Butterflies (3 spp.) and the F&WS

[Michael Gochfeld]

I would insert two words into Marks Walker's tale of woe. "always or 
perfectly".

i.e.  "Listing doesn't work always or perfectly". 

Whether this is a fault of listing or because bulldozers can't read, 
isn't clear. 

Listing has slowed the wholesale elimination of the Albany Pine Bush, 
although it hasn't prevented the many encroachments that have resulted 
in a reserve that is fragmented (and looks like gerrymandered voting 
districts). Listing has encouraged states to fund monitoring, habitat 
protection and even regeneration programs. 

And yes, I remember receiving an obnoxious official letter thanking me 
for the information which allowed USFWS to place the Yellow-shouldered 
Blackbird (Puerto Rican endemic) on the endangered list and words to the 
effect that I should be aware that any further research I did on this 
bird may be in violation of the law, with more stuff about special 
permits. 

Not exactly conducive wording to encourage researchers to help in the 
listing process. 


Mike Gochfeld

 
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