List of Endangered Animals Beating Extinction as Trump Cuts Protections
Summary
A change to the Endangered Species Act, made under President Trump and effective this week, removes a definition of "harm" that previously protected endangered species' habitats from unintentional damage. Critics worry this change could threaten the survival of species that have recovered because of previous protections.Key Facts
- The Endangered Species Act (ESA) was created in 1973 under President Richard Nixon to protect endangered plants and animals.
- The recent rule change removes the definition of "harm," which included unintentional damage to species' habitats.
- Removing this definition could weaken protections against activities like logging, fishing, and development that affect endangered species.
- The Departments of Interior and Commerce say important protections still remain despite the change.
- Animal groups like Oceana warn that this change risks pushing some species closer to extinction by allowing more accidental harm.
- Examples of species helped by the ESA include the bald eagle, humpback whale, gray wolf, and American alligator, among others.
- North Atlantic right whales, with about 380 left, are highlighted as especially vulnerable under the new rule.
- The ESA is considered a key law in helping many species recover from endangered status.
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