A Big Win for Giant Manta Rays

Called “angels of the sea,” giant manta rays are elegant and massive, which makes them a huge target for aquariums. However, these rays are also listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Despite their vulnerability, until recently Florida has granted permits to capture and ship these rays, sometimes even thousands of miles from Florida’s waters.

Now thanks to public outcry about the dangers to rays, Florida will no longer allow permits to capture them without a full review and vote, and rays will no longer be shipped long distances to overseas aquariums. This is a huge step toward protecting giant manta rays and Florida’s oceanic waters!

Gray Wolf Enters Sequoia National Park for the First Time in Over a Century

A gray wolf recently traveled hundreds of miles into Sequoia National Park. Her appearance is the first time these wolves have been spotted in the area in over a century. Known as BEY03f, her incredible historic journey has been tracked by scientists, conservationists and fans of wolves. This same wolf made headlines earlier this year as the first gray wolf to cross into Los Angeles County since wolves reentered California in 2011.

World’s Largest Wildlife Crossing Coming to California

Wildlife crossings help animals on the move by connecting habitat split up by roads and other development. Six new wildlife crossings are being built in Southern California, including the largest crossing in the world! Soon, animals like mountain lions, black bears and more will be able move safely through their habitat.

Defenders’ Conflict-Reducing Electric Fence Program Hits Its 15th Year!

As part of our longstanding history of working with landowners and other stakeholders to reduce wildlife conflicts, Defenders launched our Electric Fence Incentive Program. Now in its 15th year, this program stands as one of our most successful coexistence initiatives, avoiding lethal outcomes for bears and other animals. We’re proud to provide communities with the tools and knowledge to share the landscape with our incredible wildlife!