Extinct in the wild (EW)

Definition

Extinct in the wild refers to a species that no longer exists naturally in its native habitat but continues to survive only through captive breeding programs or reintroduction efforts.

Analogy

Picture a bird confined inside a cage while its natural habitat outside the cage is destroyed. When a species becomes extinct in the wild, it's like that bird being unable to fly freely in its natural environment.

Related terms

Captive Breeding: The process of breeding and raising endangered species in controlled environments with the aim of reintroducing them into the wild.

Reintroduction Programs: Initiatives that involve releasing captive-bred individuals back into their native habitats to restore populations.

Habitat Destruction: The loss or degradation of a natural habitat, often caused by human activities such as deforestation or urbanization.