While modern society may view saving a species as worth the cost, humans have been dealing with extinction for thousands of years. Perhaps the most famous example of human extinction is the extinction of the Neanderthals. While we may view their lives as primitive and dull, the Neanderthals inhabited the same geographical area as humans for thousands of years, coexisting with them peacefully and hunting with them. However, the Neanderthals eventually died out, and humans quickly replaced them, occupying their habitats and hunting them for food

While many species go extinct annually, some are saved. Consider the species known as ‘The Passenger Pigeon’, which made its home in North America. These birds were large and capable of flying thousands of miles in a single day. Their population dwindled due to hunting, and it was feared that the last wild flock of Passenger Pigeons perished in 1914. However, 25 years later, a group of conservationists were successful in capturing the last 5 wild birds, and these birds were relocated to several zoos, where they bred in captivity. Today, the Pigeons are healthy and thriving, and their efforts have led to an increase in the population of the species, which now numbers in the billions

Of course, humans are not the only creatures that are threatened by extinction. Many other species have survived, even thrived, despite periodic extinctions. An examination of some of the species that have persisted, including reptiles, amphibians, and insects, reveals several reasons for their survival

First, many of the species survive due to their ability to adapt to different environments

One of the most famous reptiles that has survived for millennia is the cobra. This snake is found in sand deserts, rainforests, and rocky areas, and it is capable of surviving almost any climate. The cobra’s adaptability is also seen in its habits. While such snakes are generally found living in the trees, they will sometimes venture to the ground for a meal. While a cobra on the ground is more vulnerable to attack and predation, it has the advantage of being able to attack its prey from an elevated position. This ability to stay hidden, coupled with the snake’s poison, make it a formidable predator

Another example of an animal that survived through adaptation is the kangaroo. The kangaroo’s abilities allow it to survive in a number of habitats. The kangaroos of Australia have adapted to living in sparse grasslands, while the kangaroos of New Zealand have adapted to living in dense rainforests. The kangaroo’s range also extends into Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The kangaroo is adept at moving through its environment, using its long legs to hop long distances

Another example of an animal that adapted to its environment is the American crocodile. These large reptiles live in all but a few extremely cold climates, making it one of the greatest survivors in the animal kingdom. The American crocodile has had the advantage of adapting itself to several different habitats, from streams, lakes, and rivers to marshes and swamps. As with the kangaroos, the crocodile has also had to adapt to changes in its environment, such as the loss of its natural habitat due to human development

While humans may have helped some species survive, it is doubtful that a human effort alone can save every plant and animal species from extinction. The species that are saved usually do so due to the efforts of biologists and conservationists, who carefully study and monitor the habitats of endangered species. Once a plan is developed, they then attempt to find a viable way to protect the species. This protection can take many forms, ranging from simple protection of habitat to the creation of nature reserves or zoos. While such methods may save a few species from extinction, they are rarely enough to save the species as a whole

In summary, while efforts to protect species from extinction may be worthwhile, humans cannot succeed without the help of other species.