Our Strategy

Defenders of Wildlife works on the ground, in the courts, and on Capitol Hill to protect and restore imperiled wildlife and habitats across North America. Together, we can ensure a future for the wildlife and wild places we all love.


Our Approach

When wildlife is in danger, they can't speak up for themselves—so we speak for them. Defenders of Wildlife deploys a wide range of tools and tactics, from policy analyses and advocacy, to litigation, innovative science and technology programs and field conservation. Every Defenders program aligns with or contributes to at least one of three broad imperatives:

  • Prevent species and their habitats from becoming imperiled.
  • Protect endangered and threatened species and their habitats.
  • Restore the health of vulnerable species and their habitats.

On the Ground

We work on the ground at the state, tribal and local level developing practical, innovative programs that protect and restore imperiled species and their habitats.

On the Hill

We engage actively on Capitol Hill to defend wildlife and wild places from legislative attacks and secure new wildlife conservation initiatives.

In the Courts

We have been at the forefront of wildlife and natural resource litigation and policy since the organization's inception in 1947.

blue mountains

What We Do

Sage-Grouse on a hill

Conserving Imperiled Species

Our conservation efforts are targeted at the full range of vulnerable North American biodiversity.
Colorado Rocky Mountains in Fall

Protecting Habitat

We are protecting habitats that represent some of the last, best places for wildlife to thrive.
Livestock Guardian Dogs

Promoting Coexistence

We successfully limit negative interactions between humans and wildlife in communities across the country.
Swamp Lined with Trees

Biodiversity Law Center

The Biodiversity Law Center works at the intersection of conservation law and scientific analysis to advance durable, long-lasting wildlife protections.
Map of State Endangered Species

Innovating for Wildlife Conservation

In the Center for Conservation Innovation, we focus on improving conservation using science, technology and policy.
Wind Farm and Field

Combating Climate Change

We are working to address the impacts of climate change and advocate for adaptation.
Invasive Burmese Python

Fighting Invasive Species

We are supporting removal programs and fighting for substantial funding for invasive species resistance.

Where We Work

Ocelot
Leonardo / Adobe Stock

Our Work & Impact

90%
of old-growth habitat removed from a proposed timber sale in Tongass National Forest after the U.S. Forest Service heeded our objections, protecting thousands of acres of habitat for wolves, bears and more.
75
years of leading efforts to protect and restore wildlife and habitat in North America. The stakes have never been higher, but our experience and expertise have prepared us to face the challenges ahead.
100+
collaboration projects to prevent conflicts with grizzly bears and wolves in the West, including range riders, electric fencing and bear-resistant garbage containers.
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