by Robert Killam

Created on: May 15, 2009

In a world full of technology and modernization, we can often be tempted to neglect the wildlife around us. Although there are those who are vigilant in their conservation efforts, the reasonable and responsible spread of information and effort is vital in saving the Earth and-in doing so-saving ourselves. Of great concern are the endangered species, and none moreso than the five most endangered species in the world. These animals are not only beautiful, but they are in dire need of protection from their primary predators, which have become humans. It is because of their beauty and rarity that they are hunted, killed, and parceled out for their anatomy. On both sides of the "animal rights" movement-those against hunting and those who are in support of what sportsmen call "responsible hunting" must combine their efforts to save these endangered species, which are listed in order from the lesser endangered to the more endangered.

#5: The Javan Rhino

Once commonly seen throughout Asia, the Javan Rhino has been hunted to a population around sixty, with two groups (Indonesia and Vietnam). Hunted for its horn due to the belief that it held medicinal value, the Javan Rhino may never recover due to such a low population; the chance of inbreeding and disease is greatly increased.

#4: The Seychelles Sheath-Tailed Bat

This arguably cute and furry flyer was once a common sight on the island of Seychelles (north of Madagascar). Now, there are believed to be only around a hundred of them. They are not completely understood, so scientists and researchers are not entirely sure how to save the population, but they do believe that five hundred will be enough to ensure the start of a comeback.

#3: The Vancouver Island Marmot

Found only in British Columbia, the marmot hit bottom at seventy-five members just over ten years ago. Canada then started to capture them, in hopes that their population will be safer in captivity where they can breed. It is believed that five to six hundred marmots are needed to ensure a decent comeback, though in 2004, there were only thirty in the wild and approximately two hundred in captivity by 2005.

#2: The Yangtze River Dolphin

Due largely in part to China's seafood industry, the Yangtze River Dolphin has nearly lost the battle in competing for food. There are merely tens of these animals on the planet. In fact, as recently as last year, reports indicated the species was veritably extinct, and researchers are still looking for evidence of existing dolphins.

#1: The Pinta Island Tortoise

Lonesome George is the last of his kind. He is a Pinta Island Tortoise, and his story is a sad one, due in part to the fact he is alone. The species was considered extinct until 1971, when rangers stumbled upon George. Since then, a reward of $10,000 has been posted for anyone who can find a female Pinta Island Tortoise. Lonesome George could possibly live until 2121 (assuming he was born in 1971), but then the curtain would drop on this species. Hopefully researchers can find a Georgette, and soon.

Regardless of the numbers left or the distance between us and the endangered species, this planet is our responsibility. Every human has the responsibility of stewardship over the animals around them, whether that involves rescuing them or just leaving them be. A massive amount of conversation websites are available, but an excellent place to start is the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

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