Donald Trump’s aggressive campaign against federal science agencies has significantly increased the risk of endangered species’ extinction, according to warnings from dismissed government experts.

The Trump administration, with its so-called “department of government efficiency” led by billionaire Elon Musk, has fired thousands of employees at science agencies and halted funding at the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation.

Nick Gladstone, a cave biologist with nearly a decade of experience, was among over 400 probationary employees fired from the US Fish and Wildlife Service this month. He served as the lead recovery biologist for 15 federally endangered cave and subterranean invertebrates in central Texas.

Gladstone stated that without his position being filled, these species will be neglected for years. He also mentioned that the firing of scientists responsible for the recovery of endangered species like the black-footed ferret will lead to a halt in conservation efforts.

Project 2025, a right-wing manifesto, argued for the weakening of the Endangered Species Act, claiming it hindered economic development.

Despite claims that Gladstone’s knowledge and skills were insufficient, his supervisor mentioned that he had surpassed all expectations during his first few months on the job.

Trump’s termination of scientists working on climate change and food systems has also caused concern, as their work is deemed essential in addressing pressing global challenges.

The federal government’s scientific operations are being “gutted” and left to fall behind other countries, according to experts. This affects not only conservation efforts but also medical research and technology initiatives.

The Office of Special Counsel has found some of these firings to be unlawful and has requested the reinstatement of certain employees with backpay. The Union of Concerned Scientists has expressed concerns about the interference with life-saving research and the dismissal of civil servants responsible for enforcing environmental laws.

Neither the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Geological Survey, nor the US Department of Agriculture responded to requests for comment.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/03/endangered-species-trump-federal-worker-firings