1. Threat statusThe dataset is based on the latest global IUCN Red List assessments and associated range data¹. We retain the most specific threatened taxonomic level available (species or subspecies). Coverage is limited to taxa with available spatial data; as of June 2026, spatial data is available for approximately 88% of IUCN-assessed species (source).

2. Geographic dataFor each taxon, we select a representative geometry from range polygons using a prioritized combination of presence categories (Extant, Probably Extant, Possibly Extant) and seasonality (Resident, Breeding, Non-breeding, Passage). We then calculate the centroid of the selected geometry to produce a single representative point for each species. Species with disconnected ranges get displayed on their largest distribution area. Species with disconnected ranges can receive several label points (max 2), but secondary clusters are kept only when they represent enough of the total mapped range (min 20%). Points are colored according to threat level, highlighting regions with the highest concentrations of threatened biodiversity.

3. Popularity and imagesName size and weight come from Wikipedia pageviews (human traffic only) over the last completed year (Jun 25 – May 26). More-viewed animals appear earlier; zooming in reveals less-viewed species. Animals without a resolved Wikipedia article or with 0 views in a year get 1 view so that they appear in the smallest size. Photos come from Wikipedia or Wikidata first, then iNaturalist (with credits) and Wikimedia Commons fallbacks.