Student Article
Eleven of the Rarest Animals in the World at Risk of Extinction
Biodiversity (noun): The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
Extinction (noun): The end of an entire species or group of organisms when there are no more living members left.
Conservation (noun): The protection of animals, plants, and natural resources.
Thermal (adjective): Relating to heat or temperature.
Invasive (adjective): Tending to spread quickly and in a way that harms native species.
Captive breeding (noun): Breeding animals in controlled environments to increase their population.
Deforestation (noun): The clearing of trees and forests.
Fragmentation (noun): Breaking up of habitat into smaller pieces.
The world is facing a biodiversity crisis, with many species at risk of extinction. Here are 11 of the rarest animals and the threats they face.
Black and Chestnut Eagle
This eagle, found in South America, has fewer than 250 adults remaining. It hunts small mammals and birds but sometimes takes chickens, leading to conflicts with farmers. Conservation efforts are underway to resolve these conflicts.
El Rincon Stream Frog
These frogs live in Argentina and survive cold winters in warm thermal streams. They are critically endangered due to invasive fish and habitat loss from cattle. Conservation efforts include fish barriers and reintroduction programs.
Northern River Terrapin
This turtle, found in India, is one of the most endangered fresh-water turtles. Their numbers have dropped due to over-collection for food and pollution. Captive breeding programs are helping to reintroduce them into the wild.
Dinagat Moonrat
This rare mammal lives on Dinagat Island in the Philippines. Its population is unknown, and its habitat is threatened by mining. Conservationists are working to locate and protect remaining populations.
Hirola Antelope
This antelope, found in Kenya and Somalia, has only about 600 individuals left. Habitat loss and overgrazing have reduced their numbers. Efforts are underway to restore and protect their grassland habitat.
Albany Adder
This snake, found in South Africa, is critically endangered. Its habitat is threatened by mining and development. Conservationists are working to locate and protect other populations.
Roach’s Mouse-Tailed Dormouse
This dormouse, found in Bulgaria, lives in habitats with old trees. Its home is being converted to farmland, threatening its survival. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring its habitat.
Bawean Warty Pig
This pig, found on Bawean Island in Indonesia, has only a few hundred individuals left. Deforestation is a major threat to its habitat. Conservationists are working to reduce conflicts with local communities.
Golden Langur
This monkey, found in Bhutan and India, has seen its population drop by 60%. Habitat fragmentation and roadkill are major threats. Reforestation and wildlife-friendly bridges are helping to reconnect isolated groups.
Siamese Crocodile
This crocodile, found in Southeast Asia, has only about 250 individuals left. Habitat loss and accidental capture in fishing gear are major threats. Conservation efforts include protecting large areas of their habitat.
Vaquita Porpoise
This small porpoise, found in Mexico, has only about 10 individuals left. They are critically endangered due to accidental capture in fishing nets. Conservationists are working to save the remaining population.
© Debbie Graham / Our Media
Biodiversity (noun): The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
Extinction (noun): The end of an entire species or group of organisms when there are no more living members left.
Conservation (noun): The protection of animals, plants, and natural resources.
Thermal (adjective): Relating to heat or temperature.
Invasive (adjective): Tending to spread quickly and in a way that harms native species.
Captive breeding (noun): Breeding animals in controlled environments to increase their population.
Deforestation (noun): The clearing of trees and forests.
Fragmentation (noun): Breaking up of habitat into smaller pieces.