When Americans think of endangered animals, they often think of animals that live in the rainforest or in the far reaches of the globe. In fact, there are many mammals in the United States that are in danger of extinction if they do not receive help. The leading cause of endangerment with each of these animals is habitat destruction, something which grows ever more pervasive as the human population continues to expand. So, without further ado, here are just 3, of the many, endangered mammals in the US.
1. Ocelot
First, the ocelot, an endangered mammal found in Arizona and Texas. It is often called a painted leopard but actually looks more like a jaguar. This cat thrives in a variety of environments, especially tropical forests and dry mountains. Ocelots tend to eat small animals, including rodents, snakes and fish. Unfortunately, the ocelot is suffering from deforestation in addition to the destruction of its habitat. Hunters used to kill ocelots for their unique fur patterns. In addition, the long gestation period and high infant mortality rate contribute to the need for legal protection.
Related article: Most Endangered: 5 Wild Cat Species on the Brink
2. Bighorn Sheep
Our next mammal requiring protection is the bighorn sheep, found in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and other western states. These sheep are found anywhere there are mountains to climb and jump. These animals eat grasses and herbs, stocking up on nutrients needed for mating and gestation, which takes up to 180 days. California is home to little more than 10,000 of these bighorn sheep. In 1999, California began to list the bighorn sheep as an endangered species, threatened by hunting and disease. The sheep is also hunted by mountain lions and other predators.
3. Jaguar
The final endangered mammal reported across the southern United States, from California to Louisiana, is the jaguar. The fact that the jaguar is the largest cat found in the United States does not mean it does not face extinction at the hands of both nature and man. Jaguars tend to live in forests and lower woodlands. They eat deer and small animals, especially those found in the water. One reason jaguars are in danger is because it takes so long, two years, for cubs to stop depending on their mothers. They are hunted by man and often killed by farmers and workers who find them threatening.
For more on endangered mammals in the US, check out: 10 Endangered Animal Species of North America.
Featured Image from Pete Nuij/Unsplash
