The last quagga died in 1883, making the species extinct.

When the last quagga died at the Amsterdam Zoo, it was not immediately recognized that a species had become extinct. The quagga, native to the deserts of Africa, was closely related to the zebra. In appearance, the quagga looked like a reddish-brown zebra with stripes on only part of its body. Because the name “quagga” was often misapplied to all zebras, the true plight of the species was not understood. Quaggas and other grazing animals were hunted by settlers who did not want them to compete with their own livestock for the limited resources. Quaggas were eliminated from the wild in the 1870s, but continued to survive in captivity until this day in 1883. Modern DNA research has recently shown a link between true quaggas and the Burchell’s Zebra. Attempts are now being made, through selective breeding, to re-establish at least the quagga’s unique coloration.

Xpeditions
The Xpeditions Activity Preserving Biodiversity (K–12) is a multi-level activity in which students take on the role of zoo director with a mission to teach people about the importance of biodiversity. Students examine maps and then create a map that shows where some endangered species live around the world.

In People and Endangered Species (3–5), elementary students examine some endangered species and the ways that human activities contribute to species endangerment.

Middle grade students learn some basics about DNA and genetics and then learn how DNA can be used to study and help endangered animals in DNA and Endangered Species (6–8).

For high school students, Can Captive Breeding Save Species? (9–12) challenges participants to research and assess a variety of programs designed to preserve biodiversity.

EconEdLink
For a look at another issue involving endangered species, students can examine the effects of South American deforestation in Save the Moonflowers (9–12).

Science NetLinks
In Endangered Species 1: Why Are Species Endangered? (6–8), students learn about the plight of endangered species and begin to understand and gain perspective on human issues that continue to endanger species and threaten our global environment.

In the follow-up lesson, Endangered Species 2: Working to Save Endangered Species (6–8), students explore the Endangered Species Act and the work of scientists who strive to protect species.