# wildlife

/ˈwaɪɫdˌɫaɪf/ (US) · /wˈaɪldlaɪf/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wildlife
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. animals in nature

noun · CEFR B1

animals, birds, and insects that live in the wild and are not pets or farm animals.

For teachers: undomesticated animals, especially mammals, birds, and fish, considered as a group in their natural environment. Uncountable in general usage.

- The local park is a great place to see wildlife like squirrels and birds.
- The documentary highlights the devastating impact of plastic pollution on marine wildlife in the Pacific Ocean.

### 2. all wild organisms

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical · Academic

all living things in nature, including plants and tiny organisms, not just animals.

For teachers: the total population of undomesticated organisms within a specific ecosystem, including flora, fauna, and fungi.

- The scientists studied the desert wildlife to see how plants and animals survive the heat.
- Conservation efforts must address the entire spectrum of wildlife, from microscopic soil organisms to the apex predators that maintain ecological balance.

Usage: In technical or scientific contexts, this sense encompasses both flora and fauna.

## Examples

- We saw a lot of wildlife during our hike.
- The new highway was built with special tunnels to allow wildlife to cross safely without entering traffic.
- Conservationists argue that the encroachment of urban development into the wetlands poses a significant threat to the local wildlife, particularly migratory bird species that rely on the area for nesting.

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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.