What Are Endangered Species?

Meet some of the most endangered species in the world, from the panthers of Florida to the mountain gorillas of central Africa, while exploring the history of extinction, the role of humans in environmental conservation, and the incredible species that share our earth.

In What Are Endangered Species?, readers will travel around the world, on sea and on land, to learn about the animals, insects, and plants that are in danger of disappearing from our planet. Some of these species are strange and fascinating, like the carnivorous Venus flytrap. Others are especially crucial to the health of our planet, like gray wolves, apex predators that help control populations of prey animals and stabilize a whole ecosystem. Some are no longer endangered because of the strong steps individuals and governments have taken to protect them, like the iconic bald eagle.

Giant pandas were once one of the most threatened species on our planet. Because of humans destroying their habitat and the effects of climate change, their population was critically low. Thanks to their designation as an endangered species and their recognizable, adorable faces, humans took action. Today, the population of giant pandas in China is rebounding—and it's all because of the response to their endangered status. Pandas and other species are part of a web that connects all living things—one that we must respect and take care of if we want more endangered species to survive.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs