The Endangered Species Act (ESA) turns 40 this year, so it's a good time to celebrate its many successes. The ESA has been good for California and its wildlife.
The population of Southern sea otters had dropped to only 50 animals before it received ESA protection in 1977, but by 2005, the population had increased to more than 2,700. Similarly, the U.S. population of California Condors had dwindled to just 40 by the time it was listed as endangered in 1967. By 2011, the population had grown to 396 birds.
Other California species saved from extinction include Island night lizards and Peninsular bighorn sheep.
The ESA works.
There are some members of Congress who want to weaken the ESA. It is important that we remember how effective the ESA has been and make sure it stays in place to protect endangered species well into the future.
-- Roberta L. Millstein, Davis
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