10 Endangered Species That Are Recovering Due to Conservation Success
In the past decades, many species have been threatened with death because of problems like deforestation, climate change, poaching, and pollution. But there is some positive news. As a result of combined efforts by governments, experts, communities, and international organizations, many species that were once threatened are recovering and offering us hope for the future. Here's a closer look at 10 species whose survival stories give us hope for the world.
1. Greater One-Horned Rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis)
The one-horned rhino was previously in critical threat due to poaching and habitat loss. Today, it is thriving in secure locations such as Manas National Park in India. Relocation initiatives and effective anti-poaching legislation have assisted the population of rhinos to increase to over 47 within the park — a significant victory for the species.
2. Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
Humpback whales were nearly exterminated by commercial whaling, but have since recovered since the world banned whaling in 1985. They have grown in population in all the oceans, demonstrating what is possible when nations come together and regulate. But they continue to be threatened by new dangers, such as becoming caught in fishing nets.
3. Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
Struck hard by pesticide application and habitat destruction, the peregrine falcon's fall was turned around due to captive breeding and the prohibition of DDT. Now, these swift birds have learned to live in the city, nesting on tall skyscrapers and bridges in cities all over the world.
4. Corroboree Frog (Pseudophryne corroboree)
A native Australian species, this small, colorful frog was severely threatened by disease and loss of habitat. Today, due to zoo breeding and continued rewilding, the corroboree frog is beginning to reappear in conservation areas.
5. American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)
The American alligator came close to extinction as a result of overhunting and habitat destruction. But today, it has returned in full force. It was assisted by legal protection and wise management strategies to increase its population in the southeastern United States, and it is now a conservation success story.
6. Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx)
The Arabian oryx had been officially declared extinct in the wild by 1972. It was reintroduced and bred back using ambitious reintroduction and breeding programs in the Arabian Peninsula. It was reclassified officially as "vulnerable" as of 2011. This was one of the few instances of a species having returned from extinction in the wild.
7. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
America's emblematic bird suffered drastic declines as a result of pesticide use and hunting. But following the prohibition of DDT and conservation of nesting grounds, the bald eagle recovered remarkably. It was delisted from the U.S. Endangered Species List in 2007 and today stands as a symbol of pride for recovery.
Gray wolves were almost wiped out in America due to hunting and the destruction of their habitat. Through the Endangered Species Act and reintroduction efforts such as the Yellowstone National Park program, the numbers of wolves have increased, restoring equilibrium to their natural environments.
9. Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
The giant panda has been a global icon of endangered animals for decades. Yet it has actually improved because China has made investments in panda reserves, bamboo cultivation, and breeding. In 2016, the panda was formally moved from endangered to vulnerable, a promising indication of long-term improvement.
10. Siamese Crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis)
Having been on the brink of extinction in the wild, the Siamese crocodile is quietly making a return in Cambodia. Conservationists have been breeding and releasing purebred animals into safe habitats. The sighting of wild hatchlings is a powerful indication that recovery is within reach.
These conservation wins show that we can still make a difference. With science-based strategies, public help, and international collaboration, we can prevent the extinction of endangered species. By supporting wildlife conservation, protecting habitats, and staying aware, we can continue to protect endangered species and restore our planet.
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