About This Site
Below are some explanations about this site, along with some internal and external links.
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What does this website cover?
This website focuses on recently extinct animals due to human activities, particularly mammals and birds that vanished in the past 200-300 years. Each species profile emphasizes natural history, including evolutionary history, physical characteristics, and ecological behavior, based on latest research findings and primary sources.
What is not covered?
Late Pleistocene megafauna extinctions (like mammoths and cave lions), extinct subspecies (like Javan tiger and Japanese wolf), and regional extinctions (like Formosan clouded leopard) are not our primary focus. While these are fascinating topics, as a single-person project, I must be selective with content.
Why create this website?
I aim to provide high-quality information about extinct species through careful research of authoritative books, scientific papers, and other primary sources. This project began in Chinese, my native language, but after comparing with similar websites, I realized my in-depth analysis and documentation could also contribute meaningfully to English-speaking audiences. While some extinct species indeed have richer documentation in non-English sources, the main value of this website lies in its thorough research and careful verification across various sources, offering unique perspectives and comprehensive information regardless of language.
How do you define “extinction”?
I follow definitions from scientific institutions like the IUCN, while also covering “presumed extinct” species - those without confirmed sightings for extended periods but not officially declared extinct (like the Baiji dolphin). For species declared extinct but with unconfirmed sightings (like the Thylacine), I carefully distinguish between facts and legends.
How often is the site updated?
As a personal project, I prioritize depth over quantity. New species profiles may be added slowly, but existing content is regularly enhanced with new findings and research. I recommend checking back periodically, as articles are continuously updated based on new discoveries and published research.
External links related to topics on this site:
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.