable resource that can help reduce food waste and support those in need.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 25
- Tagged as: A day to raise awareness about roadkill as a sustainable food source.
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalRoadkillDay
- When was it founded?: August 2021
- Who founded it?: Carolyn Arnold
History of National Roadkill Day
National Roadkill Day was established to draw attention to the significant impact that roads have on wildlife. The day promotes awareness about the dangers posed to animals by vehicles and encourages responsible driving habits. It also highlights the importance of utilizing roadkill as a resource, which can help mitigate food insecurity while reducing waste.
Timeline
- 2020: National Roadkill Day is established by environmental and conservation groups.
- 2021: The day gains recognition and begins to be celebrated across various platforms.
- 2022: Increased participation in events and discussions surrounding roadkill awareness and sustainability.
- 2023: More communities organize events, including clean-ups and educational campaigns.
- 2024: Anticipated growth in awareness and participation in National Roadkill Day activities.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September | 25 | Thursday |
| 2026 | September | 25 | Friday |
| 2027 | September | 25 | Saturday |
| 2028 | September | 25 | Monday |
| 2029 | September | 25 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Roadkill Day is observed through various activities that promote awareness about wildlife safety and the use of roadkill. Common observances include community clean-up events, educational campaigns, and cooking demonstrations featuring game meat.
Fun Facts About National Roadkill Day
- Roadkill can serve as an important resource for scientific research on animal populations and behaviors.
- Many animals thrive on roadkill, which forms a natural part of their diet, helping to keep ecosystems balanced.
- Despite being legal to consume in most states, eating roadkill remains a taboo for many people.
Quiz
- What date is National Roadkill Day celebrated?
- Who founded National Roadkill Day?
- What is one way to observe this day?
Answers:
- September 25
- Carolyn Arnold
- Participate in a community clean-up event or share awareness on social media.
FAQs
Is roadkill safe to eat?
Yes, if the animal has died recently and the meat is cooked thoroughly, it can be safe for consumption.
What types of animals are most commonly found as roadkill?
Squirrels are among the most common animals that fall victim to vehicles, with an estimated 41 million killed each year.
What is the Roadkill Festival?
The Roadkill Festival is an annual event where amateur cooks compete using roadkill as their main ingredient, held in Marlinton, West Virginia.
Importance of National Roadkill Day
National Roadkill Day serves multiple purposes:
- It raises awareness about the dangers roads pose to wildlife and promotes safer driving habits.
- It encourages communities to consider roadkill as a viable food source, particularly for those facing food insecurity.
- The day fosters discussions about wildlife preservation and sustainable practices in food consumption.
Related Topics
- Wildlife Conservation Efforts
- Sustainable Food Practices
- Community Clean-Up Initiatives