Back From the Brink

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) became a United States law in 1973. When a type of animal is at risk, it can be added to the endangered-species list. The government works to save these animals. A species is taken off the list when it is no longer at risk. These four animals are ESA success stories.

The BALD EAGLE is the national bird of the U.S. This bird can soar 10,000 feet high. It has excellent eyesight. This helps it hunt for fish and other small animals. To attack prey, it can dive at speeds of 100 miles per hour.

The BLACK-FOOTED FERRET is a small predator. The species was once thought to be extinct. But in 1981, a group of them was discovered in Wyoming. With protection, the ferrets multiplied. There are now a few hundred of them in the U.S.

The AMERICAN ALLIGATOR is a reptile. It is made for life in the water. An alligator has webbed feet. It uses its strong tail to swim. A male weighs about 500 pounds. But large alligators have weighed in at 1,000 pounds.

The HUMPBACK WHALE is known for singing. The animal makes high-pitched whistling noises and deep moans. The sound travels for miles. These whales often jump out of the water. Scientists aren’t sure why. But it looks like fun!