Wildlife Reviewed

Endangered species

Seven species of wildlife in Washington, ranging from prairie grouse to sea turtles, are being reviewed as possible candidates for the state’s threatened and endangered species list.

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Department has launched studies to identify troubled or potentially troubled native wildlife species and map out strategies to restore them.

On the other hand, the agency also will be reviewing six wildlife species for possible removal from the state’s list of troubled species.

Currently, Washington has 33 wildlife species of specific concern.

Species whose populations have improved enough for possible reclassification include the bald eagle, peregrine falcon, Columbian white-tailed deer, gray whale, Aleutian Canada goose and brown pelican.

Species being considered for listing as threatened or endangered include sage and sharp-tailed grouse, common loon, fisher, Oregon spotted frog, common murre and Olive Ridley sea turtle.

Listing under the state program does not carry the regulatory burden of species listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. , DataTimes