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green sea turtle
WASHINGTON, D.C.

Trump Administration Calls on “God Squad” to Weaken Endangered Species Act Protections

The Trump administration today announced its intent to convene the Endangered Species Committee — colloquially known as the “God Squad”— on March 31, 2026, to consider an exemption under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for oil and gas-related activities in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Washington monument - cherry blossoms
WASHINGTON, D.C.

Defenders of Wildlife Unveils 2025 Conservation Report Card for 119th Congress

Defenders of Wildlife today released its 2025 Conservation Report Card for the 119th Congress, measuring members’ commitment to upholding federal laws that protect wildlife conservation during its first session.
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Joshua tree sunset
WASHINGTON, D.C.

Defenders of Wildlife Sues FWS Over Extensive FOIA Request Delays

Defenders of Wildlife today filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, citing the agency’s extensive delay in fulfilling eight Freedom of Information Act requests related to land exchanges within the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Press Releases

CONGRESSIONAL ATTACKS ON ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT REACH FEVERED PITCH

WASHINGTON (July 19, 2017) – Environmental committees in both the House and the Senate are taking aim at American’s most effective law for protecting wildlife

HOUSE BUDGET OPENS ARCTIC REFUGE TO DRILLING

WASHINGTON (July 18, 2017) – The House Budget Committee released a draft of its budget resolution today ahead of tomorrow’s consideration of the measure. The

Press Conference: Congressional Attacks on the Endangered Species Act

(Washington - July 18, 2017) Tomorrow, July 19th, the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources is holding a legislative hearing on five bills that would

Loss of Four Wolves in Washington State

Delayed report finally gives update on wolf activities in Washington state In a long-delayed report, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) detailed the

Homeland Security Spending Bill Funds Border Wall Construction, Species Destruction

WASHINGTON (July 12, 2017) – The House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee is set to approve $1.6 billion for the expansion of the U.S.-Mexico border wall
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