A poignant chronicling of the vulnerability of the animal life supported by the world's ecosystems, this important book presents an overview of the principal animal species that are threatened with extinction. For each species, it presents the challenges involved in conservation and explores the actions WWF is taking in the field. Above all, it examines the connection between the protection of a certain species and the survival of the local populations. The animals species on which this book focuses are among the rarest in the world - and the best known to many of us for exactly that reason.The authors also examine less familiar species of equally high biological significance. A chapter is dedicated to each, focusing on the projects dedicated to the conservation of that species in different locations around the world. Among the animals highlighted are the African elephant - with particular attention paid to the extreme environment of Chad - the aye-aye of Madagascar, the short-tailed chinchilla of South America, and the bird of paradise of Papua New Guinea. An important call to action, "Vanishing Animals" is a testimony to the good work being done to salvage this very serious situation.

About the Author

FULCO PRATESI founded Italy's first WWF branch in 1966 and became its vice-president and then president between 1970 and 1998. As a journalist specializing in ecological and naturalistic subjects, he has been writing for many newspapers and wild life reviews. BARBARA FRANCO has dedicated much of her career to environmental issues. She is the Advertising and Multimedia Manager for WWF-Italy. SIMONA GIORDANO is a publishing consultant for WWF Italy. She has played the multiple roles of author editor and editor in chief in the production of this book.