Back What is an endangered species?

A type of animal that is likely to become extinct (die out) is called an endangered species.

Animals may become endangered because they:
  • have few babies;
  • are hunted and killed;
  • lose their homes when people build houses or roads.
To help endangered species, some countries have rules to:
  • stop hunting;
  • limit house or road building;
  • create conservation areas where animals are protected.