Endangered Species from Around the World to Know Today

National Endangered Species Day (on May 20) is observed globally to spotlight the planet's most vulnerable animals. From iconic tigers to little-known amphibians, endangered species from around the world need our urgent attention. These animals represent ecosystems in crisis and call for immediate conservation efforts. 

National Endangered Species Day: Global Wildlife at Risk 

On National Endangered Species Day, held annually on the third Friday of May, people everywhere reflect on the plight of threatened wildlife. Here’s a list of the most critically endangered species from around the world, each facing unique challenges in their natural habitats. 

1. Amur Leopard (Russia/China) 

With fewer than 100 left in the wild, the Amur Leopard is one of the rarest big cats. Native to the Russian Far East and northeastern China, it’s threatened by poaching and habitat loss despite ongoing conservation programs. 

2. Javan Rhino (Indonesia) 

This critically endangered species exists only in Indonesia's Ujung Kulon National Park. With a population of around 80, the Javan Rhino faces severe threats from habitat encroachment and limited genetic diversity. 

3. Vaquita (Mexico) 

The vaquita, the world’s rarest marine mammal, lives in the northern Gulf of California. With fewer than 10 individuals remaining, it is on the brink of extinction due to entanglement in illegal fishing nets. 

4. Mountain Gorilla (Central Africa) 

Found in the Virunga Mountains and Bwindi Forest, these gentle giants are critically endangered. Thanks to ecotourism and protection efforts, numbers are slowly rising, though threats like habitat loss and disease remain. 

5. Kakapo (New Zealand) 

The kakapo is a flightless, nocturnal parrot native to New Zealand. Only about 250 remain, all closely monitored. Conservationists use high-tech tools to manage breeding and protect them from predators. 

6. Sumatran Orangutan (Indonesia) 

These forest dwellers are critically endangered due to palm oil deforestation and illegal hunting. Fewer than 14,000 remain in the wild, and they play a crucial role in maintaining tropical ecosystems. 

7. Saola (Vietnam/Laos) 

Known as the "Asian unicorn," the saola is extremely elusive and rarely seen. Discovered only in the 1990s, it is critically endangered due to deforestation and poaching in the Annamite Mountains. 

8. Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle (China/Vietnam) 

This freshwater turtle species is possibly down to just two known individuals. It faces extinction due to habitat destruction and pollution in China’s Yangtze River system. 

9. Northern Bald Ibis (Middle East/North Africa) 

Once widespread across Europe, the Northern Bald Ibis now survives in small populations in Morocco and reintroduction sites in the Middle East. It’s endangered due to habitat changes and hunting. 

National Endangered Species Day is a time to honor and protect endangered species from around the world. Each of these animals symbolizes the delicate balance of nature and the urgent need for conservation. By supporting global efforts, we can help ensure their survival for generations to come.