Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced the Las Vegas bearpoppy does not require protections under the Endangered Species Act.
The poppy is a bright yellow flowering plant found in the eastern Mojave Desert in southern Nevada and northwest Arizona. It can withstand long periods of drought due to a long-lived seed bank that is viable up to 20 years.
Following an in-depth review of the best available scientific information, the Service determined the Las Vegas bearpoppy maintains resilient populations across its range. Currently 7 of the 12 populations are in high quality habitat and 90% of it is undisturbed. Our analysis found that there is likely to be some reduction in plants near urban areas but threats are unlikely to cause extirpation or extinction in the near future.
The 12-month not warranted finding for the Las Vegas bearpoppy is available for public inspection here. The documents can be found here on October 2, 2024.
