The purpose of these programs is to help save endangered species, and, several support captive breeding programs through which nature conservationists seek to insure that these animals have a healthy genetic legacy to pass on to future generations.  Other programs that are listed here are designed to save the habitat that is necessary to support wildlife and the plant life that they depend on for food and shelter.  

Before you invest in animal adoption, please make sure that you are comfortable with the organization.  The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) and the Nature Conservancy (TNC) are well known.  If you are not familiar with the organization, check with the area's Better Business Bureau to make sure that the organization does what it says that it does.  The fact that these sites are listed here does not constitute an endorsement of the organization.  You must make the determination of their reliability for yourself.