These factors are contributing to the decline of animals such as the Burrowing Owl, a Canadian species whose range also includes parts of North and South America. Their habitat consists mainly of open areas with low-lying vegetation, a habitat now at risk due to extensive development and agriculture. As of February 2023, there are estimated to be less than 1000 breeding pairs remaining in Canada. 

Another North American species at risk is the Blanding's Turtle, a medium-sized turtle with a hinged, domed shell and yellow chin and throat that resides mainly in wetlands in the Great Lakes Basin of Ontario, Canada. Blanding's Turtles are classified under the Endangered Species Act as "Threatened", meaning they are likely to become Endangered if steps are not taken to address the loss and fragmentation of their wetland habitat. Blanding's Turtles can live up to 75 years in the wild, and do not mature or start to lay eggs until they are 20-25 years old, so loss of one turtle can have a large impact on the entire population. Another threat to Blanding's Turtles is invasive species, such as the European Common Reed, which can make wetland habitats unsuitable for Blanding's Turtles to inhabit, and restrict their movement. 

These issues are daunting, but fixable. Through the implementation of conservation projects and policies that protect native species and their habitats, it is possible to ensure the well-being of the diverse wildlife that makes our world so unique. The only way to begin these critical processes is by taking definitive action on wildlife preservation to create a safer, healthier and happier world for wildlife.

Photo credit: Emydoidea blandingii (Blanding's Turtle), creator: Hoan Long (Creative Commons License). Link: https://flic.kr/p/25mzkap