endangered sea lions because the threat does not come from a degradation of their environment as is the case with most endangered species. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN PROTECT OUR UNIQUE SPECIES. Places Arctic. Why African lions are important Lions are top predators in their environment, whether that’s grasslands, desert or open woodland. The largest threat to sea lion pups comes from those within their own group. In an effort to conserve the species, critical habitats have been designated as well as protective zones. Sea Lions Endangered Sea Lions Conservation Efforts There are many elements out there in the world that have led to the declined numbers of Sea Lions found in the world. New Zealand sea lions (also known as whakahao/rāpoka or Hooker’s sea lion) are the rarest species of sea lion in the world and the most threatened because of their declining numbers. Introduced species, such as dogs, carry diseases that can spread to sea lions. To achieve our vision, WWF campaigns for action to protect New Zealand’s endangered animals - like whales, sea lions, dolphins and seabirds - and funds community-based projects. Their home, an exceptional landscape of volcanic islands marked by sheer cliffs and deep fjords, is a world unto itself. This is a modal window. Harbor, ringed, ribbon, spotted and bearded seals, as well as northern fur seals and Steller sea lions live in the Arctic region. They are also victims of bycatch in fisheries. It means they play a crucial role in keeping a healthy balance of numbers among other animals, especially herbivores like zebra and wildebeest – which in turn influences the condition of grasslands and forests. Habitats Ocean Habitat. Governments, scientists and conservationists recognise that NZ sea lions are under severe threat from disease, accidental death as a result of fisheries by-catch, and habitat change caused by fishing. The largest threats to these animals are: boat/ship strikes, pollutants, habitat degradation, and illegal hunting/shooting. They are vulnerable to the effects of climate change on ocean currents, which impacts their fish prey abundance. Diving with Sea Lions is currently unavailable. The Subantarctic Islands are home to the rarest and most endangered species of Sea Lion in the world, the New Zealand Sea Lion (also known as Hooker’s Sea Lion or whakahao in Māori). Why Sea Lions Are Endangered The biggest cause of sea lion mortality occurs because the infants are killed while young. Seals are found along most coasts and cold waters, but a majority of them live in the Arctic and Antarctic waters.