May Ling Roberts

LETTER: Delaying action is denying protection

As an intern for Defenders of Wildlife’s New Mexico program, I have learned how critical this species is to the landscape of the West. The uncertain future of the beloved pinyon jay rests upon the health and survival of the piñon-juniper woodlands. In the face of severe tree-cutting and climate change, viable piñon-juniper habitat is becoming scarce and continues to shrink at a concerning rate. Consequently, over the past 50 years pinyon jay populations have dropped by 85%, warranting protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). However, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service has delayed any further decisions until 2028, despite substantial data of pinyon jay endangerment.