The Exhibition ANPR is to initiate rulemaking to develop FWS exhibition regulations, including how those regulations interface with USDA-AWA regulations for exhibition of birds. There is a 30-day public comment period so comments are due JULY 3, 2023.
The proposed rule would make changes to the existing permit exceptions in 50 CFR 21.12 (exhibition, disease monitoring, licensed veterinarians, birds in buildings, and law enforcement). It would also propose new authorizations for salvage, exhibition of specimens, and activities conducted by natural resource agency employees. There is a 60-day public comment period so comments are due July 31, 2023.
View 90-day findings on petitions to add four species as Endangered or Threatened Wildlife and Plants under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, including the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius). In response to a petition by the Humane Society of the United States and others the USFWS announced the listing of hippos under the ESA may be warranted and is initiating a formal review. The public is invited to submit scientific and commercial data and other information regarding the species and factors that may affect their status.