What defines an endangered species in the context of pesticide application?

An endangered species is defined as a species that is in danger of extinction, meaning its population has declined to a critical level where it faces significant threats to its survival. This can be due to various factors such as habitat loss, environmental changes, or human activities, including pesticide application. In the context of pesticide use, protecting these species is vital because certain chemicals can further harm their already vulnerable populations, disrupt their habitats, or interfere with their breeding and feeding behaviors. Therefore, when applying pesticides, it is crucial to understand and mitigate the risks to endangered species to ensure their survival and compliance with environmental regulations.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the definition of an endangered species. A stable population describes a species that is not currently at risk, while species unaffected by environmental changes would not qualify for the endangered label either. Species commonly found in urban areas typically have more resources and less threat of extinction, making them less likely to be classified as endangered.