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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In a devastating blow to wildlife, the Trump administration today formally rescinded the regulatory definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act, eliminating the long-standing legal interpretation that habitat destruction that leads to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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soaw logo

Celebrate 21 Years of Sea Otter Awareness Week

Defenders of Wildlife, Sea Otter Savvy, the Elakha Alliance, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and California State Parks will commemorate the 21st annual Sea Otter Awareness
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Alligator moving through the grass to water - Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge - Georgia
Atlanta, GA

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Moves Toward World Heritage List

Following widespread bipartisan support, the National Park Service announced today that it will nominate the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to join the United Nations Educational
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USFWS
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA

Defenders Offers Reward Money After Fatal Condor Shooting

Defenders of Wildlife is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the conviction of the person or persons responsible for the shooting of an
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By Justin Grubb- Running Wild Media
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA

Southern Sea Otter Does Not Warrant ESA Listing Change

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service this week issued its finding that the southern sea otter will retain its threatened status under the Endangered Species
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Male Gray Wolf in Autumn Forest - kjekol - iStockphoto
Washington, DC

Defenders Responds to Highly Anticipated U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Rule for Colorado Wolf Reintroduction

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Friday released its highly anticipated final Environmental Impact Statement and draft Record of Decision on the Colorado gray
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