SEVEN in 10 Americans have no idea which animals are thriving or on the brink of extinction.
A new study of 2,000 adults found that 68 percent are not “very informed” on whether what species would vanish or survive in the world.
The vast majority admitted they don’t know the Western Lowland Gorilla, among several other animals, may be close to disappearing forever (83 percent).
Similarly, eight in 10 are unaware that the number of Sumatran Rhinos is dwindling, while 81 percent had no idea sea turtles were an endangered species.
Nearly a third of adults said the issue of animal extinction is not “on their radar” (30 percent) since 37 percent revealed they don’t know how they could help to make a difference.
The research was commissioned by smartphone brand OPPO as part of its support of wildlife conservation efforts, which also found that 36 percent believe all animals have the potential to be extinct in the US within the next century.
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“There are huge changes in the animal kingdom adults simply aren’t aware of, as the research has shown,” said William Liu, OPPO’s President of Global Marketing.
“And it’s also highlighted as well as the more well-known species, many are curious not to lose some of those that don’t necessarily immediately spring to mind, or they don’t know particularly well – understanding all have a unique contribution to make to the world,” William continued.
“While nocturnal animals are clearly less well known to people, the study has also revealed that almost makes them more interesting, and therefore would be a shame to lose.”
It also emerged that the Orangutan, Bonobo and Chimpanzees are other species respondents weren’t aware are endangered.
However, classics like the Sabre-toothed Tiger, Woolly Mammoth and Dodo were more commonly identified as being extinct by respondents.
Sea Turtles, Blue Whales and the Red Panda are the species respondents said they would feel the most upset about becoming extinct.
That’s why 41 percent of respondents suggested there should be more education about animal endangerment, with 38 percent believing the issue is not talked about enough in the media.
Sixty-eight percent believe more should be done to protect animals from dying out completely, while 40 percent said they’re “very interested” in preserving these creatures.
People said they think destroying habitats, hunting and climate change were the top reasons animals became extinct.
Respondents also shared their thoughts about nocturnal animals. More than half of respondents frequently think about these animals, saying they don’t think those animals would become extinct the way other creatures are (54 percent), according to the findings via OnePoll.
Overall, 69 percent feel the need to educate themselves more on the endangerment of animals.
Nearly three-fourths also think it’s important for society to be informed on such matters.
Liu added: “The results of this survey have clearly shown there’s a real appetite from Americans to improve their knowledge of endangered animals.
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“It’s also been interesting to see how many think they may have also seen one themselves. There are so many species you can often forget are there, particularly when they’re nocturnal.
“The first thought for many is to capture the moment, however, this isn’t always straightforward if you don’t have a phone handy that can snap at a moment’s notice in the dark, which is something we’ve looked to address.”
