U.S Department of the Interior, U.S Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species, Threatened Species 

"The Endangered Species Act of 1973 is one of the most far-reaching wildlife conservation laws ever enacted by any nation. It is administered primarily by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, working in cooperation with other Federal, State, and local agencies, as well as independent organizations.

More than 800 species of plants and animals native to the United States, and more than 530 species living in other parts of the world, have been placed on the U.S. List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants, and thus receive protection under the Act. A species can be listed under one of two categories, endangered or threatened, depending on its status and the degree of threat it faces. An 'endangered' species is one that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. A 'threatened' species is one that is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future. To help conserve genetic diversity, the Act defines 'species' broadly to include subspecies, varieties, and (in the case of vertebrates) distinct populations.

The listing process, which is explained in this publication, is one of the basic functions performed by the Serivce in carrying out its responsibilties under the Endangered Species Act. Once an animal or plant is listed, all protective measures authorized by the Act apply to the species and its habitat. Such measures include protection from any adverse effects of Federal activities; restrictions on taking*, transporting, or selling a species; authorization for the Service to develop and carry out recovery plans; the authority to purchase important habitat; and Federal aid to state and Commonwealth wildlife agencies that have cooperate agreements with the Service.

These efforts contribute to species survival and assist the Service in achieving its ultimate goal - to maintain the natural diversity of plants and animals and ecosystems upon which they depend."  

This document is an informational brochure on endangered and threatened species of plants and animals produced by the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Topics Include:
- The Listing Process
- Public Comment
- Criteria for Listing a Species
- Designating Critical Habitat
- Suggested Criteria for Listing Recommendations or Petitions