One in four mammal species is threatened with extinction, and the terrestrial mammals in Southeast Asia are particularly at risk. The top threats to land mammals are habitat loss and harvesting (hunting, use for medicine, fuel and other materials).
A five-year study of data collected by more than 1,700 experts in 130 countries presents overwhelming evidence of an extinction crisis. But James Burton of Earthwatch says there is good reason for hope and it is not too late to act. According to Burton, “Declining mammal populations are just one tragic symptom of the increasing pressures on habitats and natural resources. In this challenging economic climate, it is vital that we do not lose sight of the benefits and services that ecosystems provide?carbon sequestration, provision of fresh water and resources, as well as aesthetic and cultural values to name but a few.” Only we can save the animals?and maybe they’ll help save US too!
Art credit: freeimages.co.uk
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