Although El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, it boasts a rich ecosystem stretching across the Pacific coastline, making it a typical tropical biodiversity region. However, more than three-quarters of its land is used for livestock and agriculture, and coupled with climate change and environmental degradation, a large number of species in the country are at risk of extinction. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNES), as many as 77 species in El Salvador are currently endangered.
This article will introduce 20 of the most representative endangered animal species in El Salvador, helping readers gain a deeper understanding of their current situation and the significance of their conservation.
1. Elegant Eagle (Spizaetus ornatus)
This bird of prey primarily inhabits lowland tropical rainforests and has been virtually unseen in El Salvador since 1980, leading some to believe it was extinct. Adults have orange heads, black and white stripes on their bellies, and a brownish-black crest; juveniles have white heads and bellies. Due to its rarity, special conservation measures are necessary to promote its reproduction.
2. Conch (Lobatus galeatus)
The Cambute conch, commonly known as the "cambute" sea snail, is a medium-sized, yellow snail with a thick, sturdy shell. In recent years, the appearance of numerous empty shells on beaches indicates a rapid decline in its population, making it a worrying endangered invertebrate.
3. Ghechar (Pharomachrus mocinno)
As a symbol of Central American culture, this bird with bright green and blue plumage and a long tail is rapidly declining in El Salvador due to the over-harvesting of its feathers. The female has a darker plumage and a red breast. Protecting its habitat and curbing illegal trade are crucial for its preservation.
4. Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The world's largest sea turtle, adults can exceed 2 meters in length and weigh up to 600 kilograms. They feed on jellyfish and seaweed and inhabit tropical and subtropical seas. Although not listed as critically endangered globally, they are endangered in El Salvador.
5. Sawfish (Pristis pectinata)
Named for its long, serrated snout, this fish can grow up to 6 meters long. It is found in shallow seas and freshwater areas and is critically endangered worldwide, including in El Salvador.
6. Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Because of their beautiful shells, they are illegally hunted by humans and are among the most urgently needed sea turtles for conservation. Their shells are often used in handicrafts, and their eggs are stolen for consumption. Fortunately, El Salvador has taken active steps to protect them.
7. Common Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus)
This small bird of prey with a long tail and wingspan has a limited distribution in El Salvador. Females are about 25% larger than males and primarily prey on small forest birds, making them one of the threatened birds of prey.
Other endangered animals (excerpt)
In addition to the key species mentioned above, El Salvador has many more endangered wild animals facing survival difficulties:
Green-billed toucan (Aulacorhynchus prasinus)
Mexican tree porcupine (Sphiggurus mexicanus)
White-nosed raccoon (Nasua narica)
Leaf-headed viper (Porthidium nasutum)
White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
Yellow-backed iguana (Ctenosaura flavidorsalis)
Imperial vulture (Sarcoramphus papa)
Small toad (Incilius coccifer)
Cuvier caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosus)
Montecristo salamander (Bolitoglossa heiroreias)
Golden-cheeked Warbler (Setophaga chrysoparia)
How can we help El Salvador's endangered animals?
We can do more than just pay attention; here are a few practical suggestions:
Reduce deforestation : El Salvador is one of the countries in Central America most severely affected by forest loss.
Prohibit illegal hunting : Strengthen legal supervision and severely punish poaching.
Establish protected areas : Create more nature reserves to restrict human activities.
Promote ecological restoration : Rebuild degraded forest and wetland habitats.
Participate in volunteer projects : Join local volunteer projects that protect animals.
Education and Public Awareness : Raising public awareness and protection of endangered species.
If you would like to learn more about endangered species, we recommend reading:
Global Endangered Animals Inventory
Endangered animal species in Spain (32 species)
Endangered animal species in Mexico (25 species)
For more information, please visit our website's "Endangered Animals" category to learn about rare animals struggling to survive around the world.
