A subspecies of rhino native to Southeast Asia has been wiped out. There are now just 50 members of its parent species, the Javan rhino, left in the world. It’s a reminder that the danger in endangered is real, and we can’t just sit back and hope conservationists can keep human beings from annihilating Earth’s biodiversity.

Which reminds me: Stop eating tuna. Since 1970, as much as 80 percent of adult Atlantic bluefin tuna have been wiped out. But the U.S., Japan and other countries continually deny that the fish is endangered because people like eating sushi. Don’t be selfish. Leave your grandchildren some tuna.

While you’re at it, leave them some polar bears. The world’s largest land predator is listed as threatened because global warming has shriveled Arctic sea ice, making it more difficult for the creatures to move about and find food. Some people who think that’s a bad thing want the government to use the Endangered Species Act to control the emissions that heat up the planet, melt the ice and kill the polar bears. A federal judge ruled last week that federal officials did not have to do that.

It’s OK. Some conservationist will probably get around to saving the bear … with magic! — PZS

Wait, before you go…

If you're reading this, you probably already know that non-profit, independent journalism is under threat worldwide. Independent news sites are overshadowed by larger heavily funded mainstream media that inundate us with hype and noise that barely scratch the surface. We believe that our readers deserve to know the full story. Truthdig writers bravely dig beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that tells you what’s really happening and who’s rolling up their sleeves to do something about it.

Like you, we believe a well-informed public that doesn’t have blind faith in the status quo can help change the world. Your contribution of as little as $5 monthly or $35 annually will make you a groundbreaking member and lays the foundation of our work.

Support Truthdig