what animals will be gone in 2025

2 min read 30-11-2024

It's impossible to definitively say which animals will be completely gone by 2025. Extinction is a complex process, and while many species are critically endangered, predicting the exact timing of their disappearance is very difficult. However, we can highlight species facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the near future and discuss the factors contributing to their decline. The year 2025 is likely too soon for any species to completely vanish, but many could experience a catastrophic population decline leading to functional extinction (where the population is too small to be viable).

While no species is guaranteed to be completely extinct by 2025, several face a tremendously high risk. The following are examples, and the situation is constantly evolving due to ongoing conservation efforts and environmental changes:

Critically Endangered Species on the Brink

Many species listed as critically endangered by organizations like the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) are teetering on the edge. These species could experience complete or functional extinction within the next few decades if current trends continue. It's vital to note that the timing is uncertain; effective conservation measures can significantly impact these timelines.

1. Amur Leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis)

Threat Level: Critically endangered. Their numbers are extremely low, with only a few hundred remaining in the wild.
Threats: Habitat loss due to deforestation and poaching for their fur.
2025 Outlook: While extinction by 2025 isn't guaranteed, the Amur leopard's future remains precarious. Significant conservation work is underway, but success is not certain.

2. Javan Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus)

Threat Level: Critically endangered. Only a handful survive in a single protected area in Indonesia.
Threats: Poaching for their horns and habitat loss.
2025 Outlook: The Javan rhino faces a grave threat. While conservation efforts are in place, the tiny population size leaves them extremely vulnerable.

3. Saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis)

Threat Level: Critically endangered. Extremely rare and elusive, with only a few likely sightings in recent years.
Threats: Habitat loss, hunting, and snares intended for other animals.
2025 Outlook: The Saola is considered one of the world's most critically endangered mammals. Its future remains highly uncertain.

Understanding the Factors Driving Extinction

It's crucial to understand the interconnected factors leading to the endangerment of these and countless other species:

Habitat Loss: Deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion destroy vital habitats. This is arguably the biggest driver of biodiversity loss.
Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: Driven by demand for animal parts (horns, fur, etc.), poaching decimates vulnerable populations.
Climate Change: Altering weather patterns, sea level rise, and ocean acidification are impacting habitats and species distributions.
Pollution: Plastic pollution, chemical runoff, and air pollution harm ecosystems and wildlife.

What Can Be Done?

While predicting specific extinctions is difficult, we can and must take action:

Support Conservation Organizations: Donate to and volunteer with organizations dedicated to protecting endangered species and their habitats.
Advocate for Policy Changes: Support legislation that protects endangered species and their habitats, combats poaching, and addresses climate change.
Reduce Your Environmental Footprint: Make conscious choices to reduce your consumption and waste, lessening your impact on the planet.
Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about endangered species and the threats they face, and share this knowledge with others.

While pinpointing which animals will disappear by 2025 is not possible, the urgency of the situation is clear. Many species are teetering on the brink, and their future depends on collective action to address the underlying threats to biodiversity. Every individual can contribute to ensuring a more hopeful outcome for these incredible creatures.