endangered species

Scientific  

/ ĕn-dān′jərd /

1. A plant or animal species existing in such small numbers that it is in danger of becoming extinct, especially such a species placed in jeopardy as a result of human activity. One of the principal factors in the endangerment or extinction of a species is the destruction or pollution of its native habitat. Other factors include overhunting, intentional extermination, and the accidental or intentional introduction of alien species that outcompete the native species for environmental resources.

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endangered species Idioms  

1. A group threatened with extinction or destruction. For example, Workers willing to put in overtime without extra pay are an endangered species, or With the new budget cuts, public television has become an endangered species. This expression, originally referring to species of plants or animals in danger of dying out, began in the 1980s to be extended to anything or anyone becoming rare.

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Example Sentences

Endangered species, including tiger body parts, shark fins and pangolin scales, are being offered for sale on Facebook, BBC News has found.

From BBC • Dec. 11, 2025

With these new findings, scientists will be better equipped to conserve this unusual and Endangered species.

From Science Daily • May 8, 2024

Endangered species that live in the preserve include riparian brush rabbits and riparian woodrats.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2024

Voluntary conservation Endangered species regulation Danita Delimont/Alamy Stock Photo The greater sage grouse, subject of fierce conservation debate.

From Science Magazine • Dec. 30, 2015

Endangered species: The House backed an amendment by Rep.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 28, 2011