Endangered vs. Threatened — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 27, 2023
Endangered species face a very high risk of extinction in the wild, while Threatened species are likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
Difference Between Endangered and Threatened
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The terms “Endangered” and “Threatened” are specific classifications used to signify varying degrees of risk faced by species in their natural habitats. An endangered species is one that is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild due to rapid declines in numbers or severe habitat destruction. It is a critical status indicating that immediate conservation actions are required to prevent the species from becoming extinct. In contrast, a threatened species, while also at risk, is not immediately on the brink of extinction but is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future if the impacting factors continue.
While both classifications denote species that are at risk, the level of risk between endangered and threatened species is different. Endangered species are in imminent danger of extinction and are typically facing severe threats, while threatened species have relatively lower immediate risks but could move to the endangered category if the threatening factors are not mitigated. The classification of species as endangered or threatened is significant as it dictates the level and urgency of conservation efforts needed to preserve them.
Classifying a species as endangered or threatened involves a detailed analysis of its population dynamics, habitat condition, and the severity of threats faced. Endangered species are often the focus of intense conservation efforts, including habitat restoration, legal protection, and breeding programs, to increase their chances of survival. Threatened species also receive attention, with interventions aimed at mitigating the threats and preventing further decline, but the urgency is usually not as high as it is for endangered species.
These classifications are essential for biodiversity conservation, as they help prioritize conservation actions and allocate resources effectively. They create a framework within which conservationists, policymakers, and the public can understand the urgency and type of action needed to protect species. While endangered species usually require immediate and intensive interventions, the conservation of threatened species is more about preventive measures to curb any further decline.
Comparison Chart
Level of Risk
Very high risk of extinction in the wild.
Likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
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Urgency of Intervention
Requires immediate and intensive conservation actions.
Requires preventive measures to curb further decline.
Focus of Conservation Efforts
Aimed at preventing imminent extinction.
Aimed at mitigating threats to prevent becoming endangered.
Severity of Threats
Typically facing severe and immediate threats.
Facing threats but usually not as immediate or severe.
Population Status
Rapid declines in numbers or severe habitat destruction.
At risk due to declining numbers or habitat degradation.
Compare with Definitions
Endangered
Endangered refers to species facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
The Siberian tiger is classified as endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
Threatened
Threatened refers to species likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
The polar bear is classified as threatened due to the ongoing loss of its sea-ice habitat.
Endangered
Endangered denotes species with rapid declines in numbers or severe habitat destruction.
The vaquita, an endangered marine mammal, is critically endangered due to bycatch.
Threatened
Threatened species face declining numbers or habitat degradation.
Habitat degradation is a significant concern for threatened species such as the yellow-eyed penguin.
Endangered
Endangered species are at a critical status requiring immediate conservation actions.
The endangered Hawaiian monk seal is the focus of intensive conservation efforts.
Threatened
Threatened species are at risk but not immediately on the brink of extinction.
Conservationists are working to mitigate the threats faced by threatened species like the manatee.
Endangered
Endangered species are often the subject of habitat restoration and legal protection.
Legal protections are essential for the survival of endangered species like the Javan rhinoceros.
Threatened
Threatened denotes species facing threats but usually not as immediate or severe as endangered species.
Though not immediately facing extinction, threatened species like the snow leopard need conservation attention.
Endangered
To expose to harm or danger; imperil.
Threatened
Threatened classification signifies a need for preventive measures to curb further decline.
Preventive conservation measures are crucial for threatened species like the gopher tortoise.
Endangered
To threaten with extinction.
Threatened
At risk of becoming extinct or of becoming an endangered species. Used of a plant or animal species.
Endangered
In danger, at risk, said of something where there is a strong possibility something bad will happen to it (for example, a species in danger of going extinct)
Threatened
Simple past tense and past participle of threaten
Endangered
Simple past tense and past participle of endanger
Threatened
At risk of becoming endangered in the near future.
Endangered
Being in a condition or situation where life or serious harm is possible; in danger; at risk.
Threatened
Feeling insecure or vulnerable.
Endangered
Small in numbers, with significant possibility of extinction; - of species.
Threatened
(of flora or fauna) likely in the near future to become endangered;
The spotted owl is a threatened species, not yet an endangered one
Endangered
(of flora or fauna) in imminent danger of extinction;
An endangered species
Endangered
Endangered classification indicates severe threats to the species' survival.
Endangered Sumatran orangutans are losing their habitats due to illegal logging.
Common Curiosities
What is the meaning of a species being classified as threatened?
A threatened species is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future if threatening factors continue.
What does it mean if a species is classified as endangered?
An endangered species faces a very high risk of extinction in the wild due to severe threats.
Why is it important to classify species as endangered or threatened?
Classifying species helps prioritize conservation actions, allocate resources effectively, and raise awareness about the urgency to protect species.
Do endangered species usually face severe and immediate threats?
Yes, endangered species typically face severe and immediate threats to their survival.
Is the level of risk the same between endangered and threatened species?
No, endangered species have a higher level of risk and are closer to extinction compared to threatened species.
Do endangered species require immediate conservation actions?
Yes, endangered species typically require immediate and intensive conservation actions to prevent extinction.
Are threatened species at immediate risk of extinction?
No, threatened species are not at immediate risk but could become endangered if threats are not mitigated.
Is habitat degradation a concern for threatened species?
Yes, habitat degradation is a significant concern and a common threat faced by threatened species.
Are preventive conservation measures crucial for threatened species?
Yes, preventive conservation measures are crucial for threatened species to mitigate threats and avoid further decline.
Is habitat restoration important for endangered species?
Yes, habitat restoration is often crucial for the survival of endangered species.
Can classifying a species as threatened help in mitigating threats?
Yes, classifying a species as threatened can lead to conservation actions aimed at mitigating threats and preventing the species from becoming endangered.
Can threatened species become endangered?
Yes, threatened species can become endangered if the threats they face continue and are not mitigated.
Do endangered species face rapid declines in numbers or severe habitat destruction?
Yes, endangered species often face rapid declines in numbers, severe habitat destruction, or both, leading to a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
Can legal protection help in the conservation of endangered species?
Absolutely, legal protection can be pivotal in safeguarding endangered species from threats like poaching and habitat destruction.
Do conservation efforts for threatened species focus on preventing further decline?
Yes, conservation efforts for threatened species mainly focus on preventive measures to curb any further decline.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
