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The cactus ferruginous pygmy owl is a tiny owl that nests in tree and cactus cavities throughout the southwestern United States. Despite their small size, the native birds benefit the ecosystem by hunting and catching rats, mice, lizards and other prey up to twice their size.

Today, fewer than 50 cactus ferruginous pygmy owls remain in the U.S. The factors leading to the owl's decline include invasive species, fires and drought. Unfortunately, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service renewed their 2006 decision to keep the owls off the endangered species list, reasoning that larger populations exist in Mexico. According to Defenders of Wildlife President Jamie Rappaport Clark, the same reasoning would have prevented protections for the gray wolf and bald eagle.

Declining protection for this rare, interesting bird sets a precedent for future decisions regarding declining species. Please sign the petition to restore endangered species protections for the cactus ferruginous pygmy owl.