John,

Hellbenders need help. Also called “mountain alligators” or “snot otters,” these unique aquatic salamanders have recently declined by more than 80% and face ever-increasing threats.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is now deciding whether to protect hellbenders under the Endangered Species Act, and the agency needs to hear from you.

Hellbenders grow more than 2 feet long, breathe through lasagna-like flaps of skin along their sides, and are among the most charismatic of cold, slimy creatures. Adapted to walk on rocky river bottoms with their grippy toes, these ancient amphibians rely on clean, cold water to thrive. Because they’re extremely sensitive to silt and water pollution, they’re a sentinel for clean rivers. Safeguarding them would protect habitat for thousands of other freshwater species.

The Service denied hellbenders much-needed protection in 2019, relying on captive-breeding efforts. But while those are worthy efforts, they won’t ensure the salamanders truly recover — for that, they need Endangered Species Act protection.

Help ensure these ancient wonders don’t keep spiraling toward extinction. Tell the Service to protect hellbenders under the Act now.