The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wants to add 49 species from Hawaii to the Endangered Species Act, including 22 found on the Big Island. ADVERTISING The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wants to add 49 species from Hawaii to
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wants to add 49 species from Hawaii to the Endangered Species Act, including 22 found on the Big Island.
The agency says the species are facing threats from habitat loss and deterioration.
The Wildlife Service says the plants and animals are at risk of extinction because of invasive species, recreational activities and threats from erosion, landslides and fires. Officials say listing the species will boost conservation efforts and improve the ecological health of the islands.
One bird proposed for listing — the band-rumped storm-petrel — occurs in Japan, Hawaii and the Atlantic. It also calls the Big Island its home.
Other animal species found on the island that are proposed to be added to the endangered species list are the yellow-faced bee, orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly and anchialine pool shrimp. Additionally, there are 18 plant species found on the island being considered.
The agency also said Tuesday it wants to list 23 species of plants and animals on Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as threatened or endangered.
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