"The United States recognizes that trade in seal skins is important, both culturally and economically, to the Inuit of the Circumpolar North"

The Vice President of the Inuit Circumpolar Conference has brought to our attention a misleading statement contained in our wildlife exhibit in the center hall. One of the display signs states that "seals and other marine species are protected by CITES and U.S. laws, yet products continue to be marketed and illegally traded." This statement is inaccurate and should have read " ITES or U.S. laws". All species of seals are protected by U.S. law, while some species are listed under CITES. Other seal species, most of which are healthy and abundant, may be traded under international law. The United States recognizes that trade in seal skins is important, both culturally and economically, to the Inuit of the Circumpolar North and deeply regrets the error in our display.