OLYMPIA — Washington wildlife managers want to list tufted puffins as an endangered species in the state, while removing protective status for Stellar sea lions.
The native seabirds, with striking feathers and a bright orange bill, were once common in the San Juan Islands and along the coast.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife says there’s been a dramatic decline in their historic breeding sites in recent decades.
Meanwhile, the agency said the population of Stellar sea lions that range from southeast Alaska to northern California has grown steadily and should be removed from the state’s threatened species list.
The federal government removed that population from federal protection in 2013.
The state is seeking public comment this month. A public hearing is scheduled next month.
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