Rhinoceroses, one of the largest groups of animals on the planet, are fighting a battle for survival because of a prized body part: their horn, which they use to defend territories, assert dominance and protect their young. But people use this keratinous horn as medicine, adornment and decoration. In traditional Chinese medicine, it’s believed to […]
Tag: tiger
Asian wild dog spotted in Vietnam for the first time in 20 years
Recent research has confirmed the first sighting of a dhole in more than two decades, a reddish-brown wild dog native to Asia. Before the sighting, the predator was believed to be extinct in Vietnam. The dhole (Cuon alpinus), historically one of the most widespread large carnivores in Asia, was seen on camera-trap footage. The single adult […]
Lions have two types of roar – new research
The roar of an African lion is one of the most iconic sounds of the animal kingdom. However, my new research suggests it should actually be separated into two distinct vocalisations: the full-throated roar, and an “intermediary roar” with a flatter, less varied sound. Making this distinction could have important implications for lion conservation. The […]
Argentina’s Forgotten Zoo Animals Finally Get a Second Chance
Years after Argentina’s notorious Luján Zoo was shut down, the surviving animals — lions, tigers, and bears — are finally being rescued from heartbreaking neglect. According to ABC News, global animal welfare group Four Paws has stepped in to provide urgent veterinary care and relocate the remaining wildlife to sanctuaries where they can finally roam […]
Seven Lions to Be Euthanized in New Zealand Sparks Outrage Over Captive Wildlife
A heartbreaking decision by the Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary in New Zealand has reignited global debate over the ethics of keeping animals in captivity. According to CBS News, the sanctuary announced it would euthanize seven elderly lions after running into financial trouble and failing to find alternative homes for them. The big cats, aged between 18 […]
North Korea’s hidden wildlife trade: new research reveals state involvement
North Korea is notorious for its illicit trade in weapons and narcotics. But a new investigation that I conducted with colleagues in the UK and Norway reveals a new concern: the illegal trade in wildlife, including species supposedly protected by North Korea’s own laws. Based on interviews with North Korean refugees (also referred to as […]
Petition: Denmark Zoo Feeding Unwanted Pets to Lions Must Be Shut Down
A zoo in Denmark is trying to turn “unwanted pets” into food for the captive predators in their facilities. It is asking the public to consider if they have any unwanted pets – especially small horses, rabbits, chickens, and guinea pigs – and to then donate those pets to the zoo. Sign the petition to […]
Restaurant in China criticised for putting baby lion cuddles on menu
A restaurant in northern China has been criticised by animal welfare groups for offering an unusual item on the menu: lion cub cuddles. According to a screenshot of a menu circulating on social media, Wanhui – a restaurant in Taiyuan, the capital of Shanxi province – has a four-course set afternoon menu costing 1,192 yuan […]