Relief for Endangered Wildlife

Modern research indicates, “About 60% of giant herbivores—plant-eaters—including rhinos, elephants and gorillas, are at risk of extinction” (BBC, May 2, 2105).  Professor David Macdonald of Oxford University noted “The big carnivores, like the charismatic big cats or wolves, face horrendous problems from direct persecution, over-hunting and habitat loss, but our new study adds another nail to their coffin—the empty larder… It’s no use having habitat if there’s nothing left to eat in it… With rhinoceros horn worth more than gold, diamonds or cocaine on illegal markets, rhinos could be extinct in the wild within 20 years in Africa” (ibid.). “The consequences of large wild herbivore decline include: Loss of habitat: for example, elephants maintain forest clearings by trampling vegetation.  Effects on the food chain: large predators such as lions, leopards, and hyena rely on large herbivores for food. Seed dispersal: large herbivores eat seeds which are carried over long distances” (ibid.).

Bible prophecy indicates that prior to Christ’s return “the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now” while it “eagerly waits” for God’s true servants to finally rule and manage the earth (Romans 8:22, 19; Revelation 5:10). It is encouraging to know that “the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God” (Romans 8:21). When Jesus Christ returns, the animals will not need to suffer anymore!

For more on this exciting subject, read our booklet The World Ahead: What Will It Be Like?