Australia has quite a number of endangered animals being the 6th largest country in the world. Many of their endangered animals are indigenous to their area which makes it almost their sole responsibility to protect these animals.
The top 5 animals in Australia that are at risk of becoming extinct is debatable, depending on how you want to look at the line-up, but there is a common threat among most conservationists.
1. The Grey Nurse Shark
The Grey Nurse Shark, also known as the sand tiger shark, has a Western and Eastern population which means you can find them on opposite ends of Australia. It is the Eastern population that is more in danger of becoming extinct. The main reason for this is fishing and diving, and getting caught in fishing equipments. They are also considered a prize catch for hunters who use the skin for leather, and the meat for food. The Western population is not in the same critical level, but is being monitored closely. On the east side, the last recorded data shows only about 250 of these sharks still in existence.
Unfortunately, they do not enjoy a long life span with the average being about 25 years only. Being a non-aggressive shark, they are also chosen as the shark to put on display in zoos and marine parks.
2. The Yellow Footed Wallaby
Wallabies look like kangaroos, but smaller. They can only be found in Australia and have become threatened because of predator animals like foxes and dogs. They also have to compete for food among cows and sheep. Their natural habitat has been compromised because of the land being used for agriculture and development.
3. Tasmanian Devil
Famous as the cartoon character, this endangered animal is in dire need of help. The constant debate about whether or not they are indeed becoming a rare species is affecting them. Instead of action to propagate, it’s mostly talk that is delaying their growth as a species. Compared to their original population, they are fast decreasing, although there is still quite a number, mainly living in Tasmania island.
4. Hairy-Nosed Wombat
This is an Australian marsupial with a population of a little over 60. They look like rabbits but can grow to weigh about 85 pounds. The main reason for the decline in number is because of their incredible fur which is used for clothing. Since 1971, marsupials have been placed in breeding stations to help increase their number.
5. Australian Sea Lion
This is currently the top animal on the list of endangered species in Australia. Twenty years ago, the government almost declared it to be extinct, or no longer in existence. However, there have been sightings of the Australian sea lion, and in 1995, a law against hunting was approved. It was considered a prize catch by hunters because of its oil and hide.
Related site:http://www.konicaminolta.com/kids/endangered_animals/
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