John,

With only about 50 individuals left, Rice’s whales are among the most critically endangered whales in the world. Found only in the Gulf of Mexico, these gentle giants face a number of threats, including ship strikes, oil and gas development, and chronic noise. And with such a small population, the death of even a single whale could have devastating consequences for the population’s recovery.

But the most immediate threat to these whales is from anti-wildlife members of Congress. Take action to stop them.

Buried deep within the must-pass national defense spending bill is a provision that would gut Marine Mammal Protection Act safeguards for these critically endangered creatures. This provision would exempt certain military operations over the ocean from the law — even if it harms the whales.

Congress is set to vote on this legislation as soon as next week: Urge your representative to oppose H.R. 2670, which strips protection away from this unique species.