WASHINGTON — A federal judge in Texas has overturned the Obama administration's listing of the lesser prairie chicken as a threatened species.

U.S. District Judge Robert A. Junell ruled Tuesday that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service failed to follow its own procedures in determining whether the bird should receive protection under the Endangered Species Act.

A voluntary range plan developed for Oklahoma and other states that are part of the bird's habitat was not properly considered, the judge ruled. He said the agency acted "arbitrarily and capriciously" and that the listing was unwarranted.

Fish and Wildlife Service spokesman Brian Hires said Wednesday, "We are very disappointed with the judge's decision and are now considering options in conjunction with our legal counsel."