The California Endangered Species Act of 1970 created categories to signify endangered species. Though the terminology has been changed slightly since its inception, the goal remains firm--to adhere to the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 670.5. The official California listing of Endangered and Threatened animals is contained within this legal document which specifies the names and classifications of animal, bugs and plants to be protected. The official federal listing of Endangered and Threatened animals is published in the Federal Register, 50 CFR 17.11.

California was one of the first states to enact statutes protecting rare and endangered animal species and continues to lead the charge in environmental protection. It is illegal to import, export, take, possess, purchase, sell or attempt to do any of those actions to species that are designated as threatened or endangered or are candidates for listing, unless permitted by California Department of Fish and Wildlife CDFW.

As of 2014 California Endangered = 47
State listed as Threatened = 36
Federally listed as Endangered = 91
Federally listed as Threatened = 38

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