U.S. Proposes Endangered Status for Eastern Hellbenders

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed listing the eastern hellbender salamander as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act, initiating a 60-day public comment period. This proposal responds to a rapid decline in their populations, which have decreased from 626 to 371 documented groups, with only 12% remaining stable. Key threats to their survival include habitat destruction, water pollution, disease, and collection for the pet trade, as they rely on clean, well-oxygenated streams for survival. The eastern hellbender is significant for freshwater ecosystems and is found across 15 states, with a notable presence in the Blue Ridge Mountains where recent hurricanes have further impacted their populations. Conservation groups have been advocating for their protection for over a decade, emphasizing their role as indicators of stream health. The proposal aims to enhance conservation efforts, potentially benefiting broader ecological systems.