An endangered species is a group of organisms that are at risk of becoming extinct. 40% of all organisms are considered to be endangered. Many countries have created preserves where endangered animals live, and many have also created laws to protect them. However, only a few groups make it to the endangered species list and receive legal protection.
World Conservation Union categories of endangered species include:
- Extinct: the last remaining member of the species has died, or is presumed to have died. Examples: Passenger Pigeon, Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger), Dodo (Bird)
- Extinct in the wild: animals in captivity survive, but there is no free-living, natural population. Examples: Alagoas Currassow (pheasant-like bird)
- Critically endangered: faces an extremely high risk of extinction in the immediate future. Examples: Javan Rhino, Arakan Forest Turtle, Ivory-billed Woodpecker
- Endangered: faces a very high risk of extinction in the near future.Examples: African Wild Dog, Cheetah, Blue Whale, Snow Leopard
- Vulnerable: faces a high risk of extinction. Examples: Lion, Wolverine, Gaur (large, dark-coated ox)
- Least Concern: no immediate threat. Examples: Nootka Cypress (tree), Brown Rat
How many endangered species are there in America?
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as of May 2009, there were more than 1,300 endangered species in the country, more than 600 of which were animals, with the rest being plants.
When does an animal become endangered or threatened?
When an animal is near extinction, it is considered to be endangered. If an animal is likely to become endangered, then that species is identified as being threatened. Strict rules are observed when classifying a species as endangered.
Which U.S. state has the most endangered species?
Nearly every state has some endangered plants or animals. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hawaii tops the list with 329 endangered species. Hawaii is closely followed by California, which has 309 endangered species.
What can do to protect endangered animals?
While the problem may seem overwhelming, there are several things you can do to protect endangered species. Avoid using products and services that harm the environment. Never capture wild animals, despite how good your intentions may be; even taking in wild animals as pets can have bad effects on the species.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as of May 2009, there were more than 1,300 endangered species in the country, more than 600 of which were animals, with the rest being plants.
When does an animal become endangered or threatened?
When an animal is near extinction, it is considered to be endangered. If an animal is likely to become endangered, then that species is identified as being threatened. Strict rules are observed when classifying a species as endangered.
Which U.S. state has the most endangered species?
Nearly every state has some endangered plants or animals. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hawaii tops the list with 329 endangered species. Hawaii is closely followed by California, which has 309 endangered species.
What can do to protect endangered animals?
While the problem may seem overwhelming, there are several things you can do to protect endangered species. Avoid using products and services that harm the environment. Never capture wild animals, despite how good your intentions may be; even taking in wild animals as pets can have bad effects on the species.
