Australia’s iconic portfolio, koala status, has gone from critically endangered to endangered, and gray wolves have also been added to the endangered species list.
The Australian government announced last week that the iconic koala is now an endangered species across much of Australia. The portfolio’s status was changed from Threatened to Vulnerable on the recommendation of the Expert Committee. They cause habitat loss, drought, heat waves, disease from deforestation and scrub fires.
The koala population has declined by 60% in eastern Australia since 2001, according to environmental organizations. Inclusion in the endangered species list will lead to greater protection of habitats,
The government promised to draw up a comprehensive national rescue plan.
Last month, it was announced that A$36 million will be spent in support of nature conservation over 4 years. Scientists say that saving koalas will depend on the rapid implementation of conservation measures.
Meanwhile, a US federal court last week overturned an earlier decision to remove gray wolves from the endangered species list in much of the country, outside the Rocky Mountains and Yellowstone National Park. The regulation re-protects species from hunting.
(Source: American Association for the Advancement of Science)
