Australia, shame on you – you’re the third worst country in the world for animal extinction

INDUSTRY NEWS: From Aplaceforanimals

Australia is the third highest country for threatened species facing extinction and 12.5 per cent of the nation’s unique animals are at risk. The alarm bells are ringing, but how are we dealing with the rising extinction rate?

A recent analysis by aplaceforanimals dives into crucial questions about our planet’s threatened species. Through examination of diverse habitats, the findings are alarming. Amphibians, for instance, are facing greater danger, with a staggering 41 per cent on the verge of extinction. As we navigate further, of the 65,000 vertebrate species — constituting merely 3 per cent of all animal species — an astounding 42,100 find themselves under the imminent threat of extinction.

The data casts a bright spotlight in Indonesia, a nation boasting unparalleled biodiversity with 10,408 animal species. However, it also holds the unenviable position of having 1233 species under threat. Yet, the concern doesn’t end there.

Australia and Mexico are ringing alarm bells, witnessing threat rates of 12.5 per cent and 13.9 per cent, respectively.

Our investigation goes beyond just numbers. Some of the most iconic animals are facing extinction.

The Javan rhino, with a dwindling population of only 75, and the Amur Leopard, with a mere 100 remaining, are standing on the precipice. Despite this dire picture, there’s a silver lining.

With an investment of around $1.3 billion annually, we can save 841 highly threatened species.

Aplaceforanimals assessed each nation based on criteria like species diversity, number of endangered species, and conservation efforts. We assigned scores based on these parameters, culminating in an overall rating.

Our research extensively drew upon data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for credibility and precision, offering a meticulous perspective on wildlife conservation across nations.

Key Findings

• 42,100 species are on the edge of extinction as per the IUCN Red List.

• Out of 8536 amphibian species, 41 per cent are endangered.

• Indonesia brims with biodiversity (10,408 species) but also leads with 1233 threatened species.

• Javan rhino counts 75, while only 100 Amur Leopards roam wild.

• $1.3 billion annually could halt the extinction of 841 critically threatened species.

Number of Endangered Animals by Species

Approximately 3551 fish species, including the extinct Chinese paddlefish, are endangered. The Golden Toad and Borneo rainbow toad are among 2606 amphibians facing habitat loss and disease threats.

Among 1,842 endangered reptiles, the Radiated tortoise and Philippine crocodile stand out. Birds have 1,400 endangered species, including the unique Kakapo and Spix’s Macaw. Mammals feature 1,340 endangered species, with notable examples being the Sumatran orangutan and Javan rhinoceros, while species like the Saber-toothed tiger have already vanished.

Countries with the Richest Animal Diversity

Indonesia leads the chart with a staggering 10,404 species, closely followed by Brazil’s vast Amazonian treasures numbering 8873. Australia, with its iconic kangaroos and koalas, houses 8554 species, while the diverse terrains of the US, from Alaska’s wilds to Florida’s Everglades, cater to 8372 species. Colombia’s impressive range from towering mountains to expansive rainforests accounts for its 7403 species. 

Countries like Mexico, China, and Malaysia hover above the 6000 mark, and nations from Southeast Asia to East Africa, such as the Philippines, Tanzania, and Thailand, showcase over 5000 species each. Even smaller nations like Japan and Ecuador boast numbers exceeding 5000. Central Africa’s Congo, with its 4902 species, underlines the critical importance of every country in maintaining our planet’s biodiversity fabric.

Countries with the Most Endangered Species

1. Indonesia (1233 threatened; 10,408 total): With 1233 out of 10,408 species at risk, approximately 11.9 per cent of Indonesia’s animal species are endangered.
2. United States (1178 threatened, 8273 total): With 1178 species at risk, which is close to 14.2 per cent, the US has significant wildlife needing protection.
3. Australia (1067 threatened; 8554 total): Australia has 1067 threatened species out of 8554, which means about 12.5 per cent of its unique animal species are at risk.
4. Mexico (953 threatened; 6880 total): In Mexico, 953 out of 6880 species are threatened, constituting approximately 13.9 per cent of its total animal species.
5. Brazil (856 threatened; 8873 total): Brazil has 856 out of 8873 species at risk, accounting for nearly 9.6 per cent of its total wildlife needing protection.
6. Madagascar (849 threatened): Madagascar has 849 threatened species (total count not provided), emphasizing the need to conserve its distinctive wildlife.
7. India (813 threatened; 6848 total): With 813 out of 6848 species at risk in India, around 11.9 per cent of its wildlife is under threat.
8. Colombia (755 threatened; 7403 total): Colombia has 755 threatened species out of 7403, approximately 10.2 per cent of its total animal species.
9. Malaysia (755 threatened; 6232 total): Malaysia has 755 out of 6232 species at risk, translating to around 12.1 per cent of its threatened animal species.
10. Philippines (693 threatened; 5858 total): The Philippines has 693 out of 5858 species threatened, about 11.8 per cent of its total animal species facing risks.

Prominent Animals Facing Near-Term Extinction Risks

1. Javan Rhinos: Only 75 remain in Java, Indonesia, threatened by habitat loss, disease, and poaching.
2. Amur Leopards: 100 left in the wild, with habitat destruction and prey scarcity being significant threats.
3. Sunda Island Tigers: From an 800 population in 1985, only 400 now exist in Sumatra, Indonesia, endangered by poaching and illegal trade.
4. Mountain Gorillas: Approximately 1,000 exist, underscoring the urgent need for conservation.
5. Tapanuli Orangutans: Fewer than 800 remain, with deforestation posing a significant threat.
6. Kakapos: Only around 140 New Zealand parrots are left, threatened by predation and climate change.
7. Tooth-billed Pigeons: Between 70 to 380 exist, endangered by hunting and habitat loss.
8. African Forest Elephants: Their numbers are declining, occupying only 25 per cent of their original range.
9. Vaquitas: Only 9 remain, critically endangered by illegal fishing despite bans.
10. Hawksbill Turtles: Their populations have dropped 80 per cent, marking them critically endangered.