How To Help Threatened Species In Illinois And Beyond

The smooth green snake is one of Chicago Wilderness’ 12 priority species. It’s labeled as an Illinois species in greatest need of conservation and considered endangered by the state of Indiana.
The smooth green snake is one of Chicago Wilderness' 12 priority species. It's labeled as an Illinois species in greatest need of conservation and considered endangered by the state of Indiana. Allison Sacerdote-Velat / Courtesy of Chicago Wilderness
The smooth green snake is one of Chicago Wilderness’ 12 priority species. It’s labeled as an Illinois species in greatest need of conservation and considered endangered by the state of Indiana.
The smooth green snake is one of Chicago Wilderness' 12 priority species. It's labeled as an Illinois species in greatest need of conservation and considered endangered by the state of Indiana. Allison Sacerdote-Velat / Courtesy of Chicago Wilderness

How To Help Threatened Species In Illinois And Beyond

WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.

Humans are causing species extinction at an alarming rate. One study estimates that three-quarters of animal species could be extinct within several human lifetimes. One third of all amphibian species are at risk of extinction right now. 

To mark the upcoming Endangered Species Day, we talk with Chicago Wilderness, an organization that’s decided to focus on the health and habitat of 12 priority species. 

We hear about their strategies and partners who intend to protect threatened species from Suzanne Malec-McKenna, executive director of Chicago Wilderness.