WILD

Endangered Species Day

In recognition of Endangered Species Day, we thought it would be interesting to take a look at some of the endangered and threatened species that live in Colorado:

Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei): this small mouse is easily identified by a thick, dark stripe that runs from head to tail, large hind legs and feet, and a very long tail.  [listed as Threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service]

Canada Lynx (Lynx Canadensis): the Canada Lynx are known for their long black ear tufts and thick tufts of hair on the soles of their feet. [listed as Threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service]

Greenback Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarki stomias): This cold water trout is Colorado’s state fish. They have dark spots on their sides and tail and two red stripes on each side of their throat. [listed as Threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service]

Black Footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes): while this ferret is easy to recognize with a black mask, black feet and a black ring around its tail, it is harder to find because it blends into the prairie so well. [listed as Endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service]

Whooping Crane (Grus Americana): the Whooping Crane is the largest North American bird. They are white with black primary feathers and have red faces and dark bills. [listed as Endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service]

Joel Sartore (iLCP member and our photographer of the month) has an amazing new book available that profiles endangered species. Rare: Portraits of America’s Endangered Species

On his website, Joel mentions ways that we can help endangered species. Read the complete version here!

1. Be an informed citizen.

2. Reduce, reuse, and recycle whatever goods you buy.

3. Drive a more fuel-efficient vehicle. Better yet, take public transportation or ride a bike once in awhile.

4. Don’t use chemicals on your lawn.

5. Support groups that are trying to do the right thing.

6. Vote.

Post your Comment here

Comments are the sole responsibility of their authors. WILD is not responsible, nor will be held liable, for blog comments. WILD reserves the right to delete any comment that is abusive, profane, rude, or considered spam.