Nearly three quarters of the world's carnivores are in decline, according to a new study.
Among the carnivores in the decline includes wolves, lions, and bears.
Researchers said in the study that the loss of even one of these species could damage ecosystems all-over the world.
The study also revealed that most carnivorous animals are already extinct in developed locations.
"Globally, we are losing our large carnivores," said lead author Prof William Ripple from Oregon State University, according to BBC.com. "Their ranges are collapsing. Many of these animals are at risk of extinction, either locally or globally."
In places like the Amazon, South East Asia, southern and East Africa, at least 31 carnivores are facing extinction, according to the study.
The study was published in the journal Science.
The researchers are hoping their work shows how important these carnivores are to ecosystems.
When researchers studied Yellowstone National Park and how it would be different with less cougars or wolves, fewer big predators increased animals like elk and deer. The rise of these animals in Yellowstone could be bad for vegetation and affects how smaller mammals and birds live.
"I am impressed with how resilient the Yellowstone ecosystem is. It isn't happening quickly everywhere, but in some places, ecosystem restoration has started," Ripple said, according to BBC News.
The increase in baboons in Africa has been linked to the decline of lions. Baboons are now considered more threatening to farm livestock and crops than elephants however, according to BBC News.
Ripple also said there needs to be more of an international initiative to save larger carnivorous species, like the Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe.
"We say these animals have an intrinsic right to exist, but they are also providing economic and ecological services that people value," said Ripple.
See Now: OnePlus 6: How Different Will It Be From OnePlus 5?
