Species are threatened by multiple, compounding pressures. At a broad level, the main threats are:
WILDLIFE
Every day, WWF-Canada works to save a growing number of species at risk.
Every day, WWF-Canada works to save a growing number of species at risk.
Canada is home to about 80,000 species, including caribou, polar bear and narwhal. Sadly, many of these species are facing numerous threats to their survival. We have made it our mission to find solutions that save the marvelous array of life on our planet by applying the best science available and working closely with local communities.
Species are threatened by multiple, compounding pressures. At a broad level, the main threats are:
Ecosystems can be exposed to many types of pollutants. From agricultural and industrial runoff to microplastics, contaminants can harm or kill plants and wildlife.
In Canada, the rate of warming has increased to nearly double the global average. A rapidly changing climate can make it more difficult for species to find food or migrate.
Habitat loss is the greatest threat to species in Canada and globally. Protecting and restoring natural habitats is one of the most effective ways to help wildlife.
Introduced species compete with native species for space, food and other resources. Some even prey on native species.
Over-exploitation of wildlife can be direct, such as unsustainable hunting, harvesting and poaching, or indirect, including bycatch.
In Canada, over 600 plant and animal species at risk are currently protected under the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA).
A wildlife species that no longer exists.
A wildlife species that no longer exists in the wild in Canada, but exists elsewhere.
A wildlife species facing imminent extirpation or extinction.
A wildlife species that is likely to become endangered if nothing is done to reverse the factors leading to its extirpation or extinction.
A wildlife species that may become threatened or endangered because of a combination of biological characteristics and identified threats.
A wildlife species that has been evaluated and found to be not at risk of extinction given the current circumstances.
A category that applies when the available information is insufficient (a) to resolve a wildlife species’ eligibility for assessment or (b) to permit an assessment of the wildlife species’ risk of extinction.
WWF works to conserve species at risk, protect threatened habitats and address global threats. Using the best available scientific knowledge, we work to preserve the diversity and abundance of life in Canada and around the world. We find long-term solutions that benefit both people and nature. Through initiatives like our Arctic Species Conservation Fund, we support research on the polar bear, barren-ground caribou, walrus, narwhal, bowhead whale and beluga whale. The more we know about these species, the better we can protect them.
We support freshwater monitoring and restoration projects around the country through the Loblaw Water Fund and the WWF-Canada Restoration Fund, because when ecosystems are in good health, wildlife has a better chance of thriving. We also encourage groups and individuals to restore habitat, monitor species at risk, protect biodiversity and generate solutions to the conservation challenges facing their communities through our Go Wild Community Grants.
In the face of widespread wildlife loss and climate change, WWF-Canada’s nation-wide assessment maps gaps in essential wildlife habitat protection and opportunities to protect areas that benefit biodiversity while slowing climate change.
The fate of wildlife in Canada is in our hands. WWF-Canada’s Living Planet Report shows that wildlife is on a troubling decline. It’s time to come together and turn things around.
Help protect threatened species and their habitats.