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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In a devastating blow to wildlife, the Trump administration today formally rescinded the regulatory definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act, eliminating the long-standing legal interpretation that habitat destruction that leads to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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Hickory Nut Gorge Green Salamander on Rock
Asheville, NC

North Carolina Salamander Moves Toward Endangered Species Protection

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that it would consider protecting the Hickory Nut Gorge green salamander under the Endangered Species Act. The
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2019.11.06 - Pygmy Rabbit - Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge - Nevada - Miranda Crowell
Boise, Idaho

Pygmy Rabbit One Step Closer to Endangered Species Act Protection

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced its determination that the pygmy rabbit ( Brachylagus idahoensis) may warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act
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Grizzly mother nuzzling her two cubs in a meadow filled with yellow flowers in the Grand Tetons.
Washington, DC

Defenders Responds to Fish and Wildlife Announcement on Bitterroot Grizzly Restoration

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today released a notice of intent to complete a new environmental impact statement for the reintroduction of the grizzly
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A North Atlantic right whale calf is seen with severe injuries to the head, face and left lip in Edisto, S.C.
Washington, DC

Defenders Demands Biden Administration Action Following Mortally Wounded Right Whale Calf Announcement

A North Atlantic right whale calf with significant head and face wounds has become the 35th “serious injury” case in a years-long series of injuries
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Black-Footed Ferret Poking its Head Out
Washington, DC

Defenders Releases Endangered Species Act Report, Recommendations for Next 50 Years

Defenders of Wildlife’s Center for Conservation Innovation today released a new report “The Endangered Species Act: The Next 50 Years and Beyond.” The report analyzes
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