KJELL B. SANDVED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Throughout history, numerous species have vanished due to habitat destruction, hunting, and climate change. In the past 150 years, the loss of certain animals serves as a stark reminder of the impact humans have on the planet. The extinction of these animals serves as a poignant reminder of the impact human activities can have on biodiversity. Each species lost represents a unique role in its ecosystem, and their disappearance highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts. By learning from the past, we can work towards protecting the species that remain and preserving our planet’s biodiversity for future generations. Here’s a look at ten extinct animals from this period, detailing their characteristics, causes of extinction, and their significance.
Passenger Pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius)
Once abundant in North America, the passenger pigeon was known for its massive flocks that could darken the sky. By the early 20th century, they were hunted to extinction.
Causes of Extinction:
Intensive hunting and habitat loss due to deforestation led to their decline. The last known passenger pigeon, named Martha, died in 1914.
Significance:
The extinction of the passenger pigeon highlighted the consequences of unchecked hunting and the need for wildlife conservation.
KJELL B. SANDVED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Great Auk (Pinguinus impennis)
The great auk was a flightless bird that inhabited the North Atlantic. Standing about 30 inches tall, it resembled a penguin.
Causes of Extinction:
Hunted for its feathers, meat, and eggs, the great auk was driven to extinction by the mid-19th century. The last known pair was killed in 1844.
Significance:
The great auk’s extinction is a cautionary tale about overexploitation and its irreversible consequences.
Maurizio Ravasini
Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacine) (Thylacinus cynocephalus)
The thylacine was a carnivorous marsupial native to Tasmania, Australia, and New Guinea. It had a dog-like appearance and distinctive stripes.
Causes of Extinction:
Hunted for being perceived as a threat to livestock, combined with habitat destruction, led to its extinction in the 20th century. The last known thylacine died in captivity in 1936.
Significance:
The thylacine serves as a reminder of the fragile balance between humans and wildlife.
discoverthetarkine.com
Caribbean Monk Seal (Neomonachus tropicalis)
This seal was native to the Caribbean Sea and was known for its playful nature and sociable behavior.
Causes of Extinction:
Overhunting for their oil and habitat loss contributed to their decline. The last confirmed sighting was in the 1950s.
Significance:
The extinction of the Caribbean monk seal underscores the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems.
Peter Schouten
Pinta Island Tortoise (Chelonoidis Abingdonensis)
The Pinta Island tortoise was one of the giant tortoise species from the Galápagos Islands, known for its impressive size.
Causes of Extinction:
Hunting and the introduction of invasive species led to its decline. The last known individual, Lonesome George, died in 2012.
Significance:
Lonesome George’s death symbolized the loss of biodiversity in the Galápagos and the urgent need for conservation efforts.
inaturalist.nz
Western Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis longipes)
A subspecies of the black rhinoceros, the western black rhino was native to several countries in West Africa.
Causes of Extinction:
Poaching for their horns and habitat loss led to their extinction, declared in 2011.
Significance:
The extinction of the western black rhino emphasizes the ongoing battle against wildlife poaching and conservation efforts.
Philip Perry
Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii)
This striking blue parrot was native to Brazil and known for its vibrant coloration and intelligence.
Causes of Extinction:
Habitat destruction and illegal trapping for the pet trade led to its decline. The last known wild individual was seen in 2000.
Significance:
Efforts are underway to reintroduce captive-bred Spix’s macaws into their natural habitat, highlighting the importance of conservation initiatives.
en.wikipedia.org
Hausa Kookaburra (Dacelo leachii)
This species of kookaburra was once found in parts of Australia. It was known for its distinctive call and social behavior.
Causes of Extinction:
Habitat destruction and competition from introduced species contributed to its decline. It was declared extinct in the late 19th century.
Significance:
The extinction of the Hausa kookaburra highlights the fragility of ecosystems when faced with invasive species.
Trevor Evans Macaulay Library
Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis)
Once found in the southeastern United States, this large woodpecker was renowned for its striking appearance and distinct call.
Causes of Extinction:
Habitat loss due to logging and hunting led to its drastic decline. While some sightings have been reported, it is widely considered extinct.
Significance:
The ivory-billed woodpecker has become a symbol of conservation efforts and the importance of preserving habitats.
birdinginsider.com
Zanzibar Leopard (Panthera pardus adersi)
This unique subspecies of leopard was native to the island of Zanzibar. It was known for its distinctive markings and adaptability.
Causes of Extinction:
Hunting and habitat loss led to its disappearance, with the last confirmed sighting in the 1990s.
Significance:
The extinction of the Zanzibar leopard underscores the critical need for habitat conservation in fragile ecosystems.
en.wikipedia.org