The Species at Risk Act (SARA) is federal legislation protecting wildlife species at risk of extinction or extirpation (disappearing from Canada) and their critical habitat. SARA establishes processes for assessing species status, listing species for protection, and developing recovery strategies. The Act prohibits killing, harming, or harassing listed species and destroying their critical habitat, particularly on federal lands and for aquatic species and migratory birds (federal jurisdiction). SARA affects municipal land use when protected species or habitats are present, potentially restricting development or requiring mitigation measures. Provincial endangered species legislation provides complementary protection. Conservation of species at risk requires cooperation across all levels of government.