Eco-Tourism Adventures for Seeing Endangered Species

Eco-tourism enables travelers to leave a lighter footprint while still exploring the wonders of Mother Nature. Some of the best places to travel off the beaten path are home to Earth's most threatened creatures. However, there are ways to see them that are safe for all those involved. Guided tours, traditionally led by local experts and scientists, are designed to show off the beauty of the creatures, while ensuring that the natural world remains just that, all natural. Nature reserves allow adventurers to see endangered species in areas designated for animals' own safety and many offer tour opportunities.

- By Eileen Falkenberg-Hull

01 Green Turtle (EN)

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

The green turtle can be found from the Hawaiian Islands to Guam, Madagascar, the Caribbean and points in between. They are known to migrate from beaches to deep water, facing predators including fishing boats and egg hunters along the way. A scuba dive to a reef or a visit (at a safe distance) to a beach during breeding season provide opportunities to see the creatures.

02 Black-Footed Ferret (EN)

SHIRLEY BASIN, WYOMING

Thought to be extinct, a discovery in 1981 told a new story. Now listed as Endangered, cloning has helped bolster this ferret population, but only to about 300 or so. To see them in the wild, try visiting Shirley Basin, Wyoming. Also, the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C., has just welcomed ferret babies, which can be viewed on Black-Footed Ferret Cam.

03 Monarch Butterfly (EN)

CANADA, U.S. AND MEXICO

Each fall, Monarch butterflies journey between 1,200 and 2,800 miles from as far north as southeastern Canada to central Mexico as part of their wintertime migration. See them at Point Pelee National Park (Ontario), Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge (Texas) and St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge (Florida) as they migrate.