21 More Species are Now Extinct By David Robinson (11/2/23) The recent news that 21 species were classified as extinct is another stark reminder of the challenge we face. In its announcement, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service stated that the lost species include ten birds, two fish, a bat, and eight mussels. They were previously on the national list of threatened and endangered species. According to the Center for Biological Diversity, 650 species have become extinct in the U.S. because of climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, and invasive species. “Federal protection came too late ..read more

**Groups & Individuals Honored for Protecting Endangered Species Act & Vulnerable Species By David Robinson, September 16, 2023 This is an especially appropriate time to honor those people who have made unique contributions to the protection of endangered species. As we get closer to the Endangered Species Act’s 50th Anniversary (December 28), there is an even greater focus on the ESA’s successes. On September 13, a coalition of conservation organizations held a ceremony at the Library of Congress to recognize the Nez Perce Tribe, the Yurok Tribe, Bat Conservation International, Hawaii ..read more

By David Robinson, August 5, 2023 It’s a known fact. Some people are afraid of or otherwise dislike wolves and bears (and other threatened and endangered species). Of course, I’m referring to certain hypercritics of the Endangered Species Act and the animals it protects. For example, earlier this year, Congressional Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) decided it was necessary to introduce a bill that removes critical protections from gray wolves in California, Washington, Colorado, and across the Midwest. Her proposed legislation also would prevent the courts from reversing that law. In addition, Tammy ..read more

*Students to Write About Endangered Species Act’s Contribution By David Robinson, June 19, 2023 If you are a young person or educator wanting to help celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act—consider the Endangered Species Essay Project. This is a unique opportunity for students in grades 3-12 to practice essay writing and explore topics related to ecology and the environment. Teachers and other educators can incorporate this project into their fall 2023 lesson planning or otherwise encourage students to participate. Students will submit their essays about endangered specie ..read more

*Special Projects Are Highlights of Endangered Species Day & ESA@50 Celebrations By David Robinson, May 19, 2023 Art can be a powerful “tool” for endangered species conservation. Photos and illustrations of threatened and endangered species inspire people to take action. “Creative practices have the ability to connect people to ecosystems, wildlife and plants in an immediate and powerful way,” explained Jeanne Dodds, Creative Engagement Director for the Endangered Species Coalition. “The process of observing and learning about threatened and endangered species through the creation of a wor ..read more

–Develop an Everyday Conservation Focus By David Robinson, May 1, 2023 If you haven’t already made plans for Endangered Species Day on May 19, do so now. There are various ways to participate, including the Endangered Species Chalk Art event (May 19-21). You can also join an in-person or virtual event such as a talk, film screening, discussion, or trivia night. Check out the event map to see if there is an event nearby you. If there isn’t an activity close to home, you can organize your own: *Habitat clean-up. *Pollinator garden planting. *Children’s program or any other activity related to th ..read more

*Zoom Sessions Planned for April 11, 13 and 25 If you are a young person interested in a potential conservation career (or have a relative or friend who is), you will want to tune into a series of Conservation Career Panels. In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, these Zoom programs will focus on three different audiences: *College Students: April 11—7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Eastern Time *Students of Color: April 13—7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Eastern Time *High School Students: April 25—7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Eastern Time Learn more about the programs and speakers and then register for a grea ..read more

**While The Rest of Us Are Celebrating Its Success By David Robinson, March 30, 2023 Most of us—including government agencies and Congressional representatives–are recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act this year. But a few Congressional “experts” have decided this is the opportune time to attack the ESA, which has helped keep 99% of listed species from going extinct.  For example, three recently introduced Congressional bills would significantly harm the Act and the ongoing efforts to solve the biodiversity crises. There are now 13 anti-ESA bills on the menu. The ..read more

*The ESA’s Year-long 50th Anniversary Celebration is Underway By David Robinson, January 16, 2023 You have probably noticed that the Endangered Species Act (ESA) has received more attention than usual lately. Of course, that’s because the ESA is 50 years old this year. President Nixon signed this life-saving law on December 28, 1973. Recent headlines have announced: How Successful Has the Endangered Species Act Been in its 5 Decades of Protection? Wildlife saved from extinction as the Endangered Species Act turns 50 50 years of the Endangered Species Act: Has it had a measurable impact? Most p ..read more

*School & Other Educators Encourage Young People to Protect Vulnerable Species By David Robinson, November 6, 2022 Young people learn from their parents and teachers. Most “kids” receive their first endangered species-related lesson in the classroom or at home. Teachers have a vital role in endangered species conservation education. They teach students about critical conservation issues, including the ESA Act and the need to care for vulnerable plant and animal species and their precious habitats. They develop class and outdoor projects that show how everyday actions can help protect threa ..read more