U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Turns Down Second Petition to Protect Long-Tailed Macaques Under the Endangered Species Act

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Rejects Second Petition for Long-Tailed Macaques Protection

On July 14, 2026, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) declined a second petition submitted by the organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and other activists seeking protection for long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This decision came after a thorough review of the petition, which USFWS found lacking in sufficient scientific evidence to warrant further action.

This marks the second denial in the last three years regarding PETA's efforts to secure protection for this non-human primate species. Matthew R. Bailey, president of the National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR), applauded the USFWS for conducting a comprehensive assessment based on scientific data, confirming that long-tailed macaques do not meet the criteria for protection under the ESA.

"It is clear from the documentation that activist organizations like PETA aim to exploit the ESA and other environmental protection procedures to hinder or block medical research in the U.S. and worldwide. Such actions jeopardize public health and safety and undermine the significance of these procedures when used for political goals," stated Bailey.

NABR expresses its intent to remain actively involved in matters concerning medical research, ensuring that species protection decisions are grounded in the best available scientific and trade data.

Importance of Long-Tailed Macaques in Biomedical Research

Long-tailed macaques are extensively utilized in biomedical research due to their close physiological and biological similarities to humans. The import and use of this primate species in biomedical studies are governed by strict regulations from international bodies and U.S. federal agencies. Research involving long-tailed macaques has played a pivotal role in advancing regenerative medicine, immunology, oncology, vaccine development, and pharmacology.

Recently, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) released a review underscoring the significance of long-tailed macaques in biomedical research. Because of their similarities to human beings, they provide an invaluable model for preclinical studies, supporting the development of new therapies before human clinical trials commence.

Bailey emphasized, "Long-tailed macaques have been crucial in developing many treatments and drugs currently in use today, as well as assessing their safety and efficacy. They continue to be an indispensable asset in advancing biomedical science."

About the National Association for Biomedical Research

Founded in 1979, the National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR) is the only nonprofit organization recognized under Section 501(c)(6) of the U.S. tax code, dedicated to shaping sensible public policy regarding the humane use of animals in research, education, and testing in the biomedical field. NABR represents over 280 institutions, including academic universities, medical and veterinary schools, clinical hospitals, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, patient groups, and professional academic societies.

For more information, visit NABR's website.

This decision expresses the ongoing clash between animal rights activism and the necessity of animal research in the medical field, shedding light on the complex ethical, scientific, and regulatory landscape surrounding the use of animals in research.