BC Species: Stuck in Danger Zone

0:00It's April 5th. I'm Cory with the story, and this is Canada News Today, your AI-powered local news. A new study from Simon Frazier University drops some tough truth on British Columbia's endangered species. Over the past two decades, Little has changed for most at-risk animals and plants. Out of hundreds on the list, only 14 species genuinely improved their status from 2008 to 2025. While another, 14 got worse. Think monarch butterflies and bobbling slipping further into trouble. Species like the hairy woodpecker, humpback whale, and a few dragonflies saw real population boosts. Partly thanks to warmer temps expanding there. Ranges Meanwhile, the province's red list now has 493 species, and the blue vulnerable list hits 1,200. 33, a 25% jump, mostly from adding new ones, not recoveries. B-searchers, including co-author Peter Thompson, point out the big issue. Most species stay

1:01stuck in the same danger zone. B.C. boasts Canada's highest biodiversity, yet the wildlife act has only protected four species since 1996, like sea otters and Vancouver. Island Marmots They documented over 900 ghost species at risk, but not even listed, especially spiders and bugs. The study slams gaps in current laws. No firm rules for habitat protection or recovery plans, and too much leaning on non-profits for spotty safeguards. Thompson calls the data collection impressive, but says action falls short. Bottom line? These species are still crying for help before they hit the extinction edge. Time for proactive moves to turn the tide and B.C. in beyond.