The sad reality of this world is that nothing will last forever.
Mother Nature sometimes has a way of making this happen by wiping out the creatures that roam the earth with climate change and habitat destruction.
Unfortunately, humans aren’t that helpful in that department either, only adding to the problem.
As you explore through Massachusetts, it’s easy to forget that hidden all around us were once animals that are now extinct. If not already gone, different forms of wildlife are becoming close to it. Whether you realize it or not, threatened animals are constantly being added to the endangered list.
So what animals are currently endangered in Massachusetts? According to AZ animals, 10 species are found on this list.
Among the endangered species is one particularly dangerous, which is a rarity. As a state filled with wetlands surrounded by oceans, we must do what we can by helping the earth protect the species that remain.
Bats:
A fungal disease known as white-nose syndrome is putting this animal on the endangered list. The species also include the little brown bat, Indiana Bat, eastern small-footed bat, northern long-ear bat and the tri-colored bat.
This disease spreads rapidly throughout their colony and can cause premature death.
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Getty Images via CanvaWhales:
Although numbers have positively risen from their low point, marine pollution, net entanglements, and accidental collisions with boats are the main culprits. Humpback, the blue, sei and fin are still endangered species. Thankfully, whales are no longer hunted for their blubber.
Salthmarsh Sparrow:
The main reason this sparrow is in danger of extinction is habitat loss. Salt marshes are some of the most imperiled habitats in the world.
Roseate Tern:
The medium-sized seabird migrates towards the equator during the winter and breads on the northeastern coast of the United States. They are also considered to be one of the rarest species of bird.
Northern Diamondback Terrapin:
The Diamondback Terrapin population has dropped due to the effects of hunting, motorboat accidents, and the loss of its natural habitat. They are found in coastal saltwater marshes along the Atlantic coast.
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Getty Images via CanvaSea Turtles:
The sea turtle species are all in danger of extinction due to poaching, marine pollution, and net entanglement. The loss of crucial nesting sites along the coast is also to blame for their decline.
Bog Turtles:
Bog turtles are endangered because of their natural habitat degradation. They are the smallest turtle species in North America, measuring no more than a few inches in length.
Timber Rattlesnake:
One of the most dangerous animals in Massachusetts. Although they are among the rarest, these predators are declining, particularly in the northeast.
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Getty Images via CanvaAtlantic Sturgeon:
This species is a victim of overfishing and water pollution.
Butterflies and Moths:
Habitat loss and pesticides are the biggest reasons for their decline. Several of the species are considered endangered.
Keep in mind that these species are just a few to name. Thankfully, Massachusetts features 16 state parks and has numerous wildlife refuges, providing a sanctuary for some of the most untouched wildlife.
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Publish date : 2024-09-13 09:19:00
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