Major endangered species issues by state

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Endangered species policy includes the laws, regulations, and programs aimed at conserving endangered species in all 50 states. Policies to protect endangered species affect the public sector—governmental activities—and the private sector—such as the use of private property and energy production.

## Contents

* 1 Major issues by state
* 2 Alabama
* 2.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 3 Alaska
* 3.1 Polar bear conservation
* 4 Arizona
* 4.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 4.2 Mexican wolf
* 5 Arkansas
* 5.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 5.2 Red-cockaded woodpecker
* 6 Connecticut
* 6.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 6.2 State listing of bat species
* 7 Delaware
* 7.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 7.2 Bat species
* 8 Florida
* 8.1 Florida panthers
* 8.2 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 9 Georgia
* 9.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 9.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 10 Illinois
* 10.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 10.2 Bobcat hunting
* 10.3 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 11 Indiana
* 11.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 11.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 12 Iowa
* 12.1 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 12.2 Endangered cacti
* 13 Kansas
* 13.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 13.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bat species
* 14 Kentucky
* 14.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 14.2 Crayfish
* 15 Louisiana
* 15.1 Louisiana black bear
* 15.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bat species
* 16 Maine
* 16.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 17 Maryland
* 17.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 18 Massachusetts
* 18.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 19 Michigan
* 19.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 20 Minnesota
* 20.1 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 20.2 Blanding's turtle
* 21 Mississippi
* 21.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 21.2 Dusky gopher frog
* 22 Missouri
* 22.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 22.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 23 Nebraska
* 23.1 Blanding's turtle
* 23.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bat species
* 24 Nevada
* 24.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 25 New Hampshire
* 25.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 25.2 Wildlife Action Plan
* 26 New Jersey
* 26.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 27 New Mexico
* 27.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 27.2 Endangered fish species lawsuit
* 28 New York
* 28.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 28.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 29 North Carolina
* 29.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 29.2 Red-cockaded woodpecker
* 29.3 Red wolf
* 30 Ohio
* 30.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 31 Oklahoma
* 31.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 32 Oregon
* 32.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 33 Pennsylvania
* 33.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 33.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 34 Rhode Island
* 34.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 35 South Carolina
* 35.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 35.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 36 South Dakota
* 36.1 Changes to state endangered species law
* 36.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 37 Tennessee
* 37.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 37.2 Long-eared bat and imperiled bats
* 38 Texas
* 38.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 38.2 Gold-cheeked warbler
* 39 Utah
* 39.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 39.2 Utah prairie dog
* 40 Vermont
* 40.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 40.2 Additional species
* 41 Virginia
* 41.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 41.2 Crayfish
* 42 Washington
* 42.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 43 West Virginia
* 43.1 Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles
* 43.2 Wildlife Action Plan
* 44 Wisconsin
* 44.1 Blanding's turtle
* 45 Wyoming
* 45.1 Wyoming toad
* 46 Recent news
* 46.1 See also
* 46.2 External links
* 46.3 Footnotes

## Major issues by state[edit]

The notable events and issues below were selected because they illustrate how endangered species policy is implemented in concrete ways.[1]

Email us with requests to cover additional issues.

* Alabama
* Alaska
* Arizona
* Arkansas
* Connecticut
* Delaware
* Florida
* Georgia
* Illinois
* Indiana
* Iowa
* Kansas
* Kentucky
* Louisiana
* Maine
* Maryland
* Massachusetts
* Michigan
* Minnesota
* Mississippi
* Missouri
* Nebraska
* Nevada
* New Hampshire
* New Jersey
* New Mexico
* New York
* North Carolina
* North Dakota
* Ohio
* Oklahoma
* Oregon
* Pennsylvania
* Rhode Island
* South Carolina
* South Dakota
* Tennessee
* Texas
* Utah
* Vermont
* Virginia
* Washington
* West Virginia
* Wisconsin
* Wyoming

# Alabama[edit]

Alabama

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians found in the southeastern United States for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders, and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the alligator snapping turtle and the green salamander, are found in Alabama. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted for them. As of July 2016, the two species remained under review for listing.[2]

# Alaska[edit]

Alaska

### Polar bear conservation[edit]

The polar bear.

The Bering Sea, off the coast of Alaska, contains polar bear populations.

Polar bears are found primarily in two separate populations in Alaska, the southern Beaufort Sea and in the Bering Sea. They were first protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972, which prohibited "taking" any polar bears with some exceptions (such as hunting for subsistence by Alaska natives).[3]

In May 2008, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) listed the polar bear as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The listing cited loss of sea ice as the central threat to polar bear habitats. The listing further stated that sea ice changes would affect the numbers and behavior of polar bear populations, inhibiting their ability to catch seals, a primary food source.[3]

In July 2015, the FWS published a draft plan to prevent further threats to the species, which would be implemented over five years and cost almost $13 million. The plan primarily focuses on reducing greenhouse gases in response to rising global temperatures and climate change, which the FWS says is the main factor behind melting sea ice and a threat to polar bear survival.[4]

A 2014 report by the U.S. Geological Survey predicted that changes to the bear's habitat, and by extension the prey available to the bear, would be primary driver behind any population decline. The report also found that there were other factors that affect the bear's population, although the effect of these factors is more unclear. These factors include "other environmental stressors such as trans-Arctic shipping, oil and gas exploration, disease and contaminants, sustainable harvest and defense of life," according to Todd Atwood, the leading research biologist of the study.[4][5]

The report's conclusions were based on sea ice data from the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and modeled two scenarios, one in which global temperatures rise by 2 degrees Celsius until 2100 and another in which emissions were reduced (leading to a slower rise in global temperatures). Both scenarios saw reduced polar bear populations, although the second scenario (with reduced emissions) saw the return of lost sea ice. A final plan is expected to be released by the FWS sometime in 2015.[4]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the polar bear totaled $3,682,787 in fiscal year 2014. The Fish and Wildlife Service spent $1.1 million while other federal agencies spent $2.5 million in 2014. The table below shows the amount of total funding provided for the polar bear from fiscal year 2012 to fiscal year 2014.[6][7][8]

| Total federal funding for the polar bear (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $1,160,000 | $1,628,500 | $1,372,000
Other federal funding (including NOAA) | $2,522,787 | $3,922,000 | $3,066,621
Total | $3,682,787 | $5,550,500 | $4,438,621
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

# Arizona[edit]

Arizona

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The Arizona toad

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider amphibian and reptile species, found primarily in the southwestern United States and in some other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including the Arizona toad, the Cascade Caverns salamander, and the Rio Grande cooter (a turtle species). The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival that qualified the species for listing; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. The FWS must engage in a comprehensive review of these species before they can be listed as endangered or threatened; the review focuses on the species’ population trends, habitat requirements, and any ongoing conservation activities for the species. One species, the Arizona toad, is believed to or known to occur in Arizona. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether federal protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the toad remained under review for listing.[9]

### Mexican wolf[edit]

The Mexican wolf

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Mexican wolf as endangered in 1976. The Arizona Game and Fish Department has managed the wolf since 1998 when the first captive-bred Mexican wolves were reintroduced into the wild in eastern Arizona to help increase their populations. The department has collaborated with the Fish and Wildlife Service, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the U.S. Forest Service on wolf recovery measures. Since its listing, the Mexican wolf's recovery plans have focused on achieving a balance between the wolf's populations and human activity, including cities and towns, businesses and recreation near wolf populations. As of early 2015, at least 109 Mexican wolves were detected in the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area (BRWRA) in eastern Arizona; this population was not comprehensive and included only the wolves visually spotted by scientists. Around 300 wolves are held in captive-breeding facilities nationwide, according to the Arizona Game and Fish Department. The Mexican Wolf Reintroduction Project is implemented by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service and American Indian tribes. Staff from the agencies, including wildlife biologists, conservation specialists and others, conduct day-to-day wolf management.[10]

According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the state's recovery plan does not have private land use restrictions or restrictions on public land. The department is allowed to restrict public land use temporarily if the land is within wolf pens or dens, but grazing, logging, mining, hunting, hiking and camping on public land are not affected by the wolf's recovery plan. Private livestock owners may also kill wolves that are attacking livestock on private land. However, the federal government will not compensate ranchers for any loss of livestock. According to the Arizona state government, the species advocacy group Defenders of Wildlife has a program to compensate private livestock owners for livestock losses because of the Mexican wolf.[11]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the Mexican wolf totaled $2,345,481 in fiscal year 2014 while state funding for the wolf totaled $125,000 for a total of $2,470,481 in government spending in 2014 (the Mexican wolf is believed to or known to occur in New Mexico and Arizona). The table below shows the amount of federal funding provided for the wolf in fiscal years 2013 and 2012.[12][13][14]

Total funding for the Mexican wolf (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $2,215,488 | $2,024,745 | $2,052,508
Other federal funding | $129,993 | $396,497 | $130,970
State funding | $125,000 | $347,635 | $172,000
Total | $2,470,481 | $2,768,877 | $2,355,478
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

# Arkansas[edit]

Arkansas

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the alligator snapping turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Arkansas. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the snapping turtle remained under review for listing.[15]

### Red-cockaded woodpecker[edit]

The red-cockaded woodpecker.

The red-cockaded woodpecker is believed to or known to occur in 12 states, including Arkansas, and has been listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) since 1970. The FWS has implemented recovery plans for the woodpecker in those states, including agreements with private landowners and conservation programs with federal and state agencies. According to the FWS, between 1993 and 2006 woodpecker populations increased from 4,694 groups of birds to 6,105 groups in 2006. As of July 2016, the species remained listed as endangered.[16]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the red-cockaded woodpecker totaled $26,636,340 in fiscal year 2014 while state funding for the woodpecker totaled $1,454,810 for a total of $34,793,973 in government spending in 2014 (the FWS did not specify how much each state government spent or which states were involved). The table below shows the amount of federal funding provided for the woodpecker from fiscal years 2012 to fiscal years 2014.[17][18][19]

Total funding for the red-cockaded woodpecker (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $2,547,250 | $4,464,533 | $1,275,348
Other federal funding | $24,089,090 | $28,641,241 | $36,082,202
State funding | $1,454,810 | $1,688,199 | $542,930
Total | $28,091,150 | $34,793,973 | $37,900,480
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

# Connecticut[edit]

Connecticut

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Connecticut. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[20]

### State listing of bat species[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated the northern long-eared bat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed to or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Connecticut. The bat's listing as threatened came primarily from a fungal disease known to affect bats called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States (bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites). Federal protection for the bat includes land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[21]

In June 2015, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection began considering endangered status for the northern long-eared bat and four other bat species under the Connecticut Endangered Species Act. Long-eared bats in the Northeast in particular have borne the brunt of "white-nose syndrome," with bat populations decreasing dramatically since 2006 (millions of bats died between 2006 and 2015 because of the disease in the northeastern United States). According to Connecticut wildlife researchers, three different cave-dwelling bat species in the state have also been in steep decline since 1999. In one Connecticut cave, which contained at least 625 long-eared bats in 2007, only 51 bats were found in 2014. In early 2015, Connecticut environmental officials recommended that four Connecticut-dwelling bat species be considered for the state's endangered species list. "Endangered" species in Connecticut are conserved on state lands while private land developers must apply for a state permit before any development projects can go forward. In August 2015, Connecticut listed the northern long-eared bat as an endangered species.[22][23]

# Delaware[edit]

Delaware

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Delaware. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[24]

### Bat species[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed to or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Delaware. The bat's listing as threatened came primarily from a fungal disease known to affect bats called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States (bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites). According to the FWS, between 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats have died in North America. Federal protection for the bat includes land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas. As of July 2015, Delaware has listed the northern long-eared bat and the little brown bat as endangered, which occurred in 2014.[25][26]

In July 2015, the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife received a federal grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service totaling $18,454 to study the white-nose syndrome affecting northeastern bat species. The division will research and monitor bat species, including treating white-nose syndrome in bats. "Bats are important to Delaware’s ecology, directly impacting our daily lives. They feed on millions of insects, including mosquitoes, as well as moths and other agricultural pests, reducing the amount of pesticides needed in crop production," said David Small, the secretary of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (which contains the fish and wildlife division). A total of nearly $1 million in federal grants went to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome. The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife first studies white-nose syndrome in bats in 2010; the first case in Delaware occurred in 2012 in a hibernating site for bats in New Castle County. [27]

# Florida[edit]

Florida

### Florida panthers[edit]

The Florida panther

In July 2015, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the state agency responsible for managing Florida's endangered and threatened species, proposed abandoning a federal conservation plan to protect the Florida panther, which has been listed as endangered since 1967. The proposal would ultimately eliminate state funding and reduce staff for the federal plan, leaving the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to fund and implement it as the state adopts its own program.[28][29]

The commission's proposal said that panthers have been responsible for the deaths of livestock, pets and cattle on commercial ranches. A state program reimbursing animal owners for losses from panthers paid out a total of $6,000 since 2004. As of July 2015, state estimates put Florida's panther population between 100 and 180 cats, which is below the federal plan's goal to raise populations to 230 before the FWS would consider removing federal protection. Motorists hitting the cats on the road are responsible for roughly two-thirds of all panther deaths, the Florida commission estimates.[28]

According to the commission's official statement, "The current recovery criteria are aspirational rather than practical in nature. Under this federal recovery plan, Florida will never be able to accomplish the goals necessary to recover panther populations to a point where the subspecies can be delisted."[28][29]

Advocates who favor increased protection for endangered species have heavily criticized the proposal. For example, a group called the Defenders of Wildlife has complained that limiting conservation efforts will harm panthers. According to the group's Florida program director, the proposal "attempts to redefine recovery in terms of social tolerance rather than biology."[30]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the Florida panther totaled $3,023,925 in fiscal year 2014. Florida state funding for the panther totaled $749,584, totaling $3,773,509 in government spending in 2014. The table below shows the amount of federal funding provided for the panther from fiscal year 2012 to fiscal year 2014.[31][32][33]

Total federal funding for the Florida panther (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $1,905,500 | $721,000 | $498,000
Other federal funding | $1,118,425 | $853,120 | $886,410
State funding | $749,584 | $1,075,274 | $719,738
Total | $3,773,509 | $2,649,394 | $2,104,148
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians found in the southeastern United States for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Three species, the alligator snapping turtle, the key ringneck snake, and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Florida. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted for them. As of July 2016, the three species remained under review for listing.[34]

# Georgia[edit]

Georgia

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Three of these species, the alligator snapping turtle, the spotted turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Georgia. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[35]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Georgia. The bat's listing came after the discovery of a fungal disease called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States; bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites, such as in Connecticut and Delaware. According to the FWS, between 5.7 million and 6.7 million bats have died in North America since 2006 due to the disease. Federal protection for the bat will include land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[36]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator. Bats are considered crucial for reducing moths, mosquitoes and other insects that affect agriculture and increase the use of pesticides.

# Illinois[edit]

Illinois

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders, and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the alligator snapping turtle and the spotted turtle, are believed to or known to occur in Illinois. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[37][38]

### Bobcat hunting[edit]

The bobcat is found in most of the continental United States.

In July 2015, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner (R) signed a law allowing a hunting season for bobcats, a species formerly on the Illinois threatened species list until 1999. A similar law was vetoed by former governor Pat Quinn (D). The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will regulate bobcat hunting, which was first banned in 1972. The department will set a hunting season each year beginning in November and ending in February. Areas excluded from hunting include parts of northeastern Illinois and Chicago and its suburbs; the department has planned to cap the allowable number of bobcats killed each hunting season to 300 bobcats. The first hunting season will begin in 2016.[39]

According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, bobcat populations have been on the rise since the 1970s, which is one reason why Illinois delisted the species in 1999. "Habitat changes and unregulated harvests, before the birth of our state fish and wildlife agency, caused numbers to decline by the late 1800s. But now, we’re happy to say, they’re doing great," said a wildlife biologist at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.[40]

Supporters of legalizing bobcat hunting, including rural residents, have argued that bobcat populations pose a public safety risk and will become a threat to livestock. Rep. Daniel V. Beiser (D) voted for the law, calling bobcat populations "a predatory species" that has been destroying pheasant populations. Meanwhile, opponents of legalizing bobcat hunting, including the Humane Society of the United States, have said that bobcat populations are still vulnerable. "To get the bill passed through the legislature, lawmakers relied on absurd and outlandish exaggerations about bobcats – who are shy and elusive creatures that only weigh slightly more than an average house cat – and it’s unfortunate that the Governor apparently fell for this fear-mongering," said Humane Society chief Wayne Pacelle in a statement.[41][42]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed to or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Illinois. The bat's listing as threatened came primarily from a fungal disease known to affect bats called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States (bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites). According to the FWS, between 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats have died in North America. Federal protection for the bat includes land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[43]

# Indiana[edit]

Indiana

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Three kinds of these species, the alligator snapping turtle, the spotted turtle, and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Indiana. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[44]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed to or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Indiana. The bat's listing as threatened came primarily from a fungal disease known to affect bats called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States (bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites). According to the FWS, between 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats have died in North America. Federal protection for the bat includes land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[45]

# Iowa[edit]

Iowa

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed to or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Iowa. The bat's listing as threatened came primarily from a fungal disease known to affect bats called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States (bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites). According to the FWS, between 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats have died in North America. Federal protection for the bat includes land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[46]

Between 2011 and 2012, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found the fungus responsible for creating white-nosed syndrome in northern long-eared bats. Additionally, bats are being harmed by the state's wind energy sector, according to one report, turbines kill roughly 18 bats annually. In July 2015, the FWS did not exempt wind energy from federal regulations for the bat, and the industry has argued that costs would be disproportionate to the amount of damage wind turbines inflict on bats. "The risk posed to the species by wind energy is de minimus," wrote the American Wind Energy Association to the Fish and Wildlife Service in March 2015.[47]

### Endangered cacti[edit]

The prickly pear cactus

In July 2015, more than 100 endangered pear cactus plants were found near a potential road project in Sioux City, Iowa, the presence of which could increase the project's costs. According the City Engineer, removing or relocating the cacti could cost more than $50,000. With additional costs, relocating the plants to make room for the proposed road project could total more than $100,000. "If we can completely design the road without touching the cacti, we will do that," said City Engineer Glenn Ellis. The Sioux City Council voted 4-1 to approve a new road project design with an engineering firm that would ultimately cost the city $323,600. Unlawfully removing the cactus plants could cost the city $100 per plant in state fines, totaling $11,600 in fines for the estimated 116 plants. Mayor Bob Scott voted against the agreement for a new project design due to the costs added by the cactus plants. "This once again is complete insanity on the part of the state of Iowa," said Ellis, in response to the costs of the protected cactus plants. Under the approved plan, the engineering firm produced a new road project design subject to approval by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources; the new plan also included information to be submitted to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, since the project borders wetlands regulated by the federal government.[48][49]

In October 2015, Iowa state officials approved a revised city plan that would allow construction of the road project around the field of more than 100 cactus plants. Sioux City Engineer Glenn Ellis said the revised plan would not increase costs or delay construction.[50]

# Kansas[edit]

Kansas

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the alligator snapping turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Kansas. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[51]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bat species[edit]

The northern long-eared bat

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Kansas. The bat's listing came after the discovery of a fungal disease called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States; bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites, such as in Connecticut and Delaware. According to the FWS, between 5.7 million and 6.7 million bats have died in North America since 2006 due to the disease. Federal protection for the bat will include land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[52]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator.[53]

# Kentucky[edit]

Kentucky

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the alligator snapping turtle and the green salamander, are found or believed are known to occur in Kentucky. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted for them. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[54]

### Crayfish[edit]

The Big Sandy crayfish

In April 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposed federal protection for two crayfish species, which have seen their populations decline due to coal mining. One species, the Big Sandy crayfish, is found in the Big Sandy River basin in eastern Kentucky, southwestern Virginia and southern West Virginia. Another species, the Guyandotte River crayfish, can be found in the Guyandotte River basin in southern West Virginia. The FWS's decision was in response to a petition from 2010 and a 2012 lawsuit brought by the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD). The CBD's lawsuit alleged that the FWS unlawfully ignored the petition by not issuing a decision. According to the CBD, both crayfishes have been declining due to "water pollution," primarily from mountaintop-removal coal mining in Appalachia. In May 2016, the FWS listed the Guyandotte River crayfish as endangered and the Big Sandy crayfish as threatened.[55]

# Louisiana[edit]

Louisiana

### Louisiana black bear[edit]

The Louisiana black bear

In March 2016, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the Louisiana black bear from the list of threatened species. The bear was believed to or known to occur in Louisiana, southern Mississippi and eastern Texas, although its population is now mostly found in Louisiana, with a few in southern Arkansas and western Mississippi. The Louisiana black bear was first placed on the list of endangered and threatened species in 1992 mostly because of habitat loss, a reduced quality in remaining habitats, and hunting. As of May 2015, approximately 350 black bears to 600 black bears, which were the focus of a major study by the U.S. Geological Survey, existed in northern Louisiana. "The state has invested more than [a cumulative total of] $900,000 to restore the black bear," according to Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal. Of that total, Jindal said $220,000 came from license plates featuring the black bear sold to state residents.[56][57]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the Louisiana black bear totaled $799,380 in fiscal year 2014. State government funding for the bear totaled $150,679 in 2014. In all, federal and state government spending on the bear totaled $950,059 in 2014. The table below shows the amount of federal and state funding provided for the bear from fiscal year 2012 to fiscal year 2014.[58][59][60]

Total federal and state funding for the Louisiana black bear (2012-2013)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $192,000 | $231,500 | $257,000
Other federal funding | $607,380 | $291,687 | $4,777,247
State funding | $150,679 | $20,935 | $96,688
Total | $950,059 | $544,122 | $5,130,935
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bat species[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Louisiana. The bat's listing came after the discovery of a fungal disease called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States; bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites, such as in Connecticut and Delaware. According to the FWS, between 5.7 million and 6.7 million bats have died in North America since 2006 due to the disease. Federal protection for the bat will include land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[61]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator.[62]

# Maine[edit]

Maine

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Maine. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[63]

# Maryland[edit]

Maryland

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the spotted turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Maryland. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[64]

# Massachusetts[edit]

Massachusetts

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Massachusetts. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[65]

# Michigan[edit]

Michigan

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Michigan. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[66]

# Minnesota[edit]

Minnesota

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed to or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Minnesota. The bat's listing as threatened came primarily from a fungal disease known to affect bats called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States (bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites). According to the FWS, between 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats have died in North America. Federal protection for the bat includes land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[67]

In Minnesota, the long-eared bat's listing required that quarter-mile buffer be placed around trees containing newborn bats in June and July, potentially affecting the state's timber industry and private landowners. According to the chief director of the Fish and Wildlife Service's Midwestern office, the number of trees containing newborn bats is unknown, although the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has estimated the trees number in the thousands during the summer months. The buffers have been criticized by Minnesota Forest Industries, a state-based forest products company, as unnecessary. "Our frustration with all of this is, no matter what restrictions you put on forest management, it’s not going to make any difference for the bats," said Wayne Brandt, a spokesman for Minnesota Forest Industries.[68]

### Blanding's turtle[edit]

The Blanding's turtle

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider whether the Blanding's turtle, a semi-aquatic species of turtle found in Wisconsin and Minnesota, should receive federal protection under the Endangered Species Act. Blanding's turtles are often found in areas with wetlands or sandy hills, and they have experienced widespread decline due to habitat loss and predators seeking their eggs and offspring. Blanding's turtles also are involved in the pet trade because of their bright yellow chins and throats. Their other big threats include getting run over by cars and trucks. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Blanding's turtles are killed each year when they migrate between wetlands and try to cross roads. The turtle is listed as threatened under Minnesota law. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for the federal list by the Fish and Wildlife Service.[69][70][71]

# Mississippi[edit]

Mississippi

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the alligator snapping turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Mississippi. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted for them.[72]

### Dusky gopher frog[edit]

The dusky gopher frog

In June 2015, the dusky gopher frog, an amphibian federally listed as an endangered species since 2001, was considered a critically endangered species, making it close to extinct in the wild. In an attempt to mitigate the frog's declining populations, the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge released over 1,000 dusky gopher frogs between May and June 2015 to try and repopulate the species. Specifically, the frogs are threatened by a shrinking ecosystem. According to rangers at the Sandhill Crane wildlife refuge, Mississippi's wet-pines savannah areas are declining, and the areas are home to both the gopher frog and the Mississippi sandhill crane. At the Sandhill Crane refuge, gopher frogs are bred until they reach adulthood, when they receive tracking devices and turned loose in southern Mississippi. According to the refuge, tracking the progress of the frogs' populations would likely take at least two years.[73][74]

In 2013, the dusky gopher frog became the center of controversy when a Louisiana family and a Louisiana timberland company sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. The plaintiffs argued that the Fish and Wildlife Service's 2012 decision to label over 1,500 acres of timberland (which were mostly owned by the family) as a critical habitat for the frog; the timberland company owned 140 acres and held a timber lease for the land. An additional 5,000 acres of private and public land in Mississippi was also considered a critical habitat for the frog. At issue in the case was the fact that the dusky gopher frog was not seen in Louisiana since 1965; its main habitat was in Mississippi. The plaintiffs said that the FWS's actions were an unconstitutional land grab that cost them millions of dollars.[75][76]

In August 2014, Judge Martin Feldman ruled in favor of the Fish and Wildlife Service and against the landowners. Feldman said that the agency did not overstep its authority by designating Louisiana land as critical habitat for the frog, arguing specifically that the Fish and Wildlife Service considered the appropriate economic impacts of its actions. In his decision, Feldman wrote, ""The court has little doubt that what the government has done is remarkably intrusive and has all the hallmarks of governmental insensitivity to private property. The troubling question is whether the law authorizes such action and whether the government has acted within the law. Reluctantly, the court answers yes to both questions." The decision was supported by the Center for Biological Diversity, a major advocate for federal species conservation.[75][76]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the dusky gopher frog totaled $433,549 in fiscal year 2014. The table below shows the amount of federal funding provided for the frog in fiscal years 2013 and 2012.[77][78][79]

Total funding for the dusky gopher frog (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $301,000 | $162,000 | $152,000
Other federal funding | $132,549 | $67,212 | $231,025
State funding | $0 | $3,609 | $87,400
Total | $433,549 | $232,821 | $470,425
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

# Missouri[edit]

Missouri

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the alligator snapping turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Missouri. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[80]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed to or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Missouri. The bat's listing as threatened came primarily from a fungal disease known to affect bats called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States (bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites). According to the FWS, between 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats have died in North America. Federal protection for the bat includes land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[81]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator.[82]

# Nebraska[edit]

Nebraska

### Blanding's turtle[edit]

The Blanding's turtle

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider whether the Blanding's turtle, a semi-aquatic species of turtle found in Nebraska, Wisconsin and Minnesota, should receive federal protection under the Endangered Species Act. Blanding's turtles are often found in areas with wetlands or sandy hills. The species has experienced widespread decline due to habitat loss, predators seeking their eggs and offspring, and getting run over by cars and trucks. Additionally, Blanding's turtles also are involved in the pet trade for their sought-after bright yellow chins and throats.[69][70]

Overall, the Fish and Wildlife Service is considering 20 different reptiles and amphibians for federal protection, including the Blanding's turtle. The agency's response followed a July 2012 petition from the Center for Biological Diversity, a major endangered species advocacy group, asking the Fish and Wildlife Service to consider more than 50 species for federal protection. While the Fish and Wildlife Service rejected several species for listing, the service argued that enough "substantial scientific or commercial information" existed to consider the Blanding's turtle for federal protection. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[69][70]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bat species[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed to or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Nebraska. The bat's listing as threatened came primarily from a fungal disease known to affect bats called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States (bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites). According to the FWS, between 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats have died in North America. Federal protection for the bat includes land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[83]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator. Bats are considered crucial for reducing moths, mosquitoes and other insects that affect agriculture and increase the use of pesticides.[84]

# Nevada[edit]

Nevada

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The Arizona toad

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider amphibian and reptile species, found primarily in the southwestern United States and in some other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including the Arizona toad, the Cascade Caverns salamander and the Rio Grande cooter (a turtle species). The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. The FWS must engage in a comprehensive review of these species before they can be listed as endangered or threatened; the review focuses on the species’ population trends, habitat requirements and any ongoing conservation activities for the species. One species, the Arizona toad, is believed to or known to occur in Nevada. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether federal protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[85]

# New Hampshire[edit]

New Hampshire

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in New Hampshire. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[86]

### Wildlife Action Plan[edit]

In May 2015, the New Hampshire Department of Fish and Game announced an update to the state's Wildlife Action Plan, a guide for the state's wildlife and habitat conservation plans. The previous plan was published in 2005. The updated plan is a blueprint for the state's conservation of non-game and endangered species through 2026. An update to the state's Wildlife Action Plan is required for the state to qualify for federal funds from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The plan will contain information for private landowners, state and local agencies, municipalities and nonprofit organizations, including maps of priority habitats for species that are typically used to implement land protections. According to the New Hampshire Department of Fish and Game, the Wildlife Action Plan is meant as a preventative measure and a less costly approach to conserving wildlife; it is also widely used by individuals and organizations because over 70 percent of New Hampshire land is private. "It’s far less expensive to protect the land and water that wildlife needs to thrive than it is to restore species and habitat once they’ve been lost," said Glenn Normandeau, the executive director of New Hampshire Fish and Game. Between 2005 and 2015, the previous Wildlife Action Plan led to the conservation of more than 230,000 acres for habitat protection in the state.[87][88]

# New Jersey[edit]

New Jersey

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in New Jersey. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[89]

# New Mexico[edit]

New Mexico

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The Arizona toad

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider amphibian and reptile species, found primarily in the southwestern United States and in some other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including the Arizona toad, the Cascade Caverns salamander and the Rio Grande cooter (a turtle species). The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. The FWS must engage in a comprehensive review of these species before they can be listed as endangered or threatened; the review focuses on the species’ population trends, habitat requirements and any ongoing conservation activities for the species. Two species, the Arizona toad and the Rio Grande cooter (a turtle species), are believed to or known to occur in New Mexico. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether federal protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[90]

### Endangered fish species lawsuit[edit]

A Rio Grande cutthroat trout

In June 2015, the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD), endangered species advocacy group, announced its plan to file a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) for allegedly violating the federal Endangered Species Act by not listing the cutthroat trout as endangered. In May 2008, the FWS stated that a listing for the cutthroat trout was warranted but not at the expense of higher priority species. According to the CBD's official statement, "The Fish and Wildlife Service has for far too long denied this iconic trout the Endangered Species Act protection it desperately needs to survive." The Fish and Wildlife Service did not comment on the impending lawsuit as of June 2015. According to the FWS, cutthroat trout occupies only 11 percent of its historical range as of 2015, primarily in cold water streams such as the Rio Grande, Pecos and Canadian River Basins. Non-native trout have been suspected as the main factor of the cutthroat trout's decline. According to CBD endangered species director Noah Greenwald, "There’s really no basis for [the FWS's] reversal. In fact, in the findings, they actually concluded that the trout is going to decline further under even the most optimistic scenarios." As of July 2016, no action had been taken on the lawsuit by a court.[91]

# New York[edit]

New York

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in New York. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[92]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States. The bat's listing came after the discovery of a fungal disease called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States; bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites, such as in Connecticut and Delaware. According to the FWS, between 5.7 million and 6.7 million bats have died in North America since 2006 due to the disease. Federal protection for the bat will include land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[93]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator. Bats are considered crucial for reducing moths, mosquitoes and other insects that affect agriculture and increase the use of pesticides.[94]

# North Carolina[edit]

North Carolina

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the spotted turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in North Carolina. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[95]

### Red-cockaded woodpecker[edit]

The red-cockaded woodpecker.

The red-cockaded woodpecker is known to or is believed to occur in 12 states, including North Carolina, and has been listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) since 1970. The FWS has implemented recovery plans for the woodpecker in those states, including agreements with private landowners and conservation programs with federal and state agencies. According to the FWS, between 1993 and 2006 woodpecker populations increased from 4,694 groups of birds to 6,105 groups in 2006.[96]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the red-cockaded woodpecker totaled $26,636,340 in fiscal year 2014 while state funding for the woodpecker totaled $1,454,810 for a total of $34,793,973 in government spending in 2014 (the FWS did not specify how much each state government spent or which states were involved). The table below shows the amount of funding provided for the woodpecker from fiscal years 2012 to fiscal years 2014.[97][98][99]

Total funding for the red-cockaded woodpecker (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $2,547,250 | $4,464,533 | $1,275,348
Other federal funding | $24,089,090 | $28,641,241 | $36,082,202
State funding | $1,454,810 | $1,688,199 | $542,930
Total | $28,091,150 | $34,793,973 | $37,900,480
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

### Red wolf[edit]

The red wolf

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would stop reintroducing red wolves, an endangered species, into the wild around eastern North Carolina as the agency reconsidered whether to maintain the federal Red Wolf Recovery Program, which helps maintain the only wild red wolf population in the United States.[100][101]

Federal officials are studying whether the program, which is 28 years old, should be modified or ended. The Fish and Wildlife Service said that no more captive-bred red wolves would be reintroduced to bolster the species' wild population, which is estimated to be between 50 to 75 wolves.[100][101]

A decision about the program's future is expected in the fall of 2016. The service's announcement had led conservation advocates to believe the agency is giving up on recovering the red wolf population. "There will likely be some who will suggest we are walking away from recovery efforts for the red wolf and simultaneously there will be others who might say we're holding on too tight," said Cindy Dohner, the Fish and Wildlife Service's regional director for the Southeast.[100][101]

A review by the Wildlife Management Institute, a nonprofit organization in favor of species conservation, faulted the Fish and Wildlife Service for its handling of red wolf conservation and for "an atmosphere of distrust" among residents where the red wolf population lives.[100][101]

The areas affected include five counties in North Carolina near the Alligator River and Pocosin Lakes wildlife refuges. According to the Fish and Wildlife Service, young red wolves were last released into the wild in 2014; since 2009, no adult red wolves have been released.[100][101]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the red wolf totaled $1,322,000 in fiscal year 2014. State funding for the wolf totaled $33,673 in fiscal year 2014 for a total of $1,355,673 in government spending that year. The table below shows the amount of funding provided for the wolf from fiscal years 2012 to 2014.[102][103][104]

Total funding for the red wolf (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $1,276,000 | $1,193,000 | $152,000
Other federal funding | $46,000 | $2,384,630 | $2,630,500
State funding | $33,673 | $44,125 | $1,500
Total | $1,322,000 | $3,621,755 | $3,991,500
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

# Ohio[edit]

Ohio

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the spotted turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Ohio. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[105]

# Oklahoma[edit]

Oklahoma

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the alligator snapping turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Oklahoma. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[106]

# Oregon[edit]

Oregon

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The Cascades frog

The foothill yellow-legged frog

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider amphibian and reptile species, found primarily in the Pacific Northwest and California, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including frog and salamander species. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. The FWS must engage in a comprehensive review of these species before they can be listed as endangered or threatened. The review focuses on the species’ population trends, habitat requirements and any ongoing conservation activities for the species. Three of these species, the Cascades frog, the foothill yellow-legged frog, and the Oregon slender salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Oregon. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether federal protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the three species remained under review for listing.[107]

# Pennsylvania[edit]

Pennsylvania

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the spotted turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Pennsylvania. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[108]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Pennsylvania. The bat's listing came after the discovery of a fungal disease called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States; bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites, such as in Connecticut and Delaware. According to the FWS, between 5.7 million and 6.7 million bats have died in North America since 2006 due to the disease. Federal protection for the bat will include land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[109]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator. Bats are considered crucial for reducing moths, mosquitoes and other insects that affect agriculture and increase the use of pesticides. In 2014, Pennsylvania received a federal grant to develop a conservation plan for bat populations in the state.[110]

# Rhode Island[edit]

Rhode Island

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Rhode Island. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[111]

# South Carolina[edit]

South Carolina

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the spotted turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in South Carolina. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[112]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north-central United States, including South Carolina. The bat's listing came after the discovery of a fungal disease called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States; bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites, such as in Connecticut and Delaware. According to the FWS, between 5.7 million and 6.7 million bats have died in North America since 2006 due to the disease. Federal protection for the bat will include land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[113]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator. Bats are considered crucial for reducing moths, mosquitoes and other insects that affect agriculture and increase the use of pesticides.[114]

# South Dakota[edit]

South Dakota

### Changes to state endangered species law[edit]

The peregrine falcon

In July 2015, the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department announced it was reconsidering how state law defines what the "recovery" of an endangered species looks like, which will affect how state-listed species are ultimately "delisted." South Dakota's endangered species law was passed soon after the federal Endangered Species Act (1972) and requires the state to halt the loss of species and to conserve and "recover" them. Biologists at the department must review the state list regularly to identify how far a species has progressed in "recovery." According the director of the state's wildlife diversity program, however, the state law "doesn't give us a whole lot of direction on how to do [recovery]." One example is the river otter, a species found in eastern South Dakota that has already been delisted in Minnesota and on the federal level. According South Dakota biologists, the state does not have official criteria to know whether the state's river otter populations have successfully recovered, due to the law's ambiguity. For previous species, the state has "relied on overwhelming evidence," according to Eileen Dowd Stukel, who oversees the state's wildlife diversity program. The bald eagle, which was taken off the federal list in 2007 but remained on South Dakota's list as of June 2015, alerted the South Dakota state government to lack of guidance on how a species should be considered recovered and ultimately delisted. "We just felt we weren't following a process," Stukel said. The state finally proposed delisting the bald eagle in June 2015. Another bird species, the peregrine falcon, which was placed on the federal list in the 1970s and ultimately delisted in 1999, has complicated the state's efforts to write objective criteria for determining a species' recovery, because of the bird's unsuccessful recovery in the state, which lacks a suitable habitat.[115]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including South Dakota. The bat's listing came after the discovery of a fungal disease called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States; bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites, such as in Connecticut and Delaware. According to the FWS, between 5.7 million and 6.7 million bats have died in North America since 2006 due to the disease. Federal protection for the bat will include land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[116]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator. Bats are considered crucial for reducing moths, mosquitoes and other insects that affect agriculture and increase the use of pesticides.[117]

# Tennessee[edit]

Tennessee

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The green salamander

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the alligator snapping turtle and the green salamander, are found or believed are known to occur in Tennessee. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted for them. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[118]

### Long-eared bat and imperiled bats[edit]

The northern long-eared bat.

In May 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The bat is believed or known to occur in 37 states, mostly across much of the eastern and north central United States, including Tennessee. The bat's listing came after the discovery of a fungal disease called "white-nose syndrome," which has negatively affected hibernating bats in the northeastern United States; bat populations in the Northeast have declined by up to 99 percent due to the white-nose disease at some hibernation sites, such as in Connecticut and Delaware. According to the FWS, between 5.7 million and 6.7 million bats have died in North America since 2006 due to the disease. Federal protection for the bat will include land restrictions during the summer when newborn bats are nesting, which occurs mostly in forested areas.[119]

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided a total of nearly $1 million in federal grants to 35 states to respond to white-nose syndrome; as of July 2015, the disease has been detected in 26 states. "These grants provide essential support to our state partners in preparing for and responding to this disease," said Jeremy Coleman, the FWS's white-nose syndrome coordinator. Bats are considered crucial for reducing moths, mosquitoes and other insects that affect agriculture and increase the use of pesticides. In 2014, Tennessee received a federal grant to acquire land for imperiled bats.[120]

# Texas[edit]

Texas

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The alligator snapping turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One species, the alligator snapping turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Texas. Two other species, the Cascade Caverns salamander and the Rio Grande river cooter (a turtle species), are also being reviewed for listing. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[121][122]

### Gold-cheeked warbler[edit]

The golden-cheeked warbler

In July 2015, Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush supported removing the golden-cheeked warbler, a small migratory songbird found in about 30 counties in central Texas, from the federal endangered species list (it was listed in May 1990). According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, habitat loss was the primary cause of the bird's listing as endangered, including urban development near warbler-populated areas. According to Bush, however, the bird's listing "was not based on adequate scientific evidence" and its population has been "grossly underestimated." The bird's removal was supported by the Texas Association of Business, Lone Star Success (a PAC headed by former Texas Comptroller Susan Combs) and the Texas Public Policy Foundation (a conservative 501(c)(3) policy organization based in Austin).[123][124]

In support of removing the bird from the federal list, the Texas Public Policy Foundation argued that better data has indicated that the bird's population and habitat has been on the rise since 1990. The group cited two studies by Texas A&M University saying that warbler habitat is "five times larger" and its population is "roughly 19 times greater" than previous FWS estimates. The group also stated that the warbler's listing has restricted private property use and inhibiting military training in Texas. According to the group Lone Star Success (which filed the petition), "There is no biological or scientific basis for maintaining this species on the endangered species list." The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has 90 days to respond to the petition.[125]

In June 2016, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service rejected a petition from a former Texas Comptroller and others to delist the golden-cheeked warbler. The agency decided that the petition did not present sufficient information to delist the species.[126]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), federal funding for the golden-cheeked warbler totaled $1,264,710 in fiscal year 2014. The Fish and Wildlife Service spent $683,800 while other federal agencies spent $580,910 on the species. The table below shows the amount of funding provided for the warbler from fiscal year 2012 to fiscal year 2014.[127][128][129]

Total funding for the golden-cheeked warbler (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $683,800 | $295,000 | $310,000
Other federal funding | $580,910 | $1,159,804 | $1,280,650
State funding | $0 | $5,750 | $0
Total | $1,264,710 | $1,460,554 | $1,590,650
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

# Utah[edit]

Utah

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The Arizona toad

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider amphibian and reptile species, found primarily in the southwestern United States and in some other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including the Arizona toad, the Cascade Caverns salamander and the Rio Grande cooter (a turtle species). The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. The FWS must engage in a comprehensive review of these species before they can be listed as endangered or threatened. The review focuses on the species’ population trends, habitat requirements and any ongoing conservation activities for the species. One species, the Arizona toad, is believed to or known to occur in Utah. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether federal protection is warranted.[130]

### Utah prairie dog[edit]

The Utah prairie dog was listed as a threatened species on June 4, 1973.

The Utah prairie dog has been listed as threatened since 1973. In 2003, Forest Guardians (now known as WildEarth Guardians) filed a petition requesting that the Utah prairie dog's status be upgraded to endangered, but the petition was rejected. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Utah prairie dog's population "has been stable to increasing over the last 30 years."[131][132]

In November 2014, the United States District Court for the District of Utah held that the federal government's prohibition on "taking" Utah prairie dogs because they are listed as threatened species only in Utah was an overreach of Congress' power to regulate interstate commerce. Specifically, the court argued that Congress could not prohibit the "taking" of a threatened species that appeared only in one state, since such a prohibition would have no significant effect on interstate commerce. The court also said that Congress could not enact the prohibition under the Constitution's "necessary and proper" clause because it was not necessary or appropriate under the Endangered Species Act.[133]

In June 2015, U.S. Department of Justice attorneys asked the United States Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit to overturn the November 2014 district court decision. "The Supreme Court has consistently upheld Congress' authority to prevent interstate competition from causing various harms, including destruction of the natural environment," the attorneys said in a court document. The case was joined by 10 states in support of the district court's decision: Utah, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, South Dakota, Wyoming and Michigan.[134]

# Vermont[edit]

Vermont

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. One of these species, the spotted turtle, is believed to or known to occur in Vermont. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[135]

### Additional species[edit]

The Fowler's toad

Cuckoo bumble bee

In June 2015, the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources added nine species to the state's list of endangered and threatened species, including four plants, three bee species, one amphibian and one bird. The three bee species (the rusty-patched bumble bee, yellow-banded bumble bee and Ashton cuckoo bumble bee) were listed as a result of shrinking honeybee colonies. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, beekeepers reported a 42 percent decline in honeybee populations between April 2014 and April 2015. Vermont bumble bees have also been exposed to parasites and insecticides, which can negatively affect their populations. "Adding [the bees] to the endangered species list is only one of many steps we can take to help protect them. Additional techniques, such as integrated pest management and planting more native flowering plants, are others," said Deb Markowitz, the Vermont Secretary of Natural Resources. For landowners using pesticides where bumble bee species are present, a state permit is required. The rusty blackbird and the Fowler's toad were also listed as endangered. The toad, which is found along the Connecticut River, is a rare species, while rusty blackbirds have been declining in the northeastern United States for 50 years, according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey. Four plant species (the dwarf birch, tulip tree, whorled milkweed, and green guillwort) were also listed.[136]

# Virginia[edit]

Virginia

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

The green salamander

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the spotted turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in Virginia. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[137]

### Crayfish[edit]

The Big Sandy crayfish

In April 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposed federal protection for two crayfish species, which according to some groups have declined due to coal mining. One species, the Big Sandy crayfish, is found in the Big Sandy River basin in eastern Kentucky, southwestern Virginia, and southern West Virginia. Another species, the Guyandotte River cray fish, can be found in the Guyandotte River basin in southern West Virginia. The FWS' decision was in response to a petition from 2010 and a 2012 lawsuit brought by the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD). The CBD's lawsuit alleged that the FWS unlawfully ignored the petition by not issuing a decision. According to the CBD, both crayfishes have been declining due to "water pollution," primarily from mountaintop-removal coal mining in Appalachia. In May 2016, the FWS listed the Guyandotte River crayfish as endangered and the Big Sandy crayfish as threatened.[138]

# Washington[edit]

Washington

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The Cascades frog

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider amphibian and reptile species, found primarily in the Pacific Northwest and California, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including frog and salamander species. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. The FWS must engage in a comprehensive review of these species before they can be listed as endangered or threatened; the review focuses on the species’ population trends, habitat requirements and any ongoing conservation activities for the species. One species, the Cascades frog, is believed to or known to occur in Washington. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether federal protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[139]

# West Virginia[edit]

West Virginia

### Potential listing of amphibians and reptiles[edit]

The spotted turtle

The green salamander

In June 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider seven reptiles and two amphibians, found primarily in the southeastern United States and in several other states, for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, including alligator snapping turtles, green salamanders and non-venomous snakes. The service's announcement was a response to the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit conservation and endangered species advocacy group. The center has argued that the species have experienced habitat loss and other threats to their survival; the federal petitions were first filed in July 2012. Two kinds of these species, the spotted turtle and the green salamander, are believed to or known to occur in West Virginia. The Fish and Wildlife Service said it would review the potential threats to these species and decide whether protection is warranted. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[140]

### Wildlife Action Plan[edit]

The broad-winged hawk can be found in south central West Virginia.

In June 2015, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources released its proposed 2015 State Wildlife Action Plan, a guide for the state's wildlife agency on conservation needs and wildlife management strategies. According to the 2015 plan, around 600 animals and 400 plants were identified as requiring extra conservation efforts. Of those totals, 440 species were considered "priority one" and 703 species were listed as "priority two." "The plan is really a roadmap that will guide our agency and partners in making future habitat conservation recommendations in West Virginia," said Paul Johansen, the state's chief wildlife resources official.[141][142]

The plan, which remains in effect from 2015 to 2025, sets requirements for preventing the decline of "at-risk species," conserving species identified as endangered or threatened under federal law and conserving habitats. The plan defined 21 focus areas, or habitats containing a high number of species, including crayfish, bats, mussels and others. The most at-risk areas, according to the plan, include areas at risk for sinkholes, run-off from agriculture and rock quarrying in caves. The plan also identified aquatic species threats: storms, flooding, invasive non-native species, mining, recreational activities and urban waste water. For land-based species, the plan identifies roads and railroads, utility and service lines, logging and commercial and industrial areas as main threats.[141]

# Wisconsin[edit]

Wisconsin

### Blanding's turtle[edit]

The Blanding's turtle

In July 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would consider whether the Blanding's turtle, a semi-aquatic species of turtle found in Wisconsin and Minnesota, should receive federal protection under the Endangered Species Act. Blanding's turtles are often found in areas with wetlands or sandy hills, and they have experienced widespread decline due to habitat loss and predators seeking their eggs and offspring. Blanding's turtles also are involved in the pet trade because of their bright yellow chins and throats. Their other big threats include getting run over by cars and trucks. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Blanding's turtles are killed each year when they migrate between wetlands and try to cross roads. The turtle is listed as threatened under Minnesota law.[69][70][143]

In 2013, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources removed the turtle from the state's list of threatened and endangered species. The department concluded that the state's turtle populations were sufficient to remove state protection. This decision was the result of a study indicating at least 357 turtles throughout the state. According to the head of species management at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Owen Boyle, "We learned a lot about their numbers in the state, and you could not make the argument, based on the data, that this species was either threatened or endangered." The Wisconsin Builders Association and utility and building companies in the state supported Wisconsin's decision. The companies have argued that the turtles, which live long lives, were preventing land and building development in the state.[69][70]

In July 2015, the federal Fish and Wildlife Service announced it would assess whether the Blanding's turtle and four other amphibian and reptile species in Midwestern states should continue to receive federal protection. Overall, the Fish and Wildlife Service is considering 20 different reptiles and amphibians for federal protection, including the Blanding's turtle. The agency's response is to a July 2012 petition from the Center for Biological Diversity, a major endangered species advocacy group, asking the Fish and Wildlife Service to consider more than 50 species for federal protection. Although the Fish and Wildlife Service rejected several species, it argued that enough "substantial scientific or commercial information" existed to consider the Blanding's turtle for federal protection. As of July 2016, the species remained under review for listing.[69][70]

# Wyoming[edit]

Wyoming

### Wyoming toad[edit]

The Wyoming toad

The toad has been found in the Laramie Basin near the Laramie Mountains in Wyoming.

The Wyoming toad was listed as endangered in January 1984; it is found primarily in Albany County, Wyoming. Before its population decline in the mid-1970s, its primary habitat included ponds, flood plains and small lakes. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined that the toad's decline was linked to insecticide use (which reduced the toad's food sources such as mosquitoes), agriculture and more predators. The service's recovery plan for the toad has included captive breeding of toads that are eventually released into the wild, land management in areas where the toads are released, and detecting and treating toads with deadly diseases that often affect amphibians.[144][145]

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, federal funding for the Wyoming toad totaled $957,152 in fiscal year 2014 while Wyoming state funding totaled $7,317. Total government spending on the toad was $981,229 in 2014. The table below shows the amount of funding provided for the toad from fiscal year 2012 to fiscal year 2014.[146][147][148]

Total funding for the Wyoming toad (2012-2014)

Funding source | FY 2014 | FY 2013 | FY 2012
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | $957,152 | $506,994 | $365,384
Other federal funding | $16,760 | $23,790 | $200
State funding | $7,317 | $13,371 | $14,844
Total | $981,229 | $544,155 | $380,428
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State endangered and threatened species expenditures"

# Recent news[edit]

The link below is to the most recent stories in a Google news search for the terms Endangered species states. These results are automatically generated from Google. Ballotpedia does not curate or endorse these articles.

Major endangered species issues by state - Google News

## See also[edit]

* Environmental policy in the U.S.

* Energy policy in the U.S.

* Endangered species policy in the U.S.

* Endangered Species Act
* Implementation of the Endangered Species Act
* U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
* Endangered species

## External links[edit]

* Text of the Endangered Species Act
* U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website
* U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Service

## Footnotes[edit]

1. ↑ These notable issues include past and ongoing issues involving current endangered species, past and ongoing governmental actions related to endangered species, the participation of interest groups in endangered species policy, and more.
2. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Polar Bear," accessed July 13, 2015
4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Environment & Energy News, "New FWS polar bear plan calls for cutting greenhouse gases," July 2, 2015
5. ↑ U.S. Geological Survey, "Evaluating and Ranking Threats to the Long-Term Persistence of Polar Bears," accessed August 3, 2015
6. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
7. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
8. ↑ Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016
9. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas Closer to Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
10. ↑ Arizona Game and Fish Department, "Mexican Wolf Reintroduction & Management," accessed July 17, 2015
11. ↑ Arizona Game and Fish Department, "Mexican Wolf Blue Range Reintroduction Project Frequently Asked Questions," accessed July 17, 2015
12. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
13. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
14. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016
15. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
16. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Red-cockaded Woodpecker Recovery," May 29, 2015
17. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
18. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
19. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 13, 2016
20. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
21. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
22. ↑ Hartford Courant, "Connecticut's Endangered Bats Are Vanishing," June 14, 2015
23. ↑ Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, "2015 Update to State Listed Species," accessed July 11, 2016
24. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
25. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
26. ↑ Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, "Delaware's Endangered Species," accessed July 21, 2015
27. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
28. ↑ 28.0 28.1 28.2 The Weekly Observer, "Florida’s 180 Panthers may soon lose protection status," August 1, 2015
29. ↑ 29.0 29.1 The Washington Post, "There are only 180 Florida panthers left, and drivers are killing dozens of them each year," July 31, 2015
30. ↑ Miami Herald, "Florida wildlife managers agree to rework panther policy," June 23, 2015
31. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
32. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
33. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016
34. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
35. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
36. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
37. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016
38. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
39. ↑ The Southern Illinoisan, "Governor legalizes bobcat hunting in Illinois," July 14, 2015
40. ↑ Outdoor Hub, "Illinois Governor Gives Go-ahead to Bobcat Hunt," July 16, 2015
41. ↑ The Humane Society, "Illinois Gov. Rauner Signs Bill Legalizing Bobcat Hunt," July 14, 2015
42. ↑ The Telegraph, "Bobcat hunting legal in Illinois," July 15, 2015
43. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
44. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
45. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
46. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
47. ↑ The Gazette, "Effort to save bat species puts pressure on wind industry," July 6, 2015
48. ↑ Sioux City Journal, "Sioux City officials question state designation of endangered cacti," July 14, 2015
49. ↑ Sioux City Journal, "Endangered cacti could increase cost of Sioux City road project," July 14, 2015
50. ↑ Sioux City Journal, "Sioux City's solution to endangered cacti? Build around them," October 15, 2015
51. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
52. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
53. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
54. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
55. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Two Crayfishes Threatened by Mountaintop-removal Mining in West Virginia, Kentucky, Virginia Proposed for Endangered Species Act Protection," April 6, 2015
56. ↑ The New York Times, "Louisiana Black Bear Could Move Off Threatened-Species List," May 20, 2015
57. ↑ KNOE-8 News, "Louisiana Black Bear to be pulled from Endangered Species List," May 20, 2015
58. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
59. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
60. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016
61. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
62. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
63. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
64. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
65. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
66. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
67. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
68. ↑ Minneapolis Star-Tribune, "New protections for northern long-eared bats on the radar," April 2, 2015
69. ↑ 69.0 69.1 69.2 69.3 69.4 69.5 Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to consider protection for Blanding's turtle," July 4, 2015 Cite error: Invalid `<ref>` tag; name "turtleWisconsin" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid `<ref>` tag; name "turtleWisconsin" defined multiple times with different content
70. ↑ 70.0 70.1 70.2 70.3 70.4 70.5 Minneapolis Star-Tribune, "As habitat shrinks, federal agency considers putting rare Blanding's turtle on endangered list," July 5, 2015
71. ↑ DL-Online, "Minnesota turtle may get federal endangered status," July 1, 2015
72. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
73. ↑ NY City News, "South Mississippi Wildlife Refuge welcomes another Endangered Inmate, Dusky Gopher Frog," June 15, 2015
74. ↑ Clapway, "Extremely Endangered Gopher Frogs Released in Mississippi," June 14, 2015
75. ↑ 75.0 75.1 The Times-Picayune, "Federal judge hears arguments in St. Tammany's dusky gopher frog case," August 20, 2014
76. ↑ 76.0 76.1 The Times-Picayune, "Federal judge upholds St. Tammany Parish habitat designation for endangered frog," August 22, 2014
77. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
78. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
79. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016
80. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
81. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
82. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
83. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
84. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
85. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas Closer to Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
86. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
87. ↑ New Hampshire Fish and Game, "NH Wildlife Action Plan 2015 Update," accessed July 14, 2015
88. ↑ WMUR-ABC News, "List of endangered species in the state increases over the past decade," May 17, 2015
89. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
90. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas Closer to Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
91. ↑ Santa Fe New Mexican, "Group threatens suit over denial of protections for Rio Grande cutthroat trout," June 16, 2015
92. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
93. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
94. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
95. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
96. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Red-cockaded Woodpecker Recovery," May 29, 2015
97. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
98. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
99. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 13, 2016
100. ↑ 100.0 100.1 100.2 100.3 100.4 The News & Observer, "Federal wildlife agency puts off decision on NC red wolf recovery effort," June 30, 2015
101. ↑ 101.0 101.1 101.2 101.3 101.4 Associated Press, "Red wolf reintroductions halted while changes considered," June 30, 2015
102. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
103. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
104. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016
105. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
106. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
107. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Rare Frogs, Salamander and Flower in Pacific Northwest Move Closer to Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
108. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
109. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
110. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
111. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
112. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
113. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
114. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
115. ↑ Rapid City Journal, "South Dakota might tweak endangered species listing system," July 10, 2015
116. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
117. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
118. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
119. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Northern long-eared Bat," accessed July 13, 2015
120. ↑ Ammoland, "Delaware Grants Awarded in Support of Researching White-Nose Syndrome in Bats," July 8, 2015
121. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
122. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas Closer to Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
123. ↑ Houston Chronicle, "Bush calls for removal of warbler from endangered species list," July 8, 2015
124. ↑ Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, "Golden-cheeked Warbler," accessed July 15, 2015
125. ↑ Texas Public Policy Foundation, "Species Reclassification Effort Draws Widespread Support," July 7, 2015
126. ↑ Austin American-Statesman, "Golden-cheeked warbler to remain on endangered list," June 2, 2016
127. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
128. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
129. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016
130. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas Closer to Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
131. ↑ The Office of Endangered Species, "Utah Prairie Dog Cynomys Parvidens," February 3, 2003
132. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Utah prairie dog," accessed September 15, 2014
133. ↑ Washington Post, "District court strikes down endangered species protections for exceeding the scope of federal power," November 5, 2014
134. ↑ Associated Press, "Feds defend protections for Utah prairie dogs in closely watched endangered species case," June 25, 2015
135. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
136. ↑ VT Digger, "Vermont adds nine species to threatened and endangered list," June 25, 2015
137. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
138. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Two Crayfishes Threatened by Mountaintop-removal Mining in West Virginia, Kentucky, Virginia Proposed for Endangered Species Act Protection," April 6, 2015
139. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "Rare Frogs, Salamander and Flower in Pacific Northwest Move Closer to Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
140. ↑ Center for Biological Diversity, "9 Rare Amphibians and Reptiles in Southeast Move Toward Endangered Species Act Protection," June 30, 2015
141. ↑ 141.0 141.1 The Register-Herald, "The 10-year State Wildlife Action Plan is on public comment through July 15," June 19, 2015
142. ↑ West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, "State Wildlife Action Plan 2015," accessed July 15, 2015
143. ↑ DL-Online, "Minnesota turtle may get federal endangered status," July 1, 2015
144. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Wyoming toad," accessed July 17, 2015
145. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Service Announces Availability of the Draft Revised Recovery Plan for the Wyoming Toad," February 7, 2014
146. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2012)," accessed July 10, 2015
147. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2013)," accessed July 10, 2015
148. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Federal and State Endangered and Threatened Species Expenditures (Fiscal Year 2014)," accessed July 11, 2016

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