Endangered species

this blog has all primary and secondary information about endangered species!

facts about endangered species

According to scientists, more than one and one-half million species exist on the earth today. However, recent estimates state that at least 20 times that many species inhabit the planet.

In the United States, 735 species of plants and 496 species of animals are listed as threatened or endangered.

266 of these listed species have recovery plans currently under development.

There are more than 1,000 animal species endangered worldwide.

There are more than 3,500 protected areas in existence worldwide. These areas include parks, wildlife refuges and other reserves. They cover a total of nearly 2 million square miles (5 million square km), or 3% of our total land area.

Aquatic species, which are often overlooked, are facing serious trouble. One third of the United States’ fish species, two-thirds of its crayfish species, and almost three-quarters of its mussel species are in trouble.

Sources of Information: National Wildlife Federation, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Endangered Species Terms

VULNERABLE SPECIES - A species particularly at risk because of low or declining numbers or small range, but not a threatened species.

threatened species – a species whose population is not yet low enough to be in immediate danger of extinction, but who certainly faces serious problems. If the problems affecting these species aren’t resolved, it is probable that the species will become endangered. The eastern indigo snake and the red kangaroo are examples of threatened species.

endangered species – a specie, plant or animal, that is in immediate danger of becoming extinct. Its numbers are usually low, and it needs protection in order to survive. The Siberian tiger, the southern sea otter, the snow leopard, the green pitcher plant, and thousands of other plants and animals are endangered worldwide.

extinct species – an extinct species is one that is no longer living. The passenger pigeon, the dodo, and the Stegosaurus are examples of extinct species. These animals no longer exist on the earth.

Listing of Endangered Species

A declining species has to be added to the official list of endangered and threatened species before it receives any federal protection. But just getting on the list can be the hardest part. The Fish and Wildlife Service maintains a current list of endangered and threatened species online.

How Does A Species Get "Listed?"

Any person may petition the government to list a species as either endangered or threatened. An endangered species is any species "in danger of extinction through all or a significant portion of its range." A threatened species is any species "which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future." The decision to list a species is supposed to be based solely on science, not politics. The listing process is designed to take no more than 27 months. (In some limited circumstances an expedited or emergency listing may be given temporarily.)

What Is A Candidate Species?

Unfortunately, many species sit on the "candidate" list for years and years owing to adverse political pressure or funding constraints. If there is enough evidence that the species needs to be listed, but there is inadequate funding to finish the process, the Service usually declares the species' listing "warranted but precluded." For example, the Florida Black Bear has waited on the candidate list since 1992.

What Is A Candidate Conservation Agreement?

A candidate conservation plan is supposed to help implement needed conservation measures for declining wildlife before they need federal protection. Unfortunately, the Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service sometimes use candidate conservation agreements to avoid needed listings when a species is politically controversial. There's an obvious problem with relying on future, unenforceable promises when a species needs to be listed immediately. The Atlantic Salmon, for example, is in dire need of federal protection, but a voluntary conservation plan by Maine has given the agency an excuse not to list it.

Source of Information: © Endangered Species Coalition.

Recovery Plans

What is a recovery plan?

Recovery plans, as part of the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Reovery Program, are designed to reverse the decline of a threatened or endangered species and eventually bring the population to a self-sustaining level. Each plan should include:

a description of the species’ current situation, including any relevant scientific data;
a recovery objective (for example, a target population number), and a list of criteria for indicating when the objective has been achieved;
an implementation schedule, including priorities of tasks and cost estimates;
an appendix identifying appropriate external reviews of the plan, and any additional pertinent information.

A recovery plan may include a myriad of different options including reintroduction, habitat acquisition, captive propagation, habitat restoration and protection, population assessments, research and technical assistance for landowners, and public education. Unfortunately, implementation of a recovery plan is not mandatory, so once it is finalized, the plan may just collect dust on a shelf.

How is a recovery plan drafted?

There is no deadline for finalizing a recovery plan. In addition, FWS may decide not to draft a recovery plan if it determines that "such plans would not contribute to [the species'] conservation."

The drafting process begins after FWS Regional Directors decide whether a plan would, indeed, benefit the species in question. The Regional Directors then appoint a recovery team, whose members are selected based on their expertise with the species and with relevant scientific disciplines. The team is supposed to include representatives from interested constituencies--for example, state, federal, or tribal agencies, academic institutions, non-governmental organizations, and commercial enterprises.

The actual process of preparing the recovery plan varies from circumstance to circumstance. FWS can provide some guidance for plan development by setting priorities or arbitrating disputes between individual team members.

During and after the drafting process, independent peer review of the plan may be solicited. In addition, there is a public comment period before the plan is finalized and implemented.

Does recovery planning work?

Critics of recovery planning often say that the process either doesn’t work, costs too much, or both.

The Endangered Species Act as a whole has been quite successful in its mission of halting the decline of endangered and threatened species. about 64% of mammal species and 68% of bird species listed in 1973 were classified as "improving and stable" by 1994. Recovery planning has clearly played a role in this success. But very few species have actually been recovered and delisted. Recovery takes a long time because it must reverse a decline that has occurred over the past two centuries. The recovery period may depend on the status of the species population, the gestation rate of a species, or other biological factors. However, the length of recovery time also depends largely on how quickly an effective recovery plan is developed and implemented. This is largely affected by budget constraints, political pressure, and limited scientific data.

Meanwhile, FWS and National Marine Fisheries Service expenditures on recovery planning are quite limited and should be increased. In FY 1999 only 30% of the total endangered species budget went to recovery planning. Moreover, recovery planning helps limit costs to individuals and states by taking proactive steps to protect species before privately-funded mitigation is necessary.

How can recovery planning be improved?

The National Academy of Sciences recommended that all recovery planning should include an element of "recovery plan guidance," which details how the ESA should be implemented to recover the species. NAS also recommended that a rational, scientific evaluation of survial and recovery goals is needed. These changes would help make recovery plans quantifiable and based on principles of conservation biology. The resulting meaningful recovery plans will make the ESA much more effective and lead to better recovery (and hence more rapid delisting) of species. In addition, if recovery plans identify the types of activities that are likely to violate the ESA, predictability will be increased and controversy will diminish when specific projects are evaluated concerning their impact on listed species and their habitat.

Currently, there is no explicit requirement in the law for federal action agencies to implement recovery plans, nor are plans typically detailed enough to clearly establish whether they are being followed. Involved states and federal agencies evade implementation of recovery plans, thus increasing the burden on FWS, NMFS and private citizens to take actions to recover listed species. For example, the Mexican spotted owl was listed as threatened in 1993 due to high logging rates on U.S. Forest Service lands. The Recovery Plan established specific guidelines for protecting known Mexican spotted owls and their habitat. The U.S. Forest Service has violated the guidelines of the Recovery Plan by logging protected habitat and spotted owl nest areas (called Protected Activity Centers).

The Endangered Species Coalition believes that requiring the government to develop and implement recovery plans according to set deadlines, and with improved scientific standards, would greatly increase the rate of recovery and delisting.

ways you can save endergered species

Conserve Habitats

One of the most important ways to help threatened plants and animals survive is to protect their habitats permanently in national parks, nature reserves or wilderness areas. There they can live without too much interference from humans. It is also important to protect habitats outside reserves such as on farms and along roadsides.
You can visit a nearby national park or nature reserve. Some national parks have special guided tours and walks for kids. Talk to the rangers to find out whether there are any threatened species and how they are being protected. You and your friends might be able to help the rangers in their conservation work.
When you visit a national park, make sure you obey the wildlife code: follow fire regulations; leave your pets at home; leave flowers, birds’ eggs, logs and bush rocks where you find them; put your rubbish in a bin or, better still, take it home.
If you have friends who live on farms, encourage them to keep patches of bush as wildlife habitats and to leave old trees standing, especially those with hollows suitable for nesting animals.
Some areas have groups which look after local lands and nature reserves. They do this by removing weeds and planting local native species in their place. You could join one of these groups, or even start a new one with your parents and friends. Ask your local parks authority or council for information.
By removing rubbish and weeds and replanting with natives you will allow the native bush to gradually regenerate. This will also encourage native animals to return.

Make Space For Our Wildlife

Build a birdfeeder and establish a birdbath for the neighborhood birds.
Plant a tree and build a birdhouse in your backyard.
Start composting in your backyard garden or on your balcony. It eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers which are harmful to animals and humans, and it benefits your plants!
Ask your parents not to use harmful chemicals in your garden or home.

Recycle, Reduce, And Reuse

Encourage your family to take public transportation. Walk or ride bicycles rather than using the car.
Save energy by turning off lights, radios and the TV when you are not using them.
Turn off the tap while you brush your teeth and use water-saving devices on your toilet, taps and showerhead.
Ask your parents to buy products and food without packaging whenever possible. Take your own bag to the store. It will reduce the amount of garbage and waste your family produces.
Recycle your toys, books and games by donating them to a hospital, daycare, nursery school or children's charity.
Encourage your family to shop for organic fruits and vegetables.

Plant Native Plants That Are Local To The Area

If you can, plant native plants instead of non-native or introduced ones in your garden. You don’t want seeds from introduced plants escaping into the bush. Native grasses, flowers, shrubs and trees are more likely to attract native birds, butterflies and other insects, and maybe even some threatened species.

Control Introduced Plants And Animals

Non-native plants and animals are ones that come from outside your local area.
Some parks and reserves, beaches, bush-land and rivers are now infested with invasive plants, and native species often cannot compete with these plants.
Many environmental weeds come from people’s gardens.
Sometimes, the seeds are taken into the bush by the wind or by birds.
Controlling these foreign species is an important step in protecting wildlife

Join An Organization

There are many community groups working on conservation activities. Join an organization in your area and start helping today!

Make Your Voice Heard

State and territory government conservation agencies are responsible for the management of national parks and the protection of wildlife. They are sometimes supported by public foundations.
Tell your family, friends and work mates about threatened species and how they can help them.
Start a group dedicated to protecting a threatened plant or animal in your area or perhaps to help care for a national park.
Write articles or letters about threatened species to newspapers.
Ring up talk-back radio programs to air your concerns, or arrange to talk on your community radio station.

causes of endangerment

When discussing the causes of endangerment, it is important to understand that individual species are not the only factors involved in this dilemma. Endangerment is a broad issue, one that involves the habitats and environments where species live and interact with one another. Although some measures are being taken to help specific cases of endangerment, the universal problem cannot be solved until humans protect the natural environments where endangered species dwell.

There are many reasons why a particular species may become endangered. Although these factors can be analyzed and grouped, there are many causes that appear repeatedly. Below are several factors leading to endangerment:

Habitat Destruction

Our planet is continually changing, causing habitats to be altered and modified. Natural changes tend to occur at a gradual pace, usually causing only a slight impact on individual species. However, when changes occur at a fast pace, there is little or no time for individual species to react and adjust to new circumstances. This can create disastrous results, and for this reason, rapid habitat loss is the primary cause of species endangerment. The strongest forces in rapid habitat loss are human beings. Nearly every region of the earth has been affected by human activity, particularly during this past century. The loss of microbes in soils that formerly supported tropical forests, the extinction of fish and various aquatic species in polluted habitats, and changes in global climate brought about by the release of greenhouse gases are all results of human activity.

It can be difficult for an individual to recognize the effects that humans have had on specific species. It is hard to identify or predict human effects on individual species and habitats, especially during a human lifetime. But it is quite apparent that human activity has greatly contributed to species endangerment. For example, although tropical forests may look as though they are lush, they are actually highly susceptible to destruction. This is because the soils in which they grow are lacking in nutrients. It may take Centuries to re-grow a forest that was cut down by humans or destroyed by fire, and many of the world's severely threatened animals and plants live in these forests. If the current rate of forest loss continues, huge quantities of plant and animal species will disappear.

Introduction of Exotic Species

Native species are those plants and animals that are part of a specific geographic area, and have ordinarily been a part of that particular biological landscape for a lengthy period of time. They are well adapted to their local environment and are accustomed to the presence of other native species within the same general habitat. Exotic species, however, are interlopers. These species are introduced into new environments by way of human activities, either intentionally or accidentally. These interlopers are viewed by the native species as foreign elements. They may cause no obvious problems and may eventual be considered as natural as any native species in the habitat. However, exotic species may also seriously disrupt delicate ecological balances and may produce a plethora of unintended yet harmful consequences.

The worst of these unintended yet harmful consequences arise when introduced exotic species put native species in jeopardy by preying on them. This can alter the natural habitat and can cause a greater competition for food. Species have been biologically introduced to environments all over the world, and the most destructive effects have occurred on islands. Introduced insects, rats, pigs, cats, and other foreign species have actually caused the endangerment and extinction of hundreds of species during the past five centuries. Exotic species are certainly a factor leading to endangerment.

Overexploitation

A species that faces overexploitation is one that may become severely endangered or even extinct due to the rate in which the species is being used. Unrestricted whaling during the 20^th century is an example of overexploitation, and the whaling industry brought many species of whales to extremely low population sizes. When several whale species were nearly extinct, a number of nations (including the United States) agreed to abide by an international moratorium on whaling. Due to this moratorium, some whale species, such as the grey whale, have made remarkable comebacks, while others remain threatened or endangered.

Due to the trade in animal parts, many species continue to suffer high rates of exploitation. Even today, there are demands for items such as rhino horns and tiger bones in several areas of Asia. It is here that there exists a strong market for traditional medicines made from these animal parts.

More Factors

Disease, pollution, and limited distribution are more factors that threaten various plant and animal species. If a species does not have the natural genetic protection against particular pathogens, an introduced disease can have severe effects on that specie. For example, rabies and canine distemper viruses are presently destroying carnivore populations in East Africa. Domestic animals often transmit the diseases that affect wild populations, demonstrating again how human activities lie at the root of most causes of endangerment. Pollution has seriously affected multiple terrestrial and aquatic species, and limited distributions are frequently a consequence of other threats; populations confined to few small areas due to of habitat loss, for example, may be disastrously affected by random factors.

why save endangered species?

Plants and animals hold medicinal, agricultural, ecological, commercial and aesthetic/recreational value. Endangered species must be protected and saved so that future generations can experience their presence and value.

Medicinal

Plants and animals are responsible for a variety of useful medications. In fact, about forty percent of all prescriptions written today are composed from the natural compounds of different species. These species not only save lives, but they contribute to a prospering pharmaceutical industry worth over $40 billion annually. Unfortunately, only 5% of known plant species have been screened for their medicinal values, although we continue to lose up to 100 species daily.

The Pacific yew, a slow-growing tree found in the ancient forests of the Pacific Northwest, was historically considered a "trash" tree (it was burned after clearcutting). However, a substance in its bark taxol was recently identified as one of the most promising treatments for ovarian and breast cancer.

Additionally, more than 3 million American heart disease sufferers would perish within 72 hours of a heart attack without digitalis, a drug derived from the purple foxglove.

Agricultural

There are an estimated 80,000 edible plants in the world. Humans depend upon only 20 species of these plants, such as wheat and corn, to provide 90% of the world's food. Wild relatives of these common crops contain essential disease-resistant material. They also provide humans with the means to develop new crops that can grow in inadequate lands such as in poor soils or drought-stricken areas to help solve the world hunger problem. In the 1970s, genetic material from a wild corn species in Mexico was used to stop a leaf fungus that had previously wiped out 15% of the U.S. corn crop.

Ecological

Plant and animal species are the foundation of healthy ecosystems. Humans depend on ecosystems such as coastal estuaries, prairie grasslands, and ancient forests to purify their air, clean their water, and supply them with food. When species become endangered, it is an indicator that the health of these vital ecosystems is beginning to unravel. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that losing one plant species can trigger the loss of up to 30 other insect, plant and higher animal species.

The northern spotted owl, listed as threatened in 1990, is an indicator of the declining health of the ancient forests of the Pacific Northwest. These forests are the home to over 100 other old-growth dependent species, which are at risk due to decades of unsustainable forest management practices.

Pollution off the coast of Florida is killing the coral reefs along the Florida Keys, which serve as habitat for hundreds of species of fish. Commercial fish species have begun to decline, causing a threat to the multi-million dollar tourism industry, which depends on the quality of the environment.

Commercial

Various wild species are commercially raised, directly contributing to local and regional economies. Commercial and recreational salmon fishing in the Pacific Northwest provides 60,000 jobs and $1 billion annually in personal income, and is the center of Pacific Northwest Native American culture. This industry and way of life, however, is in trouble as salmon decline due to habitat degradation from dams, clearcutting, and overgrazing along streams.

Freshwater mussels which are harvested, cut into beads, and used to stimulate pearl construction in oysters form the basis of a thriving industry which supports approximately 10,000 U.S. jobs and contributes over $700 million to the U.S. economy annually. Unfortunately, 43% of the freshwater mussel species in North America are currently endangered or extinct.

Aesthetic/Recreational

Plant and animal species and their ecosystems form the basis of America’s multi-billion dollar, job-intensive tourism industry. They also supply recreational, spiritual, and quality-of-life values as well.

Each year over 108 million people in the United States participate in wildlife-related recreation including observing, feeding, and photographing wildlife. Americans spend over $59 billion annually on travel, lodging, equipment, and food to engage in non-consumptive wildlife recreation. Our national heritage of biological diversity is an invaluable and irreplaceable resource. Our quality of life and that of future generations depends on our preservation of plant and animal species.

endangered species

Elephants

African Elephant (Loxodonta africana)

The african elephant is classified as a member of the order Proboscidea (Elephants) and is a member of the family Elephantidae. The male stands up to ten feet high to its shoulder, and weighs up to six tons. The female is slightly smaller, and weighs up to four tons. It is classified as an endangered species due to a reduction of at least 50% of the african elephant population over the last three generations based on an index of abundance. Hunting of the african elephant is now banned in several countries, but poaching for ivory still exists.

Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus)

The asian elephant is classified as a member of the order Proboscidea (Elephants) and is a member of the family Elephantidae. It stands up to ten feet high and twenty feet long. It weighs up to 10,000 pounds. The asian elephant is classified as an endangered species due to a reduction of at least 50% of the asian elephant population over the last three generations based on an index of abundance and a decline in area of occupancy. The Asian elephant has four subspecies: the Indian, Ceylon, Sumatran, and Malaysian elephants.

Whales

Right Whale (Eubalaena glacialis)

The right whale is classified as a member of the order Cetacea (Whales) and is a member of the family Balaenidae. It grows up to sixty feet long, and is twelve to eighteen feet long at birth. It weighs up to sixty tons as an adult. The right whale is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 250 mature right whales and an estimated continuing decline of at least 20% within two generations. The right whale was once the most hunted of all whales, and is now protected by law.

Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus)

The blue whale is classified as a member of the order Cetacea (Whales) and is a member of the family Balaenopteridae. The male blue whale grows to about eighty-two feet long, and the female grows to about eighty-five feet long. It weighs up to 285,000 pounds as an adult. The blue whale is classified as an endangered species due to a reduction of at least 50% of the blue whale population over the last three generations based on direct observation, an index of abundance, and actual levels of exploitation. The blue whale is the largest mammal to have lived on the earth, but it feeds on some of the smallest marine organisms: plankton.

Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus)

The fin whale is classified as a member of the order Cetacea (Whales) and is a member of the family Balaenopteridae. It grows up to eighty feet long. The fin whale is classified as an endangered species due to a reduction of at least 50% of the blue whale population over the last three generations based on direct observation, an index of abundance, and actual levels of exploitation.

Primates

Golden Lion Tamarin (Leontopithecus rosalia)

The golden lion tamarin is classified as a member of the order Primates and is a member of the family Callitrichidae. The golden lion tamarin's head and body are about one foot long, and the tail is slightly shorter. It weighs about one and a half pounds. The golden lion tamarin is classified as a critically endangered species due to the fact that it only exists in severely fragmented subpopulations consisting of no more than fifty mature tamarins each, and that there has been continuing decline in the golden lion tamarin population. The golden lion tamarin is one of the most endangered of all mammals.

Hybrid Spider Monkey (Ateles belzebuth hybridus)

The hybrid spider monkey is classified as a member of the order Primates and is a member of the family Cebidae. The hybrid spider monkey grows to almost two feet long, not including the tail. It weighs from ten to fifteen pounds. The hybrid spider monkey is classified as an endangered species due to the fact that it only exists in severely fragmented subpopulations, and that there has been continuing decline in the hybrid spider monkey population. The hybrid spider monkey is known for its ability to use its tail as an extra limb.

Aye-aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis)

The aye-aye is classified as a member of the order Primates and is a member of the family Daubentoniidae. The aye-aye is about the size of a rabbit, and is brown. It is a nocturnal animal. The aye-aye is classified as an endangered species due to a projected reduction of at least 50% of the aye-aye population over the next ten years based on levels of exploitation and a decline in area of occupancy. Also, the aye-aye has an estimated population of less than 2500 and an observed continuing decline in the form of severly fragmented subpopulations. The aye-aye builds nests out of twigs to hide during the day. It can be found on the African island of Madagascar.

Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla)

The gorilla is classified as a member of the order Primates and is a member of the family Hominidae. The male gorilla grows to about six feet high, and weighs up to six hundred pounds. The female gorilla grows to about five feet high, and weighs up to two hundred pounds. The gorilla is classified as an endangered species due to the projected gorilla population declining to at the highest 50% due to a decline in area of occupancy. The gorilla is the largest and most powerful primate alive, but is a peaceful and sociable animal.

Carnivores

Red Wolf (Canis rufus)

The red wolf is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Canidae. The red wolf is classified as a critically endangered species due to the estmation that its population consists of less than fifty mature red wolves.

Amur Leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis)

The amur leopard is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Felidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to a reduction of at least 80% of its population over the past three generations because of a decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurance, or quality of habitat. The amur leopard population is also estimated to be less than 50 mature individuals. Amur leopards can be found in eastern Asia.

Anatolian Leopard (Panthera pardus tulliana)

The anatolian leopard is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Felidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 250 mature individuals and a continuing decline in numbers of mature individuals and population structure in the form of severely fragmented populations. Anatolian leopards can be found in Turkey.

Asiatic Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus venaticus)

The Asiatic cheetah is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Felidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 50 mature individuals and a continuing decline in numbers of mature individuals and population structure due to the fact that all Asiatic cheetahs are in a single population. Asiatic cheetahs can be found in Iran.

Florida Cougar (Puma concolor coryi)

The Florida cougar is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Felidae. It is also known as the Florida panther and the Florida Puma. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 50 mature individuals. Florida cougars can be found in the United States.

Iberian Lynx (Lynx Pardinus)

The iberian lynx is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Felidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 2500 mature individuals and an extimated continuing decline of at least 20% of its population within two generations. Iberian lynx can be found in Portugal and Spain.

Snow Leopard (Uncia uncia)

The snow leopard is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Felidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population of no more than 2500 snow leopards and the fact that it has no subpopulation numbering more than 250 mature leopards. Snow leopards can be found in eastern Asia

Texas Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis albescens)

The Texas ocelot is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Felidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 250 mature individuals. The Texas ocelot can be found in Mexico and the United States.

Tiger (Panthera tigris)

The tiger is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Felidae. The male tiger grows up to ten feet long from its head to the tip of its tail, and weighs up to 575 pounds. The tiger is classified as an endangered species due to the projected tiger population declining to at the highest 50% due to an index of abundance and a decline in area of occupancy. The tiger consists of eight subspecies, distinguished by the colour of their coat.

Marine Otter (Lutra felina)

The marine otter is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Mustelidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to the marine otter population declining because of the levels of exploitation and a decline in its area of occupancy. Marine otters can be found in South America.

Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)

The giant panda is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Procyonidae. The male giant panda stands up to five feet tall, and weighs up to 265 pounds. The female giant panda is smaller and weighs less. The giant panda is classified as an endangered species due to the fact that it only exists in severely fragmented subpopulations consisting of up to 250 mature adults, and that there has been continuing decline in the area of habitat. The giant panda feeds mainly on bamboo, even though it is classified as a carnivore.

Lesser Panda (Ailurus fulgens)

The lesser panda is classified as a member of the order Carnivora (Carnivores) and is a member of the family Ursidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 2500 mature individuals and a continuing decline in numbers of mature individuals because of severly fragmented populations. Lesser pandas can be found in southern Asia.

Even-Toed Hoofed Mammals

Cuvier's Gazelle (Gazella cuvieri)

The Cuvier's gazelle is classified as a member of the order Artiodactyla (Even-Toed Hoofed Mammals) and is a member of the family Bovidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to a severely fragmented population estimated to number less than 2500 mature individuals. The Cuvier's gazelle can be found in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.

Western Giant Eland (Tragelaphus derbianus derbianus)

The western giant eland is classified as a member of the order Artiodactyla (Even-Toed Hoofed Mammals) and is a member of the family Bovidae. The western giant eland is one of the largest antelopes in Africa. It can stand up to six feet high at the shoulder. It weighs up to 1,500 pounds. The western giant eland is classified as an endangered species due to a population estimated to number less than 2500 mature individuals, an estimated continuing decline of at least 20% within 2 generations, and a continuing decline observed by the fact that all individuals are in a single subpopulation. The eland has long spiraled horns and tufted, cattlelike tails. It can be found in western Africa.

Wild Bactrian Camel (Camelus bactrianus)

The wild Bactrian camel is classified as a member of the order Artiodactyla (Even-Toed Hoofed Mammals) and is a member of the family Camelidae. The wild Bactrian camel's shoulder height is about six feet, and it grows up to twelve feet long. It weighs up to 1,500 pounds. The wild Bactrian camel is classified as an endangered species due to a reduction of at least 50% of the wild Bactrian camel population over the last three generations based on a decline in area of occupancy and actual levels of exploitation, and due to severely fragmented subpopulations numbering no more than 250 mature camels. The wild Bactrian camel is the only truly wild two-humped camel in the world.

Manipur Brow-Antlered Deer (Cervus eldi eldi)

The Manipur brow-antlered deer is classified as a member of the order Artiodactyla (Even-Toed Hoofed Mammals) and is a member of the family Cervidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to a continuing decline in area of occupancy and the fact that there are no more than 250 mature Manipur brow-antlered deers and they live in a single population. These animals can be found in India.

Odd-Toed Hoofed Mammals

Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis)

The black rhinoceros is classified as a member of the order Perissodactyla (Odd-Toed Hoofed Mammals) and is a member of the family Rhinocerotidae. The black rhinoceros grows up to twelve feet long and six feet high. It weighs up to three thousand pounds. The black rhinoceros is classified as a critically endangered species due to a reduction of at least 80% of the black rhinoceros population over the last three generations based on direct observation, an index of abundance, and a decline in area of occupancy. The black rhinoceros is the most aggressive species in the rhinoceros family, and can charge at speeds up to thirty miles per hour.

Marsupials

Broom's Pygmy-possum (Burramys parvus)

The Broom's Pygmy-possum is classified as a member of the order Marsupialia (Marsupials) and is a member of the family Burramyidae. It is also known as the mountain pygmy-possum. The Broom's pygmy-possum is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated extent of occurrence that is less than 5000 km², a severely fragmented population, and a projected decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurance, quality of habitat, number of subpopulations, and number of mature individuals. The Broom's pygmy-possum can be found in Australia.

Northern Hairy-nosed Wombat (Lasiorhinus krefftii)

The northern hairy-nosed wombat is classified as a member of the order Marsupialia (Marsupials) and is a member of the family Vombatidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to an estimated extent of occurrence that is less than 100 km², a severely fragmented population, a projected decline in quality of habitat, and an estimated population of less than 50 mature individuals. The northern hairy-nosed wombat can be found in Australia.

Rodents

Short-tailed Chinchilla (Chinchilla brevicaudata)

The short-tailed chinchilla is classified as a member of the order Rodentia (Rodents) and is a member of the family Chinchillidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to an estimated population decline of at least 80% over the past ten years based on a decline in area of occupancy and levels of exploitation. The short-tailed chinchilla can be found in South America.

Edentates

Giant Armadillo (Priodontes maximus)

The giant armadillo is classified as a member of the order Edentata (Edentates) and is a member of the family Dasypodidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population decline of at least 50% over the past ten years based on a decline in area of occupancy and levels of exploitation. The giant armadillo can be found in South America.

Endangered Birds

Screamers and ducks

Crested Shelduck (Tadorna cristata)

The crested shelduck is classified as a member of the order Anseriformes (Screamers and ducks) and is a member of the family Anatidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 50 mature crested shelducks. The species can be found in eastern Asia.

White-winged Duck (Cairina scutulata)

The white-winged duck is classified as a member of the order Anseriformes (Screamers and ducks) and is a member of the family Anatidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 2500 mature white-winged ducks, an estimated continuing decline of the population, and a severely fragmented population. The white-winged duck can be found in southern Asia.

Kingfishers, hornbills, and allies

Marquesan Kingfisher (Todirhamphus godeffroyi)

The marquesan kingfisher is classified as a member of the order Coraciiformes (Kingfishers, hornbills, and allies) and is a member of the family Alcedinidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to a severely fragmented population and a projected decline of mature marquesan kingfishers.

Rufous-lored Kingfisher (Todirhamphus winchelli)

The rufous-lored kingfisher is classified as a member of the order Coraciiformes (Kingfishers, hornbills, and allies) and is a member of the family Alcedinidae. The rufous-lored kingfisher is classified as an endangered species due to a reduction of at least 50% of the rufous-lored kingfisher population over the last three generations based on a decline in area of occupancy, and a projected decline of at least 50% over the next three generations based on the same reason.

Eagles, hawks, and vultures

California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus)

The California condor is classified as a member of the order Falconiformes (Eagles, hawks, and vultures) and is a member of the family Cathartidae. It is classified as aa critically endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 50 mature individuals. The California condor can be found in the United States.

Mauritius Kestrel (Falco punctatus)

The Mauritius kestrel is classified as a member of the order Falconiformes (Eagles, hawks, and vultures) and is a member of the family Falconidae. The Mauritius kestrel is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 250 mature Mauritius kestrels.

Passerines

Hawaiian Crow (Corvus hawaiiensis)

The Hawaiian crow is classified as a member of the order Passeriformes (Passerines) and is a member of the family Corvidae. The Hawaiian crow is classified as a critically endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 50 mature Hawaiian crows.

Cochabamba Mountain-finch (Poospiza garleppi)

The cochabamba mountain-finch is classified as a member of the order Passeriformes (Passerines) and is a member of the family Emberizidae. The cochabamba mountain-finch is classified as an endangered species due to the existence of only a single population numbering no more than 2500 mature adults, a decline in area of habitat, and an estimated decline of at least 20% over the next ten years.

Gouldian Finch (Chloebia gouldiae)

The gouldian finch is classified as a member of the order Passeriformes (Passerines) and is a member of the family Estrildidae. The gouldian finch is classified as an endangered species due to the fact that it only exists in severely fragmented subpopulations, and that a continuing decline is projected in the number of subpopulations and the number of mature adults.

Parrots

Blue-bellied Parrot (Tridaria malachitacea)

The blue-bellied parrot is classified as a member of the order Psittaciformes (Parrots) and is a member of the family Psittacidae. The blue-bellied parrot is classified as an endangered species due to the fact that it only exists in severely fragmented subpopulations of no more than 250 mature parrots each.

Cranes, rails, trumpeters

Whooping Crane (Grus americana)

The whooping crane is classified as a member of the order Gruiformes (Cranes, rails, trumpeters) and is a member of the family Gruidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to an estimated population of less than 250 mature cranes. The whooping crane can be found in Canada and the United States.

Endangered Fish

Acipenseriformes

Siberian Sturgeon (Acipenser baerii baerii)

The Siberian sturgeon is classified as a member of the order Acipenseriformes and is a member of the family Acipenseridae. It is classified as an endangered species due to a projected reduction of at least 50% of the Siberian sturgeon population over the next ten years based on actual levels of exploitation.

Alabama Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus suttkusi)

The Alabama sturgeon is classified as a member of the order Acipenseriformes and is a member of the family Acipenseridae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to a reduction of at least 80% of the Alabama sturgeon population over the last ten years based on a decline in area of occupancy and actual levels of exploitation, and a projected decline of at least 80% over the next ten years based on the same reason.

Chinese Paddlefish (Psephurus gladius)

The Chinese paddlefish is classified as a member of the order Acipenseriformes and is a member of the family Polyodontidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to a projected reduction of at least 80% of the Alabama sturgeon population over the next ten years based on a decline in area of occupancy and actual levels of exploitation.

Clupeiformes (Herrings)

Alabama Shad (Alosa alabamae)

The Alabama shad is classified as a member of the order Clupeiformes (Herrings) and is a member of the family Clupeidae. It is classified as an endangered species due to a severely fragmented population and a continuing decline in the number of mature adults.

Cypriniformes

Silver Shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus)

The silver shark is classified as a member of the order Cypriniformes and is a member of the family Cyprinidae. The silver shark is classified as an endangered species due to a reduction of at least e0% of the silver shark population over the last ten years based on direct observation and a decline in area of occupancy.

Clanwilliam Redfin (Barbus calidus)

The clanwilliam redfin is classified as a member of the order Cypriniformes and is a member of the family Cyprinidae. The clanwilliam redfin is classified as an endangered species due to the fact that its estimated area of occurence is less than 5000 km², it is known to exist at no more than five locations, and continuing decline is projected for extent of occurence and area of habitat.

Wild Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

The wild common carp is classified as a member of the order Cypriniformes and is a member of the family Cyprinidae. It is classified as a critically endangered species due to a projected reduction of at least 80% of the wild common carp population over the next ten years based on a decline in area of occupancy and introduced pollutants, parasites, or other threats.

Endangered species

Friday, March 27, 2009

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