The Office of Law Enforcement is composed of special agents, wildlife inspectors, intelligence analysts, forensic scientists, information technology specialists, and support staff who investigate wildlife crimes, regulate the wildlife trade, help the public understand and obey wildlife protections laws, and work in partnership with international, federal, state, local, and Tribal counterparts to conserve wildlife resources.

Latest Stories and Topics

Stories
several dead white geese lie on the ground next to a field
Wildlife Crime
Maryland waterfowl outfitter sentenced for violations of state and federal wildlife laws
A joint investigation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Maryland Natural Resources Police resulted in the sentencing of the owners of Wye East Outfitters for waterfowl outfitting and guiding without a license during the 2021-2022 season
A northern cardinal, one of the species of birds recovered during the investigation into migratory songbird trafficking
Wildlife Crime
Six Indicted in Texas for Trafficking Songbirds
This week, a federal grand jury returned indictments charging six in Houston with illegal trafficking of migratory songbirds. The birds are often used in singing competitions in which the participating owners gamble thousands of dollars on the winning bird.
Migratory Bird Program Daher Kodiak survey plane in front of the International Federal Pavilion at EAA AirVenture convention
Our People
USFWS at EAA AirVenture
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Branch of Aviation Management showcased the captivating field of aviation and conservation at the world's largest aviation celebration. The Service’s booth stood out in the International Federal Pavilion by educating and inspiring the public about the essential...
The honor guard stands over a coffin draped in an American flag. Each of them is saluting and looking down at the coffin/flag.
Our People
Guardians of Duty and Dedication
Twice per year, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Honor Guard completes an intense and focused training with all its members. The Honor Guard's primary role is to deliver final honors for fallen comrades, which honor USFWS employees, as well as provide comfort and support to survivors of the...
Red wolf in a field in eastern North Carolina
Endangered Species Act
Federal Officials Seek Assistance in Investigation of Red Wolf Death
A federally protected red wolf was found dead in Washington County, North Carolina along a fence line located south of Newland Road on May 18, 2023 and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service needs your help in the investigation of the red wolf’s death.
Key deer doe and fawn
Endangered Species Act
Key Deer: Wild Animals in a Wildland-Urban Interface
While Key deer live near humans, they remain wild animals. Read about how the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is trying to keep them that way.
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Our Library

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Visit our Libraries for documents such as Public Bulletins, Annual Reports, and fact sheets related to Commercial Wildlife Trade, Personal Wildlife Trade and more!

Office of Law Enforcement Updates and New Additions

OLE Public Bulletin - Revision of 50 CFR Part 12 Seizures and Forfeitures 8-22-23

OLE Public Bulliten - Imports of CITES Marine Species Taken on the High Seas 5-18-23

OLE Public Bulliten - CITES Trade Suspension Lifted- All Commercial Trade in CITES Species 04-13-2023

 

 

 

Work With Us

You can help save wildlife and stop wildlife crime because it can happen in areas close to home such as at your local park or even on your own property. Many of our investigations were solved, and criminals were fined or went to jail, because people like you reported unlawful activities.  If you have knowledge of a wildlife crime, please contact us or your local or state game warden.  If your tip leads to an arrest, or other substantial action, you may receive a financial reward.

If you believe you are witnessing a wildlife crime, keep a safe distance and never attempt to stop the crime yourself. If you find yourself in danger, call 911.

Report a wildlife crime

Rewards Program:
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is authorized to pay rewards for information or assistance that leads to an arrest, a criminal conviction, civil penalty assessment, or forfeiture of seized property. Payment of rewards is the discretion of the Service and is linked to specific federal wildlife laws. The amount of any reward we may pay is commensurate with the information or assistance received. Please discuss the possibility of receiving a reward with the Service personnel receiving your information or assistance.