Governance & Policy
US Endangered Species Act
The principal United States wildlife conservation law, protecting listed species and their critical habitat and prohibiting their taking.
Definition
The Endangered Species Act, enacted in 1973, directs US federal agencies to conserve species listed as endangered or threatened. It prohibits the "taking" of listed species, requires designation of critical habitat, obliges federal agencies to consult on actions that may affect listed species, and mandates recovery plans.
Quick reference
At a glance
- Subject
- Governance & Policy
- Editorial status
- Editorial draft
- Definition status
- Established
- Last updated
- 19 August 2026
- Also known as
- ESA · Endangered Species Act of 1973
Overview
What it means
Listed species receive some of the strongest legal protections in US law, capable of stopping or reshaping major development projects.
How it is used
Developers run habitat assessments and consultations; conservation groups petition for listings; courts enforce consultation duties.
Why it matters
It is the backbone of US biodiversity protection and the national counterpart to CITES for domestic species.
Review
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