In response to a petition submitted by IFAW and our partners, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is considering expanding protections for leopards under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Leopard populations in sub-Saharan Africa are currently categorized as Threatened, while all others are listed as Endangered. The leopards that are considered Threatened receive fewer protections than those listed as Endangered, despite the fact that they are experiencing population and habitat decline.
FWS is now collecting public comments before proposing a rule to categorize the leopards of sub-Saharan Africa as Endangered, which would afford these animals much-needed safeguards.
Please take a moment to let the agency know that you support protecting all leopards as Endangered. The deadline for public comments is January 30th, so please take action today!
Dear Ms. Van Norman,
Please proceed with proposing and finalizing a rule to list leopard populations across sub-Saharan Africa as Endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA).
The best available science demonstrates that leopards are at risk throughout their range in Africa and Asia. In sub-Saharan Africa, where leopards are currently classified as Threatened, populations have declined by more than 30 percent over the past 25 years. Continent-wide, the species has lost up to 67 percent of its historic range. Accordingly, all leopards should be protected as Endangered under the ESA.
Though the U.S. does not fall within leopards' natural range, Americans and our policymakers have a critical role to play in preserving wild populations. I urge you to extend Endangered status to all leopards and reaffirm the United States' commitment to saving this iconic species.
[Your comments]
Thank you for considering these comments.
Sincerely
[Your name]
