News and Stories

The Endangered Species Act, enacted in 1973, currently serves as the most effective wildlife legislation ever enacted to preserve biodiversity. Species such as the California condor, gray wolf, American alligator, and bald eagle are all here today as a result of this legislation. Here at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, we work to conserve numerous species listed under the Endangered Species Act, including Mexican wolves, Polar bear, sihek, Texas ocelots, and American burying beetles.

One of the most concerning proposals would eliminate the Endangered Species Act’s long-standing “blanket rule.” This rule automatically provides basic protections for species listed as threatened , such as prohibitions on harming or harassing that wildlife, while species-specific rules are developed.

Without the blanket rule, newly listed species could go months or even years without specific protections, and this delaying of safeguards increases the risk of further population decline.

Take action now! 

Public input matters. You can make your voice heard by submitting a comment opposing the removal of the blanket rule. Submit a Public Comment by Monday, December 22nd

Use the sample message below or create your own. Even a short comment makes a difference! When we share why we care about wildlife and wild places, we help decision-makers understand the impact of these changes.

As someone who cares deeply about wildlife and the future of our planet, I urge you to withdraw this proposed rule that would undermine wildlife protections granted by the Endangered Species Act. This change would go against decades of conservation progress and weaken one of our nation’s most important environmental laws.

The “blanket rule” gives essential baseline protection to threatened species until species-specific safeguards can be established. Removing the “blanket rule” may make them more vulnerable to extinction, in opposition to the intent of this legislation.

I urge you to uphold the mission of the Endangered Species Act and maintain the “blanket rule.” Our wildlife, wild places, and future generations are counting on it.

Want to do more? 

In addition to the blanket rule, there are several other proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act that could affect how species are listed, protected, and recovered. If you have more time, we encourage you to review the full set of proposed ESA rule changes and leave comments on additional proposals that concern you. Thoughtful, personalized comments are especially impactful. A great resource for further action can be found with our friends at the Oregon Zoo.

Together, we can help ensure the Endangered Species Act continues to protect wildlife and wild places for generations to come. We thank you for taking action and encouraging others to do the same!