The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed listing the blue tree monitor, a rare lizard native to Indonesia, as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. This proposed rule is due to the lizard's shrinking population, caused by habitat loss from deforestation, climate change, and overcollection for the international pet trade. The service has identified that the blue tree monitor faces an immediate risk of extinction throughout its entire range. Public comments are invited until February 24, 2025, and a temporary 240-day emergency listing is also concurrently in effect.
Simple Explanation
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wants to protect a special blue lizard from Indonesia because it's in danger of disappearing forever. They believe it needs help because of things like losing its home, being taken for pets too much, and the weather changing.