Months after the death of famed primatologist and conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall, a new day has been created to carry her legacy forward.

The Jane Goodall Institute announced that April 3, Goodall’s birthday, will officially be recognized each year as Jane Goodall Day.

The annual event will serve as a global call to action, encouraging people to protect wildlife, support conservation work and continue the mission that defined Goodall’s life.

“April 3 … is Jane’s birthday. And this year, we are officially marking April 3 as Jane Goodall Day,” the organization said in an email announcement.

“This first annual day of action will celebrate how Jane’s ideas live on through the people, communities, and work advancing her vision.”

Goodall died on Oct. 1, 2025, at the age of 91 after decades spent transforming how the world understands animals, ecosystems and humanity’s role in protecting them.

Her groundbreaking research with chimpanzees in Tanzania reshaped the scientific understanding of animal behavior and helped spark a global conservation movement.

The Jane Goodall Institute, the nonprofit she founded, continues that work today through wildlife protection programs, youth education initiatives, advocacy campaigns and scientific research.

“Dr. Jane Goodall dedicated her life to showing that people create meaningful change when they come together with purpose. She led a global movement dedicated to protecting our natural world and the human and wildlife communities that call this planet home,” the organization said.

“From her groundbreaking scientific discoveries to her global advocacy for wildlife, communities, and the planet, Jane reshaped how the world understands conservation and our shared responsibility. Now, that responsibility lives with all of us.”

While many supporters celebrated Goodall’s birthday during her lifetime, the institute says the newly established day carries a renewed meaning.

It is meant to inspire people around the world to take practical steps for the environment.

In the past, supporters of Goodall’s work have marked the day by planting trees, cleaning up trash in their communities or supporting youth-led conservation efforts through the Roots & Shoots program.

The institute is encouraging similar actions this year while also inviting supporters to donate to help fund conservation and education projects.

To accompany the launch, the organization has also created an interactive digital experience that allows visitors to learn more about Goodall’s life and the people continuing her work.

The institute says the goal is to remind people that lasting change often begins with small individual actions.

“Dr. Jane Goodall often reminded us that there is hope for a brighter future when people take action together. That belief inspired Jane Goodall Day — which we will celebrate on Jane’s birthday, April 3,” the organization said.

“Together, let’s ensure Jane’s work lives on for generations to come.”