A quarter of the Earth's 5,487 known mammals are at risk of extinction and 188 are "critically endanger". Primates and marine mammals, including whales, dolphins and porpoises are the most vulnerable.

"We must now set clear targets for the future to reverse this trend to ensure that our enduring legacy is not to wipe out many of our closest relatives." Julia Marton-Lefevre, IUCN director general.

Habitat loss and degradation affects 40 percent of the world's mammals and climate change is an emerging threat. The World Conservation Union annual Red List shows that conservation biology and action backed by research can help save nearly extinct species, while preventing increased risk to others.