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Most of us are familiar
with the term “endangered species”. It is referenced frequently in the
news, by government agencies and conservation organizations. In fact, the
Virgin Islands are home to many endangered, threatened and protected
species. These include leatherback, green and hawksbill sea turtles, the
St. Croix ground lizard, Virgin Islands tree boa, brown pelican and green
iguana, among others. Endangered and protected species are not limited to
animals, such as fish, birds and reptiles. Many species of plants, insects,
and invertebrates are also protected.
In
the late 1960’s, the federal government recognized that many native plants
and animals were in danger of extinction. Extinction means that a species
will disappear from the planet forever. Every species is believed to have
educational, cultural, and ecological value. Thus, the loss of any
species is considered a loss of local heritage and cultural richness. To
prevent this from happening, the government developed the “Endangered
Species Act”, or ESA, which was passed in 1973. Animals and plants believed
in danger of extinction, as well as the habitats on which they depend, are
protected under this act. The act is designed not only to protect, but also
to conserve and recover listed species. |
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Different species may be
added to the list if the need arises. A species is listed as “threatened”
if it is likely to become endangered in the near future. It is listed as
“endangered” if it is in danger of extinction throughout all, or part of its
range. Both threatened and endangered species, as well as their habitats
are protected by law. Taking or trading of these species is also
forbidden. The ESA is enforced locally by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS), Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources
(VIDPNR), and The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The Virgin Islands are
known as “America’s Paradise”. This is due not only to the beautiful weather
and sandy beaches, but also to the beauty, color, and diversity of our
native plants and animals. Every species adds to the natural and cultural
richness of our home. We should take pride in, protect, and conserve our
local species for now and for future generations. The endangered species
act will help ensure that our paradise is preserved. Please abide by this
law and do not touch, take, harm, or trade any threatened or endangered
species. A complete list of protected species in the Virgin Islands may be
found at
www.vifishandwildlife.com. Any violations of this act should be
reported to the local authorities.
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