Top 5 endangered wildlife you should see before you die: this is a must experience.

The world is full of wonders, especially with the extremely diverse fauna found on the planet. But that is not to say that these creatures are to be seen on earth forever. Many have gone already, and many more wildlife a still in danger of completely vanishing.

According to scientists, the earth is in the midst of the "sixth great extinction crisis". They say up to 2,000 species are dying out each year.

In line with this, below is a compilation of the Top 5 endangered wildlife you should see before you die, lest they should disappear even before you get to where they reside.

1. Whale Sharks

Whale sharks are considered the world's largest fish. Monikered "dominos" for their unique flesh markings, they are also surprisingly amongst the most calm of the shark species despite their size.

But despite their peaceful habitation in the oceans, humans have continuously threatened their quiet existence. The demand for whale shark meat, fins and oil, along with loose tourism standards prove an effective method in gradually decreasing the number of whale sharks in the world.

How to see whale sharks: Visit the Philippines in the province of Donsol and find these gentle giants there. WWF sponsored an ecotourism project with Donsol to allow tourists to swim with these large fish but not without strict regulations. Check out Donsol EcoTour to find out more.

 

2. Polar Bears

More than anything, climate change is the culprit which threatens the existence of polar bears.

An International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) data illustrates the alarming rate of polar bear decline: 8 of the 19 sub-populations of polar bear in the Arctic are fast declining. In addition, scientists claim that two-thirds of the whole polar bear population could completely disappear by 2050.

How to see Polar Bears: One of the numerous operators of Polar Bear watching which offers quality and mindful service is Churchill Wild. Visit the western shores of Hudson Bay to see these white bears before they completely disappear.

 

3. Tigers

Tigers were once abundant and free in Asia, but today they are the world's most endangered big cats. 90% have already disappeared since historic times.

It is hard to believe that only six of nine known tiger species now remain, that's only about 3,200 of these big animals left in the wild.

How to see Tigers: Though there have been records of tigers in South China, 1970s was the last time when tigers there have been spotted. It's best to go for protected reserves in India and Nepal for tiger sight-seeing. For easier tiger viewing, check out Intrepid Travel's Chitwan Extension where they offer a tour to Nepal's Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu.

 

4. Orangutans

Predictions say that orangutans could be among the two great ape species to become extinct within the next decade.

Conservation group Borneo Orangutan Survival have tried to increase their number through rehabilitation and release programs, but many devastating factors weigh in on their decrease. The greatest include illegal pet trade, trafficking and habitat destruction.

How to see Orangutans: Visit Borneo or Sumatra, the last two places on earth where you will see these creatures. Check out Gecko's Adventures' Orangutanland tour where you could visit two rehabilitation centers in Malaysian Borneo.

 

5. Sea Turtles

Watching sea turtles in swimming on great big oceans where they naturally reside is an exquisite phenomenon to behold.

However, intense egg collection, fisheries bycatch and light pollution have forced sea turtle species such as the leatherback, hawksbill and green turtles onto endangered lists.

How to see Sea Turtles: Organizations like Earthwatch can sign you up on one of their volunteering programs where you can protect turtle eggs, assist new hatchlings and see them in all their natural glory.