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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 21, 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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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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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
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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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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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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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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
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Defenders of Wildlife Recognizes the Wilburforce Foundation with Legacy Award
Defenders of Wildlife has awarded its Legacy Award to the Wilburforce Foundation for more than 20 years of exceptional partnership and commitment to conservation science, diversity, equity and inclusion and protecting threatened and endangered species like grizzly bears, beavers and wolves and the habitats on which they depend.
jcovey@defenders.org
