The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), has announced the start of a 5-year review for the Beringia and Okhotsk distinct population segments of the bearded seal, listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) since 2012. The review aims to ensure the accuracy of the species' listing status, using the best available scientific and commercial data. NMFS is inviting information on the seals' status, threats, and recovery efforts from the public and relevant entities by March 26, 2021. This information will help determine if the seals should remain listed as threatened, be reclassified, or delisted.
Simple Explanation
The government is checking to make sure that special seals, called bearded seals, are still in danger like they thought in 2012. They're asking people for new information to help decide if the seals need to stay on the list of animals we need to protect.