what is an endangered specie?
An endangered specie is any plant or animal species whose ability to survive and reproduce has been jeopardized by human activities. There are over 954 endangered species worldwide. An international list is published annually as the Red Data Book by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, however many more lists exist with even more endangered species listed as the criteria differs between organizations. However, a list of endangered species can be deadly. Once the species is listed they are then considered more valuable and desirable to collectors and poachers.
Our colections focused on flagship species. Defined as popular, charismatic species that serve as symbols and rallying points to stimulate conservation awareness and action. By prioritizing these species, the status of many other species which share its habitat or who are vulnerable to the same threats may also be improved. With some animals it is not just the sub-specie that is on the verge of extinction, such as the Proboscis Monkey, but it is the entire animal specie, such as the tiger.
For each animal a “binomial nomenclature” is listed which, in biology is a method of naming species. The first indicating the genus and the second being the specific name. This is derived from taxonomy of the specie or species, which is a scientific classification for animals based on Latin words and is ordered according to natural relationships.
More information on our highlighted species and other endangered species can be found on the WWF’s Wildfinder.