From the biggest mammals to the smallest creatures, the world’s living beings should be protected and cared for to ensure they do not cease to exist.
Unsplash/Kostiantyn Li
As endangered animals in South Africa are usually reported more, it can be easy to forget the little guys (in this case, insects). Unsure which tiny invertebrates are near extinction? Take a look at a few spectacular species that are at risk.
Stag beetles
While there are many types of stag beetles, many species in South Africa are at risk of extinction. This includes beetles such as the Cape stag beetle.
They are often found in mountainous areas among other stag beetle species and are often referred to as ‘mountain relics’. Their appearance resembles that of a dung beetle. They have become under threat due to climate change and habitat destruction, among other factors.
Cape Thorntail
Also known by its scientific name Ceratogomphus triceraticus, the Cape Thorntail is a type of dragonfly primarily found around rivers in the Western Cape.
This species is endemic to South Africa and is quite rare to witness as they frequent locations with little to no human intervention. They are classified as endangered or near-threatened species due to habitat loss.
Brenton blue butterfly
A gorgeous winged specimen that is not only critically endangered but possibly extinct, this case is a wonderful example of what extreme environmental changes can do to some of the smallest living beings. Their extremely low documented population numbers have been attributed to drought, forest fires, and habitat loss.
Wolkberg Zulu
The Wolkberg Zulu butterfly was once one of the most popular winged specimens to witness, with orange and grey-speckled wings that seem oddly familiar whenever an individual sees them.
This butterfly species has been classified as critically endangered due to overgrazing of their food source as well as invasive plant species. Conservation efforts are ongoing to prevent this stunning butterfly species from becoming extinct in the Western Cape, which includes eliminating foreign plant species in targeted areas.
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