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Although 1000 koalas are believed to have been killed in these recent fires (from the article), it doesn't look like they are "functionally extinct" [1]. Also,
by mikorym 7y ago
Although 1000 koalas are believed to have been killed in these recent fires (from the article), it doesn't look like they are "functionally extinct" [1]. Also, it seems like that particular claim was made earlier the year as well (before the presumed most recent fires). I don't know what to say about the "80% of their habitat" claim.
In any case, as many have lamented before me, it's a pity that we keep wanting poster boy animals rather than just general, sanitory debate around nature conservation.
[1] https://www.newscientist.com/article/2203655-no-koalas-are-not-functionally-extinct-but-they-are-in-trouble/ https://www.newscientist.com/article/2203655-no-koalas-are-n...
- hanniabu 7y ago> we keep wanting poster boy animals rather than just general, sanitory debate around nature conservation. Same here, but I also can't disagree because if we don't get the population a little enraged and hyped up about it then there will be no pressure on the politicians. At least this is the case in the US where oil/gas/mining lobbyists continue to have protected lands changed to unprotected so they can rape and desecrate it for profits.
- gedy 7y ago> if we don't get the population a little enraged and hyped up I disagree - people just become numb and tune it all out. Plus, the opposite side then just point out the exaggerations to their own benefit.
- microcolonel 7y agoBingo, outsize panic serves politicians, but rarely serves causes in the long run.