11 species that looked like endangered turtles and butterflies are no longer protected

The US Fish and Wildlife Service proposes to remove protections for 11 species that were previously treated as endangered because they looked similar to truly endangered species. This means that activities like hunting or commercial trade involving these 11 species will no longer be restricted by federal law.

The Endangered Species Act protects species that are officially listed as endangered or threatened. It also has a provision to protect species that look so much like a listed species that it's hard to tell them apart, to prevent accidental harm or illegal trade. This proposal means the government no longer believes these 11 species need that 'look-alike' protection, which could make it easier for developers or collectors to operate without fear of violating federal law.