Near Threatened
What does it mean?
Near threatened animals are likely to become threatened within the foreseeable future without intervention.
Near Threatened
Animals
The number one cause of an animal being threatened is habitat loss. Other causes can include changes to their habitat, the introduction of harmful invasive species, pollution, and the unchecked spread of non-native diseases.
The American Guinea Hog has a thin, wiry black coat that doesn't cover much of their skin, making them sensitive to the sun. To protect themselves, they often roll in the mud, which helps shield them from the sun and pesky bugs. These pigs have large, upright ears covered in hair that keep dirt and insects out while they root around in the ground with their snouts for tasty treats. Their flexible snouts are perfect for foraging, allowing them to dig up delicious food. Sometimes called wild boars, American Guinea Hogs are friendly and playful, making them fun animals to watch!
These cranes are the most abundant in the world, making them quite special! They are tall birds with long legs and long necks that help them wade through shallow waters and tall grasses. One of their most distinctive features is a noticeable patch of bald, red skin on the top of their heads, which adds to their unique appearance. These graceful birds are known for their elegant movements and beautiful dances, especially during mating displays. They often gather in large flocks, making for a stunning sight as they roam through wetlands and open fields. Watching these cranes in action is always a treat! These amazing cranes are not just graceful on the ground; they are also impressive fliers! They can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour (about 64 kilometers per hour) when flying. With their long wings and strong bodies, they can soar high in the sky for long distances. During migration, some cranes travel thousands of miles, flying in V-shaped formations to save energy and stay in communication with each other. Their ability to fly fast and efficiently helps them find food and safe places to rest during their journeys. Watching them take off and glide gracefully through the air is truly a wonderful sight!
These birds have beautifully patterned feathers that provide excellent camouflage, making them hard to spot in their natural habitat. Their feathers come in shades of brown, tan, rust, and black, blending perfectly with the environment. Male birds stand out with a striking black-and-white head pattern, while females have a softer look with a tan throat and eyebrows. This unique coloring not only helps them stay hidden from predators but also adds to their charm, making them a lovely sight when you can catch a glimpse of them!
Eastern Box Turtles are small to medium-sized turtles with high, dome-shaped shells that are easy to recognize. Their top shell, called a carapace, is usually brown with bright yellow or orange patterns. Unlike most turtles, Eastern Box Turtles don't swim much. Their tall shells make it hard for them to move smoothly in the water like other turtles do, so they prefer to stay on land.