We synthesized reported threats to US imperiled species to identify which of the five predominant drivers of biodiversity loss-climate change, invasive species, land and sea use change, pollution, and overexploitation-negatively influence species persistence across taxa. Using threats identified at listing under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) assessments, and novel climate sensitivity assessments, we document which drivers affect the 2766 imperiled species analyzed. Our results are the first in which climate change has been identified as the leading threat to species listed under the ESA. We found that updated climate sensitivity assessments are essential for understanding the breadth of this threat. We also show that the majority of US imperiled species experience multiple threats, with some groups such as cnidarians, bivalves, and amphibians facing a higher total number than average. As climate change rapidly accelerates, we emphasize the need for up-to-date assessments and highlight existing data gaps.
As Staff Scientist, Talia provides science support, research and coordination for Defenders. She is a key resource and bridge-builder for Defenders’ conservation programs and external science networks.