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Wednesday, 23 May 2007, 14:31 GMT 15:31 UK

In Pictures: Europe's threatened mammals

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A report shows that nearly one in six mammal species in Europe is threatened with extinction. The Iberian lynx, found in Spain and Portugal, is the continent's most endangered cat.

Mediterranean monk seal Image: Ifaw

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The lynx, along with the Mediterranean monk seal (above) are classified as "critically endangered" in the report by the IUCN (the World Conservation Union).

European mink Image: Tiit Maran

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European mink suffers from competition with its bigger American relative. American mink have escaped from fur farms or have been deliberately released by animal rights activists.

European bison Image: AFP/Getty

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The bison is the heaviest land animal native to Europe. Also called a wisent, it once roamed from southern England to Russia. But hunting eradicated many populations.

Arctic fox Image: Olav Strand

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The Arctic fox has suffered from trapping for its coveted fur. Despite 75 years of protection, populations in Finland and Scandinavia are still at risk of extinction.

Alpine ibex Image: Ultimate Ungulate Images - B. Huffman

Alpine ibex Image: Ultimate Ungulate Images - B. Huffman

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The Alpine ibex was brought close to extinction in the 19th Century by hunting. It is now making a full recovery thanks to conservation efforts and re-introductions.

Polar bear, PA

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Polar bears look set to become a high-profile casualty of global warming. The melting of Arctic ice cover makes it harder for them to gain access to their staple diet of seals.

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Related to this story:
More species slide to extinction (01 May 06 | Science/Nature )
Iberian lynx in 'gravest danger' (10 Mar 05 | Science/Nature )

RELATED INTERNET LINKS
IUCN
Ifaw
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