What are the differences between endangered, threatened, special concern, and species of greatest conservation need?
Endangered species are in danger of extinction. Threatened species are in danger of becoming endangered. Threatened and endangered species are protected by law; they may not be killed, harassed, handled, or possessed without a permit. Species of special concern are rare or have declining populations, but do not yet meet the criteria for threatened status. Species of greatest conservation need are priorities within Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan, and include Michigan’s endangered, threatened, special concern, and other species that need conservation action.
