Endangered species are those species that are facing a high risk of extinction in the near future due to various factors such as habitat loss, hunting, climate change, and other factors These species are of particular interest as they represent a level of biological diversity that is vital to the overall health of our planet and its ecosystems. Endangered species should be protected from the threats to their existence, as their extinction could have far-reaching implications throughout the planet’s ecosystems.
As such, governments, conservationists, and policy makers have implemented a range of measures to protect endangered species. These range from legal protection, habitat protection and restoration, captive breeding and reintroduction, as well as public education campaigns. Here are five examples of endangered species that should be protected:
1. Amur Leopard: The Amur leopard is considered one of the rarest big cats in the world, with only around 84 individuals believed to remain in the wild. Endemic to the temperate forests of the Amur-Ussuri region in Russia and China, the Amur leopard faces threats from poaching and habitat fragmentation. The remaining individuals can be found in protected areas such as the Land of the Leopard National Park in Russia.
2. Black Rhino: The black rhinoceros is a critically endangered species, with about 5000 individuals remaining in the wild. These large, herbivorous animals are highly threatened by habitat loss and poaching for their horns, which are highly valued in some traditional medicines. These animals are found in several countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, and their populations are carefully monitored and managed in several national parks.
3. Pika: The pika is a small mammal that lives in the high mountain regions of Asia and the Western United States. These animals are highly sensitive to environmental changes, and they are facing rapid declines due to a combination of climate change, habitat loss and human development. Several species of pika are already extinct, and several more are endangered and at risk of extinction. Consistent monitoring and conservation efforts are needed to protect these species.
4. Sea Turtles: Sea turtles are a group of turtles that inhabit the ocean, and several of their species are facing threats of extinction. Sea turtles face threats such as bycatch, habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts have been implemented to reduce bycatch and to increase awareness of the plight of these animals. Marine protected areas and conservation zones have also been created to ensure the protection of these species.
5. Monarch Butterfly: Monarch butterflies are iconic North American butterflies that migrate south in the winter months each year. Populations of these butterflies have declined drastically due to habitat loss and degradation, as well as the use of insecticides. Conservation efforts are underway to save these butterflies, with several organizations working to restore their habitats and monitor their populations.
In conclusion, endangered species should be protected from the threats to their existence, as their extinction could have far-reaching implications throughout the planet’s ecosystems. Conservation efforts should be focused on restoring and preserving the habitats of endangered species, as well as closely monitoring and managing their populations. Examples of endangered species that need to be protected include the Amur leopard, black rhinoceros, pika, sea turtles, and the monarch butterfly.