What animals are extinct recently? This question has become increasingly relevant as the rate of species extinction accelerates due to human activities and environmental changes. In recent years, several animal species have vanished from the face of the Earth, raising concerns about biodiversity and the future of our planet. This article aims to shed light on some of the animals that have become extinct in the recent past and the factors contributing to their demise.
The most recent extinction of a large mammal species occurred in 2016 with the loss of the Vaquita, a small porpoise native to the Gulf of California. The Vaquita’s extinction is primarily attributed to entanglement in fishing nets, particularly those used for catching totoaba fish, an endangered species. Conservation efforts to save the Vaquita were unsuccessful, and it became the first marine mammal species to become extinct in the 21st century.
Another recent extinction is that of the Chinese paddlefish, also known as the Chinese sturgeon. Once abundant in the Yangtze River, the Chinese paddlefish population drastically declined due to habitat degradation, pollution, and overfishing. In 2018, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) declared the species extinct, marking a significant loss to freshwater biodiversity.
The Sumatran rhinoceros, one of the world’s smallest rhinoceros species, is also facing the brink of extinction. In recent years, there have been no confirmed sightings of the Sumatran rhinoceros in the wild, and only a few individuals remain in captivity. The species’ decline is primarily due to habitat loss, poaching for its horn, and inbreeding within captive populations.
The Javan rhinoceros, another critically endangered species, has also experienced a rapid decline. Once found in various parts of Southeast Asia, the Javan rhinoceros is now confined to a single national park in Indonesia. The species’ extinction is primarily due to habitat loss, poaching, and limited genetic diversity.
These recent extinctions highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts and sustainable practices to protect remaining wildlife. The loss of these species not only affects biodiversity but also has potential consequences for the ecosystem and human well-being. As the rate of extinction continues to rise, it is crucial for governments, organizations, and individuals to take action to preserve our planet’s natural heritage.
