What are endangered species and how are they classified?

Endangered species are those species of plants or animals that are at a very high risk of extinction in the near future due to factors such as habitat loss, poaching, climate change, and environmental degradation. These species are classified based on their population status, rate of decline, and geographic distribution. The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies species into categories such as vulnerable, endangered, and critically endangered under its Red List system. Vulnerable species face a high risk of extinction, endangered species face a very high risk, and critically endangered species face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. This classification helps in prioritizing conservation efforts and implementing protective measures.