2.2 Provincial
RED
and
BLUE
list system
The provincial red and blue lists
are established based on the Nature Conservancy system described
above – but utilizing only the provincial rank. These lists
are revised and updated on a regular basis to reflect currently
available information. Species may be added to the list as a result
of habitat loss or fragmentation, or possibly be removed if management
efforts are successful.
Red-listed
species are those believed to be endangered or threatened
in the province. Endangered refers to native species
or subspecies that are at risk of imminent extinction or extirpation
throughout all or a significant portion of its range in British
Columbia. Threatened refers to species or subspecies that
are likely to become endangered if factors affecting their vulnerability
are not reversed (Harper et al. 1994). Red listed species have ranks
of 1,2, 1-2, 1-3, H or X.
Blue-listed
species are considered to be vulnerable and "at risk",
but not yet endangered or threatened in the province. Populations
of these species may not be in decline, but their habitat requirements
are such that they are vulnerable to further disturbances (Harper
et al. 1994). Blue-listed species have ranks of 2-3, 3, or 3-4.
Species with ranks of 4 or 5 are
not considered to be at risk in British Columbia. See Appendix
for more details on the provincial list status.
