Wood storks to be removed from federal Endangered Species List
Popular Science
by Laura BaisasFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
After more than four decades of conservation efforts, a population of wood storks (Mycteria americana) is set to be removed from the federal Endangered Species List. These large birds, native to the southeastern United States, have rebounded significantly since their numbers dropped by over 75% in the mid-20th century, falling from around 20,000 nesting pairs to just 5,000 due to wetland loss. Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) estimates that wood storks have between 10,000 to 14,000 nesting pairs across approximately 100 colony sites.
The recovery of wood storks is attributed to their adaptability in finding new habitats, including salt marshes, flooded rice fields, and even golf courses. This flexibility has allowed them to thrive despite the loss of traditional wetland habitats. Experts like Dale Gawlik of Texas A&M University’s Harte Research Institute highlight their ability to explore new environments and adapt their diet as a key factor in their rebound.
However, not everyone agrees that the wood stork should be delisted. Environmental groups such as Audubon Florida and the Center for Biological Diversity argue that the bird’s population has not yet fully recovered. They express concerns about
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Originally published on Popular Science on 2/19/2026