How are endangered animals protected?

Many countries throughout the world have laws that protect endangered species. It is often a crime to kill or injure an endangered or protected animal. In the United States there are a number of laws that protect endangered animals. These laws are part of the Endangered Species Act which was signed into law by President Nixon in 1973. These laws help protect the animals and their habitat. They also include programs to help animals recover called Recovery Plans. The main agencies that enforce the laws and help protect the animals are the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.