New Study Reveals Many Reptiles , Face High Risk of Extinction.<br />CNN reports a new study says one-fifth <br />of all species of reptiles currently face heightened risks of becoming extinct.<br />The study reportedly involved <br />961 scientists from 24 countries, <br />taking nearly 15 years to complete.<br />The study found crocodiles and <br />turtles to be especially at-risk.<br />The study found crocodiles and <br />turtles to be especially at-risk.<br />Reptiles, to many people, are <br />not charismatic, and there’s just been a lot more focus on the <br />furry or feathery species of vertebrates for conservation. , Bruce Young, chief zoologist senior conservation scientist NatureServe, via CNN.<br />But through persistence, we <br />were able to find the funding needed to complete the study. , Bruce Young, chief zoologist senior conservation scientist NatureServe, via CNN.<br />Through work like this, <br />we advertise the importance of these creatures. , Bruce Young, chief zoologist senior conservation scientist NatureServe, via CNN.<br />They’re part of the tree of life. Just like any other equally deserving of attention. , Bruce Young, chief zoologist senior conservation scientist NatureServe, via CNN.<br />Researchers say the main threat <br />to reptiles is the loss of habitat.<br />Driven by logging, urbanization and agriculture, experts say we must do more to protect <br />the Earth's reptiles from extinction.<br />Researchers say a previous lack of <br />data on reptiles has made <br />conservation efforts difficult.<br />It was suspected that it <br />might be in decline, but without the global reptile assessment, <br />we wouldn’t have known it’s actually vulnerable. , Neil Cox, manager of Biodiversity Assessment Unit, an initiative <br />of IUCN and Conservation International, via CNN
