Trump Administration Seeks to Lift Protections for Lesser Prairie Chicken

In a significant legal move, officials from the Trump administration have called for the termination of federal protections for the lesser prairie chicken, a distinct grouse known for its elaborate courtship rituals. The bird, whose habitat is coveted by agricultural and energy industries, has seen its population plummet due to habitat loss. Current estimates suggest there are only about 30,000 lesser prairie chickens left, a drastic decline from historic figures in the hundreds of thousands or even millions.

The administration's court filing on May 8, 2025, indicates that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service made a mistake during the Biden administration by listing the bird as endangered. This latest action forms part of a broader strategy to dismantle regulations that have been seen as hindering energy development. In the Texas court, officials stated their intention to reassess the bird's status by November 30, 2026. In the meantime, the absence of federal protections is noted, although officials claim there are various conservation programs aimed at aiding the lesser prairie chicken's survival.

The future of this unique bird remains uncertain as the Trump administration accelerates its agenda, which critics argue prioritizes energy and agricultural development over environmental protections.