The Endangered Species Act (ESA) is a key piece of legislation in the United States aimed at protecting threatened and endangered species and their habitats. Enacted in 1973, the ESA provides a framework for the conservation of species at risk of extinction, ensuring that federal agencies work to prevent further decline and promote recovery efforts.
Under the ESA, species can be listed as endangered or threatened, which triggers various protections, including habitat conservation and restrictions on hunting or trade. The act has played a crucial role in the recovery of several species, demonstrating the importance of legal protections in wildlife conservation efforts.