Endangered American Animals

The severity of the condition of endangered animals has raised an alarm worldwide. In 1973, The United States of America enacted an Endangered Species Act (ESA) for the protection of endangered animals. Moreover, to look after the declining numbers of endangered animals, a Federal institution in the form of US Fish and Wildlife Service was established.

According to US Fish and Wildlife Service, more than 368 species of endangered American animals are threatened to become extinct. As a precautionary step, it has imposed restrictions on hunting, transporting, and any kind of trade of the endangered animals. The service is also engaged in recovery plans for the betterment of endangered animals.

Here, we discuss about some endangered American animals:

California Candor: It is one of the rarest birds in the world. It is found in a small area north of Los Angeles, and can reach speeds up to 55 miles per hour. Only 60 of them are believed to be alive today. A low reproductive rate and the loss of food sources have made them American endangered animals.

The Peregrine Falcon: They are mostly found in the eastern region of the United States. They can reach speeds up to 200 miles per hour. Their diet mainly consists of ducks, smaller birds, and fish. Consumption of preys affected by chemical poisoning, from DDT and other harmful chemicals used as pesticides and herbicides, has threatened the existence of this endangered American animal. Moreover, hunting of falcons for sport has also contributed in their declining numbers.

The Pronghorn: They inhabit the grasslands and the semi-arid deserts. Feeding on plants and cacti, they can survive for long from the moisture of the plants. They can run fast, and can reach speeds up to 60 miles per hour. Loss of habitat due to human expansion has declined their population.

The Gray Wolf: This endangered animal is facing threat from humans. The decrease in food sources, and hunting and elimination of wolves has made survival difficult for them.

The American Alligator: They are found in the Florida Bay area of the United States. They can grow up to 15 feet, and are reported to be only 500 in numbers as of today. This endangered American animal is threatened due to habitat loss and over exploitation by the humans.

The Gila monster: They are found in the southwestern deserts of the United States. Considered as the largest lizard in the United States, they prey on birds, small mammals, and the eggs of tortoise. Rapid human expansion has destroyed their habitat, and has endangered them.

Bald Eagle: This magnificent creature is the national symbol of the United States. They are endangered due to habitat destruction and environmental problems. Pollution of river-waters through pesticides has contaminated fishes, and has affected their food chain. They were named as America's most polluted bird in the 1960's because of all the pesticides that killed them.

Conservation of endangered American animals has been undertaken by the government of the United States. National Wildlife Federation (NWF) and National Audubon Society (NAS) have initiated efforts to spread awareness among the native citizens.