Ian Somerhalder Speaks Up for Species Preservation

Vampire Diaries star testifies before Congress, arguing for more rigorous protections for animals and their habitats

By Natalie Finn Jul 28, 2011 10:24 PMTags

Ian Somerhalder has no trouble showing his altruistic side in real life.

Fresh from a Vampire Diaries taping last night, the actor hopped a red-eye to Washington, D.C., in order to testify before Congress today on behalf of the Multinational Species Coalition, comprising eco-minded organizations ranging from the World Wildlife Fund to the Sierra Club to the National Audubon Society.

And, as is the case with so many good-doing groups out there, it's short on funds. Enter handsome TV star.