Protect Hippos Under the Endangered Species Act
The common hippopotamus is facing population declines in a significant portion of its range, due to habitat loss, poaching for illegal trade, commercial overutilization and other factors. Not only are hippos a globally recognized icon, but they are also irreplaceable to the health of African ecosystems. It is imperative that we turn our attention to these unique animals before it is too late.
As a global leader in conservation and the top consumer of hippo ivory, skins and trophies, the U.S. has a vital role to play in protecting hippos from extinction. Listing hippos under the Endangered Species Act would protect them by ending imports of hippo parts, products and trophies to the U.S. unless it can be shown that imports would benefit the survival of the species.