Audubon California is opposing the latest attempt by southern California developers to remove the California Gnatcatcher from protection under the Endangered Species Act. The delisting petition relies on a new study claiming the California Gnatcatcher is not a genetically unique subspecies, but a number of avian experts contend that this study is based on inadequate data and that the petition should be rejected by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. We are keeping a close eye on the developing situation.

Other stuff to check out:

• Bald Eagle = hardcore.
• Drought takes toll on birds, Pacific Flyway
• Video: FWS highlights SF Bay restoration site
• Western Scrub-Jay, now 3x more awesome?
• Take action: Fight for birds in final Fed drought bill 

Red-necked Pharalope, Colored pencil. Matthew Doder.