March 30, 2011

NMFS & USFWS Delay Loggerhead Status Determination


The Loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) was listed as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 1978. Since that time, there have been dramatic declines in Loggerhead populations worldwide. It is currently the only sea turtle species listed as threatened; all other sea turtle species are endangered in the U.S. In 2009, a review of the Loggerhead's status begin. At that time, a decision was to be announced in early 2011 about the listing of the species.

It looks like we'll have to wait until September, though. Earlier this month, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association's (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced a six month extension to determine the status of the Loggerhead. (Photo credit: J. Jones)