Founded in 1989 in New Mexico's Gila wilderness, the Center for Biological Diversity emerged from the shared commitment of Kierán Suckling, Peter Galvin, and Todd Schulke, who united during owl surveys. The Center's roots trace back to their defiance against a timber sale threatening a rare Mexican spotted owl nest. Since then, the Center has strategically wielded biological data and the Endangered Species Act to achieve sweeping legal protections for species and habitats. From regional campaigns against cattle-grazing abuses to halting industrial logging, the Center has grown into a national force with global impact, addressing threats from climate change to off-road vehicle excess. The organization continues its relentless pursuit of safeguarding the world's most endangered animals and plants.

center for biological diversity

Arizona is a state located in the southwestern United States, known for its striking desert landscapes, towering mountains, and unique geological formations. Its natural environment is characterized by a hot, arid climate, with vast expanses of desert terrain interspersed with rugged mountains and deep river canyons.

Despite its harsh climate, Arizona is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The state's desert ecosystems are home to a variety of plant species, including cacti, succulents, and wildflowers. The desert is also home to a variety of animal species, including rattlesnakes, coyotes, and desert bighorn sheep. The state's mountains are home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and numerous bird species, such as hawks and eagles.

Arizona's unique geological formations are also a major attraction, including the Grand Canyon, one of the world's most famous natural wonders. The state is also home to a number of other geological features, including towering rock formations, deep canyons, and ancient lava flows.

However, Arizona's natural environment is facing numerous challenges, including water scarcity, wildfires, and habitat destruction due to human activities such as urbanization and mining. Climate change is also having an impact on the environment, with rising temperatures and changing weather patterns affecting ecosystems and wildlife.

arizona

Alaska's natural landscape is characterized by its vast, rugged terrain, towering mountain ranges, and abundant wildlife. The state is home to diverse ecosystems, ranging from the Arctic tundra to the temperate rainforests of the southeastern coast.

Alaska's biodiversity is remarkable, with over 600 species of fish, 400 species of birds, and 80 species of mammals. The state is home to iconic animals such as grizzly bears, moose, wolves, caribou, and bald eagles. Additionally, Alaska's marine environment is rich in biodiversity, with a wide range of fish and marine mammals, including humpback whales, orcas, and sea otters.

The state's environment is also characterized by its glaciers, which cover over 100,000 square miles of the landscape. Alaska's glaciers are some of the largest in the world, with the Columbia Glacier spanning over 550 square miles.

However, Alaska's natural environment is facing numerous threats, including climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction. The state has already experienced significant changes due to climate change, with warming temperatures and melting glaciers leading to rising sea levels and changes in ocean currents.

Despite these challenges, Alaska remains one of the most pristine and wild places on earth. Its vast wilderness areas, such as Denali National Park and Preserve and the Tongass National Forest, offer visitors a chance to experience the state's natural beauty firsthand and witness the incredible biodiversity that Alaska has to offer.

alaska

With its diverse environmental landscape encompassing arid deserts, tropical rainforests, snowy peaks, and coastal waters, Mexico is a nation abounding in natural resources. This biodiversity has propelled Mexico to become one of the most biologically diverse countries globally, with over 25,000 species of animals and plants calling it home.

Mexico proudly boasts the fourth-highest number of mammal species worldwide, with more than 500 species present. Among the most notable mammals in Mexico are the jaguar, ocelot, and howler monkey. In addition, over 1,000 species of birds, such as the colorful quetzal and the iconic Mexican eagle, can be found here.

Despite this impressive diversity, many of Mexico's species are at risk of extinction due to habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Over 700 species of plants and animals are presently endangered in the country.

mexico

New York, located in the northeastern region of the United States, is known for its diverse landscapes, including its forests, mountains, and coastal areas. The state's natural beauty is reflected in its rich biodiversity, which provides habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species.

New York is home to over 400 bird species, a diverse population of mammals, and over 165 fish species.

However, like many other states, New York's environment is threatened by various factors, such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. The state has faced challenges such as sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and loss of biodiversity.

To address these challenges, New York has implemented policies and programs to protect its environment and biodiversity. The state has established several protected areas, such as Adirondack Park and Catskill Park, to conserve critical ecosystems and provide habitat for endangered species.

new york

California is a state located on the west coast of the United States, known for its diverse natural environment that includes rugged coastline, vast deserts, and towering mountain ranges. The state's natural environment is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including several endemic species.

The coastline of California is home to several marine mammals, including sea otters, harbor seals, and elephant seals, as well as several species of birds, such as pelicans, gulls, and cormorants. The state's beaches and wetlands provide important nesting and feeding grounds for several species of migratory birds.

The deserts of California, such as the Mojave and Sonoran deserts, are home to several species of animals, including desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, and rattlesnakes, as well as several species of cactus and other desert flora.

The mountain ranges of California, such as the Sierra Nevada and the Cascade Range, are home to several species of animals, including black bears, mountain lions, and several species of birds such as the California condor. The mountains also provide habitat for a variety of plant species, including several rare and endemic species.

California has several protected areas, such as Yosemite National Park and Joshua Tree National Park, which protect the state's unique biodiversity and provide opportunities for eco-tourism activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Despite its rich natural environment, California faces several environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, habitat loss due to urbanization, and the impacts of climate change.

california

Hawaii is a unique state located in the Pacific Ocean and made up of a chain of islands. The state's environmental landscape is characterized by its volcanic activity, coral reefs, and diverse flora and fauna. Hawaii is home to many species that are not found anywhere else in the world.

There are over 10,000 species of plants in Hawaii, including many that are endemic to the islands. The state is also home to a wide range of animals, including over 90 species of birds and several species of marine mammals. Some of Hawaii's most notable animals include the Hawaiian monk seal, the Hawaiian green sea turtle, and the nene, which is the state bird.

Despite its unique biodiversity, Hawaii faces many environmental challenges. Habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change are all major threats to the state's ecosystems and wildlife.

hawaii

Florida is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States, known for its warm climate, sandy beaches, and unique wildlife. Florida's environmental landscape is diverse, ranging from tropical and subtropical forests to coastal wetlands and coral reefs. The state is home to a variety of plant and animal species, there are over 4,000 species of plants in Florida, including many that are unique to the state's diverse ecosystems. The state is also home to a wide range of animals, including over 100 species of mammals, 500 species of birds, and over 200 species of reptiles and amphibians. However, despite its unique biodiversity, Florida faces many environmental challenges. Habitat loss, pollution, and invasive species are all major threats to the state's ecosystems and wildlife. While the state faces many environmental challenges, there is hope for the future through conservation efforts and sustainable development practices. By working together, we can ensure that Florida's natural resources and wildlife are preserved for years to come.

florida

Colorado is a state located in the western United States, known for its rugged natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. The state has a wide range of landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains, high plains, forests, and deserts, providing habitats for numerous species. Colorado's biodiversity is remarkable, with over 900 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians identified. The state is home to 42 state parks and 300 wildlife areas, adding up to 218,564 acres of park lands and 684,252 acres of wildlife landscapes. However, despite its natural richness, Colorado faces environmental challenges, including habitat fragmentation, climate change, and invasive species.

colorado

Mississippi, located in the southeastern region of the United States, is known for its vast wetlands, forests, and river systems, including the mighty Mississippi River. The state's diverse environmental landscape provides a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.

Mississippi is home to over 300 bird species, as well as a diverse population of mammals. Mississippi's waters support over 200 fish species.

However, like many other states, Mississippi's environment is threatened by various factors, such as pollution, habitat loss, and climate change. The state has faced challenges such as toxic algal blooms, declining water quality, and the loss of wetland habitats.

To address these challenges, Mississippi has implemented policies and programs to protect its environment and biodiversity. The state has established several protected areas, such as the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge and the Pascagoula River Basin, to conserve critical ecosystems and provide habitat for endangered species.

mississippi

Oregon is a state located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, known for its diverse and unique environmental landscape. The state is home to a variety of ecosystems, including forests, mountains, wetlands, and coastal areas, each with its own distinctive flora and fauna.

The state's western region is characterized by the Cascade Mountains, which run north-south through the state and include several active volcanoes. These mountains are home to diverse plant and animal species. The western region also features a rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean, which provides a habitat for marine life. High desert landscapes, including the expansive and remote Alvord Desert, dominate Oregon's eastern region, home to a variety of unique plant and animal species. The state's forests are also an important component of its environmental landscape, with approximately 30 million acres of forest land covering nearly half of the state. These forests also provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife.

However, Oregon faces a number of environmental challenges, including the impacts of climate change, habitat loss, and the threat of invasive species. 

oregon

Minnesota, also known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, is a state located in the Midwestern United States. The state's diverse environmental landscape includes vast forests, wetlands, prairies, and lakes, making it home to a variety of plant and animal species.

Minnesota is home to over 400 species of birds, including the bald eagle and the common loon. The state also has a diverse population of mammals and its waters support over 150 fish species.
However, like many other states, Minnesota's environment is threatened by various factors, such as pollution, habitat loss, and climate change. The state has faced challenges, such as toxic algal blooms and the decline of pollinator populations, which are essential to the state's agriculture industry.

To address these challenges, Minnesota has implemented policies and programs to protect its environment and biodiversity. The state has established several protected areas, such as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Voyageurs National Park, to conserve critical ecosystems and provide habitat for endangered species. 

minnesota

Washington is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, known for its lush forests, mountain ranges, and scenic coastlines. The state's natural beauty is largely attributed to its diverse geography, which includes three distinct ecosystems: the Pacific coastline, the Cascade Range, and the eastern highlands.

The coastal region of Washington is home to sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and towering evergreen forests. It is also an important habitat for marine life, including orcas, gray whales, sea otters, and a variety of fish and shellfish species. The state's coastline is vulnerable to ocean acidification, which threatens the health of the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

The Cascade Range, which runs through the center of the state, is a mountainous region that includes some of the state's highest peaks, including Mount Rainier and Mount Baker. The area is characterized by alpine meadows, glaciers, and old-growth forests. It is home to a diverse array of wildlife.

The eastern highlands of Washington are characterized by rolling hills, vast grasslands, and deep river canyons. The region is a critical habitat for a variety of species and a number of threatened and endangered plant species. However, the region is also facing environmental challenges, including habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and overgrazing.

washington

The Greenback Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarki stomias) is a remarkable and endangered fish species native to the cold, clear streams of the South Platte and Arkansas River basins in Colorado, USA. Named for its vibrant greenish hue on its back and distinctive red slash marks below its jaw, this trout is a vital part of its freshwater ecosystem. Sadly, the Greenback Cutthroat Trout has faced a dramatic decline in its population due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and competition with non-native trout species. Conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and controlled fishing, are crucial to protect this unique fish and restore its dwindling populations in its native waters.

greenback cutthroat trout

The Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse is a small rodent found in Colorado and Wyoming, USA. Rocky Mountain Wild, an environmental organization, is committed to the conservation of this endangered species. Dr. Dan Svingen, a respected biologist, plays a key role in researching and protecting the Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse. The main threats to this species are habitat loss and degradation due to urbanization and agricultural activities. Rocky Mountain Wild focuses on advocating for habitat preservation, conducting surveys, and promoting land-use practices that benefit the mouse and its ecosystem.

preble's meadow jumping mouse

The Gunnison Sage-Grouse is a unique bird species endemic to southwestern Colorado and southeastern Utah. The Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is working towards conserving the sagebrush habitats and populations of this endangered species. 

Dr. Clait E. Braun is a renowned avian ecologist and one of the leading experts on Gunnison Sage-Grouse. He has conducted extensive research on the species and has been involved in conservation efforts for several decades. 

The primary threats to this species include habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation due to land development and other human activities. 

gunnison sage-grouse

The Cook Inlet Beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) is a cetacean species subpopulation native to the Cook Inlet of Alaska, United States. Recognized for its distinctive white coloration and rounded forehead, the Cook Inlet Beluga has faced significant population declines due to habitat degradation, prey depletion, pollution, and anthropogenic disturbances and is now facing extinction. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore this iconic marine mammal species and ensure its survival in the face of mounting threats.

cook inlet beluga whale

The Mount Graham Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus grahamensis) is an endangered subspecies of red squirrel found in the high elevations of Mount Graham in Arizona, United States. The primary threats to the Mount Graham Red Squirrel include habitat loss, wildfires, and competition with introduced squirrels. Fragmentation of their forest habitat and limited geographic range exacerbate their vulnerability to extinction.

mount graham red squirrel

The Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalis) is a medium-sized bat species native to eastern North America. This species is of conservation concern due to population declines caused by habitat loss, disturbance, and the fungal disease known as white-nose syndrome.

indiana bat

The Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) is a small, migratory shorebird found along the Atlantic Coast of North America and the Great Lakes. It is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The population of Piping Plovers is estimated to be around 8,000 individuals. The species faces numerous threats, including habitat loss due to coastal development, disturbance by human activities, predation by invasive species, and climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and increased storm events.



piping plover

The Mexican Gray Wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is a critically endangered subspecies of the gray wolf, native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. The estimated remaining population of Mexican Gray Wolves is around 150 individuals. Historically, they faced habitat loss and persecution, and now face additional threats such as illegal shootings and genetic issues due to a small population size. Conservation efforts include captive breeding programs, reintroduction efforts, and managing conflicts with human activities to ensure their recovery and survival.

mexican gray wolf

The Dusky Gopher Frog (Lithobates sevosus) is an amphibian species native to the southeastern United States. With an estimated remaining population of less than 50 mature individuals, this frog faces severe threats to its survival. Loss of its natural habitat due to urbanization, agriculture, and pine forest destruction is the primary threat. Invasive species and disease also pose risks. Conservation efforts involve habitat restoration, captive breeding programs, and the establishment of protected areas to ensure the recovery and survival of this unique amphibian species.

dusky gopher frog

The Black-Footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes) is a slender, elusive mustelid endemic to North American grasslands. Adults measure roughly 46–61 cm in total length, weigh between 645 – 1125 g, and feature yellowish-fur with black mask, feet, and tail tip—a distinctive “bandit” appearance. Once thought extinct, the species was rediscovered in Meeteetse, Wyoming, in the 1980s; all remaining individuals were brought into captivity for a breeding program, making the species a notable conservation success story. Today, approximately 350–400 ferrets exist in the wild across multiple reintroduction sites. Typically living 4–5 years in the wild with much shorter mean survival due to high juvenile mortality, they are strictly dependent on prairie dog colonies—for both food (a ferret kills hundreds of prairie dogs annually) and shelter, residing in their burrows. High threats stem from disease (plague and distemper) and prey loss. Natural predators include badgers, coyotes, and raptors. Despite these challenges, conservation continues via captive breeding, ongoing reintroductions, habitat management, and disease control—efforts crucial to sustaining this rare, emblematic species.

black-footed ferret

The New Mexico Meadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hudsonius luteus) is an endangered small rodent species endemic to New Mexico, USA. Known for its long tail and remarkable ability to leap, this mouse inhabits riparian zones and relies heavily on dense vegetation near water sources. The estimated remaining population is uncertain, but it is believed to be small and declining due to habitat loss and degradation caused by agriculture, grazing, water management practices, and wildfires. Conservation efforts focus on habitat restoration, water management strategies, and population monitoring to ensure their survival.

new mexico meadow jumping mouse

The Oregon spotted frog (Rana pretiosa) is an endangered frog species native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Known for its distinct spotted appearance, it is typically found in wetland habitats, including ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams, where it plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. The estimated remaining population of Oregon spotted frogs is uncertain, but they have experienced significant declines, with only a few hundred individuals remaining. Threats to the species include habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation due to agriculture, urbanization, and invasive species. Conservation efforts involve wetland restoration, habitat protection, and population monitoring to support their recovery.

oregon spotted frog

The Razorback Sucker (Xyrauchen texanus) is a remarkable fish species native to the Colorado River Basin in the southwestern United States. Recognizable by its distinctive humpbacked appearance and sucker-like mouth, this fish plays a vital role in maintaining freshwater ecosystems. Unfortunately, the Razorback Sucker is facing extinction as a result of a severe decline in its population due to habitat alteration, water diversion, and competition with non-native species. Conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and captive breeding programs, are essential to protect this unique fish and prevent its extinction in its native waters.

razorback sucker

The Virgin Islands Boa (Chilabothrus granti) is an endangered non-venomous snake endemic to the Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. They have an estimated remaining population of a few thousand individuals. Habitat loss due to human development and the introduction of invasive predators are the main threats to this species.

virgin islands boa

The Lesser Prairie-Chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) is a unique bird species native to the Southern Great Plains of the United States. Known for its striking appearance and elaborate courtship displays, this grouse-like bird plays a vital role in grassland ecosystems. However, its population has dramatically declined due to habitat loss, primarily caused by agricultural and energy development. Conservation efforts are urgently needed to protect its dwindling habitat, implement sustainable land-use practices, and mitigate the threats it faces.

lesser prairie-chicken​

The Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida), is a subspecies of the Spotted Owl found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Recognizable by its mottled brown plumage and distinctive spotted pattern, this owl is a key indicator species for the health of mature forests in its range. Unfortunately, the Mexican Spotted Owl faces significant threats, including habitat loss due to logging and forest degradation, as well as competition with invasive species. Conservation efforts are essential to protect its forested habitats and ensure its survival.

mexican spotted owl

The Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) is a subspecies of the Willow Flycatcher, native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. This small, migratory bird is known for its olive-brown plumage and distinct habitat preference for riparian areas, particularly willow and cottonwood forests. Unfortunately, the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher is endangered due to habitat loss caused by water management practices, livestock grazing, and invasive species. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect and restore its habitat and ensure the survival of this imperiled species.

southwestern willow flycatcher

The Western Yellow-Billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus) is a species known for its distinctive yellow bill and striking markings. Native to western North America, this cuckoo prefers riparian habitats along rivers and streams, where it feeds on insects and caterpillars. Unfortunately, the Western Yellow-Billed Cuckoo faces significant habitat loss due to river channelization, agriculture, and urban development.&nbsp;

western yellow-billed cuckoo

The Canadian Lynx (Lynx canadensis) is a wild cat species native to North America, with a range extending from Alaska and Canada to parts of the northern United States. Recognized by its distinctive tufted ears, thick fur, and large paws adapted for traversing snowy terrain, this lynx is perfectly suited to its boreal forest habitat. It primarily preys on snowshoe hares, its main food source. However, the Canadian Lynx faces conservation challenges due to habitat fragmentation and prey population fluctuations. Conservation efforts, including habitat protection and research, are crucial to ensure the survival of this iconic species in its northern wilderness.

canadian lynx

georgia blind salamander

cheoah bald salamander

jemez mountains salamander

california tiger salamander

red-bellied newt, western red-bellied newt, redbelly newt

The Amargosa Pupfish is a small, robust fish with a silvery-gray body, adapted to the extreme conditions of desert aquatic habitats. Males exhibit bright blue coloration during the breeding season. Their resilience to high salinity and temperature variations makes them unique among freshwater fishes. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their limited habitats from degradation and mitigating the impacts of invasive species.

amargosa pupfish

white river killfish, white river springfish

railroad valley springfish

white sands pupfish

kings river slender salamander

cascade caverns salamander

The Barton Springs Salamander is a small, slender amphibian measuring up to 6.4 cm (2.5 inches) in length. It exhibits a range of colors from dark purple to light yellow, often with a mottled appearance. Notably, it retains external gills throughout its life, an adaptation to its fully aquatic lifestyle. Endemic to the Barton Springs complex in Austin, Texas, this species relies on the clear, cool waters of the Edwards Aquifer. Its presence serves as an indicator of the aquifer's health, highlighting the interconnectedness of urban water use and ecosystem vitality.

barton springs salamander

comal blind salamander

west virginia spring salamander

The Big Levels Salamander (Plethodon sherando) is a small, lungless salamander endemic to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Measuring 7–10 centimeters in length, it is distinguished by its broad head, longer legs, and striking coloration, which includes a reddish or brassy dorsal stripe contrasted with a grayish-white belly. This species thrives in cool, moist forest habitats, where it shelters under rocks, logs, and leaf litter. As a lungless salamander, it relies on cutaneous respiration, requiring consistently humid environments to survive. The species plays an essential role in its ecosystem by contributing to nutrient cycling and acting as both predator and prey within the forest floor community. However, its limited range makes it highly susceptible to habitat loss and environmental changes. Conservation efforts focus on protecting forested habitats, reducing logging impacts, and monitoring populations to prevent further declines. Preservation of this species is critical, as it serves as an indicator of the ecological health of Virginia’s montane forests.

big levels salamander

Founded in 1989 in New Mexico's Gila wilderness, the Center for Biological Diversity emerged from the shared commitment of Kier n Suckling, Peter Galvin, and...

center for biological diversity

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