In honor of Endangered Species Day we take a look at some of the fascinating creatures whose numbers are reducing drastically.
- Saola, the "Asian Unicorn"
What is the saola? Is it a goat? An
antelope? A cow? A real life unicorn?
Scientists aren't really sure. In fact, we don't know much about this creature
first specimen was spotted only 22 years
ago.
How many are left? Estimates range from a
few dozen to a few hundred. In other
words, if you see one, it might be your lucky day
How can we help them? Forests guard
patrols are working to remove hunters'
snares, which are a major threat to the
species. The World Wildlife Fund is also
helping conservation efforts.
- Bonobos, the pygmy chimp
Usually under 3 feet tall, this species was
the last great ape to be recognized by
scientists. And no, you're not the only one
who thinks they look like little people. Just
like chimps, these little cuties share 98.7%
of their DNA with humans.
How many are left? Fewer than 50,000 and
rapidly declining
How can they be helped? You can adopt a
bonobo! (No, not physically adopt one.
They are endangered, after all.)
- Hawaiian Monk Seal, "Dog Running in
the Rough Sea"
Locals have a special name for this seal
because it so closely resembles man's best
friend, especially in the face. Hawaiians
have a special reverence for this monk seal,
as it is the only marine mammal that can't
be found anywhere else.
How many are left? Fewer than 1,100
How can they be helped? These seals get a
bad rep, as many believe they're an
invasive species. A large group of animal
lovers have come together to fight that
myth, hoping to stop intentional killing of
the animal.
- Leatherback Turtle, the seemingly
shell-less wonder
These giant turtles got their name from the
layer of skin that keeps their shell hidden.
In addition to being the largest turtles
around, they're also the fastest, clocking in
at 22 miles per hour (under water, of
course).
How many are left? It depends on the sub-
species, but some are critically endangered
How can they be helped? Like other sea
turtles, the main threats to this species
come from humans, like when newborns
get attracted to hotel lights and never
make it to the sea. Read up on the threats
so you know how to avoid being part of the
problem.
- Tree Kangaroo, the wannabe sloth
The tree kangaroos can't really decide
what they want. Once upon a time,
kangaroos' ancestors lived in trees, but
then they climbed down. But the tree
kangaroo - you guessed it - climbed back
up. The result is a strange but adorable
cross between its namesake and a lemur.
How many are left? It depends on the sub-
species, but many are critically
endangered. There are only around 50
Wondiwoi tree kangaroos left.
How can they be helped? Hunting is a
major problem for these creatures. The
World Wildlife Fund is combating this issue
by maintaining protected areas and
providing education about the risks.
