Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Protections Lifted for Endangered Rice's Whale, Conservationists Alarmed

2/25/2025

27 2

Summary

Story summary

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has rolled back crucial protections for the critically endangered Rice's whale, leaving fewer than 100 of these majestic creatures vulnerable in the Gulf of Mexico. Conservationists fear this move, aimed at energizing the oil industry, could lead to devastating oil spills and push the species closer to extinction.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has rolled back crucial protections for the critically endangered Rice's whale, leaving fewer than 100 of these majestic creatures vulnerable in the Gulf of Mexico. Conservationists fear this move, aimed at energizing the oil industry, could lead to devastating oil spills and push the species closer to extinction.