Sadly, increasingly more animals are becoming endangered, and many are on the brink of extinction. This article will list ten such animals, some of which you probably know, but some might surprise you!
Besides us, Homo sapiens, there are many creatures in the world. While some creatures go about their business freely, others risk becoming non-existent. Therefore, this article discusses the animals on the brink of extinction.
Why Are These Animals on the Brink of Extinction?
You might be wondering why the animals we’re about to discuss are even in this discussion in the first place. Well, there are a few common reasons these animals are on the brink of extinction. Firstly, the persistent poaching, either for meat, horns or any other body part believed to hold unique properties, is one reason many animals’ population decline.
Secondly, numerous human activities are responsible for the acute habitat loss of many species, such as deforestation, dam building, industrial buildings, and overfishing. Climate change is also a massive threat to most animal species, as it is to humans, causing abnormally hot or cold climates.
All these reasons causing animals’ extinction can all be traced back to one culprit: humans. Our excessive consumption and unsustainable lifestyles are taking a toll on our planet and its animals. Consequently, it is our responsibility to save them! The first thing we can do is educate ourselves about the animals in need to advocate for their well-being.
So let’s learn about a few animals currently risking extinction and desperately needing our attention!
Animals On the Brink of Extinction
1. Chimpanzees
Chimpanzees have the unfortunate quality of possessing tasty meat – according to some. Because of their heart, they’re frequently hunted, killed, and prepared as delicacies. This hunting occurs mainly in Africa, where they’re known as bushmeat. It must be underlined, though, that most of this meat is illegally exported to other parts of the world.
In addition to being hunted for food, baby chimpanzees get sold to people as pets. In the end, the population of these animals is on a steady decline, and currently, their number stands at a mere 300,000.
2. Asian Elephants
Asia is known for its extensive human population. And as this population increases, the forests and grasslands are invaded by humans. One species this act affects is the Asian elephant. In addition, traders exchange these elephants for their ivory and teeth, thus decreasing their population.
3. Whales
There are 13 great whale species left. But what if we told you 6 of these species are already on the brink of extinction? Take the North Atlantic right whales, for instance; only about 400 are left, and the breeding females don’t even make up a quarter of this number.
Killing for commercial purposes and water pollution are the most significant contributors to the endangering of whales.
4. Black Rhinos
Of all rhino species, black rhinos are the most critically endangered. Firstly, the black rhino species have been victims of intense poaching. Between the years 1960 to 1995, as much as 98% of the black rhinos in Africa were hunted and killed.
In the end, there are just over 5,000 black rhinos worldwide. These rhinos’ illegal trading and poaching for their horns have also reduced their numbers.
5. Parrots
That’s right; even the talkative birds you keep in your houses are on the brink of extinction. Well, 52 species of them, at least. Moreover, the Cape parrot, in particular, is on the verge of extinction. Habitat loss, especially in African regions, is the primary reason for their endangerment.
6. Bonobos
The aftermath of wars and civil disputes are often hard on humans. However, furry creatures equally suffer from human acts of violence. For instance, the bonobos are a species of primates on the brink of extinction. With just tens of thousands left, it’s clear that continued poaching will inevitably lead these animals to death.
7. Galapagos Sea Lions
Pollution, changes to the climate, and frequent infections – are all examples of the factors contributing to the decline in sea lions in the Galapagos Islands. Also, these sea lions get caught in nets accidentally when fishermen search for fish.
Ultimately, we’re left with under 10,000 Galapagos sea lions – and it doesn’t look like this number will increase anytime soon.
8. North American Bumblebee
Loss of habitat and increased pesticide use are two factors that have contributed to the decline in the number of bumblebee species in North America. If we compare the number of North American bumblebees now to their number, let’s say, two centuries ago, we see a drop as significant as 80%.
Also, scientists have predicted that at this rate, these creatures have less than a century before going extinct.
9. Giraffes
You are probably surprised to find these long-necked creatures on this list of animals on the brink of extinction. However, the IUCN has declared some species of giraffe as endangered. For example, reticulated giraffes have been listed as endangered. The Kordofan and Nubian species, with just over 4,000 left, are also examples of endangered giraffe species.
Reasons for their loss in number include loss of habitat and some giraffes being killed for their tails.
10. Black-Footed Ferrets
Black-footed ferrets have also found their way on the endangered animals list. With just over 350 of these ferrets living in the forests, it’s only a matter of time. These ferrets were also on the brink of extinction in the 80s; conservation procedures allowed their population to reach stable levels again. Sadly, their numbers have once again dropped.
Animals at the Brink of Extinction: What Must Be Done?
After going through this list of animals at the brink of extinction, it’s clear that we humans are the most significant contributors. Consequently, we are the only ones who can save them from the precarious situations we’ve caused for them.
Thank you for reading this article! Sadly these were only a few of the numerous species risking extinction. Continue educating yourself and read our post on the 16 Most Endangered Animals In the Bahamas or 24 Most Endangered Animals In Arkansas.
For any feedback please message to Feedback@animalsaroundtheglobe.com
- Baby Lion Cubs Carried Across River by Mother Lion - April 16, 2024
- Death by Tiger at Drive-Through Zoo - April 16, 2024
- Elephant Crosses River Filled with Hippos - April 16, 2024