Endangered Mammals of Ontario

American Bison

This mammal is a species of bison also known as the American buffalo that inhabited the grasslands in North America and almost became extinct in the 19th century due to commercial hunting and slaughter and the emergence of bovine diseases introduced by interactions with domestic cattle. As per the 2008 assessment by the IUCN Red List, there were approximately 11,250 wild free-ranging individuals of this species. The resurgence of this species has been possible due to the conservation efforts made by private parks and reserves across Canada and the USA.

Polar Bear

This carnivorous bear is native to the Arctic Circle in the Arctic Ocean, the surrounding seas, and the surrounding lands. The Polar Bear Specialist Group (PBSG) recognizes 19 sub-populations of the polar bear that are consistently declining. There is, however, not enough information and knowledge about the specific population of the polar bears. The major threat to the polar bear is the loss of habitat in the Arctic Circle caused by climate change. Lack of enough knowledge on this species has also made it difficult for conservation and management efforts.

The polar bear is listed by the IUCN Red List as vulnerable. There was an International Agreement on the Conservation of Polar Bears signed in 1973 by five states including Canada. The agreement provided guidance on each state to conduct research on polar bears.

Rock Vole

The rock vole, also known as the yellow-nosed vole, inhabits eastern North America. This species inhabits the rocky slopes of eastern Canada. The rock vole often prefers wet, cool, coniferous, and mixed forests. The primary threat to the rock vole species is the loss of its habitat due to forest destruction. There is, however, no major threat to the rock vole as the IUCN Red List has it as “Least Concern.” Conservation of the rock vole in Ontario is done through protection in national forests, parks, and public lands.