We must do more to protect nature. Experts say thousands of plants and animals may die out in the next fifty years or so.
Loss of wild habitats, global warming and pollution are all big problems in many places.
People all over the world are now working hard to save rare species. But it can only work if we all help.
Conservation groups help to save rare species such as whales.
Campaign groups such as the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) have helped to save many rare species. Greenpeace helped to convince many countries to ban whaling, in order to save whales from extinction.
Everyone can help with conservation work by joining a wildlife organisation. You could take part in a sponsored walk to raise money for your favourite animal.
In China, people are working to save pandas.
In China, giant pandas are in danger of dying out because of loss of their forest habitat. Only 1,000 of these animals remain.
Twelve forest reserves have been set up to save pandas in the wild. Zoos have also managed to breed baby pandas from captive animals. Captive breeding projects like this are very expensive, so they can only help to save a few species.
A ban on hunting protects this beautiful butterfly.
In the 1970s, many governments signed an agreement called the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
CITES bans trade in most wild animals including this birdwing butterfly. Sadly the profits that can be made from wildlife are big and many people ignore the law.
Picture Credit : Google