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Biodiversity

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is necessary for life to thrive on Earth.

Aldo Leopold, one of the great thinkers of conservation, observed more than half a century ago the importance of protecting species. "To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering," he wrote. Losing species is like throwing away one by one the engine parts of an airplane while flying.

Biodiversity is a major initiative of Conservation International.

Biodiversity conservation provides substantial benefits to meet immediate human needs, such as those for clean, consistent water flows; protection from floods and storms; and a stable climate. 

Curated by mokiethecat

Watch California Mountain Lions Kittens Play

Mountain lions, more closely related to housecats than lions, face challenging lives in Central California's urban wildlands. Their habitat is fragmented by freeways and development. Despite their wild nature, puma kittens behave much like domestic cats, and their mothers even purr. (Footage courtesy of the National Park Service)

The Center for Biological Diversity, a Tucson-based 501c3 nonprofit, believes human welfare is deeply linked to nature's biodiversity. We use science, law, and creative media to protect species on the brink of extinction and safeguard the lands, waters, and climate they need. Our mission is to ensure future generations inherit a world where the wild thrives.