We are currently losing species at hundreds—perhaps a thousand—times the natural rate, effectively erasing the wild tapestry of Earth one animal at a time. The endangerment of animals must stop. There are multiple reasons why animals become endangered, but most are because of humans. Humans destroy habitats, produce pollution, so bad that animal populations are reduced so heavily that they cannot recover.  

Some species that have been on the endangered list for a while are the Amur Leopard, Orangutan, Black Rhino, and the Vaquita, which is a type of whale. Some of these animals have been on the endangered list since around the 1990’s. On the other hand, some of the recent animals that have joined the endangered gang are, Saint Lucia fer de lance (Viper), European Eel, Psychedelic earth tiger (Spider), Temminck’s pangolin, Cao vit gibbon (Monkey), and the Blackchin guitarfish (Fish). 

So why are these animals endangered and how? Well for example, the Saint Lucia fer de lance is in trouble because they are often killed on sight, but little do we know, this reptile is not aggressive, and people must learn to co-exist with this species to keep it alive. The European Eel is endangered because of fragmentation of its water habitat, overfishing, and illegal trade. And the Psychedelic earth tiger is endangered because of habitat loss as well as illegal trade. Animal illegal trade is a big issue and will continue to happen because it is so easy for people to do. It also has many benefits but eventually the consequences will catch up to humans when these species are permanently gone.  

I interviewed Robert Amos, who loves animals, and discussed the topic of endangered animals. First, I asked him what do you think are the causes of endangered species? He replied with, “deforestation, and global warming.” I also asked him what do you think is the best solution for reducing endangered animals and Robert replied with, “I think hunting is a big issue and causing imbalances in the ecosystem and destroying species,” He is not wrong.  

Overall, humans must act now. The numbers are only getting worse, but conservation agencies say it is still possible and endangered animals can recover from the brink of extinction. Let’s make earth great again!