Trump Administration Rips Away Protection for Migratory Birds

The Trump administration is reportedly reversing the longstanding interpretation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to exempt industry – including the oil and gas industry, powerlines and wind energy – from compliance with the United States’ commitment under international agreements to protect migratory birds.

Statement from Bob Dreher, Defenders of Wildlife’s senior vice president of conservation programs:

“In yet another gift to big corporations, the Trump administration is carving a huge hole in the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, allowing industries to kill birds with impunity. For generations, Americans have pledged to work with Canada and other nations to protect migratory birds. Defenders of Wildlife will fight to reverse the Trump administration’s reckless and lawless act, and to restore the protections our migratory birds depend on for their survival.”