Hedgehogs and certain species of migratory birds are at risk of extinction
In recent years, environmental organizations’ reports have shown that hedgehogs and certain species of migratory birds are at risk. Hedgehogs are now listed as nearly endangered in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List. According to some data, the hedgehog population has decreased by 30% overall.
The sharp decline in hedgehog numbers is linked to several factors. Intensive agriculture, urban development, and the abundance of motor vehicles are causing harm to their habitats.
Hedgehogs primarily feed on insects. The pesticides used in agriculture destroy these insects. And in some cases hedgehogs themselves are poisoned by these chemicals.
Two species of hedgehogs are listed in Armenia’s Red Book: the Southern or long-eared hedgehog and the European hedgehog.
At the same time, migratory birds are affected by climate change, floods, environmental pollution, and other factors. 6 species of migratory birds, including the black vulture and the bearded vulture, are listed in the Red Book.