Endangered and Threatened Species: Endangered Species Status for Seven Species of Pangolin
Summary
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to officially protect seven species of pangolins—small, scale-covered mammals found in Asia and Africa—by listing them as endangered under federal law. This protection would restrict hunting, trading, and importing of these animals in the United States to help prevent their extinction from poaching and habitat loss.
Key Points
- 1Seven pangolin species would receive legal protection as endangered animals, making it illegal to hunt, capture, or trade them in the U.S.
- 2The protection aims to combat illegal wildlife trafficking, as pangolins are the world's most poached mammals, hunted for their scales and meat.
- 3Companies and individuals involved in importing wildlife or wildlife products would face stricter regulations and potential penalties for violating the rules.
- 4The public has until August 19, 2025, to submit comments supporting or opposing this proposed protection before the government makes a final decision.
- 5The regulation reflects international efforts to save pangolins from extinction, as their populations have declined dramatically in recent decades.
Key Dates
June 17, 2025
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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