21 species declared extinct and removed from endangered list.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Declares 21 Species Extinct
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service made a significant announcement on Monday, declaring 21 species extinct. This decision nearly doubles the number of species that have been removed from the Endangered Species Act due to their eradication.
The list of extinct species is diverse, including 10 species of birds, two fish species, eight species of mussels, and one mammal. Interestingly, most of these organisms were initially listed under the ESA in the 1970s and ‘80s. The agency reveals that many of these species were already on the brink of extinction when they were first listed.
A Wake-Up Call for Conservation
Agency Director Martha Williams emphasizes the importance of conserving imperiled species before it’s too late. She states, “Federal protection came too late to reverse these species’ decline, and it’s a wake-up call on the importance of conserving imperiled species before it’s too late.”
As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act this year, it serves as a reminder that the Act’s purpose is to be a safety net that prevents extinction. The ultimate goal is to recover these species, so they no longer require the Act’s protection.
Notable Exceptions
While the current list of extinct species includes most of the organisms proposed for extinction delisting in 2021, two species were not included. The Hawaiian perennial herb known as Phyllostegia glabra var. Lanaiensis and the ivory-billed woodpecker were left off the final list.
The herb was removed from the list due to new surveys identifying potential habitats for the species. As for the ivory-billed woodpecker, the Wildlife Service is still analyzing and reviewing information before deciding whether to delist the species.
Increasing Extinction Numbers
Prior to this announcement, only 11 species had been delisted due to extinction by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. With the addition of the 21 newly declared extinct species, the total now stands at 32.
These species join the unfortunate ranks of at least 881 organisms that have gone extinct since around 1500, according to records held by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
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What are the main factors contributing to the extinction of species in Hawaii?
Ganisms were native to the island of Hawaii, which has been severely impacted by habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change.
One of the most notable casualties is the Po‘o-uli, a small bird native to Maui. Also known as the black-faced honeycreeper, it was first listed as endangered in 1970. Despite conservation efforts, the last known individual died in captivity in 2004, marking the first bird extinction in the United States since the 1930s.
In addition to the Po‘o-uli, the list includes other iconic species such as the Kaua‘i ‘ō‘ō, the Oahu ‘akepa, and the Molokai thrush. These birds were all victims of habitat destruction and degradation caused by human activities. The introduction of non-native predators, such as rats and cats, further exacerbated their decline.
The two fish species declared extinct, the Hawaiian Gobies, were also native to the islands. These colorful and unique freshwater fish had already been in decline due to habitat destruction and the impacts of climate change. Unfortunately, efforts to reintroduce them and restore their habitats have not been successful.
The eight mussel species on the list were primarily found in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States. Habitat loss and degradation, pollution, and the damming of rivers contributed to their demise. Despite conservation efforts, including captive breeding programs, these mussels could not be saved from extinction.
The sole mammal on the list, the Bramble Cay melomys, was officially declared extinct in 2019. This small rodent was found on Bramble Cay, a remote island in the Great Barrier Reef. Its extinction is attributed to rising sea levels and increased storm surges, which ultimately led to the loss of its habitat.
The extinction of these species is a stark reminder of the urgent need for conservation and protection of our natural resources. The impacts of human activities, including habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, are driving species to extinction at an alarming rate.
The Endangered Species Act, enacted in 1973, plays a crucial role in protecting endangered and threatened species. However, the relentless challenges posed by human activities require a collective effort from governments, organizations, and individuals alike. Conservation efforts should focus on habitat restoration, the control of invasive species, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Efforts to prevent extinction must go beyond mere legislation. The general public must be educated about the importance of biodiversity and the consequences of its loss. Encouraging sustainable practices, supporting local conservation initiatives, and raising awareness are essential steps in preserving our planet’s rich biodiversity.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s declaration of 21 species as extinct is a tragic reminder of the consequences of our actions. It is a call to action for everyone to take responsibility and work towards the conservation and protection of our natural world. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that future generations have the privilege of witnessing the beauty and diversity of our planet’s wildlife.
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