The World Conservation Union’s (ICUN) recently released 2006 Red List of Threatened Species reveals ongoing decline of the status of plants and animals. The number of known threatened species increased to 16,119, while the ranks of those facing extinction are joined by familiar species like the polar bear, hippopotamus and desert gazelles as well as ocean sharks, freshwater fish and Mediterranean flowers. However, the report also notes that positive action has helped the white-tailed eagle and offered a glimmer of hope to Indian vultures.