The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced today two related actions affecting the listing status of the lesser prairie-chicken.
In response to a court order, the USFWS has finalized removal of the northern and southern distinct population segments of the lesser prairie-chicken from the federal list of threatened and endangered species. As a result, this species is no longer protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Additionally, the USFWS has initiated a new 12-month status review and petition finding process to evaluate the species under the ESA. The agency is requesting public input on the status of the lesser prairie-chicken and its habitat, with a 30-day public comment period.
In summary:
- ESA protections for the lesser prairie-chicken are no longer in effect
- The 4(d) rule for the northern population has been rescinded
- A new 12-month status review is underway
- Public comments are being accepted through March 30, 2026
- Future ESA listing actions remain possible following completion of the review
Infrastructure projects occurring within lesser prairie-chicken habitat may still wish to consider how these actions influence development planning strategies. Having actively supported project proponents as the listing status of this species has repeatedly changed over the past decade, WEST is monitoring how these developments affect the future need, timing, and best options for ESA compliance. Our team is available to help navigate project-specific considerations and, if warranted, proactive, science-based compliance and conservation strategies.
