Endangered Species Day — 8 Powerful Documentaries About Animals on the Brink of Extinction

Written by Chelsea Wright & Likewise Pix | May 16, 2025 To mark Endangered Species Day, we're highlighting some of the most profound and visually striking documentaries that delve into the pressing issue of wildlife conservation. These films go beyond mere observation; they serve as powerful calls to action in the race against time to save Earth's most vulnerable inhabitants.

The Ivory Game

Released in 2016, The Ivory Game is a gritty, suspenseful documentary that delves deep into the murky world of the illegal African ivory trade. Filmmakers follow wildlife activists and investigators who risk their lives to expose and combat this lucrative illegal trade. The film vividly portrays the dire consequences of poaching on elephant populations while offering hope through the resilience and dedication of activists determined to stop the slaughter.

Escape from Extinction

Released in 2021, "Escape from Extinction" presents rare footage and compelling interviews with top animal welfare specialists and conservation scientists across the globe. As these experts battle to protect species from Africa to Antarctica and even the depths of the ocean, viewers gain an insightful perspective on the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems and the ripple effects of human actions.

Sea of Shadows

The 2019 documentary Sea of Shadows is a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of the impending extinction of the vaquita, the smallest whale in the world. The film captures the concerted efforts of environmental activists, the Mexican navy, and undercover investigators as they combat illegal cartels and the Chinese mafia in a battle that is as urgent as it is dangerous. The dramatic storytelling combined with the heartbreak of potential species loss makes this a must-watch.

Racing Extinction

"Racing Extinction," released in 2015, is a captivating exploration of the stealthy operations led by an unlikely team of activists and innovators aiming to halt the unprecedented loss of biodiversity on our planet. Through stunning cinematography and passionate advocacy, the film inspires viewers to consider the role they might play in preserving endangered species. Available for viewing here.

Virunga

Virunga (2014) takes viewers into the dense jungles of Africa's oldest national park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It features the gripping tale of dedicated park rangers and journalists who fight not only to protect endangered mountain gorillas but also to expose the political strife and corruption threatening millions of lives. This documentary is as much about warrior-like conservation efforts as it is about the tenderness that exists in the bond between humans and gorillas.

The Last Lions

Set in the beautiful yet dangerous Okavango Delta of Botswana, The Last Lions (2011) tells the heart-wrenching story of a determined lioness and her cubs navigating the perils of the wild in a fight for survival. With majestic landscapes and a narrative filled with suspense and emotion, the film serves as a stark reminder of the threatening reality of habitat loss driven by human expansion.

The Loneliest Whale: The Search for 52

This poignant 2021 documentary, executive-produced by Leonardo DiCaprio and Adrian Grenier, embarks on a quest to find the “52 Hertz Whale,” a creature that has lived in solitude with a unique call. This search draws parallels between the whale’s isolation and the disconnection in human relationships, prompting viewers to reflect on our impact on marine life and the oceans.

Our Planet

Released in 2023, Our Planet is a breathtaking documentary showcasing the dazzling natural beauty of our Earth while examining the effects of climate change on the biodiversity of numerous ecosystems. The series employs striking visual storytelling to underscore the urgency of protecting our shared natural heritage.

Endangered Species Day serves as a pertinent reminder of the vital importance of conservation efforts. These documentaries offer an eye-opening and emotionally engaging exploration into the lives of both the creatures at risk and the valiant efforts to save them. By watching and sharing these stories, we can all contribute to fostering a greater understanding of the need for global environmental stewardship.