The world is full of incredible creatures, but sadly, some have disappeared forever in recent years. In the last 50 years, we’ve lost some truly remarkable animals due to habitat loss, hunting, and climate change. Here are 12 animals that have become extinct since 1974.
1. Golden Toad
The golden toad was a small, brightly colored amphibian found only in the cloud forests of Costa Rica. Last seen in 1989, it became extinct due to climate change and habitat loss.
2. Pyrenean Ibex
The Pyrenean ibex, a type of wild goat, lived in the mountains between France and Spain. The last one, a female named Celia, died in 2000, making the species extinct.
3. Western Black Rhinoceros
This majestic creature once roamed parts of Africa, but poaching for its horn led to its extinction. The last one was seen in Cameroon in 2006.
4. Caribbean Monk Seal
The Caribbean monk seal was hunted to extinction for its oil and meat. The last confirmed sighting was in 1952, and it was declared extinct in 2008.
5. Baiji River Dolphin
Also known as the Chinese river dolphin, the Baiji was found only in the Yangtze River. Pollution, fishing, and boat traffic led to its extinction, with the last confirmed sighting in 2002.
6. Pinta Island Tortoise
The Pinta Island tortoise, found on the Galapagos Islands, became extinct when the last known individual, Lonesome George, died in 2012.
7. Javan Tiger
The Javan tiger, once found on the Indonesian island of Java, was hunted to extinction. The last confirmed sighting was in 1976. It was declared extinct in 2008.
8. Kauai Akialoa
This Hawaiian honeycreeper bird was last seen in 1989. Habitat loss and introduced diseases led to its extinction.
9. Madeiran Large White Butterfly
The Madeiran large white butterfly, native to the Portuguese island of Madeira, became extinct due to habitat loss and pollution. The last one was seen in 1977.
10. Toolache Wallaby
This small kangaroo, native to Australia, became extinct due to hunting and habitat loss. The last known individual died in captivity in 1939. Despite possible sightings, the toolache wallaby was declared extinct in 2000.
11. Kona Grosbeak
The Kona grosbeak, a bird native to the island of Hawaii, became extinct due to habitat loss and introduced predators. The last confirmed sighting was in 1996.
12. Guam Flying Fox
The Guam flying fox, a type of bat, became extinct due to hunting and habitat loss. The last known individual died in captivity in 1968. An unconfirmed sighting took place in the 1970’s and it was declared extinct in 2023.
Becky is a fervent wildlife enthusiast and pet care expert with a diploma in canine nutrition. Her love for animals stretches beyond the domestic, embracing the wild tapestry of global fauna. With over a decade of experience in animal welfare, Becky lends her expertise to OutlandishOwl through insightful articles, captivating wildlife information, and invaluable guidance on pet nutrition. Her work embodies a deep commitment to understanding the intricate lives of animals and a passion for educating others on sustaining natural habitats. Becky's hands-on conservation efforts and her knack for translating complex dietary science into practical pet feeding tips make her an indispensable voice for creatures great and small.
