Endangered and Threatened Species: Similarity of Appearance Explanation for the Northern Distinct Population Segment of the Southern Subspecies of Scarlet Macaw

Key Points

• 1The rule protects a northern population of Southern Scarlet Macaws by explaining why they look similar to other macaw groups but still deserve endangered species protection
• 2Wildlife officials can now enforce laws against capturing, selling, or harming these specific macaws without having to prove in court that every individual bird belongs to the protected population
• 3People importing, selling, or owning scarlet macaws need to be careful to follow the rules, as some populations are protected while others may not be
• 4This rule makes it easier for Fish and Wildlife agents to stop illegal trade in these birds, which helps prevent extinction of this vulnerable macaw population
• 5The regulation went into effect to close a loophole where similar-looking birds could be legally traded even though they were actually the protected species

Key Dates