Endangered:
Endangered is a conservation status used for species that are facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild. These species are often on the brink of disappearing from their natural habitats due to various threats such as habitat loss, poaching, climate change, or other human-induced factors. The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List, the global standard for assessing species conservation status, categorizes species as "Endangered" when their populations have declined dramatically or are restricted to small, fragmented habitats.
Threatened:
Threatened is a conservation status assigned to species that are considered at a high risk of becoming endangered in the near future. While not as critically at risk as endangered species, threatened species are still facing significant threats and population declines. They may still have relatively healthy populations compared to endangered species, but various threats could cause their numbers to rapidly decline if not addressed. Species are categorized as "Threatened" on the IUCN Red List based on population trends, habitat degradation, and other factors.
Differences in Conservation Actions:
Endangered and threatened species are subject to different levels of conservation efforts. For endangered species, the focus is on immediate conservation actions to prevent their extinction. This can include habitat protection, captive breeding programs, reintroductions, and addressing the specific threats causing their decline.
For threatened species, conservation actions are crucial in preventing them from reaching a critically endangered status. Conservation plans for threatened species focus on addressing threats, managing habitats, and monitoring populations to ensure their stability or recovery.
It's important to note that both endangered and threatened species require proactive conservation measures to ensure their survival and prevent further declines in their populations. However, due to their varying levels of risk, the strategies and resources dedicated to their conservation may differ.
In summary, while endangered and threatened can be broadly understood as species facing risk of extinction, they are distinct conservation statuses with different levels of urgency and implications for conservation actions. Understanding these differences helps in prioritizing conservation efforts and ensuring the long-term survival of these vulnerable species.