RICHMOND, Vt. -
A Vermont environmental group plans to
sue the federal government for failing to protect the Bicknell's thrush.
The rare songbird breeds only on
mountaintops in the Northeast. The Center for Biological Diversity says the
birds' survival is threatened by climate change. The group petitioned the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service in 2010 to protect the Bicknell's thrush by placing
it on the endangered species list. But the group claims the agency has failed
to act on the petition in the time allowed by law.
"Well, it's very
disappointing and also very concerning because the species is in a lot of
trouble and scientists predict that its habitat is going to be disappearing
dramatically with climate change," said Mollie Matteson of the Center for
Biological Diversity.
The group filed intent to
sue Tuesday, and by law, will be able to take legal action in 60 days.
Related Stories:
NY fund supports Dominican work on rare songbird
Endangered status considered for Bicknell's thrush
