Mammal Population Losses and the Extinction Crisis

TLDR

Population loss precedes species extinction, yet no geographically explicit estimates exist for current losses of major indicator taxa. The study compares historic and present distributions of 173 declining mammal species across six continents. The authors compare historic and present distribution maps of 173 declining mammal species from six continents. The species have lost over 50% of their historic range, mainly in areas of intensive human activity, indicating serious losses of ecosystem services and a substantial threat to species diversity.

Abstract

The disappearance of populations is a prelude to species extinction. No geographically explicit estimates have been made of current population losses of major indicator taxa. Here we compare historic and present distributions of 173 declining mammal species from six continents. These species have collectively lost over 50% of their historic range area, mostly where human activities are intensive. This implies a serious loss of ecosystem services and goods. It also signals a substantial threat to species diversity.