CRITTERS
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FROG Why the frog? With so many amphibians endangered, we couldn't at this time choose only one frog. Over 3000 species are in serious trouble. Amphibians are culturally and systemically important, and serve as a warning to us. They breathe and drink through their skin, making them susceptible to negative changes in their environment. With so many amphibians being wiped out due to environmental changes, are they indicating the effects these contaminants will have on us? They play an extremely important role in eco-systems. Frogs consume vast numbers of insects; insects that carry human-diseases, insects that damage crops, insects that if left unchecked could destroy food supply. Frogs are fascinating, adaptable creatures that deserve our immediate attention.
SEA TURTLES Humans play a heavy hand in the endangerment of this beautiful, majestic species. Of the seven types of sea turtles, only one is not listed as threatened or endangered. Shrimping boats, decline of nesting area, poaching, and pollution are large contributors to the death of sea turtles. Alarmingly it has been found that turtles as well as many other sea creatures consume large quantities of plastic bags in their travels. Protection of the sea turtle's habitat as well as waste reduction in the ocean would help reduce the rapid decline of these phenomenal creatures. Not using plastic bags wouldn't hurt, either.
HONEYBEES The significant threats to the honeybee population are loss of roaming area, pesticides and parasites. As well, the decline of plant habitats are reducing the areas where bees can safely make wild colonies and travel. Honeybees play a vital role in the pollination of crops, as well as being producers of honey. If the bee population continues to decline as rapidly as it currently is, we will quickly notice a significant reduction of our food supply. Protection of pollinating areas as well as a reduction in pesticides could help these productive creatures to enhance their numbers.
RHINOCEROS These lumbering giants have been around for 50 million years! They are an important part of many eco-systems, and four out of five species are listed as critically endangered, because of man. Rhinos are poached for luxury products, and traditional Chinese medicines. They are in constant danger of being hunted to extinction for the "power" of their horns. The roaming habitat of the rhino has become smaller and smaller, due to logging and new development. In some areas conservationists have been working hard to protect these prehistoric giants, but political instability and war have made it much easier for poachers to come in unnoticed. Please take a look at our links for more information on how to help the Rhinoceros.
GRIZZLY BEAR The largest threat to this powerful solitary wanderer is man. Grizzly bears need a great deal of roaming space, and due to the increase of human population, their roaming habitat is dwindling rapidly. The more prominent source of danger to this bear is hunting. Grizzlies are hunted as game animals, as well as illegally shot by farmers and poachers. The gall bladder, teeth and claws are sought after for traditional Chinese medicine. If a grizzly can survive natural predators to the age of two, he is likely fated to be killed by gun shot. If left untouched by man these bears could live past 15 years. These massive and majestic animals tend to be entirely peaceful if left alone, and are an amazing sight to behold in the wild.
We do not want to limit ourselves to one species of shark, because so many of them are in danger, and cruel human practices are a large factor. Shark fins are very sought after in Asian medicine, and the financial incentives have proven too great for fishermen. "Live-finning" - cutting the fin off and throwing the shark back in the water - along with a low reproduction rate have brought dramatic decline to the population of these amazing predators. Sharks play a very important role in the balance of the ocean eco-systems. Human cruelty is wiping out a species that has lasted over 400 million years.
ELEPHANT These giant herbivores have been revered, idolized and yet savagely preyed upon throughout human history. The massive tusks of the elephant have made them a prime target for poaching and the black market. Demand for their ivory and habitat loss has led to a significant decline in what once was a very abundant species. Other animals rely on the elephant to provide pathways and watering holes in the landscape. There is good news. It has been noted that increasing tourist trade has done wonders towards the protection of the elephant because it does not deplete the wildlife while helping the local economy.