What do the lambda snaggletooth, three horn wartyback and delicate vertigo have in common? All three are freshwater mollusks that recently have been added to Michigan's list of Threatened and Endangered Species.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently revised its list of threatened and endangered species after a painstaking review process. The list, which now includes 396 species, had 69 additions. The most notable addition is the cerulean warbler, a striking blue, black and white bird that summers in mature forests that feature a well-developed shrub layer. The cerulean warbler is a species of concern under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program.

On a positive note, the populations of seven species have recovered to the point that they were removed from the list. These include two plants, two insects, and most notably the bald eagle, osprey and gray wolf.

"Many conservationists in Michigan have been working for decades to help species like the eagle, osprey and the wolf," said DNR endangered species specialist Chris Hoving. "When we really apply ourselves, we can recover these species. I see this as a moment to celebrate these conservation success stories."

Snails and plants led the list of newly listed species. Michigan is one of a few states that include plants on its threatened and endangered species list. Also in evidence are a number of freshwater mussels; species that have been the subject of intense investigation in recent years.

"Many of the newly listed species are associated with rivers," Hoving said. "Anything we can do to improve water quality, wetlands or floodplain habitat will help."

Michigan's list is reviewed regularly by technical review committees headed by experts from universities and other research institutions. Reviews are subject to public comment, which sometimes result in changes to the list.

For more information on endangered species in Michigan, visit the DNR Web site at www.michigan.gov/dnr. The Endangered & Nongame Wildlife page can be found under Wildlife & Habitat menu.