World wildlife 'falls by 58% in 40 years'

The Living Planet assessment, by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and WWF, suggests that if the trend continues that decline could reach two-thirds among vertebrates by 2020.

The figures suggest that animals living in lakes, rivers and wetlands are suffering the biggest losses.

Human activity, including habitat loss, wildlife trade, pollution and climate change contributed to the declines.

Dr Mike Barrett. head of science and policy at WWF, said: "It's pretty clear under 'business as usual' we will see continued declines in these wildlife populations. But I think now we've reached a point where there isn't really any excuse to let this carry on.

"We know what the causes are and we know the scale of the impact that humans are having on nature and on wildlife populations - it really is now down to us to act."

Wow, this is heavy - While I probably won't be around much in 40 years, I'd hate to think that all the creatures, great and small, won't be around for my granddaughter to see live, and maybe not even in a zoo!  Maybe the next generation can do a better job than mine did...so long and thanks for all the fish! - JG