Alaska appeals ruling protecting polar bears

August 29, 2011

JUNEAU, Alaska: On Friday August 26, the state of Alaska filed an appeal notice on a 2008 federal court ruling which gave polar bears federal protection under the Endangered Species Act.

In June of 2011, the government's decision to protect the bear was upheld, having been found that it was rational given the facts and best available science.

Alaska Governor Sean Parnell voiced his opposition saying the bear population has more than doubled in the last 40 years and doesn't merit special protections.

The Alaska Attorney General John Burns also pointed out the government's 2008 decision was based on "uncertain predictions of future threats" of habitat loss and not on observed threats or declining bear numbers.

The polar bear is the first animal to be designated as threatened under the Endangered Species Act because of global warming.

See also

• Nevada News: Judge rejects group's attempt to halt bear hunt