Black-tailed prairie dogs, once targeted for removal, are found to be crucial ecosystem engineers, enhancing soil quality, water infiltration, and biodiversity in grasslands, with their loss linked to desertification.
Project Ceti researchers found sperm whales off Dominica produce distinct, faster clicking patterns ("codas") and alter "vowel-like" sounds when boats are nearby. This discovery could allow scientists to predict ship presence and raises questions about the impact of noise pollution on whale communication.
The Andean leaf-eared mouse (Phyllotis vaccarum) lives at altitudes above 6,700 meters, making it the highest-dwelling mammal. Researchers studied its physiology and genomics, finding adaptations for cold, low oxygen, and processing toxins from plants, which could inform human medicine for conditions like heart problems and cancer.
A new study reveals the algae responsible for a massive marine animal die-off in South Australia last year, Karenia cristata, is the most toxic species of its kind ever studied, with stronger toxic effects than previously known harmful algal blooms.
Donald Trump admitted lobbying FIFA over a red card ban, Australia faces extreme heatwave risks for young people's mental health, and scientists captured bee facial expressions. Meanwhile, wildfires rage in Europe, and a footballer died after a clash in Melbourne.
Scientists have recorded bumblebees displaying 'liking' and 'disliking' responses with their mouthparts, similar to mammals. The study, published in PNAS, observed bees extending their glossa after tasting sugar and wiping their mouths when tasting salt or quinine, indicating an inner life.
Over 150 unique Australian bird species, including black swans, are at very high risk of extinction or decline from the H5N1 bird flu. The virus, confirmed in WA, poses a significant threat due to the lack of external repopulation options for endemic species.
One of Iceland's two whaling ships has resumed hunting after a two-year break, departing Reykjavik on Friday. A protester chained himself to the ship's mast. Animal welfare groups criticize the hunt, citing inhumane practices and low domestic demand.
Hundreds of whales and dolphins were killed in the Faroe Islands' annual 'grind' hunt. Welfare groups condemned the slaughter, citing animal cruelty and the use of inadequate tools. Supporters defend the practice as a sustainable food source and cultural tradition.
A three-year rewilding project on a former dairy farm in east Somerset has led to a significant increase in wildlife, with recorded bird species rising from 67 to 94 and butterfly species from 11 to 24. The Heal Somerset site is also home to more small mammals and 15 bat species.
Sloths are unable to regulate their body temperature as well as other mammals.
