USFWS, in accordance with the ESA, are amending the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (List) by adding Rice's whale (Balaenoptera ricei). They are also updating the entries for the Central America, Mexico, and Western North Pacific distinct population segments (DPSs) of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) to reflect the designation of critical habitat for these DPSs. These amendments are based on previously published determinations by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Commerce, which has jurisdiction for these species. This rule is effective 17 February 2022. POC is Caitlin Snyder, Chief, Branch of Domestic Listing, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; tel: 703-358-2171.
(Federal Register 17 February 2022 [Rule] Pages 8981-8983).