Do you know any names of animals which are endangered? Well, the usual names like tigers, lions, and Rhinos will pop up in our minds. It is unfortunate that when it comes to critically endangered species the discussion often starts with tigers and ends with lions. But there are many more species that are often neglected because they are not as charismatic as the carnivores mentioned above. Most species go extinct due to loss of genetic diversity and degradation of habitat. Many anthropogenic factors are behind habitat loss.
We need to pay attention to these overlooked species and do our best to save them. Here are some species which are on the verge of extinction.
Dugong (Dugong dugon)
Dugongs are severely threatened due to seawater pollution and an increase in industrial activity in the coastal region. They feed on seagrass and if there is degradation of this habitat , they face difficulties in breeding. As a result, their population is affected. Sometimes they die due to bycatching as well.
Vultures
Many species of African and Indian vultures are facing an existential crisis. In Africa, they are mostly hunted as their body parts are considered to bring good luck and fortune. Furthermore, poisoning, electrocution and habitat loss are some of the reasons behind their rapid decline. Human recreational activities like rock climbing have only made the situation worse.
In the Indian subcontinent, most vultures are exposed to diclofenac which is very toxic and drastically affects the kidney.
Pangolin
These scaly animals which can curl up into a ball are very vulnerable. They are one of the most trafficked species in the world. Their meat is a delicacy in some Asian countries. Additionally, their scales have traditional and medicinal significance and their skin is a good source of leather. According to studies, every three minutes at least one pangolin is poached.
Lion Tailed Macaque
This species is declining due to many anthropogenic factors like industrialization and deforestation. When their habitats are fragmented, they have no option but to inbreed. This creates a lack of genetic diversity and results in frail young ones.
Nilgiri Tahr
These animals are sometimes killed for their skin or meat. However, habitat fragmentation is the chief factor for their rapid decline. Big-scale projects in their habitats and other activities like plantation contribute to habitat loss. This severely affects the population of these species.
It is evident from the above examples that habitat destruction and poaching are two major factors in the extinction of species. We as humans need to do everything in our capacity to save these animals from being “Dodos of the 21st century”.
References -
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/the-race-to-save-african-vultures/
https://www.wwfindia.org/about_wwf/priority_species/threatened_species/nilgiri_tahr/#:~:text=This%20endemic%20species%20of%20the,)%20Act%20of%20India%2C%201972.
https://news.mongabay.com/2020/08/why-are-some-endangered-species-ignored/
Written By Rajashri Nene
(All photographs have been taken from open source platforms.)