What is the Difference Between Endangered Species and Threatened Species?

The main difference between endangered species and threatened species lies in the degree of risk they face for extinction. Both terms are defined under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and are used to classify species based on their conservation status:

• Endangered species: A species is considered endangered when it is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
• Threatened species: A threatened species is one that is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.

Both endangered and threatened species are afforded protection under the ESA, which aims to conserve genetic diversity and prevent extinctions. The act has successfully helped recover many species that were once on the brink of extinction.

Comparative Table: Endangered Species vs Threatened Species

Here is a table comparing endangered species and threatened species:

Under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), a species may be listed as either endangered or threatened depending on its risk for extinction. Endangered species are at a higher risk of extinction and are given priority for conservation efforts, while threatened species have a lower priority. Both categories refer to species that are at risk due to human activities, and each category has different criteria and protections associated with it.