Asia is home to some of the world's most spectacularly diverse and unique wildlife. But unfortunately, far too many species are endangered. Habitat loss due to deforestation and climate change, combined with poaching and wildlife trafficking, has led to the decline in the population of too many iconic Asian animals.
Here are just some of the endangered Asian wildlife that are in urgent need of conservation efforts:
Tigers: The Tiger is one of the most recognizable and beloved animals in Asia. However, all six subspecies of Tigers are endangered, with only an estimated 3,900 remaining in the wild. Habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict are the main threats to their survival.
Elephants: Asian Elephants are found throughout Asia, from India to Southeast Asia. However, their population has declined significantly due to habitat loss and poaching for their ivory tusks. It is estimated that there are only around 40,000-50,000 remaining in the wild.
Rhinoceros: Two species of Rhinoceros are found in Asia – the Indian Rhinoceros and the Javan Rhinoceros. Both species are critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching for their horns, which are highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine.
Orangutans: Orangutans are found in Indonesia and Malaysia and are critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. It is estimated that only around 104,000 remain in the wild.
Pangolins: Pangolins are unique animals known for their distinctive scales. All eight species of Pangolins are endangered, with the demand for their scales and meat in traditional Chinese medicine and the illegal wildlife trade being the main threats to their survival.
This is why Asia Wild exists – to support organizations with first-hand knowledge and experience working on conservation efforts to protect these endangered species. Asia Wild provides grant support to NGOs and local community programs to protect and conserve habitats, prevent poaching and illegal trafficking, and promote sustainable practices. It is crucial that we continue to raise awareness and support conservation efforts to ensure that these iconic animals do not disappear from our planet forever.
By making a donation to Asia Wild today, you can make a lasting impact on the welfare of animals worldwide. Together, we can turn compassion into action for every animal in need.