Ecocentric Ecocentric

5 of the Most Endangered Species on the Planet

This year experts at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) have put together a list of the world's 100 most endangered animals and plants. These species are near the brink of extinction—each with a population that is dwindling fast—but also species that human beings have little use for. That's a problem because the calculus of conservation is increasingly being driven by economics. So IUCN's new list is dedicated to the highly endangered species that may be allowed to die out because they don't provide humans with clear benefits. But that doesn't mean they don't deserve to live.

  • Share
  • Read Later

Greater Bamboo Lemur

By Sept. 11, 2012
IUCN

Population size: 100 to 160 individuals

The tiny bamboo lemur—so-named because its powerful jaws can chew through tough bamboo—is found in Madagascar, the African island that is home to more endangered species per mile than any other country in the world. The bamboo lemur was actually believed to be extinct for nearly 50 years before it was rediscovered in 1972. But it’s revival may be temporary—the lemur’s rainforest habitat is being slash and burnt for agriculture.

(PHOTOS: Imagining the Future Animal)

Next Javan Rhino

Full List