The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced the first revisions to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act since it was passed in 1985. According to the Saipan Tribune, 186 new species were added, bringing the total to 1,007 protected bird species. The newly added birds, such as the collared kingfisher in the Mariana Islands, are found in many delicate regions, including Hawai'i, American Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands.The list was also revised to remove 11 bird species that are no longer protected. The birds removed are no longer known to appear in the United States or related territories, or the adjustments have been made to reflect taxonomic changes in bird classifications.
For more information on the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, including a complete list of protected species, visit www.FWS.gov/migratorybirds.
Collared Kingfisher
Photo © Johnny Wee
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