- The term endangered species actually applies to a small group of animals on the threatened species list. Terms for this list include extinct and extinct in the wild, which are self-explanatory. Critically endangered means the animals are at extremely high risk of being extinct in the immediate future. Endangered means a risk for extinction in the future. Other terms include vulnerable and conservation dependent, near-threatened and animals of the least concern.
- There are many reasons to prevent more species from becoming extinct. The pharmaceutical companies rely on many types of plants and animals for their medicinal value. At present, only about 5 percent of known plants have been screened for their medicinal properties, so potentially life-saving medicines could be lost before they are even found. Plants and animals are the basis of a world-wide ecosystem and humans depend on them to purify air, clean water and form the basis of human supply. Many commercial industries rely on animals and plants, such as seaweed, crab, mussels and shrimp. Lastly, nature is beautiful and the source of inspiration for many people. Hotels, wildlife expeditions and outdoor camping equipment is big business in America.
- Captive breeding is being used in wildlife preserves, zoos and other conservation facilities all over the world in controlled environments. This technique is used for breeding rare and endangered species and has been successful for many animal species such as the Giant Pandas in preserves in China and a select few zoos around the world. The biggest problem with captive breeding programs can be inbreeding due to a small gene pool --- caretakers watch carefully for signs of deficient genes.
- While farming animals for food --- such as catfish, crayfish, ducks and oysters --- has been an economically and environmentally sound practice for years, legal private farming of other animals is beginning to reverse the effects of poaching in some countries. For example, the private farming of both southern white and southern black rhinoceros has brought the animals back from the edge of extinction. Former poachers are now involved in the eco-tourism trade and employed on the private farms.
- The general public can help in many ways. We can all help to conserve habitats and educate future generations on habitats by visiting National Parks and being sure to follow all the rules about trash, fires and native species. Start a native species garden or make sure your yard is only planted with native species. Avoid any introduced species, or species not native to the area, since these can wreak havoc on the local ecosystem. Build bird feeders and enjoy the wildlife. Use natural pest repellents such as ladybugs in your garden. Reduce, reuse and recycle so that land fills don't consume animal and plant habitats. Join an organization such as the World Wildlife Fund and support their efforts by volunteering or contributing financially. Make your voice known to your local, state and federal government on environmental issues. Speak with your wallet by buying eco-sensitive products, such as line caught tuna and buying products using recycled materials, such as recycled foil or plastic bags.
previous post