A startling new assessment has revealed that one in every five mammals across South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini faces extinction. The regional Red List, updated by the Endangered Wildlife Trust, evaluated 336 species and found escalating pressures from habitat loss, climate change, and human activity. While protected areas safeguard many species, a concerning 25% remain poorly protected. Alarmingly, 11 species, including the aardvark and several bats, were moved into higher threat categories. While conservation efforts are paying off for a few, including the roan antelope and Hartmann’s mountain zebra, the gains are fragile. The findings underscore an urgent need to expand and strengthen conservation strategies to protect the region’s unique wildlife.
Anadolu Ajans
