Defenders of Wildlife
Defenders of Wildlife envisions a future where diverse wildlife populations are secure and sustained by an environment of healthy lands and waters. Working since 1947, we protect wildlife and their habitat through education, advocacy, legal action, technology and scientific research.
Founded in 1947, Defenders of Wildlife is one of the country’s leaders in science-based, results-oriented wildlife conservation. We stand out in our commitment to saving imperiled wildlife and championing the Endangered Species Act, the landmark law that protects them.
Defenders’ approach is direct and straightforward - we protect and restore imperiled species throughout North America by transforming policies and institutions and promoting innovative solutions. This approach makes a lasting difference for wildlife and its habitat on the ground, with policy makers and in the courts.
Since our inception, Defenders has stood firm in our commitment to saving imperiled wildlife in North America. Defenders is well known for helping to reintroduce the gray wolf back into Yellowstone National Park in 1995. We routinely work on the ground, with local, national and international policy makers and in the courts to protect the wildlife that have no voice of their own. You can read more success stories on our website: https://www.defenders.org/success-stories.
Defenders of Wildlife is proud to have been named “America’s Best Wildlife Charity” by Reader’s Digest.
We are proud that 97% of every dollar donated goes to fund our effective programs. Our annual report and audit are both available to view on our website at www.defenders.org.