Eastern Hellbender Proposed for Endangered Species Listing
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has proposed listing the eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This announcement, published in the Federal Register on December 13, 2024, initiates a 60-day public comment period ending February 11, 2025. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments via regulations.gov under docket number FWS-R3-ES-2024-0152.
What Is the Eastern Hellbender?
The eastern hellbender, also known as the “snot otter” or “mud devil,” is North America’s largest salamander, reaching lengths of up to 30 inches. These aquatic giants live exclusively in cool, clear, fast-moving streams and rivers across 16 states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and New York. They spend a lot or most of their lives under large, flat rocks on the streambed, where they feed on crayfish and other small aquatic organisms. With lifespans reaching up to 30 years, hellbenders are long-lived but highly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Why Is the Eastern Hellbender Population Declining?
Proposed Protections for the Eastern Hellbender
The ESA listing would prohibit activities that harm, harass, or kill the eastern hellbender. It would also require federal agencies to collaborate with the USFWS to conserve the species and its habitat. However, the USFWS is not designating critical habitat for the eastern hellbender due to concerns over illegal collection.
The proposed protections aim to reduce threats and stabilize populations by addressing key issues such as habitat destruction and illegal collection. These measures will be crucial in reversing the species’ decline and ensuring survival.
How the Proposed Listing Impacts Development Projects
The proposed listing has significant implications for the development, agriculture, and utilities industries. Projects that intersect with eastern hellbender habitats will need to comply with ESA regulations to minimize impacts on the species and its habitat.
EnviroScience’s Expertise in Eastern Hellbender Compliance
- Habitat assessments to determine if there is potential habitat for the species and the likelihood of species occurrence.
- Species-specific surveys conducted by permitted specialists to determine the presence or probable absence of the species.
- Development of conservation measures and mitigation strategies to minimize project impacts.
- Assistance with permitting and regulatory compliance to keep projects on track.
With over 35 years of experience, EnviroScience has successfully helped clients meet ESA requirements while ensuring their projects proceed smoothly. Whether you’re planning a development project, managing water resources, or restoring natural habitats, we provide the expertise you need.
We Can Help Protect Your Project and Your Plans
The eastern hellbender’s plight underscores the importance of balancing development with conservation. If you have questions about how this proposed listing may affect your project, we’re here to help. Visit our Threatened & Endangered Species Services page to learn how EnviroScience can support you.
By working with trusted environmental professionals, you can ensure your projects meet regulatory requirements while contributing to the protection of this iconic species.
Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.
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