Charismatic megafauna

Charismatic megafauna are animal species that are large—in the category that they represent^[1]—with symbolic value or widespread popular appeal, and are often used by environmental activists to gain public support for environmentalist goals.^[2] In this definition, animals such as penguins or bald eagles are megafauna because they are among the largest animals within the local animal community, and they disproportionately affect their environment. The vast majority of charismatic megafauna species are threatened and endangered by issues such as overhunting, poaching, black market trade, climate change, habitat destruction, and invasive species.^[3] In a 2018 study, the top twenty most charismatic megafauna included the tiger, lion, and elephant.^[4]