The national parks within the U.S. are wonders to behold. They haven’t been named “America’s Best Idea” for nothing. And while they may simply seem like places to vacation, they are much, much more than that. Beyond their pristine beauty, where you can find peace and adventure, they are home to some extraordinary species, including some animals on the endangered species list.
The National Park Service (NPS) staff, including rangers and researchers, work tirelessly to ensure these animals have a safe and thriving home to live in. However, their jobs have just become a little harder, and combined with a changing climate, it’s possible these animals could be even more threatened.
1. Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles
Not only are Kemp’s ridleys the smallest sea turtle species, but they’re also the most endangered. These turtles are often caught as bycatch in commercial fishing nets and, during the 1940s to the 1960s, were often harvested for their meat and skin. Poachers also raided their nests for eggs.
