The document provides background information on the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973. It discusses the purpose and administration of the ESA, key sections of the act, examples of species recovered through the act like the peregrine falcon and bald eagle, and criticisms of the act related to economics and property rights. The ESA aims to conserve threatened and endangered species and the ecosystems they depend on. It is administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service and regulates actions that could negatively impact listed species or their habitats.