Some animals are already on a high risk of becoming extinct unless we take the necessary steps to save and protect them.
One of the contributing factors for the diminishing population of some species is global warming. The changing environmental condition is a big threat to their lives and it increases the possibility for these endangered species to become extinct.
A British broadcaster and naturalist, David Attenborough has conducted a study on endangered animal species. He is known to support activities for the preservation of the environment. He identified the ten animals he strongly believed should be saved from extinction.
- Darwin’s frog – The frog was discovered by Charles Darwin in Chile in year 1834. What is extraordinary in this species is that the male frog keeps in his vocal pouch all the tiny tadpoles until they are ready to swim. This type of frog can be found in the forests of Chile and Argentina.
- The Sumatran Rhinoceros – It is considered as the smallest species of Rhino with only 200 left. Sumatrans are now endangered and can only be found in Peninsular Malaysia and Indonesia.
- The Olm Salamander – This type of salamander is found in Central Europe. It is a blind amphibian that lives underground rivers and caves. Olm Salamander can live for ten years without food but this animal is now endangered because of water pollution.
- Priam’s birdwing butterfly – This endangered brilliant and colourful butterfly can be found in Northern Australia and New Guinea.
- The Solenodon – The name Solenodon means “slotted tooth” and considred as the first mammal to live on earth. This animal is venomous and only exists in Haiti.
- The Northern Quol – This animal is a small marsupial and can be found in Australia. Its survival is currently threatened because of the cane toads that invade and occupied its home.
- Marvellous Spatuletail – A hummingbird found on the hills of Andes in Peru. It attracts a mate by using its tail. This type of bird has been endangered because of habitat lose.
- Sunda Pangolin – Pangolin can be found in Southeast Asia. This is an armoured mammal that is now endangered because it is being traded for illegal medicines.
- The Venus’ flower basket – This sponge can be found 1000 meters under the ocean. It has the ability to produce silica which becomes glass fibers.
- The Black Lion Tamarin – This small monkey has long silky hair and can be found in Sao Paulo Brazil. The adult weighs not more than 700g with a height between 25 to 33 centimeters.
In one of Attenborough’s documentatary entitled State of the Planet , he stressed that “the future of life on earth depends on our ability to take action.” He also added that “we have a responsibility to leave for future generations a planet that is healthy, inhabitable by all species.”
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