Sometimes we need to protect entire ecosystems, not individual species. There are also so-called umbrella system, the notion that small animals benefit from being protected from the environment of an iconic creature.

For example, China has worked very hard to protect the beloved giant panda, and at least some native birds and mammals are being protected from the panda’s habitat, says Stuart Pim of Duke University. Think of Ladybird Pheasant and the dangerous golden snap-nosed monkey.

Nasopharyngeal Sciatransis In contrast, Owen says a frog found only in the habitat of Bengal tigers in the Western Ghats of India has not benefited from large investments in tiger habitat. The frog has specific requirements: fast running water, preferably without roads.

Pim also makes this point: Obviously rational methods can have flaws and can be an excuse to ‘make tough choices’, he says. According to him, there will be room for government agencies that rely only on numbers to allow species to become extinct.

Most animal lovers agree that glamor is unquestionable. Can we change the list of animals we like anymore or beautifully? Yes, says Bob Smith, a defense professor at the University of Kent. Animals also have a name: ‘Cinderella species’: Often endangered animals, as shown by online searches, are preferred, but they are not used as showpieces. Think of Tamaro, the wild donkey or the Cosmel raccoon – there are many more. “Lesser known and less exotic animals could, with a little extra marketing effort, become iconic creatures,” says Smith.

In a recent study, he dispelled another myth surrounding ‘symbol animals’, meaning that they did not contribute to the importance of highly endangered and endangered species. A model created by Smith shows that there are more than 500 iconic species and ‘Cinderella animals’ including mammals, birds and reptiles in the most important protected areas. Focusing more on these species will trigger funding and advertising campaigns for habitat conservation.

Smith has nothing against pandas and tigers, he says. ‘I thought they were beautiful, which is why I went to nature conservation. But as guardians we need to make sure we start to love other animals as well. ‘

Christine del’Amor A national geography teacher and wildlife expert, and “prefers underestimated animals.”

This article appeared in the fourth edition National Geographic Magazine 2021.