By Kitty Block and Sara Amundson So much of our work to give imperiled animals the protections they deserve is a long game, and we’ve been going to the proverbial bat to preserve the hippopotamus for years. Just recently, we, along with one of our allies, sent notice of our intent to sue the U.S. […]
Migrating animal species in trouble, says first ever UN report on migratory animals
File: Australia’s Christmas Island red crab migration underway The annual migration of millions of red crabs from the rainforests of Australia’s Christmas Island to the coast is underway. SAMARKAND, Uzbekistan – The first “State of the World’s Migratory Species” report by the United Nations found that one in five migratory animals face extinction. The report, […]
One-fifth of migratory animal species on brink of extinction: UN report
A new report released by the United Nations alarming trend that over 20% of the world’s migratory species are teetering on the brink of extinction. This stark warning comes as billions of animals undertake their annual epic journeys across various terrains and oceans to fulfill their life cycles of breeding and feeding. The comprehensive analysis, […]
Genomes of 51 animal species mapped in record time, creating ‘evolutionary time machine’
Researchers just mapped and published the genomes of 51 animal species, from fish-eating crocodiles known as gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) to fierce cloud leopards (Neofelis nebulosa). These genetic blueprints could have broad implications for humans, particularly for understanding our evolutionary history, according to a paper published Jan. 26 in the journal Nature Biotechnology. “In some ways, […]
The Flehmen response and how it looks in different species
A number of mammals possess a “sense” that humans lack – the Flehmen response. This functional form of communication forms part of the olfactory system and involves the Vomeronasal organ (or Jacobson’s organ) and the decryption of chemical messages. The Flehmen response occurs in a variety of mammals from the smallest field mouse to large […]
The Trump border wall is proving a disaster for at-risk animal species
Bears, jaguars and mountain lions in search of water and food are being blocked by a border fence that divides their habitat. Wild ducks in a wetland right next to the Trump wall. The steel construction runs through the unique area like a scar. Matt York / AP In southeastern Arizona, it is already oppressively […]
Brazen attacks on Endangered Species Act emerge in U.S. House funding bill
By Sara Amundson and Kitty Block Just a few weeks short of the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act’s passage, opponents in the U.S. Congress have pushed through a series of hostile amendments to undermine the landmark law during the House appropriations funding process. That’s the grim reality of the contemporary political landscape for […]
Recognising the Six Vulture Species of South Africa
Vultures play a critical role in maintaining the balance of our environment. They are nature’s cleanup crew, scavenging and disposing of animal remains that could otherwise become breeding grounds for disease. By swiftly recycling organic matter, Vultures help prevent the spread of illnesses that could affect both humans and animals. Sadly, the Vulture species of […]
Wildlife Tracking Tips with Priority Species Monitor, Marumo
Did you know that Marumo Nene has been been a Wildlife ACT monitor since we first began? Photo by Casey Pratt / Love Africa Marketing Marumo has a wealth of bush experience and knowledge, so we asked her to share some of her top tips for wildlife tracking: 1. It all starts with respecting animals […]
Breaking: New threats to grizzlies, wolves and Endangered Species Act emerge in Congress
By Sara Amundson and Kitty Block Today, the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Natural Resources voted in favor of six bills and resolutions that threaten to remove protections from grizzly bears and gray wolves and weaken the Endangered Species Act. This “grab bag” of danger includes: The Trust the Science Act, H.R. 764, would […]