U.S. Geological Survey: Wildlife: Terrestrial and Endangered Resources Program

Wildlife: Terrestrial and Endangered Resources Program

USGS scientists supported by the Wildlife Program conduct research on a robust portfolio of natural resource topics involving migratory birds, terrestrial and marine mammals, threatened and endangered species, wildlife disease, terrestrial plants, and amphibians.

These activities focus primarily on the development of new information and tools for the management of wildlife on federally managed lands such as National Parks, National Wildlife Refuges, and Bureau of Land Management areas. We also collaborate with state and local governments, tribal organizations, non-governmental organizations, and other federal agencies.

Wildlife Program's Research Topics

Adaptive Management

The Adaptive Management process offers a unique mix of management and science to "learn from doing" and decrease uncertainty over time.

Amphibians

These species serve as important indicators of overall environmental health.

Birds

Avian species are diverse part of our national heritage, with more than 1,000 bird species protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Genetics

USGS uses cutting edge research and technologies to answer biological questions at a molecular level.

Imperiled Species

Our science is designed to understand the status of declining, Threatened, and Endangered species, and assist managers in their recovery.

Invertebrates

There is a great deal to be learned about the invertebrate organisms which serve such critical ecological functions.

Mammals

Large or small, in water or on land, our science enhances understanding of these captivating and charismatic animals.
Marine Mammal Species
Large Mammal Species
Small Mammal Species

Wildlife Health and Disease

USGS maintains unique capabilities to detect and describe wildlife disease, and understand the role of pathogens in the environment.

Reptiles

Reptiles have unique forms and lifestyles, making them fascinating research subjects for USGS scientists who work to better understand them.

Recent Highlights

State of the Birds 2011: A Bird's-Eye View of How Birds Use the Nation's Public Lands - The 2011 State of the Birds Report provides the nation's first assessment of birds on public lands and waters. In a unique application of data, the science behind this report allows state and federal agencies to determine the value of public lands in conserving American birds. This data demonstrates the tremendous potential for these agencies to help sustain the diversity and abundance of the nation's birdlife. The National Gap Analysis Program at the University of Idaho, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the U.S. Geological Survey, and a group of expert scientists from other federal and state agencies and nonprofit groups provided scientific analysis and support for this year's report. Read more about the science behind this report (.pdf) >>