What defines an endangered species?

An endangered species is defined as one that is in danger of going extinct in the near future. The classification indicates that the species is facing a significant risk due to various factors that threaten its survival, such as habitat loss, climate change, poaching, or invasive species. This designation serves as a warning signal for conservation efforts, prompting action to protect and restore the population and its habitat.

In contrast, an extinct species refers to one that no longer exists anywhere in the wild, which highlights a more severe status than simply being endangered. A species with a stable population would not fit the definition of endangered, as it implies that the species is not currently facing threats that would lead to its potential extinction. Lastly, a species that has recently been discovered may not yet be evaluated for its conservation status and does not inherently imply endangerment. Therefore, identifying an endangered species focuses on the imminent risk of extinction it faces, making it crucial for biodiversity conservation efforts.