The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recently published an updated version of its Red List of Threatened Species. In the report, around 48,646 species were threatened with extinction. This hints towards a necessary rise in the number of species considered "threatened," and calls for action for global conservation.
Threatened Arctic Species
Several Arctic seals, including the hooded seal, have been reclassified from vulnerable to endangered status. These changes can be connected to effects associated with climate change, which has resulted in the warming of the Arctic region four times faster than elsewhere and caused severe declines in sea ice cover. Increased maritime traffic, increased fishing and offshore oil extraction all present further risk to Arctic species.
Declining Bird Populations
Birds face similar declines, as well as increased risk of extinction, with 61% of bird species assessed as declining in population size. The updated Red List notes that among 11,185 species assessed, almost 1,256, or over 11% are threatened.
The main cause of declining populations can be linked to habitat loss due to logging or agricultural expansion, especially in tropical forests. Interestingly, 14 species received a new status of near threatened in Madagascar.
Conservation Success Story: Green Sea Turtle
Despite concerning trends, there is good news. The green sea turtle is no longer classified as endangered. This outcome is a great success for ongoing conservation initiatives that have resulted in a population increase of 28% since the 1970s.
Global Consequences
The latest figures from the IUCN are a clarion call to action, given the rapidly worsening biodiversity crisis faced by our planet. The extinction of species creates a threat not only to ecosystems but to human well-being.
Scientists urge a global response to climate change and to responsible design of reasonable habitat protection to prevent further extinctions.
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