4. Mountain Pygmy Possum
The only Australian mammal to live in strictly alpine environments, the mountain pygmy possum is one of the smallest creatures to undergo hibernation. Due to the destruction of the posssum’s habitat for ski resorts and other construction projects, the number left in the wild is suffering a sharp decline.
5. Philippine Crocodile
Once found on more than eight different Philippine islands, the Philippine crocodile is clinging to dwindling populations on only four of them. The severe loss of this particular species may be due to the conversion of their native habitat into rice paddies. They also suffer from high hunting rates and destructive fishing methods that include the use of dynamite.
6. Sumatran Orangutan
Native to the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, the tree-dwelling Sumatran Orangutans have lost up to 80 percent of their habitat to the destruction of rainforests for palm oil plantations and logging. The great ape has dropped in number by 80 percent in the past 75 years, and scientists estimate there are only about 7,300 left in the wild.
7. Northern Bald Ibis
A species once thought to be completely extinct, the Northern Bald Ibis was rediscovered in the Syrian desert in 2002. According to a Turkish legend, this particular species was one of the first birds that Noah released from the ark, as a symbol of fertility. A high amount of habitat disturbance and hunting has contributed to the bird’s decline in its Middle Eastern home.
