About Defenders of wildlife
Defenders of Wildlife: Protecting and Restoring Imperiled Wildlife and Habitats Across North America
Defenders of Wildlife is a non-profit organization that has been working tirelessly for over 70 years to protect and restore imperiled wildlife and habitats across North America. The organization was founded in 1947 by a group of concerned citizens who were alarmed by the rapid decline in wildlife populations due to habitat destruction, hunting, and other human activities.
Today, Defenders of Wildlife has grown into one of the most respected conservation organizations in the world, with over 1.8 million members and supporters. The organization works on the ground, in the courts, and on Capitol Hill to protect wildlife from threats such as habitat loss, climate change, pollution, poaching, and unsustainable development.
One of Defenders' primary goals is to protect endangered species from extinction. The organization works closely with federal agencies such as the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) to ensure that endangered species are protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Defenders also advocates for stronger protections for critical habitats that are essential for endangered species survival.
In addition to protecting endangered species through policy advocacy work at all levels of government - local state or federal - Defenders also engages in on-the-ground conservation efforts across North America. For example:
- In Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), Defenders is working hard to prevent oil drilling which would destroy vital habitat for polar bears.
- In Florida's Everglades National Park ,Defender's team is working with partners like Audubon Florida ,to restore wetlands which provide crucial habitat for threatened birds like Wood Storks.
- In Montana's Northern Rockies region ,Defender's team is helping ranchers coexist with wolves through innovative programs like range riders who help keep livestock safe while reducing conflicts between wolves & people.
Through these efforts - along with many others - Defenders has helped save countless animals from extinction including gray wolves,bald eagles,humpback whales,and grizzly bears among others.
Another important aspect of Defender’s work involves addressing climate change impacts on wildlife . Climate change poses an existential threat not only to individual species but entire ecosystems . As temperatures rise sea levels rise too leading coastal areas vulnerable flooding or erosion . This can have devastating effects on marine life such as sea turtles or coral reefs .
To address this issue ,Defender’s team works hard advocating policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while promoting clean energy alternatives . They also engage communities directly affected by climate change impacts providing them resources they need adapt their livelihoods .
Finally , education plays a key role in Defender’s mission . Through outreach programs aimed at schools universities community groups they aim raise awareness about importance protecting our natural heritage inspiring next generation environmental stewards .
In conclusion , if you care about protecting imperiled wildlife & habitats across North America then you should consider supporting Defender’s mission today!