The Alabama Field Office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Flattened musk turtle on a moss covered rock
Welcome!

About Us

The state of Alabama is one of the most ecologically diverse states in the nation. The Alabama Ecological Services encompasses a staff of talented biologists, geographic specialists, communicators and administrative professionals charged with protecting the diverse fish, wildlife and plants in our great state. We do this by connecting with our many partners, including federal, state and local authorities, landowners and non-government organizations.

What We Do

By using the best available science, we work closely with other experts in the field to provide guidance to the public, as well as state and federal agencies, whose projects may involve the habitat of federally threatened, endangered or at-risk species. We do this under the authority of the Endangered Species Act, and we always consider research, feedback and input from our partners. Working together to improve the habitat and recovery of imperiled species is at the heart of what we do.

Our Species

Alabama has more  fish species than any state, and the greatest concentration of turtle diversity in the nation. The longleaf pine forests surrounding the Mobile Delta include what many believe to be the greatest concentration of plant species in North America. The complex geology in our part of the world creates a number of unique habitats and niches that have helped species evolved over the millennium. From the Blue Ridge Mountains, across the Piedmont, to the Coastal Plain, Alabama has more species of freshwater and terrestrial animals than anywhere else in North America.  

Species Point of Contact in Alabama

flattened musk turtle on a large rock

The flattened musk turtle is a small aquatic turtle with a distinctly flattened carapace up to 119 millimeters (4.7 in) long. Keels are virtually, if not altogether, lacking (Mount 1981). The carapace is dark brown to orange with dark bordered seams and is slightly serrated behind (Ernest and...

FWS Focus

Projects and Research

Biologists of the Alabama Field Office are some of the hardest working scientists in the state. They are dedicated to getting their boots on the ground and hands dirty when it comes to the recovery of a species. Whether it's doing surveys of Alabama pearlshells or tracking the patterns of imperiled bats with transmitters, our staff works closely with our partners to help protect and recover fish, plants and other wildlife. 

Our Library

 Our library is home to helpful resources assisting you in your plant, wildlife and aquatic conservation efforts. 

Top down view of a brown and black catfish like fish in a viewing box.
Browse our library for maps and information about the Frecklebelly madtom endangered species status and critical habitat designation.
Canoe Creek Clubshell sitting on a 6 inch yellow ruler on a rock next to the creek.
Browse our library for maps and information about the Canoe Creek Clubshell endangered species status and critical habitat designation.

Location and Contact Information