environment
Rice’s whales existed before humans. Now Trump could make them extinct
The US has invoked national security to remove protections for the endangered cetacean, of which only about 50 are left
TL;DR
- The Trump administration has exempted the oil and gas industry from complying with endangered species laws in the Gulf of Mexico, removing protections for the Rice's whale.
- Only about 50 Rice's whales exist, and their primary threats, including vessel strikes and noise pollution, stem directly from oil and gas industry activities.
- The decision was made by the 'God Squad' under a rarely convened Endangered Species Committee, invoking national security for the first time since the Endangered Species Act's passage.
- Environmentalists are suing to reverse the ruling, arguing it is illegal and could set a dangerous precedent for future environmental protections.
- The Rice's whale, distinct and identified as a separate species only in 2021, is critically endangered due to its small population, restricted habitat, and specialized diet.