Saturday, August 9, 2014
Penguin Species Being Threatened
Scientists have recently discovered that over the past twenty years, the populations of certain penguin species have significantly been reduced. Last year, the International Union for Conservation of Nature recognized eleven penguin species as ‘threatened’ , two as ‘near threatened’ , and five as ‘of least concerned’. During a study led by Dr Phil Trathan, it was concluded that the main reasons for the reduction in penguin populations are habitat loss, pollution, and fishing. Trathan explains, “Penguins and humans often compete for the same food, and some of our other actions also impinge upon penguins.” This team of scientists believes that in order to help these penguin species survive, it is vital that we protect their habitats from being destroyed. One way to do this would be to create “marine conservation reserves”, but as Dr. Trathan explained, it would not be convenient for political and practical reasons. I believe that it is important for us to understand and lessen the negative effects we have on these penguins. If we do not, they could eventually become endangered or even extinct.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/08/140806102808.htm
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Corey you make an excellent point on the fact that we first need to further understand our effects on the penguins before we can truly help them in any beneficial way. Honestly I think that it is shocking that we as humans are even harming penguins who live in one of the most remote parts of the planet. If we are hurting them and may eventually lead them to extinction, then are there any species truly safe from the harmful human reach?
ReplyDeleteI was completely unaware of the issues penguins faced of competing for food sources with humans, I have never thought of it that way. I've heard that certain penguin species were becoming near extinct but I did not know one reason was fishing even though it does make sense. I agree with you in that people should understand our effects on not only penguins, but all the animals becoming endangered because of our actions and irresponsibility. I think we should start realizing that pollution is a huge issue and should be taken more seriously before these endangered animals really do become extinct.
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