Extinction
When a species completely disappears from Earth, so no more individuals are alive anywhere.
What is it?
Extinction happens when all the members of a species die out. The Guam Kingfisher is extinct in the wild, meaning it no longer lives in its natural habitat, but some individuals survive in zoos. If the zoo breeding programs fail, the species could become completely extinct. Many species have gone extinct due to human activities like habitat destruction, hunting, and introducing invasive species.
Why it matters
Extinction is forever. Once a species is gone, we cannot bring it back. Protecting endangered species and their habitats helps prevent extinction.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more exhibits about extinction.