The SKCDC makes available species lists for taxa in Saskatchewan, including both tracked species and common species. These lists are created using the species range information and mapped locations of observations in our database, and include information on the global ranking (GRANK), subnational ranking (SRANK) and the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) status for each species.
Tracked species lists are created for all species with a subnational ranking of S3 or less, and/or a COSEWIC status from special concern to extirpated. Taxa that are not ranked S1, S2 or S3 may still be tracked if special circumstances warrant. View the SKCDC’s species conservation ranking methodology page for more information on generating subnational rankings.
Why do species names and taxonomy change?
The names and classifications given to Saskatchewan taxa are standardized in order for the SKCDC to be consistent with other jurisdictions. The SKCDC generally follows the standards set out by NatureServe, which lists standards for both animals and plants. It should be noted that while the convention for plants is currently Kartesz, NatureServe’s advisory committee has recently recommended using the Flora of North America as the standard for vascular and non-vascular plants at the genus and species level.
Taxonomy is a dynamic, not a static, field, resulting in ever-shifting classifications and naming based on the best available information. Previously, classification was often the result of morphological, behavioral, or distributive study of taxa. As molecular research becomes more sophisticated and widespread, new and better information is emerging regarding the evolutionary relationships between taxa. Phylogenetic studies may show that a particular taxon should be its own distinct genus, that it should be lumped with an existing group, or that it is not a distinct species but rather a subspecies of an existing species. All of these situations result in a name change for the taxon in question, reflecting the best available information for its classification.
Information in each species list report is current only to the date at which it was published, and this date can be found on each report. As we are frequently updating information in our system, it is advised that you check the SKCDC species lists page for the latest report prior to starting your project.
If you cannot find the information you are looking for in the available species list reports, contact the SKCDC data manager.
