1. Giant Panda: The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is a highly protected species in China, where it is considered a national treasure. It has the highest level of protection under Chinese law, and hunting or trading in giant pandas is strictly prohibited.
2. African Elephant: African elephants (Loxodonta spp.) are protected in many African countries due to their endangered status. Hunting, poaching, and the ivory trade are illegal or highly regulated to ensure the conservation of elephant populations.
3. Sumatran Tiger: The Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) is critically endangered and is protected in Indonesia, where it is considered a national symbol. Hunting, trading, and deforestation that threatens tiger habitats are illegal.
4. Blue Whale: Blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) are protected under the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, which prohibits commercial whaling of this magnificent species. Many countries also have additional national protections in place to safeguard their waters.
5. Golden Eagle: The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is protected in many countries due to its cultural significance and declining populations. Hunting, capturing, or disturbing golden eagles is often illegal or heavily regulated.
6. Polar Bear: The polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is protected in the Arctic regions due to its vulnerability to climate change and declining sea ice habitats. International agreements, such as the 1973 Agreement on the Conservation of Polar Bears, aim to protect this iconic species.
7. Orangutan: Orangutans (Pongo spp.) are protected in the countries where they are found, including Indonesia and Malaysia. Commercial trade in orangutans and their body parts is prohibited, and efforts are made to safeguard their habitats and promote conservation.
These are just a few examples of protected animals around the world, and many other species receive various levels of protection depending on local and international laws and conventions.