Public Grief for Extinct Species is Fleeting, According to Study

When Lonesome George, the last of the Pinta Island tortoises, died in 2012, the world mourned. His death highlighted a bitter reality: as the world grapples with what might be the sixth mass extinction, public grief is often short-lived. This phenomenon was further explored in a study led by Kevin Healy, as detailed in a recent article on The Conversation.

Source: American Museum of Natural History/YouTube

George’s passing was covered extensively by major media outlets such as the New York Times and the Economist. But what happens when less famous species vanish? The extinction of Captain Cook’s bean snail in 2016, for example, barely made a ripple in the news. This small snail, native to two Polynesian islands, saw its demise after the introduction of a carnivorous predator snail in the 1980s. Unlike George, the bean snail’s extinction passed almost unnoticed.

This disparity prompted researchers to delve into how we collectively react to the extinction of species, utilizing a method called culturomics. This approach analyzes massive amounts of online data to gauge cultural trends and shifts. The study examined mentions of extinct species on social platforms before and after their extinction was officially recognized.

Findings show a sharp increase in mentions and expressions of grief following the extinction announcement of any species, including obscure ones like the bean snail. However, this surge in interest is typically brief, with discussions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) peaking and then quickly diminishing.

In contrast, Wikipedia visits showed a more sustained interest, suggesting that while social media acts as a digital eulogy, Wikipedia serves as a longer-lasting memorial. This ongoing engagement might help conservation efforts by maintaining public Support and awareness, crucial for funding and policy changes.

The study highlights a crucial, if disheartening, truth: while the extinction of celebrity species like Lonesome George draws immediate attention, the concern for less charismatic animals, though real, is fleeting. However, the digital age offers new avenues for keeping the memory and importance of all extinct species alive, potentially aiding in Conservation efforts for those still at risk.

For further insights, read the article by Kevin Healy on The Conversation. Explore the study here.

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