Want to join me in protecting endangered animals and their habitats? I have joined World Wildlife Fund to protect and restore species and their habitats. Efforts to ensure that the value of nature reflected in decision-making from a local to a global scale. We can save the very things that keep us alive: our forests, our oceans, our fresh water, our wildlife, our energy supply, and our food supply. Our nation's government ignores these issues and would instead focus on conflict against each other, killing nature, endangered animals, their habitats, and harming human nature.
The population of a species is the key to categorizing the difference between Critically Endangered and Endangered. A Critically Endangered species is classified when its population drops ninety percent, and the cause of decline is known. Critically endangered animals are those mainly caused by humans; the destruction of their habitats for industrial purposes, identified parts of the animal that will benefit the individual(s). It is also labeled based on the population that exists in the wild is fewer than 250 mature individuals. A critically endangered species is classified when the number of mature individuals declines by at least 25 percent within three years or one generation (whichever is longer).
An Endangered species is one when the population has declined by eighty percent, and the cause is unknown. A typical cause of endangerment is one we do not have control over, such as the weather. A change in weather pattern(s) can impact the habitat of where one lives hence decreasing the survival rate. Other causes are ones we can control but lack performance, like climate change or slowing down the rate of global warming. Despite the difference, both categories will have the same outcome: extinction.
The list of endangered species comprises more than 7,000 animals, also known as a list of life or death. If we all take action to save these species, we are taking action to save a life instead of being labeled as murderers. Below is information about some of the 7,000 species and what category they fall into. I want to protect endangered species and their habitats before they near the verge of extinction. I love caring for animals in need and will do my best to help save them when the opportunity is there.
Anyone can make a difference to save the lives of animals and their habitats. A one-time or a monthly donation, YOU can save an animal today! For more information, go to worldwildlife.org Thank you.
-The Epileptic Culinarian
The population of a species is the key to categorizing the difference between Critically Endangered and Endangered. A Critically Endangered species is classified when its population drops ninety percent, and the cause of decline is known. Critically endangered animals are those mainly caused by humans; the destruction of their habitats for industrial purposes, identified parts of the animal that will benefit the individual(s). It is also labeled based on the population that exists in the wild is fewer than 250 mature individuals. A critically endangered species is classified when the number of mature individuals declines by at least 25 percent within three years or one generation (whichever is longer).
An Endangered species is one when the population has declined by eighty percent, and the cause is unknown. A typical cause of endangerment is one we do not have control over, such as the weather. A change in weather pattern(s) can impact the habitat of where one lives hence decreasing the survival rate. Other causes are ones we can control but lack performance, like climate change or slowing down the rate of global warming. Despite the difference, both categories will have the same outcome: extinction.
The list of endangered species comprises more than 7,000 animals, also known as a list of life or death. If we all take action to save these species, we are taking action to save a life instead of being labeled as murderers. Below is information about some of the 7,000 species and what category they fall into. I want to protect endangered species and their habitats before they near the verge of extinction. I love caring for animals in need and will do my best to help save them when the opportunity is there.
Anyone can make a difference to save the lives of animals and their habitats. A one-time or a monthly donation, YOU can save an animal today! For more information, go to worldwildlife.org Thank you.
-The Epileptic Culinarian
African Elephant
The African Elephant stands tall on the top of the world’s rank of endangered species list, specified as Critically Endangered and on the verge of extinction. African elephants are found living in different habitats; forests and savannas. African elephants, also known as Loxodonta, can grow 12 feet tall and weigh between 5,000 and 14,000 pounds, with tusks about six feet long that weigh about fifty pounds. There are two species of African elephants (Forest Bush Elephant and African Bush Elephant), with a lifespan of 60-70 years.
African elephants are family-oriented with complex social structures. There are two types of herds- females with their young and bachelor herds- and lone males. Females remain with the natal group for life, sharing the responsibility for calves, and males leave the herd once they reach maturity. At birth, a calve can weigh 265 pounds, stand within 20 minutes of being born, and walk within one hour. After two days, they can keep up with the herd.
Elephants are constantly eating with their tusks, also known as their teeth! A calves' tusks are enlarged incisor teeth that first appear when elephants are around two years old. Tusks continue growing throughout their lives. Elephants use their tusks to assist in maneuvering through different parts of their habitat and are used to help with feeding - prizing bark off trees or digging up roots - or as a defense when fighting.
Unfortunately, the elephant's tusks are what hunters feed on, killing the animal to obtain the tusks, and are used as marketing tools in other parts of the world. An elephant's tusks are taken, leaving the elephant's body behind to rot and often carved into ornaments and jewelry – China is the biggest consumer market for such products. The world’s largest land animal population has dropped ninety percent over the last century, leaving about 415,000 still alive today. Laws have been passed in different parts of the world, hunters being fined a substantial price and can be jailed.
Asian elephants are also threatened, having declined by at least 50% in the last three generations. There's around 45,000 left in the wild. As their habitat changes, fragments, and is lost to human settlements and agriculture, populations of Asian elephants are finding it harder to follow their traditional migration routes to reach water, feeding, and breeding grounds.
The African Elephant stands tall on the top of the world’s rank of endangered species list, specified as Critically Endangered and on the verge of extinction. African elephants are found living in different habitats; forests and savannas. African elephants, also known as Loxodonta, can grow 12 feet tall and weigh between 5,000 and 14,000 pounds, with tusks about six feet long that weigh about fifty pounds. There are two species of African elephants (Forest Bush Elephant and African Bush Elephant), with a lifespan of 60-70 years.
African elephants are family-oriented with complex social structures. There are two types of herds- females with their young and bachelor herds- and lone males. Females remain with the natal group for life, sharing the responsibility for calves, and males leave the herd once they reach maturity. At birth, a calve can weigh 265 pounds, stand within 20 minutes of being born, and walk within one hour. After two days, they can keep up with the herd.
Elephants are constantly eating with their tusks, also known as their teeth! A calves' tusks are enlarged incisor teeth that first appear when elephants are around two years old. Tusks continue growing throughout their lives. Elephants use their tusks to assist in maneuvering through different parts of their habitat and are used to help with feeding - prizing bark off trees or digging up roots - or as a defense when fighting.
Unfortunately, the elephant's tusks are what hunters feed on, killing the animal to obtain the tusks, and are used as marketing tools in other parts of the world. An elephant's tusks are taken, leaving the elephant's body behind to rot and often carved into ornaments and jewelry – China is the biggest consumer market for such products. The world’s largest land animal population has dropped ninety percent over the last century, leaving about 415,000 still alive today. Laws have been passed in different parts of the world, hunters being fined a substantial price and can be jailed.
Asian elephants are also threatened, having declined by at least 50% in the last three generations. There's around 45,000 left in the wild. As their habitat changes, fragments, and is lost to human settlements and agriculture, populations of Asian elephants are finding it harder to follow their traditional migration routes to reach water, feeding, and breeding grounds.
Black Footed Ferret
Endangered or critically endangered? The Black Footed Ferret has a history of existence in North America when a study in 1979 was conducted. With their quick speed and underground housing, none were spotted on land, leading researchers to close their studies showing that the Black Footed Ferret was extinct. Later in 1981, a small population was discovered in Wyoming, reopening the case to identify how many were still left. The Black Footed Ferret is the only land mammal in the world found in one location, North America (small populations were reintroduced in Montana, South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and Kansas).
After being spotted, the Black Footed Ferret was given a chance to survive after individuals captivated ones in the wild to promote breeding and reinstall the population. After being captured to encourage breeding, the creature was released back to its habitat, primarily where it was first spotted. Homed beneath the surface, this creature will be housed in areas such as open grassland and prairie, near areas where Prairie Dogs are spotted. The Prairie Dog is the only creature the Black Footed Ferret relies on for food, part of their regular diet. After being captured, they use their sharp claws and teeth to feed on their prey.
Judged to be fast and in hiding, it has been known Black Footed Ferrets are described to be quite playful and vocal! They bark, chatter, and even chuckle, and the "ferret dance" is hopping about with their mouths wide open, apparently having all sorts of fun. Described as cute and playful, the Black Footed Ferret is labeled as an Endangered species because of a decline in the population. Experts believe there are 300-400 Black Footed ferrets still left in the wild, with a great chance there will be a drop in its population caused by habitat destruction and human extermination. The actions taken will quickly change the label of the Black Footed Ferret from being endangered to critically endanger.
Other than their habitats destroyed for industrial development, other causes for the decline are being deliberately exterminated (they are often considered an agricultural pest) and are suspected of carrying the sylvatic plague, a flea-borne bacterial disease of wild rodents. It was later discovered some hunters are eliminating the creature to obtain their fur for clothing and other marketable products. Exterminating this creature can be avoided, hence not destroying their existence, by being captured and released into the wild. Conservative groups and organizations work to catch and release the creature when spotted near or in areas where humans occupy and should be contacted to avoid endangerment and illness.
Endangered or critically endangered? The Black Footed Ferret has a history of existence in North America when a study in 1979 was conducted. With their quick speed and underground housing, none were spotted on land, leading researchers to close their studies showing that the Black Footed Ferret was extinct. Later in 1981, a small population was discovered in Wyoming, reopening the case to identify how many were still left. The Black Footed Ferret is the only land mammal in the world found in one location, North America (small populations were reintroduced in Montana, South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and Kansas).
After being spotted, the Black Footed Ferret was given a chance to survive after individuals captivated ones in the wild to promote breeding and reinstall the population. After being captured to encourage breeding, the creature was released back to its habitat, primarily where it was first spotted. Homed beneath the surface, this creature will be housed in areas such as open grassland and prairie, near areas where Prairie Dogs are spotted. The Prairie Dog is the only creature the Black Footed Ferret relies on for food, part of their regular diet. After being captured, they use their sharp claws and teeth to feed on their prey.
Judged to be fast and in hiding, it has been known Black Footed Ferrets are described to be quite playful and vocal! They bark, chatter, and even chuckle, and the "ferret dance" is hopping about with their mouths wide open, apparently having all sorts of fun. Described as cute and playful, the Black Footed Ferret is labeled as an Endangered species because of a decline in the population. Experts believe there are 300-400 Black Footed ferrets still left in the wild, with a great chance there will be a drop in its population caused by habitat destruction and human extermination. The actions taken will quickly change the label of the Black Footed Ferret from being endangered to critically endanger.
Other than their habitats destroyed for industrial development, other causes for the decline are being deliberately exterminated (they are often considered an agricultural pest) and are suspected of carrying the sylvatic plague, a flea-borne bacterial disease of wild rodents. It was later discovered some hunters are eliminating the creature to obtain their fur for clothing and other marketable products. Exterminating this creature can be avoided, hence not destroying their existence, by being captured and released into the wild. Conservative groups and organizations work to catch and release the creature when spotted near or in areas where humans occupy and should be contacted to avoid endangerment and illness.
Black Rhinoceros
The Black Rhinoceros, also known by its scientific name: Diceros bicornis, is the third largest rhinoceros of one of two rhinoceros species to exist. The Black Rhino, also known as the hook-lipped rhinoceros, can weigh between 1,800 to 3,100 pounds and stands five-feet high at the shoulders and 11.5 feet in length. Both males and females can grow to be the same size and are found in different habitats, most common in parts of South Africa. Black Rhinoceros has become a Critically Endangered species; a population decreased over the last century.
The black rhinoceros occupies various habitats, including open plains, sparse thorn scrub, savannas, thickets, and dry forests, as well as mountain forests and moorlands at high altitudes. They are known to be nervous in temperament and will react aggressively when felt it is endangered by others, mainly humans. Even under attack, black rhinos typically run away from harm after aggression instead of attacking their predator. Studies have been conducted uncovering a slight increase in the population of Black Rhinoceros, although some subspecies have been subjected to extinction.
Rhinos generally do not feast on meat; instead, they consume trees and bushes by using their lips to pluck leaves and fruit from the branches of trees. Although the population of the Black Rhinoceros has increased, they are still targets of hunters who desire to kill the specie to obtain their horns. Between 1960 and 1995, the population of Black Rhinos decreased by nearly ninety-eight percent, with less than 2,500 still existing. Between then and now, conservatives have been able to save the Black Rhinoceros after laws were passed in Africa. Today, an estimated 5,500 Black Rhinos are roaming the land but are still labeled as critically endangered species caused by humans.
Subspecies of the Black Rhinoceros, Western Black Rhino, and Northern White Rhino are extinct because of humans. Hunter's desire to kill the Black Rhinoceros is to obtain their horns and use them as marketing tools, most common for Asian consumers, particularly in Vietnam and China, who use them in folk remedies. The Black Rhinoceros has two horns targeting them to be more prized for a poacher’s desire to obtain the horns. A survey done in 2019 showed poaching numbers have slowly decreased (about 600 in 2019), as opposed to 1,215 rhinos who were poached in 2014. A decrease in the five-year period does not display improvement as the need for horns continues to rise to assist with global sales.
Next to poaching, loss of habitat contributes to the decline of the Black Rhinoceros population. Human activities such as infrastructure development have destroyed the habitats for all species of rhinoceros. A female Black Rhino's gestation period is between 15-16 months (nearly a year and a half) before giving birth. The destruction of their habitat causes a loss of breeding ground for a mother to give birth. Suppose the area of land is left alone, not destructed by human activity, and the number of poached Black Rhinos continues to decrease. In that case, the population of Black Rhinos will increase, nearly doubling its deceased population in 2014.
The Black Rhinoceros, also known by its scientific name: Diceros bicornis, is the third largest rhinoceros of one of two rhinoceros species to exist. The Black Rhino, also known as the hook-lipped rhinoceros, can weigh between 1,800 to 3,100 pounds and stands five-feet high at the shoulders and 11.5 feet in length. Both males and females can grow to be the same size and are found in different habitats, most common in parts of South Africa. Black Rhinoceros has become a Critically Endangered species; a population decreased over the last century.
The black rhinoceros occupies various habitats, including open plains, sparse thorn scrub, savannas, thickets, and dry forests, as well as mountain forests and moorlands at high altitudes. They are known to be nervous in temperament and will react aggressively when felt it is endangered by others, mainly humans. Even under attack, black rhinos typically run away from harm after aggression instead of attacking their predator. Studies have been conducted uncovering a slight increase in the population of Black Rhinoceros, although some subspecies have been subjected to extinction.
Rhinos generally do not feast on meat; instead, they consume trees and bushes by using their lips to pluck leaves and fruit from the branches of trees. Although the population of the Black Rhinoceros has increased, they are still targets of hunters who desire to kill the specie to obtain their horns. Between 1960 and 1995, the population of Black Rhinos decreased by nearly ninety-eight percent, with less than 2,500 still existing. Between then and now, conservatives have been able to save the Black Rhinoceros after laws were passed in Africa. Today, an estimated 5,500 Black Rhinos are roaming the land but are still labeled as critically endangered species caused by humans.
Subspecies of the Black Rhinoceros, Western Black Rhino, and Northern White Rhino are extinct because of humans. Hunter's desire to kill the Black Rhinoceros is to obtain their horns and use them as marketing tools, most common for Asian consumers, particularly in Vietnam and China, who use them in folk remedies. The Black Rhinoceros has two horns targeting them to be more prized for a poacher’s desire to obtain the horns. A survey done in 2019 showed poaching numbers have slowly decreased (about 600 in 2019), as opposed to 1,215 rhinos who were poached in 2014. A decrease in the five-year period does not display improvement as the need for horns continues to rise to assist with global sales.
Next to poaching, loss of habitat contributes to the decline of the Black Rhinoceros population. Human activities such as infrastructure development have destroyed the habitats for all species of rhinoceros. A female Black Rhino's gestation period is between 15-16 months (nearly a year and a half) before giving birth. The destruction of their habitat causes a loss of breeding ground for a mother to give birth. Suppose the area of land is left alone, not destructed by human activity, and the number of poached Black Rhinos continues to decrease. In that case, the population of Black Rhinos will increase, nearly doubling its deceased population in 2014.
Hawksbill Bale (Sea Turtle)
The Hawksbill Bale is a Critically Endangered specie and is one of seven sea turtles living in tropical waters worldwide. They spend their time in coral reefs, rocky areas, lagoons, mangroves, oceanic islands, and shallow coastal areas. Hawksbill is labeled to be a beautiful sea turtle known for its colorful shell and size. The Hawksbill gets its name from its narrow, sharp, bird-like beak-shaped head. These magnificent, colored sea turtles also have a distinctive pattern of overlapping scales on their shells, forming a serrated look on the edges.
Hawksbill Bale, also known as Eretmochelys imbricata, feed mainly on sponges, using their narrow pointed beaks to extract them from crevices on the reef. They also feed on anemones and jellyfish as part of their regular diet. Sea turtles are the only living representatives of reptiles to have existed on earth, navigating in the sea, for the last 100 million years. The smallest sea turtles, Hawksbill, weigh about 150 pounds and grow 30-35 inches in length.
Like all sea turtles, a adult female Hawksbill will travel to land and lay her eggs where she was hatched. After returning to the ocean, the eggs will lay buried in the sand, where they will stay for sixty days. Across beaches, 7.6% of hatchlings don't return to the ocean because of dehydration or are caught by predators like birds and crabs.
Many adult Hawksbill Bale will not live to reach an entire lifespan because they are the targets of hunters who desire their beautiful carapace (shell). The Hawksbill Bale is a critically endangered species of all sea turtles. Over the last century, the Hawksbill population has dropped by eighty percent, estimating around 23,000 left. The decrease is primarily due to the trade in their shell, also called “tortoiseshell”, something illegal in many countries. Its carapace, brightly colored with intricate designs, is traded internationally for ornamental purposes. The shell is used for items such as jewelry, combs, and brushes and inlay in furniture and other decorative pieces.
Parts of Asia (primarily China and Japan) are the top merchandisers using the shell of this beloved creature. Other threats to this species include damage to their habitats, like coral reefs. Destruction of their nesting and feeding habitat, pollution, boat strikes, coastal development, entanglement in fishing gear, consumption of their meat and eggs, and destructive fishing practices like dynamite fishing are also bringing down their population. Dynamite fishing uses explosives to stun or kill fish, usually on reefs, for accessible collection, a style of hunting found in South East Asia, Africa, and El Salvador.
The Hawksbill Bale is a Critically Endangered specie and is one of seven sea turtles living in tropical waters worldwide. They spend their time in coral reefs, rocky areas, lagoons, mangroves, oceanic islands, and shallow coastal areas. Hawksbill is labeled to be a beautiful sea turtle known for its colorful shell and size. The Hawksbill gets its name from its narrow, sharp, bird-like beak-shaped head. These magnificent, colored sea turtles also have a distinctive pattern of overlapping scales on their shells, forming a serrated look on the edges.
Hawksbill Bale, also known as Eretmochelys imbricata, feed mainly on sponges, using their narrow pointed beaks to extract them from crevices on the reef. They also feed on anemones and jellyfish as part of their regular diet. Sea turtles are the only living representatives of reptiles to have existed on earth, navigating in the sea, for the last 100 million years. The smallest sea turtles, Hawksbill, weigh about 150 pounds and grow 30-35 inches in length.
Like all sea turtles, a adult female Hawksbill will travel to land and lay her eggs where she was hatched. After returning to the ocean, the eggs will lay buried in the sand, where they will stay for sixty days. Across beaches, 7.6% of hatchlings don't return to the ocean because of dehydration or are caught by predators like birds and crabs.
Many adult Hawksbill Bale will not live to reach an entire lifespan because they are the targets of hunters who desire their beautiful carapace (shell). The Hawksbill Bale is a critically endangered species of all sea turtles. Over the last century, the Hawksbill population has dropped by eighty percent, estimating around 23,000 left. The decrease is primarily due to the trade in their shell, also called “tortoiseshell”, something illegal in many countries. Its carapace, brightly colored with intricate designs, is traded internationally for ornamental purposes. The shell is used for items such as jewelry, combs, and brushes and inlay in furniture and other decorative pieces.
Parts of Asia (primarily China and Japan) are the top merchandisers using the shell of this beloved creature. Other threats to this species include damage to their habitats, like coral reefs. Destruction of their nesting and feeding habitat, pollution, boat strikes, coastal development, entanglement in fishing gear, consumption of their meat and eggs, and destructive fishing practices like dynamite fishing are also bringing down their population. Dynamite fishing uses explosives to stun or kill fish, usually on reefs, for accessible collection, a style of hunting found in South East Asia, Africa, and El Salvador.
Hector’s Dolphin
The same color as other dolphins, the Hector’s Dolphin can be identified by its distinct black facial markings. These are the rarest and smallest of all marine dolphins, measured to be about four feet long and weighing 110 pounds. Besides their black markings, these unique dolphins have short, stocky bodies and a dorsal fin shaped like a Mickey Mouse ear. They have a lifespan between 20-25 years and are found only in shallow waters along the western shores of New Zealand.
Only to be seen in one area of the open ocean, Hector’s Dolphins are an Endangered species with a population of 7,000 individuals left, but the numbers are decreasing daily. On the other hand, the subspecies of the Hector’s Dolphin, Maui Dolphins, are labeled to be a Critical Endangered specie, with a count of less than one hundred left in the wild. A cause for the decrease is difficult for researchers to identify, only declaring being prey on by predators such as sharks. Another suspected reason for the decline in its population is caused by what may be known as “unintentional” human actions.
Hector’s Dolphins travel in small pods of two through ten individuals swimming together in shallow waters. After a few days of swimming together in one shallow ocean area, individuals will separate and join another pod in the area. The location and how they travel together can be the ideal reason why the number of individuals still exists decreases rapidly. The probable threat to this marine mammal is by becoming tangled in recreational and commercial gill and trawl nets.
Gill nets, for example, are made of a fine mesh that dolphins cannot detect underwater, and they accidentally swim into them and become caught. Other threats include being struck by boats, pollution in their habitat, coastal development, and seabed mining. The shallow waters it swims in increase the chance of the specie being struck, and because they travel in pods, increasing the chances of more than one being hit. For the decrease in population to be prevented, government and environmental protection agencies need to prevail and increase measures to prevent such incidents.
The same color as other dolphins, the Hector’s Dolphin can be identified by its distinct black facial markings. These are the rarest and smallest of all marine dolphins, measured to be about four feet long and weighing 110 pounds. Besides their black markings, these unique dolphins have short, stocky bodies and a dorsal fin shaped like a Mickey Mouse ear. They have a lifespan between 20-25 years and are found only in shallow waters along the western shores of New Zealand.
Only to be seen in one area of the open ocean, Hector’s Dolphins are an Endangered species with a population of 7,000 individuals left, but the numbers are decreasing daily. On the other hand, the subspecies of the Hector’s Dolphin, Maui Dolphins, are labeled to be a Critical Endangered specie, with a count of less than one hundred left in the wild. A cause for the decrease is difficult for researchers to identify, only declaring being prey on by predators such as sharks. Another suspected reason for the decline in its population is caused by what may be known as “unintentional” human actions.
Hector’s Dolphins travel in small pods of two through ten individuals swimming together in shallow waters. After a few days of swimming together in one shallow ocean area, individuals will separate and join another pod in the area. The location and how they travel together can be the ideal reason why the number of individuals still exists decreases rapidly. The probable threat to this marine mammal is by becoming tangled in recreational and commercial gill and trawl nets.
Gill nets, for example, are made of a fine mesh that dolphins cannot detect underwater, and they accidentally swim into them and become caught. Other threats include being struck by boats, pollution in their habitat, coastal development, and seabed mining. The shallow waters it swims in increase the chance of the specie being struck, and because they travel in pods, increasing the chances of more than one being hit. For the decrease in population to be prevented, government and environmental protection agencies need to prevail and increase measures to prevent such incidents.
Monarch Butterfly
The Monarch Butterfly is one of more than 500 inspects that are labeled to be Endangered species. Their large, brilliant color orange and black wings make the Monarch Butterfly the easiest species of butterflies to be identified in the open. This gorgeous insect travels between 1,200 through 2,800 miles across North America, Mexico and Canada, primarily spotted in forests and mountain habitats. The Monarch Butterfly travels to find the right climate conditions for hibernation from the beginning of November through mid-March.
Like all butterflies, the Monarch Butterfly begins their life as a caterpillar and will start its daily diet consumption of the leaves where they were laid to hatch. An adult Monarch Butterfly lays their eggs on milkweed, its only caterpillar host plant, where the eggs will take three to five days to hatch. After hatching, the Monarch caterpillars are recognized with a stripe color band of yellow, black, and white body but are tiny, measured at one-twelve of an inch. Consumption over two weeks, the caterpillar will grow and form a chrysalis in which they undergo metamorphosis. After approximately two weeks within the chrysalis, they emerge as adult butterflies.
The Monarch Butterfly has a lifespan of two to six weeks. After emerging, adult Monarch Butterflies, identifying the gender of the butterfly can be identified by the black dots along the edge of its wings. Males, who possess distinguishing black dots along the veins of their wings, are slightly bigger than females. Both males and females have a wingspan of four inches.
The Monarch Butterfly exhibits the most highly evolved migration pattern of any known species of butterfly or moth and perhaps any known insect. Climate change and habitat loss are the two leading causes that label the Monarch Butterfly as an endangered species. It needs mountain forests in Mexico for its winter habitat; however, nearby human communities also rely on them, creating pressure on forests through agriculture and tourism activities. In the United States, the loss of places to reproduce and feed is fading.
Milkweed plants are commonly found in the Midwest and Northeastern parts of the United States. Known by its scientific name, Asclepias, there are twelve types of milkweed plants the Monarch Butterfly feeds on. On the other hand, climate change also threatens the Monarch Butterfly, disrupting its annual migration pattern by affecting weather conditions in wintering grounds and summer breeding grounds. Lower temperatures and rainy weather could be lethal to these creatures, and hotter, drier summers could shift suitable habitats north. Studies conducted found the number of Monarch Butterflies has decreased during migration because of the change in weather patterns.
The Monarch Butterfly is one of more than 500 inspects that are labeled to be Endangered species. Their large, brilliant color orange and black wings make the Monarch Butterfly the easiest species of butterflies to be identified in the open. This gorgeous insect travels between 1,200 through 2,800 miles across North America, Mexico and Canada, primarily spotted in forests and mountain habitats. The Monarch Butterfly travels to find the right climate conditions for hibernation from the beginning of November through mid-March.
Like all butterflies, the Monarch Butterfly begins their life as a caterpillar and will start its daily diet consumption of the leaves where they were laid to hatch. An adult Monarch Butterfly lays their eggs on milkweed, its only caterpillar host plant, where the eggs will take three to five days to hatch. After hatching, the Monarch caterpillars are recognized with a stripe color band of yellow, black, and white body but are tiny, measured at one-twelve of an inch. Consumption over two weeks, the caterpillar will grow and form a chrysalis in which they undergo metamorphosis. After approximately two weeks within the chrysalis, they emerge as adult butterflies.
The Monarch Butterfly has a lifespan of two to six weeks. After emerging, adult Monarch Butterflies, identifying the gender of the butterfly can be identified by the black dots along the edge of its wings. Males, who possess distinguishing black dots along the veins of their wings, are slightly bigger than females. Both males and females have a wingspan of four inches.
The Monarch Butterfly exhibits the most highly evolved migration pattern of any known species of butterfly or moth and perhaps any known insect. Climate change and habitat loss are the two leading causes that label the Monarch Butterfly as an endangered species. It needs mountain forests in Mexico for its winter habitat; however, nearby human communities also rely on them, creating pressure on forests through agriculture and tourism activities. In the United States, the loss of places to reproduce and feed is fading.
Milkweed plants are commonly found in the Midwest and Northeastern parts of the United States. Known by its scientific name, Asclepias, there are twelve types of milkweed plants the Monarch Butterfly feeds on. On the other hand, climate change also threatens the Monarch Butterfly, disrupting its annual migration pattern by affecting weather conditions in wintering grounds and summer breeding grounds. Lower temperatures and rainy weather could be lethal to these creatures, and hotter, drier summers could shift suitable habitats north. Studies conducted found the number of Monarch Butterflies has decreased during migration because of the change in weather patterns.
Saola
While the number of Critically Endangered species continues to rise, how many still exist is a question many scientists ask. The Saola (pronounced sow-la) is a species that remains a critically endangered animal if any still exists. The saola, also known as the “Asian Unicorn,” which was first spotted in Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia), is labeled as one of the rarest mammals to still exist in moist conditions of a forest. Science did not come across this animal until 1992.
An adult saola weighs between 170-220 pounds, and both females and males are characterized by long, gently curving horns and a striking pattern of white markings on the head. Like other animal species, hunters crave the skin of this creature and the horns on its head. Research conducted on this species has been challenging for scientists to observe. Many had to use forest cameras, and interviewed individuals who have spotted this land mammal they believe may no longer exist. A 2021 study revealed there are less than 250 Saolas left worldwide. Saolas are on the verge of extinction or already no longer exist. If any are left in the world, now is the time to make a difference and save this animal.
While the number of Critically Endangered species continues to rise, how many still exist is a question many scientists ask. The Saola (pronounced sow-la) is a species that remains a critically endangered animal if any still exists. The saola, also known as the “Asian Unicorn,” which was first spotted in Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia), is labeled as one of the rarest mammals to still exist in moist conditions of a forest. Science did not come across this animal until 1992.
An adult saola weighs between 170-220 pounds, and both females and males are characterized by long, gently curving horns and a striking pattern of white markings on the head. Like other animal species, hunters crave the skin of this creature and the horns on its head. Research conducted on this species has been challenging for scientists to observe. Many had to use forest cameras, and interviewed individuals who have spotted this land mammal they believe may no longer exist. A 2021 study revealed there are less than 250 Saolas left worldwide. Saolas are on the verge of extinction or already no longer exist. If any are left in the world, now is the time to make a difference and save this animal.
Sunda Tiger
Sunda Tigers, also known as Sumatran Tigers, are the last remaining tigers on Indonesia's Sunda Islands after the Bali and Javan tigers were hunted to extinction. Also known by its scientific name, Panthera tigris sondaica, a Sunda tiger weighs between 165-310 pounds. A male Sunda tiger is heavier than the female, although both can grow between six through eight feet, females typically being shorter in length. Sunda tigers are distinguished by their rich black stripes on their orange coat, giving them the perfect camouflage to mimic the light reflection in the forest.
Sunda tigers are more common in Indonesia’s the Sunda Islands, but, in the past, some say they were spotted in other parts of Asia. Sunda tigers hide in tropical broadleaf evergreen forests, freshwater swamp forests, and peat swamps. Hiding in their habitats, Sunda tigers feed primarily on wild pigs, sambar & barking deer, and primates. This land mammal, mainly females, hunts on creatures four times their size to feed her cubs. Discovered in freshwater swamp forests, Sunda tigers will feast on anything, including fish.
Female Sunda tigers sexually mature when they reach three or four years old, and males, four or five years old. Mating season happens year-round but is more common between fall through spring (November through April). A male and female tiger will mate briefly before leaving each other but frequent in the same area. After a gestation period of 100-108 days, female tigers will seek out a secluded den to give birth to a litter, ranging between one to six cubs, though the average litter is three or four.
These beautiful and majestic creatures are Critically Endangered and on the verge of extinction. Over the last century, the population of Sunda tigers has tremendously dropped; an estimated number below 400 are still left in the wild. The Sunda tiger is a critically endangered mammal caused by hunting and the destruction of their habitat. Hunters desire their skin and bones and use them as marketing tools for material, such as cloth or an article of clothing. Their habitats have also been lost, caused by human destruction. Indonesia is the world’s largest palm oil producer, having converted as much as half of its rainforest to agricultural land, predominantly for oil palm plantations.
The destruction of their habitats caused by humans’ benefits hunters; forcing tigers out of the area makes it convenient to set on sight. The destruction of their habitat also makes it difficult for females to den and give birth to her cubs. Laws have been passed in Indonesia; anyone caught hunting tigers could face jail time and steep fines. Despite the warnings, poachers still desire and will kill Sunda tigers until extinction, so we have to step up to save them. A Sunda tiger has a lifespan of 15-20 years (longer if kept in captivity such as the zoo) but is cut short because of human action.
Sunda Tigers, also known as Sumatran Tigers, are the last remaining tigers on Indonesia's Sunda Islands after the Bali and Javan tigers were hunted to extinction. Also known by its scientific name, Panthera tigris sondaica, a Sunda tiger weighs between 165-310 pounds. A male Sunda tiger is heavier than the female, although both can grow between six through eight feet, females typically being shorter in length. Sunda tigers are distinguished by their rich black stripes on their orange coat, giving them the perfect camouflage to mimic the light reflection in the forest.
Sunda tigers are more common in Indonesia’s the Sunda Islands, but, in the past, some say they were spotted in other parts of Asia. Sunda tigers hide in tropical broadleaf evergreen forests, freshwater swamp forests, and peat swamps. Hiding in their habitats, Sunda tigers feed primarily on wild pigs, sambar & barking deer, and primates. This land mammal, mainly females, hunts on creatures four times their size to feed her cubs. Discovered in freshwater swamp forests, Sunda tigers will feast on anything, including fish.
Female Sunda tigers sexually mature when they reach three or four years old, and males, four or five years old. Mating season happens year-round but is more common between fall through spring (November through April). A male and female tiger will mate briefly before leaving each other but frequent in the same area. After a gestation period of 100-108 days, female tigers will seek out a secluded den to give birth to a litter, ranging between one to six cubs, though the average litter is three or four.
These beautiful and majestic creatures are Critically Endangered and on the verge of extinction. Over the last century, the population of Sunda tigers has tremendously dropped; an estimated number below 400 are still left in the wild. The Sunda tiger is a critically endangered mammal caused by hunting and the destruction of their habitat. Hunters desire their skin and bones and use them as marketing tools for material, such as cloth or an article of clothing. Their habitats have also been lost, caused by human destruction. Indonesia is the world’s largest palm oil producer, having converted as much as half of its rainforest to agricultural land, predominantly for oil palm plantations.
The destruction of their habitats caused by humans’ benefits hunters; forcing tigers out of the area makes it convenient to set on sight. The destruction of their habitat also makes it difficult for females to den and give birth to her cubs. Laws have been passed in Indonesia; anyone caught hunting tigers could face jail time and steep fines. Despite the warnings, poachers still desire and will kill Sunda tigers until extinction, so we have to step up to save them. A Sunda tiger has a lifespan of 15-20 years (longer if kept in captivity such as the zoo) but is cut short because of human action.
