List of National Wildlife Refuges established for endangered species facts for kids

Imagine special places across the United States where animals and plants that are in danger of disappearing forever get a safe home. These places are called National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs). This article lists NWRs created especially to protect one or more endangered species. These are species that are at high risk of becoming extinct.

What are National Wildlife Refuges?

National Wildlife Refuges are areas of land and water managed by the United States government. Their main goal is to protect wildlife and their homes. Think of them as safe havens where animals and plants can live and thrive without many threats. The first refuge was created in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt.

Why are these Refuges Important?

These special refuges help protect animals and plants that are struggling to survive. Many species face dangers like losing their homes, pollution, or climate change. By setting aside these areas, scientists and conservationists can work to help these species recover. It's like giving them a hospital and a safe neighborhood all in one!

What is an Endangered Species?

An endangered species is a type of animal or plant that is very likely to become extinct. Extinct means that every single one of that species has died out, and they are gone forever. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service keeps a list of these species. They work hard to protect them so they don't disappear.

How do Refuges Help Endangered Species?

National Wildlife Refuges protect endangered species in many ways:

• Protecting Homes: They save the natural places where these animals and plants live. This includes forests, wetlands, deserts, and more.
• Reducing Threats: They work to stop things that harm the species, like pollution or too much human activity.
• Helping Them Grow: Sometimes, scientists help endangered animals reproduce or plant more endangered plants. They might even raise young animals in safe places before releasing them.
• Research: Experts study these species to learn more about them. This helps them figure out the best ways to protect them.

National Wildlife Refuges for Endangered Species

The table below lists many National Wildlife Refuges that were created specifically to protect endangered species. You can see the state, the refuge name, the species they protect, and how large the refuge is.

See also

• List of National Wildlife Refuges
• List of endangered species