Several members of Congress, joined by a “Who’s Who” of wildlife scientists, have responded critically to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s proposed rules that, if finalized, would essentially end protection for the world’s only population of wild red wolves. Both groups cite a number of issues—from habitat reduction to expanded take authority to the overall failure to protect the species—that should preclude final adoption of the rule. Rather than the proposed rule, both groups recommend that the agency increase its attention to active management and to addressing its conflicts with local landowners.
Both letters are available for download. Please click here for the Congressional letter, and here for the scientists’ letter.