Successful conservation action has boosted the populations of the
Iberian Lynx and the Guadalupe Fur Seal, while the African Golden Cat, the New
Zealand Sea Lion and the Lion are facing increasing threats to their survival,
according to the latest update of The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™.
Ninety-nine percent of tropical Asian slipper orchids – some of the most highly
prized ornamental plants – are threatened with extinction.
Today’s update also shows that over-collection and habitat destruction are
placing enormous pressure on many medicinal plants.
The IUCN Red List now includes 77,340 assessed species, of which 22,784 are
threatened with extinction. The loss and degradation of habitat are identified
as the main threat to 85% of all species described on the IUCN Red List, with
illegal trade and invasive species also being key drivers of population
decline.
“This IUCN Red List update confirms that effective conservation can yield
outstanding results,” says Inger Andersen, IUCN Director
General. “Saving the Iberian Lynx from the brink of extinction while
securing the livelihoods of local communities is a perfect example."
“But this update is also a wake-up call, reminding us that our natural world
is becoming increasingly vulnerable. The international community must urgently
step up conservation efforts if we want to secure this fascinating diversity of
life that sustains, inspires and amazes us every day.”
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