In the United States, the Endangered Species Act of 1973 protects endangered and threatened wildlife and plants from hunting, collecting, and other activities that harm them or their habitats. Since this law was enacted, the numbers of certain endangered animals, such as the alligator, bald eagle, and peregrine falcon, have increased so much that they have been removed from the endangered list or reclassified from endangered to threatened status. This treaty, originally signed by 10 nations in July 1975, aims to control trade in wildlife, plants, and their products. By the late 1990's, over 140 countries had ratified it. Elephant ivory was banned in 1989, but a 1997 decision allowed southern African nations to export stockpiled ivory to Japan by 1999.
Various organizations publish lists of endangered species to improve public awareness.
Protecting habitat is the key method of preserving endangered species. Many governments and organizations have set aside nature preserves. Some zoos and animal research centers conduct programs that breed endangered species in hopes of returning their offspring to the wild. The programs have greatly improved the outlook for such endangered species as the black-footed ferret and the California condor. All rights reserved.