The threat to biodiversity has never been as pronounced as it is today. Numerous animal species are experiencing sharp declines in their populations due to many factors, from human activities to natural challenges. These 10 of the most endangered animals urgently need focused conservation efforts.
The alarming rate of habitat loss, poaching, and climate change has severely impacted various animal species across the globe. Some are on the brink of extinction, making conservation efforts more critical than ever. Here’s a look at 10 of the most endangered animal species in the world.
South China Tiger
Believed to be extinct in the wild, the South China Tiger has not been sighted outside captivity for more than 25 years. Poaching and deforestation are primary reasons for their decline.
Saola
Often called the ‘Asian Unicorn’, the saola is one of the rarest and most threatened mammals globally. It was discovered in 1992 and is found only in the Annamite Range of Vietnam and Laos.
Hawksbill Turtle
Mainly found in the tropical oceans, these turtles are critically endangered due to the loss of nesting and feeding habitats, excessive egg collection, fishery-related mortality, and illegal trade in their shells.
Bornean Orangutan
Cousins to the Sumatran Orangutan, the Bornean Orangutans of Indonesia and Malaysia are also under severe threat. Deforestation and hunting have led to a significant decline in their population.
Black Rhino
Although conservation efforts have improved their status slightly, the Black Rhino is still critically endangered, mostly because of poaching for their horns. Africa is home to this majestic creature.
Amur Leopard
This cold-climate leopard is critically endangered with fewer than 100 individuals remaining in Eastern Russia and parts of China, largely due to poaching and habitat loss.
Sumatran Orangutan
Native to the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, these orangutans are under threat from rampant deforestation, primarily for palm oil plantations. Only around 14,000 remain in the wild.
Cross River Gorilla
This subspecies of gorilla, found on the border between Nigeria and Cameroon, has a population of fewer than 300 individuals. Their numbers have dwindled because of deforestation and poaching.
Javan Rhinoceros
Once common across Southeast Asia, the Javan Rhinoceros is now one of the rarest large mammals on Earth. Today, they’re confined to Ujung Kulon National Park in Java, Indonesia, with a population of about 60-70 individuals.
Vaquita
The vaquita is the world’s most rare marine mammal, found exclusively in the Gulf of California, Mexico. These small porpoises have suffered mainly due to fishing nets, with an estimated fewer than 20 left in the wild.
