An innovative website called “Love Earth” is bridging the gap between the scientific world and people’s interest and concern over endangered species. The website tracks five species of animals along with the activities of scientists studying them. The result is an online blog and Google mash-up of the animal’s locations. An interesting way to bring home what mammalogists and cetologists actually do.

With the ever growing endangered species list, animal science and conservation could definitely use some popular support. The inaccessible nature of scientific work, however, makes it difficult for people to identify with the cause. While in some cases this may be mere apathy, there seems to be pent up demand for more accessible and interactive ways to learn about the environment. A perfect example of this demand is BBC’s Planet Earth series, a nature documentary, which was the most popular DVD sold on Amazon in 2007.

The work of thousands of scientists and conservationists is critical to the survival of many species. Finding a way to bring this battle into people’s living rooms could galvanize them to lend their support. Interactive, online experiences such as “Love Earth” might go a long way in doing this.