August 11, 2015 — The following was released by NOAA:

NOAA Fisheries announces a 90-day finding on a petition to list the smooth hammerhead shark (Sphyrna zygaena) range-wide or, in the alternative, any identified distinct population segments (DPSs), as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and to designate critical habitat concurrently with the listing. We find that the petition and information in our files present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted.

NOAA Fisheries also announces a 90-day finding on a petition to list the bigeye thresher shark (Alopias superciliosus) range-wide, or in the alternative, as one or more DPSs identified by the petitioners as endangered or threatened under the ESA. We find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the species worldwide.

Accordingly, in both instances we will conduct a status reviews of smooth hammerhead shark and bigeye thresher shark to determine if the petitioned actions are warranted.

Comments on the proposed rule for smooth hammerhead shark must be received by October 13, 2015. For more information see the proposed rule.

Comments on the proposed rule for bigeye thresher shark must be received by October 13, 2015. For more information see the proposed rule.