# SSC

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ssc
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

Stands for Species of Special Concern. A type of animal or plant that is not yet endangered but needs to be watched closely because its numbers are dropping. Scientists track these species to prevent them from disappearing in the future.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Species of Special Concern. A conservation category for organisms that are vulnerable to decline but do not yet meet the legal criteria for threatened or endangered status. Often used in environmental policy to prioritise monitoring and habitat protection.

## Examples

- The local turtle is listed as an SSC due to habitat loss.
- State biologists designated the mountain plover as an SSC to ensure its nesting grounds are protected during the upcoming construction project.
- While the federal government has not yet granted it full protection, the bird's status as an SSC allows researchers to secure funding for long-term population studies and migratory tracking.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a collective noun or as a modifier before a specific species name.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.