According to the latest research from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), our planet is facing an unprecedented biodiversity crisis. Between 1970 and 2020, the number of wild animals worldwide has declined by a shocking 73%, “Rossiyskaya Gazeta” reports.

These alarming data are based on an analysis of populations of almost 5,5 thousand animal species, including both land and aquatic inhabitants. The study draws on a wide range of scientific publications and other authoritative sources.

ZSL experts are unanimous in their opinion that human activity is the main culprit of this ecological catastrophe. The situation is particularly critical in the Latin American and Caribbean region, where wildlife populations have decreased by a staggering 95%.

Matthew Gould, chief executive of ZSL, warns: “We are dangerously close to the tipping point for nature loss and climate change”.

However, despite the overall gloomy picture, there are glimmers of hope. Animal rights activists point to some positive trends, such as the gradual recovery of the mountain gorilla population in Africa and the increase in the number of wild bison, which were once on the brink of extinction.

Founded in 1826, the Zoological Society of London continues to play a key role in the study and conservation of wildlife. Their research serves as a stark warning to the global community of the need for urgent and widespread action to protect our planet and its inhabitants.