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Single manatee under water  swimming in the hot springs sanctuary in Florida
Washington, D.C.

Trump Administration Rescinds ‘Harm’ Definition, Defenders Prepares for Court

In a devastating blow to wildlife, the Trump administration today formally rescinded the regulatory definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act, eliminating the long-standing legal interpretation that habitat destruction that leads to death or injury of protected species is illegal.
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Black bears on rocks above Anan Creek Tongass NF
Raleigh, North Carolina

Defenders Celebrates North Carolina General Assembly’s Historic Investment in Wildlife Crossings with Recurring Multi-million-dollar Appropriation

North Carolina's $10.2M recurring investment for wildlife crossings is a historic win, protecting both motorists and vulnerable species like black bears and red wolves. The victory is part of a years-long effort from the Safe Passage Coalition.
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Sea otter with head poking above the water near kelp
Washington, DC

Defenders of Wildlife Urges Public Opposition to NOAA’s Planned Review That Could Weaken California’s Authority to Protect its Coastline

NOAA will review California's Coastal Management Program following a directive from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Defenders of Wildlife urges public participation in upcoming public meetings to protect California's coast, wildlife, and state authority.

Press Releases

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2020.12.05 - Ocelot OF343 Trail Cam - Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge - Texas - USFWS.jpg
TEXAS

Ocelot Killed by Car 50 Miles from Known Habitat Could Modify Range

Based on DNA results from a male ocelot found dead three years ago in Hidalgo County the Friends of Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge and
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Florida Manatee
Washington, DC

Defenders Statement Opposing “America’s Wildlife Habitat and Conservation Act” Set for Markup

Defenders of Wildlife staunchly opposes today’s House Natural Resources Committee markup of “America’s Wildlife Habitat and Conservation Act” sponsored by chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR). Rep
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2020.03.25 - Gray wolf - Oregon - ODFW
Denver, CO

Defenders Responds to Reports of Torture of Gray Wolf by Wyoming Man

Defenders of Wildlife recently learned of a horrific incident regarding the torture of a juvenile gray wolf by a Wyoming man. Michael Saul, Rockies and
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2010.12.27 - Florida Manatee - Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge - Florida - Keith Ramos - USFWS
Washington, DC

Defenders of Wildlife Supports Biological Integrity, Diversity and Environmental Health Proposed Rule

In advance of a hearing by the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries, Defenders of Wildlife is announcing its
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chinook salmon
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA

Stop the Ongoing Killing of Federally Protected Salmon and Steelhead by the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project

State and federal agencies must take immediate action to stop the unauthorized killing of thousands of Chinook Salmon and Steelhead at State and Federal water
Senior Vice President, External Affairs
lsheehan@defenders.org
(202) 772-3244
Communications Director
mdewane@defenders.org
(202) 772-0217
Communications Specialist
jcovey@defenders.org
Communications Specialist
kirby@defenders.org
(202) 772-3268
Communications Specialist
estern@defenders.org
202-772-0243