Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Endangered Status for Jamaican Butterfly
Published Date: 4/17/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wants to officially protect the Jamaican kite swallowtail butterfly by listing it as endangered. This means the butterfly will get special care to help it survive, and people can share their thoughts on this plan until June 16, 2026. If approved, this change could lead to new rules to protect the butterfly’s homes in Jamaica, with no immediate costs for most folks.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Existing Jamaican Criminal Penalties
Jamaica already protects this species under its Wild Life Protection Act, which prohibits taking or possessing animals listed under the Act. Penalties include maximum fines of 100,000 Jamaican dollars (approximately $638.00 USD) and up to two years in jail.
Proposed Federal Endangered Listing
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposes to list the Jamaican kite swallowtail (Eurytides marcellinus) as an endangered species. If finalized, the butterfly would be added to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and the Endangered Species Act's protections would apply, which can affect import, export, possession, and commercial activities involving the species. The public may submit comments on the proposal through June 16, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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