16 of the Planet's Most Endangered Animals

When you’re top of the food chain like we humans are, it’s sometimes easy to forget about the less fortunate species out there. Here are 20 that currently find themselves on the endangered list.

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The Amur Leopard

The bad news: there are fewer than 60 Amur leopards in existence. The good news: they reside in Russia’s Land of the Leopard National Park, where conservation efforts may help preserve their long-term survival.

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The Black-Footed Ferret

Although on the verge of extinction, recovery efforts have bolstered the black-footed ferret population to 300 -- and counting -- across North America. It's a start!

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Western Silverback Gorillas

Much focus has been placed on Western Silverbacks this week after 17-year-old Harambe was put down when a toddler fell into his enclosure. This species of gorilla is considered 'critically endangered' as a result of agricultural expansion and illegal poaching.

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The Florida Panther

Sure, there's an NHL team named after them, but these south Florida felines are on the verge of extinction due to poaching and vehicle collisions. Estimates say there are only 160 left.

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The Proboscis Monkey

Deforestation has been the enemy to these unique-looking simians. Their population has dropped by 50% over the past 40 years.

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Markhor

We can blame trophy hunters for the fact there are only about 2,500 markhors remaining. The majority reside in Pakistan.

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Quokkas

Quokkas are friendly marsupial found primarily in southwestern Australia. In this instance, their dwindling numbers are due to attacks from other animals, such as foxes and dingoes.

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Okapi

Also known as giraffe zebras, okapi are exclusively found in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Fewer than 20,000 remain.

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The Galápagos Penguin

As the name suggest, these gorgeous birds are found in the Galápagos. Pollution and climate change has seen their numbers drop to less than 2000.

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The Irrawaddy Dolphin

Found in coastal areas throughout Asia, these mammals -- known for their large foreheads and short snouts -- are nearly gone. Estimates say there are only 75 left on the planet.

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The Javan Rhino

Possibly the most endangered species in the world, there are now fewer than 35 Javan rhinos left. All of them reside in Indonesia's Ujung Kulon National Park.

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The Kakapo

The world's largest flightless parrot resides in New Zealand. Sadly, there are less than 130 left.

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The Mexican Salamander

Located in Central American lakes, these minuscule amphibians have been on the endangered species list for the past six years.

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The Slender Loris

Thought to be extinct until 2002, these unique creatures are still around, although barely. The reason: many not-so-bright folks believe their body parts can cure leprosy and ward off curses. Ugh.

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The Saiga Antelope

These Eurasian mammals are quickly vanishing. The culprit: hunting and a significant decrease in their natural habitat.

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Tree Kangaroos

Yes, the're actually kangaroos and they really live in trees. Particularly in the rainforests of New Guinea and Queensland. Sadly, hunting and deforestation have reduced their numbers to nearly zero.