From backyard birds to ocean-dwelling sea turtles, one third of wildlife species in the United States currently face an elevated risk of extinction.
The Endangered Species Act is a significant foundational conservation law that was passed on December 28th, 1973 and was designed to save our native fish, plants, and other wildlife from going extinct. Additionally, it serves to recover species to the point where the law's protections are no longer needed. 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of this landmark legislation, and it is because of the passage of this act that hundreds of species have been saved from extinction.
Check out this video to take a look back at the plants and animals found in South Carolina which we have featured throughout the year that have benefited from the passage of the Endangered Species Act.
once on the brink: Success stories of the eSA
Bald Eagle
As our national symbol, Bald Eagles were once endangered - their numbers declined down to a mere 500 nesting pairs. In 2007, the Bald Eagle was removed from the endangered species list and has recovered, reaching over 71,000 nesting pairs in the lower 48 states.
Image by Steve Edelstein
Peregrine Falcon
The protections given by the Endangered Species Act have helped Peregrine Falcons make a stunning recovery. Only 10-20% of the historical falcon population remained in 1970, but now their numbers have soared to over 3,000 nesting pairs in North America.
Image by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
American Alligator
The famous reptiles of the southeast were placed on the endangered species list in 1967, and just 20 years later they were removed. Over 5 million individuals now live in the wild.
Image by Andrew May
ADVOCACY IS KEY
The South Carolina Wildlife Federation works at the state level to advocate for wildlife habitat protection, responsible stewardship of our public lands and for preserving our state’s natural heritage. SCWF also works at the national level by working closely with the National Wildlife Federation to engage our supporters on issues of national significance, such as the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act. Although a number species have been removed from the Endangered Species Act due to recovery, more work is yet to be done.
Conservation Lobby Day participants on the S.C. State House steps
“As we look to the next 50 years and beyond, a renewed commitment to species conservation and the ESA is vital. It is up to all of us to continue the success of the ESA so future generations may experience the natural heritage we all cherish.”
-U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service