Endangered Species Day 2018

The Future of Endangered Species

International Endangered Species Day is on May 18, 2018!

Everglades National Park is home to close to 40 federally-listed threatened and endangered plant and animal species. Some of the most well-known species include the elusive Florida Panther, the Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow, and the Snail Kite. This Endangered Species Day, we are focusing on learning about what classifies a plant or animal to be endangered and what we can do to help them!

 

 

What is an "Endangered Species"?

When an animal or plant is labeled as "endangered", it means that they are threatened by extinction. The number one reason land organisms become endangered is loss of habitat. The number one reason water organisms become endangered is over-harvesting by humans.

How is Everglades National Park working to protect endangered species?

Biologists, rangers, and other staff at Everglades National Park work hard every day to protect endangered plants and animals throughout this delicate ecosystem. An important tool protecting endangered species is the Endangered Species Act that was passed by Congress in 1973. The Act not only makes harming or killing an endangered species illegal, but it also protects the habitats that are essential to their survival. Park managers rely on the Endangered Species Act to help restore healthy populations of endangered species. To learn more about endangered species in Everglades National Park, click here. To learn more about rare and endangered species in all national parks, click here.

What can I do to help?

We can all do something to help protect these special plants and animals! Learn more about what makes them unique and how you can help protect endangered species by visiting Everglades National Park, attending ranger-led programs, or by talking to a park ranger!