Meet 3 animal species on Canada’s updated at-risk list
Canada’s list of at-risk species is continuously growing, with the addition of five new species that are now classified as threatened or endangered by the federal Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). This brings the total number of at-risk species in Canada to 860, highlighting the complex challenges faced by the country’s rich biodiversity.
The COSEWIC, comprised of a dedicated group of volunteers, assesses about five dozen species annually to draw attention to plants and animals that are at risk of disappearing from Canada. Among the newly added species, three stand out in today’s report.
The northern bottlenose whale, with populations off the coast of Nova Scotia, is still considered endangered despite a recent increase in numbers. With approximately 210 whales in the Nova Scotia group, only 95 are mature and capable of reproduction. Threats such as underwater noise from naval exercises and the lingering effects of whaling in the 1960s and ’70s continue to endanger this species. The whales’ unique ability to dive up to two kilometers for prey using echolocation makes them vulnerable to human activities that disrupt their feeding patterns.
The valley grasshopper, found exclusively in British Columbia’s south Okanagan Valley, has been classified as endangered due to its limited habitat that faces potential development pressures. This species inhabits a rare dry, desert-like habitat in Canada, making it particularly susceptible to habitat loss. Conservation efforts, like the proposed national park reserve for the south Okanagan, offer hope for the protection of this unique grasshopper species.
The black-tailed prairie dog, located in Grasslands National Park in southern Saskatchewan, is considered threatened by the COSEWIC. Adapted to dry prairies prone to droughts, this species faces challenges posed by more frequent extreme weather events. Its isolated population in Canada raises concerns about the species’ survival in the face of climate change and habitat loss. While the black-tailed prairie dog is more common in the U.S., its small numbers in Canada make it vulnerable to environmental changes.
The COSEWIC’s ongoing efforts to assess and protect at-risk species in Canada underscore the importance of conservation initiatives to safeguard the country’s diverse wildlife. By raising awareness and implementing conservation measures, Canada can work towards preserving its unique biodiversity for future generations.
