A recent scientific report says that more than one-fifth of the world’s reptiles (爬行动物) are faced with extinction. The main threat (威胁) to reptiles is the loss of their natural homes, as humans take over more and more natural areas.
The study, written by 52 scientists, is the first worldwide measurement of how threatened different species (物种) of reptiles are. The new report has shown some unhappy news — 21% of all reptile species are in danger of extinction. That’s over 1,800 species in all.
The main reason why these reptiles are dying out is that humans are taking over more and more of their habitats — the places where they naturally live. More land continues to be cleared to make room for cities and towns. Large areas of land are also being cleared so that they can be used as farmland. Logging — cutting down trees for wood — is another big threat to reptile habitat. Turtles and crocodiles are among the most threatened reptiles. Humans are a direct threat here, often killing these animals for their skin or meat.
Similar worldwide studies of birds and mammals (哺乳动物) were made more than ten years ago. The authors of the report say it was harder to collect the money needed to study reptiles. They believe that’s because furry or feathery animals like mammals and birds are more popular with most people. But even if reptiles aren’t considered cute, they play a very important part in nature’s food chains. One service performed by reptiles that humans should appreciate is helping control certain pests, like insects and rats.
We know what must be done to protect reptiles. Bruce Young, one of the leaders of the study, says, “We have all the tools we need.” Protecting natural areas is at the top of the list. Studies show that saving natural areas doesn’t just protect mammals or birds, but all kinds of animals, including reptiles. So the time is always right to do the right thing!
【小题1】What is the top reason for reptiles’ dangerous situation?| A．The lack of food. | B．People’s killing them. |
| C．The loss of their natural homes. | D．People’s cutting down trees. |
| A．Reptiles are prettier than mammals. |
| B．People care more about mammals than reptiles. |
| C．Mammals are more important than reptiles. |
| D．Reptiles are better protected than mammals. |
| A．To share some good news. | B．To teach some useful skills. |
| C．To call on people to take action. | D．To give people some confidence. |
| A．Reptiles Are at Risk of Dying Out. |
| B．A New Report Showed Some Bad News. |
| C．What Should We Do to Protect Reptiles? |
| D．Why Reptiles Are in Danger? |
