Threatened and Endangered Species

Endangered Species Profiles

Wild plants and animals give humans so much – from food and medicine, to healthy ecosystems and spiritual nourishment. Wild species clean the air and water, nourish the soil, maintain the carbon balance in the atmosphere, remove pollutants and prevent waste accumulation. The benefits, what some call ecosystem services, are essential to human life on this planet.

Today, 585 species are classified by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) as being at risk, including 244 Endangered, 145 Threatened, 160 Special Concern, and 23 Extirpated Species (i.e. no longer found in the wild in Canada). In addition, 13 are Extinct and 45 are Data Deficient.

Get to know these beautiful creatures. More endangered species profiles will be added regularly.