Pigeon Monitors: How Loss of Their Habitat Puts Them in Danger

Pigeon Monitors: How Loss of Their Habitat Puts Them in Danger

There is an exciting new highlight in Vienna's Schönbrunn Zoo: the pigeon monitors! These fascinating creatures, which look like small dragons, are now on display at the zoo for the first time. “Deaf monitors are extremely rare to observe in their natural habitat in the rainforests of Borneo,” explains zoo director Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck. The animals have found a new home in a specially adapted terrarium that takes their semi-aquatic needs into account. Unfortunately, pigeon monitors are classified as critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, which underlines their importance for international species conservation kleinezeitung.at reported.

A central problem for pigeon monitors and many other animal species is the loss of their natural habitats. This is primarily caused by human activities such as the deforestation of rainforests to create oil palm plantations and rice fields. As a result, the nocturnal reptiles are often found in irrigation ditches, where their chances of survival decrease dramatically. The “Reverse the Red” initiative, in which Schönbrunn actively participates, is specifically committed to preserving endangered species and trying to stop the shrinking of habitats.

Fascination with amphibians and reptiles

In a world with approximately 4,400 known species of amphibians and over 6,000 species of reptiles, understanding their habitats and behaviors is more important than ever. A corresponding work that deals with the reproduction and habitats of these species offers interested children and young people valuable information. Important questions are answered, such as the dangers of crocodiles and snakes or the reproduction of newts, frogs and toads. This informative book makes the diversity and wealth of the animal world come alive tauschticket.de notes.