Are giraffes endangered? And if so what species are?

How does an endangered species differ from a threatened species?

• A) an endangered species in near extinction B) an endangered species reproduces slowly C) an endangered species has a limited habitat D) an threatened species is a threat to an ...show more

• Answer:

  A, B and C could all lead to a species being classified as endangered (guessing teachers wants A though). A slow reproduction rate coupled with low populations may see a species classified as endangered before another species with a similar population level that has a higher reproduction rate. Similarly animals such as at the koalas that have a limited habitat would be classified as endangered prior to another species of similar population numbers if that other species had a broad range (habitat). These factors could lead to a species becoming endangered and perhaps even extinct. Consider if the dodo exisiting in numerous countries (not just Madagascar) would the species still be around today? Or would the population of rabbits be so high today if they were slow breeders?? (hint: in Australia scientists are working on methods to render male rabbits infertile).