Wildlife is all the organisms that have not been domesticated for human use or companionship. It also includes plants and fish. Wildlife has great ecological, social and economic importance. Bacteria, plants and invertebrates are a crucial link in ecological processes including oxygen generation, nitrogen fixation, nutrient cycling, waste decomposition, water cleansing and soil formation.
Many wildlife species are important commercially for food, clothing and medicines.
Some Canadians who follow traditional lifestyles depend on wild animals and plants as important sources of food, clothing and income. Many species of wildlife are at risk in Canada. Each species has unique needs that allow it to co-exist with others. When a habitat is changed or destroyed, many species cannot survive and must move to another location or die. Similar habitats are not always available or nearby and not all wildlife can move about easily.