Wildlife Conservation Efforts and Endangered Species
In the 1970s, many of the nation’s native plants and animals were in danger of becoming extinct. The United States government passed two conservation laws, the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act, to aid in the recovery of at-risk species.
Learn the Status of Threatened and Endangered Species
“Endangered” species face extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their range. “Threatened” species are likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future. See which species are threatened or endangered and learn their status:
Mammals and freshwater species are added or removed from the list as their status changes. The Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is responsible for monitoring the progress made to protect species.
Marine species are monitored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Search the plant species database, managed by the Department of Agriculture (USDA), to learn about federal and state-identified threatened and endangered plants in your state.
Find Out About Current Efforts to Protect Wildlife
There are many federal and state programs working toward the conservation of wildlife and the recovery of endangered species:
FWS conducts a variety of programs in wildlife and habitat management.
NOAA establishes sustainable fisheries and marine sanctuaries to safeguard fish, plant, and other animal species. Use Fishwatch to learn which seafood is sustainable.
Find out about the endangered species recovery program and the efforts to protect endangered species from pesticides.
Use this map to learn about conservation success stories in your state.
Learn How to Help Protect Wildlife
There are many ways you can help:
Volunteer in refuges and hatcheries in your state.
If you live in a coastal area, help in efforts with marine conservation.
Find out what you can do in your community to help animals on the endangered species list.
Conserve wildlife right from your own backyard.
- There are also many non-government organizations working toward wildlife conservation and helping endangered species. Use the internet to locate these groups.