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, 602 species are classified by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) as being at risk, including 262 Endangered, 151 Threatened, 166 Special Concern, and 23 Extirpated Species (i.e. no longer found in the wild in Canada). In addition, 13 species are Extinct.

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