Lion Among 23,000 Species Threatened With Extinction

The mighty lion, reclusive cave crabs and the world's rarest sea lion are among nearly 23,000 species at risk of dying out, a top conservation body warned on Tuesday.  In an update to its "Red List" of threatened species, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature hailed some clear advances in saving endangered species like the Iberian Lynx.  But, it warned, those successes have been overshadowed by declines in a range of species, with 22,784 species of animals and plants threatened with extinction.  "Our natural world is becoming increasingly vulnerable," warned IUCN chief Inger Andersen, urging increased efforts to save species teetering on the edge.

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Baby Sea Lion Rescued In Malibu On Christmas

A baby sea lion is hopefully on the way to recovery after it was rescued in Malibu on Christmas morning. Experts believe the yearling climbed up on a rock several days ago and got stuck, appearing thin and bony upon discovery. Rescuers said the lion has a medical issue that has yet to be diagnosed. Residents became concerned after they realized the sea lion never left, so they called a local rescue organization for help. They responded Tuesday and successfully rescued the pup with no major injuries.

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Video: 'Frozen Planet:' Sea Lion Chases Penguin In Gripping Slow-Motion Sequence

Will the poor little penguin get away--or wind up inside the sea lion's belly? It's an obvious question for viewers of a video showing a gripping slow-motion chase sequence in which a Gentoo penguin tries desperately to elude the very toothy mouth of its pursuer.

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