MA Endangered Species Act

30th Anniversary

Through the implementation of MESA, MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program conserves and protects the most vulnerable animal and plant species of Massachusetts and the habitats upon which they depend.

Support endangered species conservation

MESA protects rare species

MESA success stories

Many rare species have benefited from the protection afforded under MESA and the work of the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) over the years, including the peregrine falcon, bald eagle, and northern red-bellied cooter.

Meet the 432 MESA-protected species

There is still a lot to do and in the face of habitat loss, emerging diseases, invasive species, climate change, and other threats, this work is more important than ever!

How you can help

Donations provide vital support to NHESP's work to protect, manage, and restore the Commonwealth’s most imperiled animals and plants and the sensitive communities and habitats in which they live.

History of endangered species conservation in Massachusetts

Take a closer look at some MESA-listed species

Species spotlight: Bald eagle

Learn about bald eagle restoration in Massachusetts and about MassWildlife's ongoing efforts to aid bald eagle recovery. Find out more about these impressive birds and what you can do to help.

Species Spotlight: Brook floater

Brook floaters are sensitive to stream fragmentation, pollution, and development. MassWildlife biologists are working to protect this freshwater mussel. Learn about these unique animals and what can be done to help them.

Species Spotlight: Short-eared owl

The short-eared owl requires large, undeveloped expanses of coastal sandplain grassland and maritime heathland for breeding. Learn about these beautiful birds and the threats they face.

See more species spotlights