Did you know that up to 35,000 species are endangered in the US alone?
Worldwide, that’s a sobering 30 to 50 percent of all species that could disappear by 2050.
Scary, isn’t it?
Perhaps scariest of all, common animals that you know and love are in danger right now.
Here are 5 surprising animals that are at risk of disappearing and what you can do to help!
1. Sperm Whales
Sperm whales are a vulnerable species due to a number of factors, including: tanker traffic, fishing and harvesting of their food supply, and ocean pollution.
2. Peacocks
Habitat loss due to widespread clearance of land for palm oil production is putting peacocks at risk.
Hunting with snares is also a main concern for the livelihood of this specie.
3. Hummingbirds
Originating from South America, these majestic birds are at risk due to habitat loss resulting from severe deforestation.
4. Squirrels
Most species of squirrels are thriving. However, the California native “San Joaquin Antelope Ground Squirrel” is endangered due to agricultural development and urbanization.
5. Sea lions
These beautiful creatures are presently near threatened on the West Coast of America due to being caught in net fisheries and deliberate killing by fishermen.
How to help
Go vegan
Habitat loss due to farming and animal exploitation is the number one reason species are going extinct. By switching to a plant-based diet you can reduce this negative impact!
Make a donation
Donate to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and the Humane Society International: These two organizations raise awareness about animals’ plight through research and direct-action campaigns worldwide.
Raise awareness
- Share petitions aiming to protect animals to all your friends and family and make your voice heard by sharing this post!
- You can also show your support by sporting our “BUSY saving all the animals” t-shirt. 15 percent of all our profits go directly to animal shelters.
Want to learn more about endangered species and what you can do to protect them? Check out:
- 3 ways you can help save lions from extinction
- How you can make the world a better place for elephants