Geoffroy Cat Species Spotlight

by Erik K Veland

NICO Female Geoffroy Cat

DOB 5/1/93

Arrived at Big Cat Rescue 7/19/94

We had been following his story from birth and chased him through his second owner, who sent him along to Big Cat Rescue with three Bengals on 7/19/94. He arrived taped up in a cardboard box. The fury from within the box made opening it a death defying act. As with many exotic cats, the smaller they are, the more fierce they can be. Everyone says that she "looks just like a domestic cat" but careful study of her size and shape shows that she is indeed a wild cat. It wasn’t until we went to have her neutered that we discovered that she had fooled all three of his owners; Nico is a female.

You can help feed me HERE

Nico speaks to us of the medicine of Antelope which is the call to Action. Antelope reminds Nico that life on this planet is brief and we are all here with a higher purpose than what our Ego paints as its illusion. Our higher calling has nothing to do with hoarding things. The physical body is made of dust and it and all that it gathers will return to dust. Nico wants us to remember that we are called to action on behalf of self, family, clan, nation and finally Mother Earth.

Do something today to make the world a better place. Pick up litter that you didn't toss. Clean up a mess that you didn't make. Smile at everyone you meet and silently wish them well. Make a child laugh or teach him to read. Pay the toll for the person you don't know on the highway behind you. Clean out your closets and garage and give all of the things you have gathering dust to someone who can use them. Nico knows that the more you give, the more abundantly life gives back, but you have to make the first move.

Big Cat Rescue, a non profit educational sanctuary, is devoted to rescuing and providing a permanent home for exotic (i.e. wild, not domestic) cats who have been abused, abandoned, bred to be pets, retired from performing acts, or saved from being slaughtered for fur coats, and to educating the public about these animals and the issues facing them in captivity and in the wild.

Today's extraordinarily depressing dose comes to you in honor of Lonesome George, the world's last Pinta Island tortoise, who passed away earlier this summer...
Video Rating: 4 / 5

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Rare Pages III (3)

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Tamarind. He looks sad.

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Loose tile.

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Extinct In Our Lifetime: 11 Species We Have Lost Forever

by twesener

Sometimes we forget how interwoven humans are to nature and how our decisions have a ripple effect on all living creatures. It is heartbreaking to see some of the beautiful creatures weve lost recently in just the last 40 years. The question is what you can do to prevent more extinctions.

Javan Tiger (1979)

Similar in appearance to the Sumatran tiger, the Javan tiger was native to the Indonesian island of Java. In the 1800s they were so common they were considered pests by island natives, but as the island was developed their population dwindled. By the 1950s, only 20 tigers remained.

Cause of extinction: Loss of habitat and agricultural development led to severe population decline. Conservation efforts in the 1940s and 50s were unsuccessful due to a lack of adequate land and planning.

Golden Toad (1989)

The golden toad is not the only species to disappear in the past 40 years, but it might just be the brightest. This fluorescent amphibian was found in the high-altitude ridges of Costa Rica.

Causes of extinction: pollution, global warming and fungal skin infections, the species became extinct in 1989.

Zanzibar Leopard (1996)

One of several subspecies of leopard, the Zanzibar leopard made its home on the Zanzibar archipelago of Tanzania. Its still unclear whether this large cat is technically extinct there are occasional unconfirmed sightings.

Cause of extinction: Locals believed the leopards were kept by witches, and aggressively hunted them. The animals were seen as evil predators that must be exterminated and even the government was in on the campaign. In the mid-90s there was a short-lived conservation effort but it was deemed too little, too late.

Poouli (2004)

A native of Maui, Hawaii, the Poouli, or Black-faced Honeycreeper, was only discovered in the 1970s. The birds inhabited the southwestern slope of Haleakala volcano. But the population declined rapidly, and by 1997 there were only three known Poouli left. Efforts to mate the remaining birds failed and the species was formally declared extinct seven years later.

Cause of extinction: Habitat loss, along with disease, predators and a decline in its food source native tree snails are all seen as reasons for the birds demise.

Madeiran Large White (2007

The stunning Madeiran Large White butterfly was found in the valleys of the Laurisilva forests on Portugals Madeira Islands. The butterflys closest relative, the Large White, is common across Europe, Africa and Asia.

Cause of extinction: Loss of habitat due to construction as well as pollution from agricultural fertilizers are two major causes of the species decline.

Tecopa Pupfish (1982)

The Tecopa pupfish, a native of the hot springs of the Mojave Desert, has the distinction of being the first animal declared extinct under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973.

causes of extinction: The pupfishs decline was precipitated when its natural habitat was encroached upon by developers.
Cause of extinction: Destruction of natural habitat

Pyrenean Ibex (2000)

The last Pyrenean ibex died in 2000. However, a cloned ibex, created from skin samples taken from the last Pyrenean ibex, was birthed in 2009. It died shortly after birth from lung complications.

Cause of extinction: Hunting of the ibex had caused the animals numbers to seriously dwindle and conservationists blame the Spanish government for failing to act in time to save it.

West African Black Rhinoceros (2006)

The majestic West African black rhino was declared extinct in 2006, after conservationists failed to find any in their last remaining habitat in Cameroon. The West African black rhino was one of four subspecies of rhinoceros.

Cause of extinction: Poachers hunted the rhino for its horn, which is believed by some in Yemen and China to possess aphrodisiacal powers.

Spixs Macaw (2004)

Spixs Macaw, also called the Little Blue Macaw, was known for its beautiful blue feathers. While some still exist in captivity, these tiny blue birds are extinct in the wild.
Cause of extinction: Habitat destruction and illegal trapping and trade contributed to the macaws dwindling numbers.

Round Island Burrowing Boa (1975)

Native to Round Island, a tiny island off the coast of Mauritius, the Round Island Burrowing Boa preferred to live on the topsoil layers of volcanic slopes. It was once found on several other islands around Mauritius, but its population had dwindled by the 1940s, and it could only be found on Round Island after 1949. It was last seen in 1975.

Cause of extinction: The introduction of non-native species of rabbits and goats to the island destroyed vegetation and upset the boas habitat.

Dutch Alcon Blue Butterfly (1979)

This Dutch butterfly a subspecies of the Alcon Blue was found mainly in the grasslands of The Netherlands. While closely related species (pictured here) still exist in parts of Europe and Asia, the last Dutch Alcon Blue was seen in the wild in 1979.

Cause of extinction: Increases in farming and building had a negative impact on the Alcon Blues habitat and caused it to lose its main food source.

When will we understand that the welfare of human beings is deeply linked to nature to the existence in our world of a vast diversity of wild animals and plants. Because diversity has intrinsic value, and because its loss impoverishes society, we must work to secure a future for all species, great and small, hovering on the brink of extinction. We must do so through science, law and creative media. We must focus on protecting the lands; waters and climate that species need to survive.

The biggest question we must ask is do we want those who come after us to inherit a world where the wild is still alive? All of these animals have become extinction largely because of mans influence on nature through industrialization, hunting, illegal trade and carelessness. It must stop.

Ian McCoy
Author
The fastest growing environmental news service on the internet
www.just4theplanet.com

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NYC - Bronx - Bronx Zoo: Jungle World - Asian Small-Clawed Otters

Image by wallyg
Asian Small-Clawed Otters (Aonyx cinerea), called barang barang kechil in Malaysia and sometimes referred to as the politically incorrect Oriental Small-Clawed Otter, is the smallest otter in the world. They can be found in mangrove swamps and freshwater wetlands of Bangladesh, southern India, China, Taiwan, Indochina, Peninsular Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines.

The full grown otters measure approximately 0.9m from nose to tail tip, and can weigh up to 5kg. Although less streamlined than its American relative, this species is a skilled predator. These otters are especially distinct for their forepaws, as the claws do not extend above the fleshy end pads of their toes and fingers. These attributes give them human-like proficiency and coordination to the point which they can use their paws to feed on mollusks, crabs and other small aquatic animals.

The Oriental Small-clawed Otter lives in extended family groups with only the alpha pair breeding and previous offspring helping to raise the young.

Due to ongoing habitat loss, pollution and hunting in some areas, the Oriental Small-clawed Otter is evaluated as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

**
The Bronx Zoo, located within the Bronx Park, is the largest metropolitan zoo in the United States, comprising 265 acres of parklands and naturalistic habitats and home to over 4,000 animals. Focused on conservation, it opened on November 8, 1899, with 22 exhibits, 843 animals. The zoo's origins date back to 1895, with the establishment of the New york Zoological Society (NYZS), renamed Wild Conservation Scoiety (WCS) in 1993. Only the outer structure of the World of Reptiles remains much as it was in 1899. With the 1941 opening of African Plains, the Bronx Zoo was one of the first U.S. zoos to move away from cages and exhibit animals in naturalistic habitats.

Most Endangered Animal Species on Planet Earth ? An Overview

by YIM Hafiz

Little by little and gradually there have been number of animal species that are becoming extinct while some other species are at the threshold of extinction. While discussing about the term, “endangered”, it makes you think about so many exquisite animals and plants species that are slowly vanishing out. Some reports also advocate that all the species that currently exist on earth be deemed endangered species because of the grave environmental risk and animal cruelty that is mounting at a disturbing rate.

Conservationists and scientists warn that the plants and animals are on their last legs at present as they are disappearing from the natural ecosystem at a rapid pace due to some or the other grave reasons. Their rate of extinction is also a matter of concern. It is said that if the rate at which the species are vanishing and the extent of animal cruelty remains at the present level then it is likely that more and more species will be extinct by the turn of this century. As all plants and animals are interrelated in an ecosystem so extinction of one species will lead to extinction of several other species.

It is high time, people must be aware about some of species that are on the verge of extinction and the cause of their extinction. Let’s discuss about some of the species that have been pushed to the brink of extinction.

Siberian Tigers

Siberian Tigers are considered Critically Endangered with the Chinese and Korean populations nearly extinct. Currently they have reduced to less the 200. It has also been estimated that on earth, tigers have lessened to an extent of 7 percent. Not enough efforts are done to get back the Siberian tigers’ population to normalcy. However, tigers since long have been chosen as national symbols for many countries. Right now, animal rights activist have become vigilant of this impending issue.

Amur Leopard

The Amur leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) is a leopard subspecies that is classed as Critically Endangered. It is native to the southwestern Primorye region of Russia. Amur or Far Eastern leopard is world's most endangered cat with as few as 25 to 34 left in the wild. Amur leopard’s habitats are continuously threatened by encroaching civilization, exploitation of forests, poaching, climate change, and new roads.

Northern Right Whale

Nothern Right Whale numbers around 350 that travel across the Atlantic coasts of Canada and the US. They are the most endangered of the entire world’s whale species. These whales are still living but there is a growing concern that they are continuously being hunted to the level of extinction. The two greatest threats to their recovery are the entanglement in fixed fishing gear and vessel strikes. They are protected under US animal rights, the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973.

Leatherback Sea Turtle

Leatherback Turtle have survived catastrophic asteroid impacts and outlived the dinosaurs. They are the longest-living marine species to ever ply the world's oceans. Scientists question whether the animal will survive into the next decade, as this one of the largest turtle species in the world, is subjected to animal cruelty. Their numbers have declined in excess of 95 percent over the last 22 years. This beautiful species has been pushed to the verge of extinction by large-scale hunting and poaching of sea turtle eggs. Animal rights activist have been on guard of the looming concern.

There are so many beautiful animal species living on planet earth. However, due to mindless activities on we human being most of them are on the verge of extinction. We are responsible for this remorseful state. All forms of animal cruelties and devastation of nature’s ecology can be brought to an end with strict enforcement of laws and developing awareness among people of these alarming issues.
 

Halabol Team is a platform that gives you the opportunity to take a step forward and make the effort needed towards the change you wish to see. Members of team Halabol has written several articles on issues related to animal rights, environment, minorities, education, lifestyle, youth affairs and animal cruelty. Here in this article team Halabol has raised their voice about the top 10 animals that are on the verge of extinction.

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Why Have Species Become Endangered?

by wallyg

When plants or animal species lose the ability to survive or reproduce they will disappear from the earth’s atmosphere in a slow pace. Those species will come under the category of endangered species. Species of plants and animals that belongs to endangered group will be given special attention by the government as per the U.S. Endangered Species Act.

Some 935 native species are included in the endangered or threatened group. Animals coming under this group include Florida panther, the Key deer, the San Joaquin kit fox, the northern spotted owl and the chinook salmon. Some of the endangered plants are the Hawaiian nehe and the clover lupine. The book that records the name of endangered species is the the Red Data Book. In the U.S, the data related to endangered plants and animals are stored by the Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service.

Causes for an animal or plant species to become threatened or endangered?

Habitat loss- For the existence of life everyone needs food, water and shelter. When there is a scarcity of food or any damage to the habitat, it will become difficult for species to survive. As human beings are highly adaptable, they can shift to other places or find a wide variety food, when and where they want. But other organisms cannot. Some of the plants and animals are highly specialized to their habitat requirement. When intruders come and conquer their habitat, those animals find it difficult to survive. Such animals are more likely to become endangered through habitat loss. The best theory applicable here is ‘The survival of the fittest”.

Pollution –Nowadays the environment becomes more and more polluted due to the dumping of toxic waste.

Air, water and land have been polluted due to many factors. For example, bird population has suffered great losses because of chemicals like DDT. When water will be polluted due to acid rains, the habitat of some fishes and amphibians are destroyed. Chemicals change the soil composition by altering the Ph level and this in turn harm tree species. Industrial and residential developments lead to release of poisonous gases and harmful chemicals. This will literally left many creatures with no room to live and breed.

Competition from other species - When other species occupy the specialized natural habitat, it will become hard for certain species to survive. For example - In New Jersey, raccoon population infected with a parasitic disease jeopardized a rare population of woodrats. The frequent presence of human beings also harms the habitat of some animals.

Diseases - Diseases can also wipe out a complete population. Though diseases occur naturally, the cause of disease can be manmade. With the excess use of chemicals like DDT, the soil will be polluted. Birds, fishes, animals and plants thriving well in that area will come into contact with the poisonous substance present in the soil, directly or indirectly.

Predators that hunt other species for their food can also pave the way for reduction in the population of animals. Audubon's sheep is an example for exploited species. In the food chain, small organisms or fish will ate the zoo planktons in the water; this will reach the next level when birds, animals or human beings consume the small creatures or fish.

It is our duty to protect our valuable animal and plant species before it completely wiped away from earth’s surface. Today some wildlife conservation organizations are seriously trying to keep endangered species viable with captive breeding programs. Through breeding programs, they are releasing new offspring into the species’ native habitat. If you find any rare and endangered species, then contact with any wildlife conservation organization. To know more details about the endangered species, search websites connected with providers like Verizon FiOS Internet.

Ann is a freelancer. She is interested in writing about animals and plant species that are facing serious threats from intruders. As a person interested in adventure trips, she visits deep jungles and searches on her home computer connected with Verizon FiOS Internet to get more details. During her long trips, her family constantly calls her from the home phone.

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野毛山動物園のレッサーパンダのキンタちゃん♀ (Red Panda of Nogeyama Zoo. She Name is Kinta. )

Image by Dakiny
レッサーパンダのキンタは、野毛山動物園の看板娘です。彼女は人に見られるのも、人を見るのも好きみたいで、だいたいの時間は、戸外にいて、目の前で、木に登ったり、寝たり、食事をしたりしています。

Kinta is the Most Popular Girl of Nogeyama Zoo. She's seen in person, and see the person I love like.The approximate time, as well out of doors, in front of, or climbing a tree, or sleeping, and some to eat.

Endangered Species Slogan T-Shirts

by Karen Roe

T-shirts can say a lot about our beliefs as well as the causes that we fight for.

Some wonderful species of animals are in threat of being hunted to extinction because people see them not as the beautiful and graceful animals that they are but as an easy way to make money. For example elephants are murdered every day for their tusks which can be made into ivory products which brings quite a lot of money on the black market. It is possible however, that if they sedated the elephant they could gently saw the tusks off thus leaving the animal alive instead of slaughtering it for this meaningless purpose.

Many animals are hunted as their bones are thought to contain medicinal properties that can be ground into tonics and sold for a high price even though there is no evidence to suggest this. Tigers are one of these animals that are sought after not only for its bones but also for its skin. Tiger skin rugs can fetch a hefty price for those who do not care that an innocent animal has lost its life so that the person is able to furnish their house with what they perhaps see as lavish animal skins whereas in fact they are merely the rotting remains that have been preserved for display.

It has been said and many people still do believe that animals do not feel pain. However, taken into consideration that humans ourselves are animals, mammals to be exact and that we feel pain when we cut ourselves for example leaves no doubt that other classes of animals are exactly the same. As we feel anxiety and fear so must these poor animals as they are being chased and shot at by heartless humans brandishing rifles.

A t-shirt supporting the non-hunting and trading of animal skins and such could make a bold statement by perhaps the beautiful animal such as a tiger shown in all its majestic beauty and perhaps a design on the back showing its lifeless skin and head as a rug, soulless and empty.

If the ivory trade is something that upsets you more than the above then how about a t-shirt that expresses the de-tusked carcass of an elephant and the lonely infant pushing at its mother to get up and not understanding why she does not move.

Many people do not think of these situations and think only of their own benefit such as those who hunt them or those that use the products of these animals after they have been slaughtered.

If we look through the eyes of a tiger cub as it is left alone while its mother’s lifeless body is dragged into a jeep or an infant elephant left with only its mother’s carcass for company then surely people would see how wrong and even evil this is. Unfortunately though as long as people buy the skins and bones of these endangered animals then they will continue to be slaughtered so therefore must wait for people to see sense and cease buying these products hopefully before it is too late to save them all.

The writer of this article loves wearing funny t shirts and he loves writing anything to do with a funny slogan t shirts.

Wildlife Conservation Projects - Protecting The Animal Species

by Martin Pettitt

Planet Earth is blessed with a beautiful and diverse variety of flora and fauna. As humans it is our duty and responsibility to conserve the innocent creatures on Earth. Wildlife conservation has been an issue of critical importance that has been given immense consideration over the recent past.

Mother Nature has bestowed upon us lush landscape, endless water bodies and a magnificent variety of flora and fauna. It is impossible to imagine a world without such wonderful endowments. To keep the natural cycle going, it is extremely essential to conserve the priceless elements of Planet Earth. However, it is disheartening and disappointing to see the beautiful animal species being endangered and threatened to life. We are losing the most beautiful creation of God only because of human carelessness and their irresponsible behavior.  Animals are becoming extinct and vanishing away, the reason for which is loss of appropriate habitat, human interference, pollution and many such more causes. Wildlife conservation has become a critical issue of national importance.

Thankfully, the governments and national authorities have now become sensitive about this issue and many positive steps are being taken to protect and conserve the beautiful fauna of the world. The wildlife comprises of all those non-cultivated and non-domesticated animals that live in their natural habitat. Mammals, birds and reptiles all come under the category of wildlife. However, due to irrational human activities, the lives of these innocent creatures are being threatened. Their natural habitat is being destroyed because of which it becomes difficult for the wild animals to survive.

Keeping aside the natural reasons for death, humans have played a significant role in disturbing the habitat of wild animals.  India is home to almost 60-70% of the world’s biodiversity and it is an unfortunate fact that some of the wonderful wildlife species have become extinct now!

Considering the frequent loss of Nature’s essential creation, it has become all the more important for us to concentrate on wildlife conservation. The practice of conserving the species of wild animals focuses on preserving their natural habitat by initiating varied laws and campaigns. Governments across the globe have come together to make their contribution in this concern. Several wildlife conservation projects have been initiated that emphasize on protecting and preserving the fauna of all kinds. Non- frivolous use, Regulated commerce in wildlife and public trust doctrine are some beneficial steps taken by the North American government in view of environmental conservation. It is not only to maintain the natural beauty of our planet, but also to sustain the natural cycle of life and evolution that we need to conserve and protect the innocent wildlife species.

Shomik Gupta is an expert content writer, who provide articles for Wildlife species, Climate Change and Environment in India. To know more about the wildlife conservation projects Visit WWFIndia

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Dryas Julia (female)

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There are a lot of these bright butterflies at the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory. The species Dryas julia lives in South and Central America.

Grand Canyon National Park: 2012 Celebrate Wildlife Day 5959

Image by Grand Canyon NPS
Thank you to all who participated in Celebrate Wildlife Day - Saturday, May 19, 2012 at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.
Visitors who attended experienced family friendly activities throughout the day..
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Approximately 2,700 park visitors joined rangers and event collaborators at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center to learn more about the park's wildlife and endangered species. .
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Celebrate Wildlife Day provides an opportunity for park visitors to learn about the Grand Canyon’s abundant wildlife and the work of wildlife biologists. It is made possible through the collaborative efforts of the National Park Service, Grand Canyon Association Arizona Game and Fish Department of Wildlife Education and Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center, the Peregrine Fund, Xanterra Parks and Resorts, and the Grand Canyon Unified School District. Celebrate Wildlife Day is dedicated to the memory of park biologist Eric York, who devoted his life to the study of wildlife.

Hawksbill hatchling

Image by Raiyan Kamal
The hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) is a critically endangered sea turtle belonging to the family Cheloniidae. It is the only species in its genus. The species has a worldwide distribution, with Atlantic and Pacific subspecies. E. imbricata imbricata is the Atlantic subspecies, while E. imbricata bissa is found in the Indo-Pacific region.

Heading To The Mountains May Save Endangered Species

by féileacán

Researchers in Switzerland have made an interesting discovery: with the climate changing rapidly some endangered species are taking to the mountains. The various microclimates experienced in alpine locations make mountains an ideal place for refuge habitats for a variety of plants.

What makes alpine climates so useful? With good exposure, low alpine vegetation has the opportunity to warm up quickly. When the clouds move in and temperatures drop, warmth is retained in the soil, keeping critical root structures comfortable.

How Critical Will Climate Change Be to Plants?

Research models predict that only about 3% of all types of climate conditions will change, meaning that there is the potential for most species to find some niche in which to survive the warming trend. Cooler habitats are expected to shrink, but that doesnt necessarily mean that there will be a widespread devastation of cool climate plants.

On the positive side, warmer weather also means that diversity may actually increase in warm climate regions. Mountainous areas will be critical to maintaining a full range of species, but this study seems to indicate that full scale depletion will not occur.

The Threat Remains Real

Even with such hopeful findings there is plenty of evidence that plants will suffer if the weather continues to warm. In Germany scientists estimate that 20% of indigenous plant species will lose significant portions of their native habitat if average temperatures increase by as little as 3.8 degrees Celsius.

Another anticipated change is the location of forests. As the planet warms, large swathes of trees may move as much as 700 kilometers north to keep up with the cooler temperatures they need. Additionally, agricultural zones can be expected to move as well or require considerably more watering and care.

Depending upon mountainous regions to save essential species is not a realistic plan, especially if one is discussing feeding a growing population. There is considerable doubt that plants accustomed to warmer climates will be able to repopulate areas with sufficient speed as they become denuded of their current vegetation.

Even with dire predictions and many questions about how the planet will continue to change along with climatic deviations, it is good to know that some plants will still have a home in the mountains.

Michael Rupkalvis works with the LedBulbsandLights website. The site features a variety of different types of environmentally-friendly LED products, including LED lamps and other LED bulbs.

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Picture 42

Image by ellenm1
See my photo diary of the cub:

Panda Diary 2009
______________
And a photo diary of Zhen Zhen:
Growing up Panda

Picture 5

Image by ellenm1
See my photo diary of the cub:

Panda Diary 2009
______________
And a photo diary of Zhen Zhen:
Growing up Panda

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vacat2012-02 disneys animal kingdom-171 spiny mice Acomys genus but unknown species

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Polar Bears Versus Extinction - Humanity's Effort to Save a Species

by leeno

The Arctic is a vast, ice-covered sea surrounded by treeless, frozen tundra teeming with wildlife - including organisms living in the ice, fish and marine mammals, birds, land animals, and human societies. And, for thousands of years before the presence of humans, the polar bear reigned as the highest predator in the food chain of the frozen Arctic.

Threats of Hunting and Melting Sea Ice

Today, there is an effort underway to place the polar bear on the Endangered Species list. In July 2006, the House of the United States voted on and approved a U.S.-Russia treaty to protect polar bears from over hunting by native populations and creates a commission to study the loss of Arctic sea ice. Due to melting sea ice - polar bears sometimes drown swimming the increased distance between ice islands as they search for food.

This treaty was prompted by dwindling numbers of polar bears. The World Conservation Union (WCU) of Switzerland estimates the number of Arctic polar bears has decreased from 25,000 to 20,000. It is estimated that 15,000 polar bears live in Greenland and Norway - while 5,000 live in Alaska, Russia and Canada. Documentation of a defrosting Arctic came in 2004 in the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment (ACIA). The ACIA was an unprecedented four-year study by an international team of 300 scientists.

Support for polar bears being listed as endangered made headlines when three groups took legal action in 2005. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the Center for Biological Diversity, and Greenpeace, filed suit in U.S. courts to prompt placement of polar bears on the Endangered Species list.

Eating High on the Food Chain

Bioassays of the Arctic's wildlife and people have verified the presence of high levels of toxins.

Today, the Arctic's indigenous people and predator animals are considered some of the most chemically contaminated life forms on our planet.

Due to location, polar bears and indigenous people eat animals high on the food chain. By doing so - they ingest chemicals that are concentrated in the fat of animals such as seals, whales, walruses, and other animals.
Beluga whales, for instance, serve as a food source for polar bears and indigenous people of the Arctic. While Arctic natives have their long established methods and rituals for hunting whales, polar bears have evolved their own unique methods for capturing beluga whales.

Arctic beluga whales have food in abundance. However, when the Arctic freezes - the whales need to surface every ten to twenty minutes to breathe. Over millions of years, whale pods have developed ways for keeping breathing holes open in the ice. By swimming in a continuous vertical circle to the surface - the whales prevent ice from forming in their breathing hole. When the hole is large - many whales may surface for air at the same time. However, as thickening ice and extreme subzero temperatures reduce the size of the hole - the whales organize themselves to take turns. Eventually, as the long Arctic winter sets in, and the whales become stressed and tired - an opportunity for the polar bear presents itself.

Polar bears wait along the edge of the air hole; when a whale surfaces, the bears leap in and slash the whale with their long sharp claws. Eventually, the weakest and most injured of the whales will succumb and die in the air hole, giving the polar bears a substantial feast.

Even though beluga whale blubber is a high-energy source - it also contains about 80 parts per million (ppm) of the PCB chemical. By contrast - most people have less than 1 ppm. In 1987, high levels of PCBs were found in the milk of nursing Inuit mothers. This discovery caused international concern and raised awareness of the migration of toxic chemicals by ocean currents, sea life, and atmospheric deposition.

The International Threat of Chemicals

Since the Arctic is a region of international interest and overlapping ecosystems, a group known as the Arctic Council was formed. The Arctic Council is composed of members from Iceland; Canada; Denmark; Russia; Sweden; the United States, and Norway.

Studies released in 2004 by the Arctic Council report that "legacy contaminants" such as PCBs and DDT are the dominant chemicals found in Arctic wildlife. DDT and PCB's are considered some of the world's most toxic contaminants. Other Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) found in Arctic wildlife and indigenous people include dioxin, PBDEs (flame retardants), and PFOS (stain repellent chemicals).

Flame retardants are found in consumer products such as fabrics, computers, and certain building materials, while stain repellents are found in consumer products such as fabrics used for clothing, furniture and automobile seats.

A paragraph in one study states:
"Environmental contaminants such as persistent organ pollutants (POP) pose an additional area of increased concern for polar bears. Recent documentation of baseline contaminant levels in the circumpolar environment and in key species has dramatically expanded the knowledge of regional presence and levels of these pollutants over the past 10 years. Polar bears, as an apical predator, tend to amplify the bioaccumulation of organochlorine compounds, and are a perfect candidate for studies in evaluating trends. We now know that polar bears inhabiting certain areas of the Arctic exhibit elevated levels of organochlorines, particularly PCB's (poly chlorinated biphenyls) while populations inhabiting other areas have lower levels. Laboratory experiments involving elevated levels of organochlorines have been associated with a range of effects including neurological, reproductive, and immunological changes. Studies continue to evaluate the effect of persistent organic pollutants on essential life functions of polar bears and other marine animals with an emphasis on evaluating immune and hormonal systems."

International Efforts and Action

1. In May 2004, 151 countries signed the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. This international treaty plans to phase out use of 12 of the world's most dangerous persistent organic chemicals as-soon-as-possible.

2. In an ongoing basis - the Arctic Council is assessing the socioeconomic, human health, and environmental impacts of polluting chemicals, including oil and gas development and expected increased shipping as a result of Arctic sea melt.

3. The Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans is assessing the presence and dangers of toxic chemicals in the Arctic wildlife and human populations.

4. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service is considering placement of polar bears on the Endangered Species list.

5. On 11 July 2006, the United Nations (UNEP) launched a two-year scientific expedition to probe Arctic climate change.

William E. Marks http://www.watervoices.com

Water researcher/speaker since 1970; Editor/Publisher of Water Voices from Around The World (October 2007) - a new tabletop book created in conjunction with the United Nations' decade of water project – contains 400 color photos and over 100 articles; recipient of many awards; founder/owner (14 years) of a State-Certified water testing lab; founder of environmental research institute (17 years); in college had major polluting industry indicted by grand jury in precedent-setting case under the Refuse Act; lived outside for 2 years while traversing 7,000 miles across America from coast-to-coast on horseback for his RIDE FOR NATURE project; founding publisher Martha's Vineyard Magazine and Nantucket Magazine; author: The Holy Order of Water, Healing Earth's Waters and Ourselves; author: "The History of Wind Power on Martha's Vineyard"; Martha's Vineyard's only official elected to serve on the Board of Massachusetts Assoc. of Conservation (MACC) for saving wetlands in over 300 communities statewide.

Guide to Swtor Species

by USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring

Swtor is Star Wars: The Old Republic and is a new approach to online entertainment. It features immersive storytelling, dynamic combat and ground breaking companion characters. This game take place in the star wars galaxy after about three hundred years after the events of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. The game is a multiplayer online gaming and is based on the big screen ‘Star Wars’. The timing of the story dates back to time of Anakin and Luke Skywalker. There are hundreds of animate species who are spread throughout the galaxy. Only a fraction of them will appear in the game. Some of the non-sentient species are Acklay, Bantha, Chemilizard, Dewback, Gundark, Hoth Hog, K’lor’slug, Kath hound, Nexu, Rakghout, Rancor, Reek, Salky hound, Sarlacc, Tauntaun, Terentatek, Thranta, Tuk’ata, Varactyl, Vrblther, Wampa and Wraid.

There are a number of species that the player may choose from for their character. The players who are officially considered to be playable are Chiss, Humans, Miraluka, Mirialan, Rattataki, Sith Pureblood, Twileks and Zabrak. There are other species in The Old Republic and they are not playable. They may be available as a companion to the player. They are Abyssin, Advozse, Arcona, Bith, Bothan, Cathar, Chagrian, Chevin, Colicoid, Dashade, Devaronian, Duros, Evocii, Gamorrean, Gand, Geonosian, Gormak, Gran, Hutt, Ithorian, Jawa, Kaleesh, Kel Dor, Kitonak, Kubaz, Mantellian, Massassl, Mon Calamari, Nautolan, Nelmoidian, Nikto, Ortlan, Rakata, Rodian, Selkath, Selonian, Sullustan, Tatz, Tohruta, Trandoshan, Voss, Weequay, and Wookiee and there are many other unknown species.

A brief description of some of the playable species is given below.

Chiss: - From the Unknown Regions of the planet Csilla the Chiss are blue skinned humanoids. They are considered to be the official allies of the Sith Empire. Most of the systems in the Empire have not been conquered by them. They are one of the playable species who are available as Imperial Agents.

Human: - They are one of the confirmed species to be playable in the game and can play any class. They are most numerous and are politically dominant species with lots of major and minor colonies. They are believed to be originated on the galactic capital of Coruscant. They are found anywhere doing different types of hobbies like spacers, mercenaries, smugglers, merchants, soldiers, assassins, farmers, crime lords, labourers, slaves and many more including Jedi. They are able to play any of the eight classes in The Old Republic.

Miraluka: - Miraluka share common genetic history with Human. They are born without eyes. Their home world is Alpheridies and the only source of light is a red dwarf star. This gives light only in the infrared spectrum. They have adapted the ability to see their surroundings through the force. They wear decorative veils and have trouble in missing with the human society.

Mirialan: - They are playable species for the Jedi Consular and Tropper classes. They hail from planet Mirial and are near-human. The skin color varies from dark green to a pale tone. They are very fast and agile and are one of the best in any combat.

Rattataki: - They are near-human species and are the playable for Bounty Hunter, Imperial Agent and Sith Inquisitor.

Sith pureblood: - They are playable species for the Sith Inquisitor and Sith Warrior.

Twi’lek: - They have originated from the planet Ryloth and have colourful skin which varies in pigment from individual to individual.

Zabrak: - They are a humanoid and live on the harsh planet Iridonia. They are playable species for the Jedi Knight, the Sith Inquisitor and the Trooper.

Eight species have been confirmed; Human, Twi’lek, Rattataki, Chiss, Sith Pureblood, Mirialan, Zabrak, Miraluka. More Information about Swtor Item Visit our site.

May 1 2013 - end times news update 4-12-13 - BREAKING NEWS ALERT Mixing Human DNA with Animal DNA Tom Horn what will happen 2013 Gods judgement world war 3? ...

Find More Animal Species Articles

Cool Endangered Species Animals images

Some cool endangered species animals images:

野毛山動物園のレッサーパンダの海（ウミ）くん♂ (This Red Panda Name is Umi. He is Male Red Panda of Nogeyama Zoo.)

Image by Dakiny
野毛山動物園の海(ウミ)くんは、精悍な顔を持ち、動作が敏捷です。彼は目線が気になるようで、落ち着かないのか、せかせかと動き回っています。

The Umi, has a fearless face, behavior is agile. Looking like is worried about him, do you ill at ease, we are moving around and hastily.

野毛山動物園のレッサーパンダの海（ウミ）くん♂ (This Red Panda Name is Umi. He is Male Red Panda of Nogeyama Zoo.)

Image by Dakiny
野毛山動物園の海(ウミ)くんは、精悍な顔を持ち、動作が敏捷です。彼は目線が気になるようで、落ち着かないのか、せかせかと動き回っています。

The Umi, has a fearless face, behavior is agile. Looking like is worried about him, do you ill at ease, we are moving around and hastily.

Endangered Species of India - Asiatic Lions One Among Them

by Smithsonian's National Zoo

'The King of the Jungle' is more than enough to hit the nail on the head to know what the article is about. No other animal has fascinated me as did the lions. Over the course of time I have come to love and admire lions. He stands in his majestic glory and undoubtedly showing power and unchallenged authority over the rest.

Despite of being smaller in size when compared to the largest animals on the planet, the lions still stand as the ruler. There are two basic sub species in the 'Panthera leo' species out of the eight are the African or Asiatic lions. The African lions are a bit larger when compared to their Asian counterparts. They have a denser mane also adding to the appearance of much bigger look. Due to this, their ears are hidden and are less evident. With powerful legs, strong jaw, 8 centimeter long canine teeth, weighing up to 450 pounds and about 6 feet in body length and height of about 4 feet, Lions have the perfectly designed body structure that is built to kill. Lions have known to even have attacked animals that are fairly larger in size than themselves. The mane of a lion serves many purposes, acting as one of the chief sexual selection of mates by the females, to provide an excellent intimidation for display, an aid at time of confrontations, also acts as an insulator for animals with thermal vision. Lions more often live in groups and have known exhibit two types of social organizations, living in groups called prides or move about occasionally either singularly or in pairs. Lions also show family attributes as in, protecting, meal time, and bonding with the females or the cubs etc. Clawing every opportunity that comes by a lion, he would use it to prove his dominion over all the Jungle.

The Asiatic lions , long been celebrated as the lord of the beasts, are mostly found in the wild in the Indian subcontinent mainly in the 'Gir Forest' in the west coast state of 'Gujarat' in India. Though they may be found in Middle East ,Turkey, 'Paskistan', or even in 'Bangaldesh'. At the time of famine in 'Gujarat' that brought on a severe drought, there was increased number of attacks on humans by the lions for the obvious. The backlash resulted in the decline in the lion population which got them to almost close to being wiped out. Thanks to the initiatives taken by the Government and Lion Conservation organizations, these magnificent creatures now have a protected future. Animal lovers ,film makers, wildlife photographers have explored their talents and displayed their passion in their act to help preserve such great animals as the Asiatic lion which is now one of the threatened animals. Thus creating awareness and igniting the ardor to not just sit back and watch but to do something about this alarming cry for survival by the endangered animals.

Tamarind Art is pleased to present "Nature Captured", featuring sixty-three stunning, full-color wildlife photographs of some of the rarest and most endangered Indian species. From the elegance of close ups to the timeless beauty of behavioral shots of endangered wildlife, from the adrenaline of the kill to the charm of infant animals, Yogendra takes us on a vivid journey through the animal world. The Exhibition will open on July 07, 2009 and runs through August 08, 2009.
For more information log on to http://www.tamarindart.com
Article by Frank

Endangered Species - Elephants

by чãvìnkωhỉtз

Elephants - largest land animal living at present and the downward stream of giant mammals, which include the mammoths are another endangered species on earth. They are existent on this earth for millions of years,. Adults sometimes weigh about six tons.

Two species of the elephants are found: one is the larger and plentiful African Elephants and the other is the smaller and fewer Asian Elephants or the Indian Elephants. The number of the African elephants has rapidly decreased due to ivory trade, which is used for jewelry, carvings, etc. Less than 50,000 Asian elephants are there in the world.

Elephants presently found on earth are the descendants of the "trunked" family of mammals. Elephants help light-dependant plants grow and survive by creating roadways, elephant dung acts as the fertilizer for many plants in the forest, and other wild animals find water in the wells dug by the elephants in search of water. African elephants are found in the sub-Saharan Africa in about 37 countries. They normally inhabit in the dense African rainforests of Central and Western Africa. The Asian elephants are found in the large parts of India, Sri Lanka, Indo-china territory and Indonesia. The trunk of the elephant is the boneless elongation of the upper lip and nose, which is powerful enough to tear a tree as well as pick up hundreds of pounds. There are about forty thousand muscles in it. It can draw about 50 gallons of water into the trunk everyday.

Tusks are found in both the male and the female African elephants, while in the Asian elephants it is found in the males only. The elephant's trunk is long and it is the most important part of the elephant's body.

African elephants have two fingerlike projections at the tip of the trunk, while the Asian elephants have only one such projection.

The trunk of the elephant is very strong and it is very much sensitive also. The tusks, known as the ivory tusks, are the enlarged protruding incisor teeth and have the recorded length of 10 feet. These are used by the elephant as the instruments to dig ground in search of water, salt and roots, to take the bark of trees away, to eat the bark, to move trees and branches to clear the path; and also as a weapon against adversities. Humans use this trunk as a decorative arts, game pieces and musical instruments. The large ears with flaps of the elephants are used to keep the body surface cool in hot days.

Elephants are vegetarian in food habit. Grass, bamboo, twig, bark, roots, fruits, seeds and flowers are among the food list of an elephant. An adult elephant eat 300-600 pound of food in a day. But 60% of the eaten food comes out of the body of the elephant undigested. Among the land animals the elephants have the longest gestation period of 22 months.

Life and existence of this ancient animal is endangered due to loss of habitation, killing of the animal for ivory and meat, especially in the Central Africa. Like the gorillas, elephants are also killed for bush meat trade. Elephants are being slaughtered for their ivory tusks, commercial trade of which is internationally banned. Japan is the main consumer of ivory. To help this species live without the risk of being killed for illegal trade we should avoid ivory and other elephant products, rather we should use various stones, plastic and gems like jade in place of ivory.

We should try to create awareness among our near ones against killing of the entire animal for the tusks and explain how buying products of the tusks help killing of the elephants. We should stretch our hands to help those who are working for the protection and conservation of elephants through raising funds to support them and creating general awareness that ivory and other elephant products are internationally banned; and hence buyers of these products are likely to be fined.

Md. Didarul Alam
Creative and Technical Writer
Lecturer, Centre for Religious Studies, Presbyterian Church of Bangladesh (PCB)
Uttara, Bangladesh

Endangered Species List

by Arno Meintjes Wildlife

The World Conservation Union or ICUN prepares a list that indicates which species are considered to be vulnerable and endangered or even critically endangered. If you are a lover of animals or even just interested the world eco environment you will be aware of what is known as the endangered species list. Animals and plants that appear on this list have been scientifically studied and determined to be considerably in danger of becoming extinct due to significantly low numbers in existence. Sadly not enough of us are familiar with what we could be doing to help.

Just some of the animals that appear on the endangered species list today are:

The amazing great apes- Great apes have been hunted and slaughtered to near extinction not just to feed the demand for trade in the African bush meat trade, but also sickeningly to supply the tourist trade in body parts. Introduced diseases such as Ebola have also played a part in the destruction of these beautiful animals.

The Asian Orangutan is on the endangered species list due to deforestation, and plain ignorance to the destruction of habitat for profit.

The Atlantic Salmon- Once so plentiful it was an iconic symbol of healthy rivers and water systems, today many of the active salmon runs are now null and void.

Marine turtles- The turtles, whose origins date back over 200 million years, are today appear on the endangered species list. Habitat pollution and destruction, boating collisions and hunting have almost completely erased them in our time.

Elephants, the largest animal on land, have been unceremoniously poached for decades for their ivory tusks. Again habitat destruction also plays a significant role in our devastating loss and another animal on the endangered species list.

Polar bears appear on the endangered species list as a result of climate change.

Global warming has seriously shrunken the Antarctic ice masses on which they hunt their prey. The food supply supporting the polar bear has dramatically reduced as so is the awesome animal.

The Panda, so adored, but so endangered. There are less than 1600 of Chins panda in the wild today, endangered due to poaching and deforestation.

The Rhinoceros is also on the endangered species list endangered and facing the real threat of extinction.

Many other animals also appear on the endangered species list including whales, dolphins, tigers, snow leopard and monarch butterflies. But you can make a difference. Wildlife conservation begins with you and me. We can make a difference by being environmentally aware in our everyday lives. Organic living is not just a trend, it's a lifeline. Be aware when shopping for groceries and be careful of what chemicals we allow into our environment.

Global warming is a threat that will affect generations to come. The atmosphere surrounding us that supports life is a God-given gift. It must be protected. We should be leaders in efforts to curb global warming, not resistant followers.

Erin Hunt is an avid writer and activist. She discovered that many are still unaware of the dangers of global warming and thus created a website to educate others on how they can play a role in the fight against global warming. Find out more about the effects and cause of global warming and how you can make a difference at http://www.fightagainstglobalwarming.com