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IUCN Red List 2025 Shows Extinction Risk Rising, Arctic Seals Downgraded

Rapid Arctic warming emerges as the key driver of the downgrades.

Overview

  • The update released at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi lists 172,620 assessed species with 48,646 threatened, raising the share to 28.2% from 27.9% in 2024.
  • The hooded seal moved to Endangered, while bearded and Greenland (harp) seals shifted to Near Threatened following record‑low sea ice and accelerating habitat loss.
  • Scientists also cite growing pressures from shipping, mining, oil extraction, industrial fishing and hunting across the Arctic.
  • Bird assessments report 1,256 of 11,185 species threatened and 61% of species in decline, up from 44% in 2016, with notable deterioration in tropical forests.
  • Contrasting trends include six species newly listed as extinct and a multi‑decade rebound that moves the green turtle to Least Concern after roughly 28% global growth since the 1970s.