Top 10 Most Endangered Ocean Animals

There are currently three hundred and sixty eight marine animals that are either endangered already or vulnerable of becoming endangered very soon according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

The extinction of one single species can affect the whole biological system pertaining to living things! I think a lot of the time we as humans don’t think about this or the long-term effects of the extinction of animals and how it can directly correlate to our well being. Well, it’s time to open your eyes… Here’s a list of the top ten most endangered sea creatures.

1. Hawksbill Turtle – Their population has declined 80% over the last century. They continue to be killed for their meat and shells. As well, degradation of coral reef has hurt the population, as that is what they primarily feed on.
2. Sea Lion – Since the 1960’s the sea lions population has declined by more than 60% from being hunted by killer whales and harvested by Native Alaskans.
3. Hammerhead Shark – These poor creatures are victimized for their fins. They are brutally dragged on board while their fin is taken from them while they’re still alive. They are then thrown back into the ocean to die.
4. Vaquita – This animal is endangered by extensive use of gillnetting for fishing.
5. Blue Whale – This is the largest mammal on earth and has become endangered due to excessive commercial hunting. Roughly 200,000 blue whales have been killed, leaving only about 3000-5000 left.
6. Florida Manatee – Loss of habitat, high rates of stillbirth and intoxication by pesticides and herbicides are the main concern for this ocean animal.
7. Hawaiian Monk Seal – These seals face threats from human activity such as killing them for the sake of their meat, oil, and skin.
8. Kemp’s Ridley Turtle – This is the most rare turtle alive right now. Only 500 of this species are believed to be surviving the habitat loss, marine pollution, and entanglement in fishing nets.
9. Humpback Whale – These species are hunt to extinction for its fur and meat. Their population has diminished by 90%.
10. Fraser’s Dolphin – This dolphin is hunted illegally for commercial shipping business with their meat. However, with recent conservation measures it is looking a bit better for this species.

The World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) has a page on their website dedicated to helping out wildlife around the globe. They have over 10 different options such as donations, becoming a WWF member, and fundraising around your community to raise awareness and raise money. Take a look and help save your planets animals today!

https://www.worldwildlife.org/how-to-help

– K