Historical Events tagged with "extinction"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Natural Disasters

Death of Imam Marks Extinction in Malaysia

November 23rd, 2019 5 years ago

Imam, the last known Sumatran rhinoceros in Malaysia, has died, confirming the species' extinction in the country. Located at the Borneo Rhino Sanctuary in Sabah, Imam's passing highlights alarming trends in the conservation of endangered species. The challenges of habitat loss and poaching have plagued the remaining Sumatran rhinoceros populations, leading to this somber milestone. Conservationists and advocates continue to emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts to protect similar species from facing the same fate.

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Natural Disasters

Last Poʻouli Dies, Likely Extinct Species

November 26th, 2004 20 years ago

The last known Poʻouli, a rare honeycreeper, died at the Maui Bird Conservation Center in Olinda, Hawaii due to avian malaria. This bird was significant as it represented an entire species that had faced severe decline. Conservationists had hoped to breed the Poʻouli to ensure its continuation, but the death marked a pivotal moment in the struggle to preserve Hawaiian avian biodiversity.

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Cultural Traditions

Akkala Sami Language Faces Extinction

December 29th, 2003 21 years ago

The last known speaker of Akkala Sami, Arja Tsatsa, passed away in late December 2003. Akkala Sami, a critically endangered Uralic language, was predominantly spoken in the northeastern regions of Finland and adjacent areas of Russia. The language underwent significant decline over the 20th century due to various socio-political factors leading to a diminishing number of speakers. The loss of Arja Tsatsa marked a significant milestone in the history of the Akkala Sami language, rendering it extinct as no fluent speakers remained.

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Natural Disasters

The Final Extinction of the Pyrenean Ibex

January 6th, 2000 25 years ago

Celia, the last known Pyrenean ibex, died when a tree fell on her. This incident marked the extinction of the species, which once roamed the mountains of the Pyrenees. Celia had been the subject of conservation efforts, aiming to save her and her species. Her death from an unexpected accident drew attention to the vulnerability of endangered species and the challenges of conservation.

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Science & Technology

Dusky Seaside Sparrow Declared Extinct

June 17th, 1987 37 years ago

The dusky seaside sparrow, once native to Florida's Merritt Island, was declared extinct after the last known individual died in captivity. The species struggled due to habitat loss and environmental changes driven by human activity. Conservation efforts failed to preserve this unique bird, highlighting the impact of habitat destruction. As a result, the dusky seaside sparrow serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance in ecosystems and the ongoing struggle for wildlife preservation.

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Natural Disasters

Last Thylacine Dies in Hobart Zoo

September 7th, 1936 88 years ago

The last known thylacine, a carnivorous marsupial native to Tasmania, died alone in its enclosure at the Hobart Zoo. Named Benjamin, he was captured in 1933 and became a star attraction at the zoo. His death raised awareness of the species' decline, which was largely due to hunting and habitat destruction. Benjamin's solitary existence in the zoo highlighted the tragic fate of his kind, pushed to the brink of extinction.

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Science & Technology

Last Carolina Parakeet Dies in Cincinnati Zoo

February 21st, 1918 107 years ago

The last known Carolina parakeet, named Incas, died at the Cincinnati Zoo. This marked the extinction of the species, which had once thrived across the southeastern United States. The parakeet was known for its vibrant green feathers and social nature, often nesting in large colonies. Incas had lived in captivity for several years, and her death underscored the impact of habitat destruction and hunting on the species' decline.

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Science & Technology

The last quagga dies in Amsterdam zoo

August 12th, 1883 141 years ago

The last known quagga, a subspecies of the plains zebra, died at the Natura Artis Magistra zoo in Amsterdam, Netherlands. This creature, which had captivated visitors for its unique appearance, was once widespread in southern Africa. The quagga's extinction marked a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about wildlife preservation and the impact of human activities on species survival.

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Natural Disasters

Last Great Auks Killed off Newfoundland

June 3rd, 1844 180 years ago

The last two known great auks were killed by fishermen off the coast of Newfoundland. These large, flightless birds were hunted for their feathers and meat, ultimately leading to their extinction. The incident marked a significant loss in biodiversity, as the great auk had been a symbol of the rich wildlife that once thrived in the region.

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