Knowledge of the Indian Forest Owlet's story may give new wisdom to all those involved in Tuscon. Led by the Natural Resources Defense Council, environmental groups are turning to consumers to act to save a species in rapid decline. Thirty-mile long lines and drift nets are bringing the swordfish to the brink of extinction. Too many fish are being caught before they reach sexual maturity, jeopardizing the capability of the species to reproduce in the future. This is not good for fisherman or diners.
Current estimates are grim.
If fisherman do not adjust their practices soon, the fish could be gone within 6 years. Consumers are being targeted directly, by being asked to vote with their wallets by refusing to select swordfish from the menu. Many restaurants are towing the line. Establishments in New York, Washington DC, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Massachusetts, Virginia, Florida and Texas are pulling swordfish from their menus. In the west, Pacific swordfish are not in imminent danger, but they face a similar fate.