This white paper evaluates every section 4(d) rule issued under the Endangered Species Act through May 2016. It also describes Defenders' position on the use of those rules and recommendations for better ways to implement the rules. 

Click below to read the report.

https://www.defenders.org/sites/default/files/publications/section-4d-rules-the-peril-and-the-promise-white-paper.pdf

For over 75 years, Defenders of Wildlife has remained dedicated to protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.1 million members and supporters, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on X @Defenders.

  

News

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Two North Atlantic Right Whales
Washington, D.C.

Defenders Raises Alarm Over Administration’s Proposal to Amend Rule Protecting North Atlantic Right Whales From Deadly Vessel Strikes

Defenders of Wildlife is devastated to learn that a three-year-old female North Atlantic right whale was found dead off Virginia on February 10, 2026. This
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Bison in field
Billings, Mont.

Defenders Stands Against Rejection of Bison Grazing Lands

Defenders of Wildlife is joining conservation group American Prairie in protesting a proposal by the Bureau of Land Management to revoke a decision allowing bison