current event #1

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33860070/ns/us_news-environment/

U.S. taking brown pelicans off endangered list

The Brown Pelican is unique for its dark feathers and broad wings. These creatures were declared an endangered species in the year of 1970. They were imperiled by hunters and DDT. DDT is a well-known synthetic pesticide which was used to control the population of mosquitoes. This chemical was consumed when the pelicans ate the poisoned fish. The affect of this pesticide greatly impacted the eggs with shells so thin, they broke during incubation. Likewise the Bald Eagle and Peregrine Falcon. The species recovery was mainly due to the ban of DDT in 1972. States and conservation groups contribute effort into protecting their nesting sites and monitor its population. "Once again, we see healthy flocks of these graceful birds flying over our shores. The brown pelican is endangered no longer." Although the birds are officially declared not endangered, their habitat is still in danger from rising seas and erosion. Nowadays, the birds are prevalent and soar along the coast of Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, California, Texas, Washington, and Oregon.

In my opinion, I believe that both the mosquitoes and Brown Pelicans are important issues. The DDT chemical wasn't researched and planned well. We want to decrease the population of the mosquitoes, but we don't want to harm the Pelicans. For this reason, I think that we should create a environmental solution that controls the amount of mosquitoes, but not harm the Brown Pelicans. This also relates to ecology. Humans could greatly impact other animals. Like the sad story of how numerous seagulls were dying because humans used the water from their habitat. If we try to eliminate one animal, many others are affected as well. Getting rid of the DDT pesticide did help the Brown Pelicans to return however, we haven't solved what we can do to continue controlling the mosquitoes. In conclusion, the graceful birds are no longer in danger, but we must continue to research a more mutual, environmental solution to these issues.