Species assessed as ‘Endangered’ by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) are likely to become extinct if one does not take proper conservation measures. Of the several reasons why most animal species are becoming endangered, a common cause is habitat loss. This happens when most of their living space is cleared for agricultural farming, the construction of roads, and other purposes. The introduction of invasive species and the poaching of animals are the other reasons for a significant population decline in some species.
According to IUCN’s data, the IUCN Red List has over 41,000 species, of which around 16,000 are endangered and at risk of extinction. Around 41% of the endangered animals are amphibians, 27% mammals, 13% birds, 37% sharks and rays, and 21% reptiles. The vaquita is the most endangered animal in the world at present with just 10 of them left in the wild.
The onus lies on humans to save and conserve their population. Protecting their natural habitat is one of the main initiatives needed to be taken. Zoos have significantly saved several animals from extinction by adopting proper conservation strategies and spreading awareness.
A. Tigers suffer endangerment because of the destruction of their habitat due to human activities, which involve clearing forests for agriculture, farming, and building roads.
Q. Which animals are no longer endangered?
A. Louisiana black bear (classified as threatened between 1992 and 2016); American alligator (was on the list of endangered species in 1967)
Q. Is the fisher endangered?
The fishers were endangered in the 1900s because of overtrapping and a change in their habitat. Their population has stabilized, and the IUCN classifies them as Least Concern.
Q. What is the IUCN?
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) was established in 1948 as the International Union for Protection of Nature to ensure that nature in general, and all species that constitute it, are preserved for posterity.
