Science Friday Lesser Prairie Chicken May Lose Endangered Species Status
May 16, 2025
Benji Jones, an environmental correspondent at Vox, and Shoshannah Buxbaum, a producer, dive into the controversial decision to revoke protections for the lesser prairie chicken. They discuss its colorful courtship rituals and the environmental policy shifts under the Trump administration. Topics also include the surprising intersection of Trump supporters with wind energy, revolutionary at-home health tests, and the discovery of a new fossil shedding light on the evolution of flight. Plus, quirky cicada facts and flamingos’ feeding techniques add humor to the mix!
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Lesser Prairie Chicken's Unique Dance
- The lesser prairie chicken is known for its dramatic courtship dance involving inflating yellow combs and stomping feet.
- Benji Jones describes the sound of its booming as "like yodeling, but on fast forward."
Policy Shift Affects Species Protection
- The Trump administration prioritizes oil and gas development over endangered species protections.
- This shift impacts species like the lesser prairie chicken, seen as an obstacle to energy development.
Wind Energy Crosses Political Lines
- Wind energy support in states like Iowa transcends partisan divides.
- Economic benefit, not politics, drives renewable energy acceptance in many red states.