Critical habitat.

Critical habitat, as defined in the ESA, is a term for a geographic area that is essential for the conservation of a listed species. Critical habitat designations do not a establish a wildlife refuge, wilderness area, or any other type of conservation reserve, nor do they affect actions of a purely private nature. They are intended to delineate areas in which federal agencies must consult with the Service to ensure that actions these agencies authorize, fund, or carry out do not adversely modify the designated critical habitat. Within designated critical habitat boundaries, federal agencies are required to consult except in areas that are specifically excluded, such as developed areas within the boundaries that no longer contain suitable habitat. Maps and more specific information on critical habitats actions listed below are contained in the specific Federal Register notice designating each area. For more information on critical habitat designations in general, go to the web-site for our Endangered Species Listing Program: http:// Endangered.fws.gov/listing/.