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Arctic Seals and Birds Facing Alarming Extinction Risks
7 Nov
Summary
- IUCN Red List reports higher extinction risk for Arctic seals
- Over 60% of the world's bird species are declining
- Conservation efforts have helped some species like green sea turtles
According to the latest IUCN Red List update, the outlook for Arctic seals and a wealth of bird species is grim. The report indicates that harp, hooded, and bearded seals are now at a higher risk of extinction due to rapidly diminishing sea ice, which is their vital habitat.
Meanwhile, deforestation and agricultural expansion have caused a staggering drop of more than 61% in global bird populations since 2016. "The fact that 61% of the world's birds are declining is an alarm bell that we can't afford to ignore," warned Stuart Butchart, chief scientist at BirdLife International.
These environmental threats pose direct dangers to human settlements as well, with atmospheric pollution quickening the warming of Arctic waters, collapsing glaciers, and rising sea levels. Birds also play crucial roles as pollinators and in wider ecosystems, so their disappearance can have cascading effects.
However, the report does offer a glimmer of hope. The status of green sea turtles has been upgraded from Endangered to Least Concern, with their population climbing 28% since the 1970s thanks to conservation funding. Targeted efforts have also helped revive species like the Wilkins' bunting and Least Bell's Vireo in other regions.
