IUCN Endangered Species

Hi there. I have a very important job. I watch over all the wonderful animals on our planet, from the sleepy polar bears in the snow to the bright blue butterflies in the jungle. I’m like a caring friend who notices when an animal family is getting very small and might need a little extra help. I don't use my eyes to see them. I am a special kind of list that people read to understand who needs protecting. I make sure our animal friends are safe and sound.

A long time ago, on October 5th, 1948, a group of people who loved nature came together. They were nature's helpers. They wanted to make sure that no animal would ever disappear forever. They made a big team to help all the animals. But they needed a way to know which animals were in the most trouble. That’s when they had a brilliant idea. In 1964, they created me. I am the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. That’s a big name, but it just means I am a list that helps animals. I help everyone see which animals are safe and which ones are in danger, so we know who to help first.

Today, I help people all over the world become animal heroes. When scientists and friends of nature look at me, they know which rhinos, tigers, and sea turtles need safe homes and plenty of food. I show them how to work together to protect these amazing creatures. It is a very big job. Thanks to me, we can all help make sure our animal friends are around for you, your friends, and everyone to love for a long, long time. We can all be animal heroes together.