About
Defenders of Wildlife protects and restores America's wildlife at risk of extinction. Founded in 1947 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization (EIN 53-0183181) serves as a leading champion for America's wildlife and the habitats on which they depend, integrating science, policy advocacy, strategic litigation, compelling storytelling, and on-the-ground action.
Mission
Defenders of Wildlife is dedicated to protecting and restoring imperiled wildlife and their habitats across North America. The organization describes its approach as clear and focused: preventing extinction, protecting habitat, and promoting coexistence between people and wildlife. Its work is guided by six core values — honor, empathy, growth, resilience, connection, and hope.
What they do
- Work to prevent the extinction of at-risk species
- Protect and restore wildlife habitat
- Promote coexistence between humans and wildlife
- Defend bedrock conservation laws through strategic litigation
- Shape conservation policy through congressional, judicial, and agency advocacy
- Address climate change impacts on wildlife and fight invasive species
The organization's field work spans more than 16 regions and landscapes, including the Arctic, the Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, the Everglades, coastal zones, forests, and the oceans.
History
Founded in 1947, Defenders of Wildlife has grown into a national voice for wildlife conservation. The organization says it is fueled by the commitment of its members, partners, and supporters, and that it is building a powerful, enduring voice for wildlife conservation. It has been recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS since 1948.
Financials
Per its IRS Form 990 as published by ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, Defenders of Wildlife reported total revenue of 35,880,686 dollars, total functional expenses of 37,549,970 dollars, and total assets of 50,165,827 dollars for the fiscal year ending September 2023.
Governance
Defenders of Wildlife is governed by a Board of Directors and advised by a panel of Science Advisors, with a professional staff and headquarters at 1130 17th Street NW, Washington, D.C.