Vanishing Species Quiz: Test Your Knowledge on Vulnerable Species

The main reason for the decline in the population of African rhinoceroses is poaching, particularly for their horns. Rhino horns are highly valued in some cultures for their supposed medicinal properties and as status symbols, despite there being no scientific evidence to support such claims.

The primary cause of the decline in the population of orangutans is habitat loss, primarily due to deforestation and conversion of forests for agricultural purposes, such as palm oil plantations. Orangutans are highly dependent on large, intact rainforests for their survival.

Tigers are one of the animals facing a rapid decline in numbers primarily due to poaching. Poaching, driven by illegal trade in tiger parts for traditional medicine and luxury goods, as well as habitat loss, poses a severe threat to tiger populations.

Poaching has been a significant and primary threat to the African elephant population. Elephants are often targeted for their ivory tusks, which has led to a considerable decline in their numbers. The illegal ivory trade has driven poaching activities, putting African elephants at risk of extinction in some regions.

The Kakapo Parrot, also known as the night parrot or owl parrot, is a critically endangered bird species native to New Zealand. The Kakapo is notable for being nocturnal, flightless, and having a unique, herbivorous diet. Due to habitat loss, introduced predators, and a historically low reproductive rate, the Kakapo population has declined dramatically, making it one of the rarest and most endangered parrot species in the world.

Certain salamander species, like the Axolotl, are critically endangered due to pollution, habitat loss, and invasive species. The species faces a critical endangerment in its natural habitat, attributed to factors such as habitat loss, pollution, and overcollection. Its status is exacerbated by its reputation as a delicacy and its utilization in traditional Chinese medicine.

The use of chemical pesticides, specifically neonicotinoid pesticides, has been linked to honeybee colony collapse disorder and a decline in bee populations. Pesticides can have harmful effects on bee health, affecting their foraging behavior, navigation, and overall well-being. 

Nearly one-third of all oak species (31%) are considered threatened with extinction.  More than 400 bamboo species are potentially threatened by the destruction of natural forest cover. Over half (56.5%) of the assessed orchid species were found to be threatened with extinction. Thus, Oak tree, Bamboo, and Orchid have species that are considered vulnerable or threatened.

The Dugong is listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The Narwhal is listed as near threatened by the IUCN. The Beluga Whale is also listed as near threatened by the IUCN. The Harbor Seal is listed as least concern by the IUCN, although some populations in specific regions are considered depleted. 

The Amur Leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) is a critically endangered big cat species. It is native to the Russian Far East and parts of China. The primary factors contributing to its critical status include habitat loss due to logging, poaching for its beautiful fur, and a decline in prey species.