Victory for Wildlife

Dear Defender,

Even in the midst of these difficult times, we’re excited to share with you news of an important conservation victory!

Last week, a federal court struck down this administration’s efforts to eviscerate the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). The judge’s ruling overturned a 2017 legal opinion issued by the Department of the Interior that shielded industries from liability when their activities resulted in unintentional killings of migratory birds – even when those deaths were predictable and avoidable. 

Millions of birds are killed each year by uncovered oil waste pits, oil spills, power lines and other industrial dangers. Many of these deaths are preventable. The MBTA has been key to holding industries liable for deaths that could have been prevented with changes in practices, such as covering oil pits and marking power lines to avoid collisions.

The court’s decision to nullify the administration’s ‘get out of jail free’ approach to migratory bird hazards is a hopeful sign for wildlife and comes at a critical time when many bird species are facing extinction.

Thousands of you took action earlier this year to voice your support for the MBTA. We’re grateful to have the support of wildlife advocates like you who made this victory possible. Please join us in celebrating this news and the countless migratory birds who will remain protected!

With deep gratitude,