Covia’s Post

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service cooked up a scheme to spend $250,000,000 over 30 years to kill half a million barred owls in the Pacific Northwest. Why? Because barred owls are moving into the same forests where Northern spotted owls live, likely owing to climate change, and the Administration doesn’t want barred owls to compete with the threatened spotted owls for food and other resources. Any day now, the agency may announce that it is indeed embarking on the plan to kill 500,000 barred owls to protect 4,000 or so spotted owls, even though the barred owls are protected as a North American native species under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Yes, North America’s barred owls, over decades, have expanded their range. But range expansion by species is as natural as the sun rising or the clouds forming. That’s how ecological systems work, and it’s occurring every day, with hundreds of species. Barred owls and spotted owls are already interbreeding and producing hybrid offspring that will be more adaptable to a changing ecosystem. That, again, is nature at work. Our own government is creating a dangerous and ugly precedent by planning a mass killing of a North American native species. Do we want agency personnel knee-deep in the business of killing native species to protect other native species, in a world where we’ve scrambled the workings of land and ocean ecosystems?

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is considering federal protection for three rare Nevada species: the Railroad Valley toad, white-margined penstemon, and pygmy rabbit, due to significant threats from habitat loss, climate change, and industrial activities. After a three-month review, a year-long evaluation will decide on their endangered status. Key threats include oil and gas extraction, land development, and environmental changes impacting their survival. Conservation efforts are highlighted as essential for preventing their extinction, emphasizing the importance of the Endangered Species Act in protecting biodiversity. Stewardship and conservation are deeply important to the May Arboretum Society. Your local Arboretum is home to over 4,000 native and non-native plant species, as well as a thriving wildlife habitat. We’ll have several varieties of penstemon at our upcoming Spring Plant Sale! Read more about the Railroad Valley toad, white-margined penstemon, and pygmy rabbit in the link below. #MayArboretumSociety #NevadaConservation

Fresh off the mic Pelecanus News is here! In our newest episode we're thrilled to announce a major win for conservation efforts on Hawai‘i’s Big Island! The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has designated over 119,000 acres as protected critical habitat for 11 plants and a Hawaiian picture-wing fly. This milestone comes after advocacy from the Center for Biological Diversity, highlighting the importance of preserving our unique biodiversity. From coastal areas to lush rainforests, these protected habitats span across 21 distinct areas, safeguarding endangered species and their homes. While this is a crucial step forward, there's more work to be done to address threats like fire, development, and invasive species. Every plant and animal plays a vital role in our ecosystem, and protecting their habitat is essential for their survival. We must continue to prioritize conservation efforts to ensure a thriving environment for generations to come. 💚 Listen to the whole episode here -> https://loom.ly/S7RvmKA #ConservationWins #ProtectOurPlanet #HawaiianBiodiversity #CriticalHabitat

🐸🌱 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐠'𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 🌊 Once locally extinct, the Oregon spotted frog makes a remarkable recovery in the Chehalis River Basin. 🐸 Habitat loss and invasive species had threatened these amphibians. 🦠 Now protected by state and federal laws, efforts focus on habitat preservation and improvement. 🏞️ Capitol Land Trust and various partners collaborate to protect and restore critical wetland habitat. 🌾 Restoration efforts include controlling invasive plants, creating frog-friendly ponds, and planting native vegetation. 💰 Funding from multiple sources supports the project's success and benefits the entire ecosystem. “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) was very fortunate to be able collaborate with the amazing people at Capitol Land Trust, their amazing volunteers, Ecology’s Office of Chehalis Basin, Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, and others to support a shared vision of a restored Blooms Preserve and moving a step closer toward recovering the Oregon spotted frog,” said Teal Waterstrat at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 🔗 Content and photos source Link in comments ----------------- 👇👇👇𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒂𝒓 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒔, 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆: 🔍 Follow me & #20MinRule 🔔 Click the bell icon on my profile 👍 Like 🔁 Repost -------------- #OregonSpottedFrog #ConservationSuccess #HabitatRestoration #ChehalisRiverBasin #EndangeredSpecies #WetlandProtection #AmphibianRecovery #WildlifeConservation #EnvironmentalPreservation #Biodiversity #CommunityPartnerships #EcologicalBalance #EcosystemHealth #ConservationFunding #ChehalisBasinStrategy

In my personal experience, the reintroduction of herpetofauna back into its historic range has been wrought with controversy, some of which was based in scientific fact, but much of which was based in unsupported opinion. This example is additional proof that, if done thoughtfully, reintroduction can be successful for even the most wide-ranging species. As new threats continue to supplement existing threats to reptiles and amphibians, innovative approaches that involve creative collaborations will be even more essential. Kudos to all of the partners involved in this project for showing how it can be done. #conservation #partnerships

As part of the countdown to TAFU’s Local Wildlife Day https://lnkd.in/eRXHbZ6D on the 11th of July – Species no. 33. Stay tuned – 10 more days and 10 more species until then! The Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) is a bird of prey, measuring 40-58 cm in length with a wingspan of 109-140 cm. Its plumage can vary greatly, ranging from dark brown to nearly white, their chest generally has a slight pattern, and their tail is rounded. They have a mewing call which is often heard in the spring and summer months. Buzzards are highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, farmlands, moorlands, and even urban areas. They are frequently seen perched on trees, posts, or poles, scanning for prey. Their diet is diverse, comprising mainly small mammals like voles and rabbits, but they also consume birds, reptiles, and carrion. Buzzards are known for their soaring flight, often seen riding thermal currents in a characteristic circular pattern. Breeding season for the Common Buzzard runs from March to July. They build large nests made of sticks, typically in trees or on cliff edges, and line them with softer green materials, such as moss and leaves. The female lays 2-3 eggs, which are incubated for about 35 days. Both parents share the responsibility of feeding the chicks, which fledge around 2 months after hatching. Buzzard populations in Europe have recovered significantly from historical declines due to persecution and pesticide use. Conservation efforts, including legal protection and habitat management, have contributed to this resurgence. However, they still face threats from habitat destruction and poisoning. Continued conservation measures are essential to maintain and further support their populations. Maintaining and restoring natural habitats is crucial. Reducing pesticide use can help ensure a healthy prey population and an overall healthy ecosystem. #TAFU #TAFUsLocalWildlifeDay #TAFUsLWD #LocalWildlife #Nature #Sustainability #ClimateChange #Conservation #NatureConservation #NatureLovers

On this World Wildlife Day, let's reflect on the impact of our actions on the fate of the world's wildlife. It's imperative that each of us takes steps to protect and preserve the rich biodiversity of our planet. Together, let's work towards wildlife conservation and safeguarding endangered species. Happy World Wildlife Day! 🌍🦁🐼 #WorldWildlifeDay #WildlifeConservation #ProtectWildlife #WildlifeDay #SaveOurSpecies #ConservationEfforts #WildlifeProtection #Biodiversity #NatureConservation #WildlifeAwareness #EndangeredSpecies #WildlifePreservation #ProtectOurPlanet #ConservationAwareness #WildlifeCampaign #AnimalConservation #SustainableLiving #WildlifeEducation #GlobalConservation #WildlifeHabitat #NaturePreservation #SpeciesProtection #ConservationAction #WildlifeAdvocacy #EnvironmentalProtection

Unlock the Secrets of Nature: Meet the Pangolin, the World’s Most Trafficked Mammal! 👇 Did you know these scaly wonders are not just adorable but also vital to our ecosystems? Pangolins, often dubbed "nature’s pest controllers," are facing a critical crisis. With their unique keratin scales, these remarkable creatures play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by feasting on ants and termites. By regulating insect populations, pangolins help preserve the health of their habitats. However, the demand for their scales and meat has pushed them to the brink of extinction. Shockingly, pangolins are the most trafficked mammals in the world! But there’s hope, and you can help! Here’s how: Raise Awareness: Share information about pangolins and their plight. The more people know, the more we can collectively take action! Support Conservation Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with groups dedicated to pangolin protection and habitat conservation, such as the Pangolin Conservation or WildAid. Advocate for Stronger Laws: Urge your local and national governments to implement stricter regulations against wildlife trafficking and promote sustainable practices. Educate Your Community: Host or participate in local events that educate others about the importance of pangolins and wildlife conservation. Choose Sustainable Products: Be mindful of your consumption habits. Opt for products that support conservation efforts and do not contribute to habitat destruction. #PangolinAwareness #WildlifeConservation #Biodiversity #SaveThePangolins #EcoWarriors

The Thin Green Line The 'thin green line' symbolises the frontline conservationists and rangers who courageously protect endangered species and habitats from threats like poaching and habitat destruction. Operating in challenging environments, they act as the last line of defence against biodiversity loss. They often encounter obstacles such as limited resources and increasingly well-armed and violent poachers. Their unwavering dedication emphasises the critical importance of providing them with the necessary support and resources to carry out their mission effectively. Nkosi and Mondli are two dedicated KZN Ezemvelo Wildlife field rangers assigned to patrol a section of the Maloti-Drakensberg Nature Reserve, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Their main duty is to monitor the mountainous terrain inhabited by our pair of bearded vultures, with the aim of preventing illegal activities such as poaching and deforestation. However, their ability to patrol effectively is often hindered by limited equipment. A crucial part of this project was to provide essential gear, such as binoculars, head torches, and warm clothing, enabling them to conduct monitoring and observation patrols more effectively, particularly during the winter breeding season. Watch our discussion with Nkosi at the following link https://lnkd.in/ddbiQFqc Science Based Ingredients Afraceuticals Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife BirdLife International Endangered Wildlife Trust Wildlife ACT Vulture Conservation Foundation 1% for the Planet South African National Parks (SANParks) Dane Poulsen Che'-Lee Parker Anthea Gilfillan Caitlin Gilfillan @Quin Clark #Nestflix #BeardedVultureRecoveryProgramme #beardedvultureconservation #BeardedVulture #BeardedVultureBreedingProgramme

Image by Adam Skalzub @abombs_wildlife "A Woodland Caribou Bull from the A la Peche herd, whose population is estimated to be only around 120-150 members. Woodland Caribou are a federally listed species at risk. They play a major role in maintaining the structure of the ecosystem in their habitat, but their future is uncertain. Habitat loss, climate change, vehicle collision, pollution, diseases, and predation are some of the major threats that contribute significantly to the overall effects on Caribou populations and habitat." Caribou are, as mentioned, listed under the Species at Risk Act: Since 1977, COSEWIC has used a comprehensive approach, combining scientific research, Indigenous knowledge, and community insights to assess the risk of extinction for wildlife species. The Species at Risk Act, enacted in 2003, plays a crucial role in protecting these vulnerable species, with COSEWIC identifying and evaluating them as a first step toward safeguarding. By scientifically evaluating at-risk species, COSEWIC informs the government, potentially leading to legal protection under SARA. For more information on how Canada protects its diverse wildlife, visit COSEWIC's Wildlife Species Assessment and SARA Public Registry websites! #conservation #wildlifeawareness #wildlifephotography #conservationphotographers #protectwildlife #protectourwildlife #yourshotphotographer #caribou #endangeredspecies