‘Burgeoning Extinction Crisis’: US Government Under Fire For Failing To Protect Hippos

The US Fish and Wildlife Service has recognized that the common hippopotamus may be on the path to becoming an endangered species due to dwindling numbers. The Humane Society of the United States filed a petition demanding US-wide protection for hippos, and after receiving no response by the deadline, they threatened legal action, prompting the recent announcement from the service.

Hippos are facing threats from climate change, poaching, and the commercial demand for their body parts. The US, a major consumer of hippo goods, imports thousands of items each year, leading to the killing of thousands of hippos. Despite acknowledging the need for protections, the Biden administration's delay in taking action has been criticized for not doing enough to address the extinction crisis and protect iconic species like hippos. The delay has emphasized concerns about the future of biodiversity on Earth.