Arizona Border Wall Construction Raises Endangered Jaguar Habitat Concerns

The Trump administration plans to construct nearly 27 miles of new border wall in Arizona's San Rafael Valley, a region critical for wildlife migration, including endangered jaguars and ocelots. Environmental groups such as the Center for Biological Diversity and Conservation CATalyst have sued the administration, arguing that waiving key environmental laws like the Endangered Species Act and National Environmental Policy Act to expedite construction violates constitutional separation of powers and threatens biodiversity. Experts warn that the 30-foot steel bollard wall will block animal migration routes, potentially leading to the disappearance of jaguars from the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security has fast-tracked the project by issuing waivers and awarding a $309 million contract to Fisher Sand & Gravel, a company with a history of environmental violations. Advocates urge the inclusion of wildlife passages to mitigate impacts without compromising border security, while some local ranchers support the wall for its role in reducing illegal crossings. Construction is expected to begin later this year despite ongoing legal challenges and environmental concerns.