The Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) has recently taken action against an animal facility in Anacortes, Washington, known as Predators of the Heart, for multiple violations of the law. The facility, also referred to as Because We Matter Exotic Animal Rescue, had its permit revoked after numerous incidents, including wolf escapes resulting in the deaths of neighborhood pets. Despite being closed to the public, the facility still houses endangered gray wolves, putting them at risk.
ALDF has submitted a complaint to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) urging them to investigate Predators of the Heart and enforce the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to protect the remaining wolves at the facility. The owner of the facility admitted to killing nine endangered gray wolves without authorization, citing financial reasons. She has threatened to euthanize up to 80% of the animals if a new permit is not granted by Skagit County.
Cristina Kladis, a Staff Attorney at ALDF, emphasizes the importance of enforcing the ESA to prevent the unnecessary deaths of endangered species. The ESA prohibits harming, harassing, or killing endangered animals, including those in captivity. The gray wolves at Predators of the Heart are genetically confirmed to be endangered species and are entitled to ESA protections.
The FWS defines „take“ under the ESA as any act that harms or harasses wildlife, including actions that disrupt their normal behavior patterns. The complaint against Predators of the Heart argues that the facility’s treatment of the gray wolves falls within the definition of an illegal „take“ under the ESA. ALDF is calling for swift action to ensure the safety and well-being of the remaining wolves at the facility.
The situation at Predators of the Heart highlights the importance of enforcing laws and regulations to protect endangered species. ALDF’s efforts to hold the facility accountable and safeguard the gray wolves serve as a reminder of the ongoing threats faced by wildlife in captivity. By advocating for the enforcement of the ESA, ALDF is working to prevent further harm to these vulnerable animals and uphold the principles of conservation and animal welfare.
