10 Endangered Animals In 2025

1. Vaquita

The vaquita, a small porpoise native to the northern Gulf of California, is on the brink of extinction, with estimates suggesting fewer than 10 individuals remaining. The primary threat to their survival is entanglement in illegal gillnets used for fishing.

2. Javan Rhino

With a population of less than 60 individuals, the Javan rhino is one of the rarest large mammals on Earth. Confined to Ujung Kulon National Park in Indonesia, they face threats from habitat loss and potential natural disasters.

3. Sumatran Rhino

The Sumatran rhino population has dwindled to critically low numbers due to poaching and habitat fragmentation. Conservation efforts are focused on breeding programs and habitat protection to prevent their extinction.

4. Amur Leopard

The Amur leopard, native to the Russian Far East and northeastern China, is critically endangered, with an estimated 70 individuals remaining. They are threatened by poaching, habitat loss, and prey depletion.

5. African Forest Elephant

Classified as critically endangered, the African forest elephant has suffered significant population declines due to poaching for ivory and habitat destruction. Conservation initiatives aim to combat poaching and protect their forest habitats.

6. Mobula Ray

Mobula rays, also known as devil rays, are facing significant threats due to targeted fishing, bycatch, and climate change. Seven of the nine mobula species are endangered, and two are vulnerable. Conservation efforts include tagging, monitoring, and investigating illegal trade to protect these species.

7. Senegal Lion

In Senegal's Niokolo-Koba National Park, a critically endangered population of lions faces persistent threats from poaching, driven by the local demand for mystical talismans known as "gris-gris." Despite enhanced conservation efforts that have doubled the lion population to around 35, the illegal trade continues to claim an unsustainable number of lions each year.

8. False Killer Whale

A significant stranding event in Tasmania involved 157 false killer whales, with 90 survivors euthanized due to challenging rescue conditions. The causes of such strandings remain unclear, highlighting the need for further research and conservation measures.

9. Kakapo

The kakapo, a critically endangered flightless parrot from New Zealand, has made headlines for its remarkable recovery efforts. In 2025, continued success in genetic research and breeding programs could bring this nocturnal bird closer to stepping back from the brink of extinction.

10. Monarch Butterfly

The monarch butterfly's epic migration across North America remains one of the natural world's greatest spectacles. However, habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change have led to significant population declines. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat restoration and protection to support their recovery.