Queensland has many different types of native plants and animals. Each is known as a species.

Golden-Shouldered Parrot
Psephotus chrysopterygius
(Illustration: Peter Slater)

Some of our species have disappeared forever – they have become extinct, meaning they have not been located in the wild during the last 50 years. Others are threatened – they are in danger of becoming extinct if no effort is made to conserve them.

An endangered species is one in immediate danger of becoming extinct in the wild if the threats continue.

A vulnerable species is one that will soon become endangered if threats to its survival continue.

A rare species is one that occurs in small numbers but is not at present endangered or vulnerable, but is at risk.