Endangered Means There Is Still Time
Extinction

Ecosystems

Biodiversity 

Extinction

Endangered Species Act

What You Can Do

Resources

Kid's Corner

Can you guess how many species have become extinct in North America since the Pilgrims landed in 1620?

Scientists estimate that the natural extinction rate is approximately 1 species lost in every 100 years. Yet, more than 500 species in North America have disappeared in less than 400 years.

Extinction is a natural process, but the current extinction rate is not.

Why are more species going extinct today?

Because we are altering the air, water, and land faster than species can adapt. Most species have the ability to adapt to a changing environment. But, if the changes become too severe in their ecosystem, they cannot survive.

Just imagine trying to live in your house with polluted water. You would have to adapt to survive. How would you adapt?

Many people know that endangered means there is still time to protect ecosystems.

Today scientists are working with many partners, including students and teachers, to prevent species from becoming extinct.

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