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  • Writer's pictureJennifer J

Bramble Cay Melomys: The First Mammal Goes Extinct As A Result Of Climate Change


Bramble Cay Melomys

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Bramble Cay Melomys have became the first mammal which has become extinct as a result of climate change.

These tiny mammals were declared extinct by the Australian government on the 18th of February. And two days later, on the 20th of February, the IUCN declared the Bramble Cay Melomys as an extinct wild animal. However, it's thought that Bramble Cay Melomys became extinct in 2016, it is only now that this has been confirmed by both the Australian government, and the IUCN.

The Great Barrier Reef is where Bramble Cay Melomys existed. They existed on cays (which are sandy islands), in the North of the Great Barrier Reef. Before the late 20th century, the Bramble Cay Melomys were common. However, Bramble Cay Melomys began to decline in numbers during the 1970s. It's unclear when these wild animals became extinct. However, the last one was seen in 2009 by a local fisherman in the area. Since then, no more have been seen.

And now they are declared extinct.

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