The Biden administration has approved a controversial oil drilling project on Alaska's north slope. The decision finalised on Monday brushes aside climate concerns from environmental groups who have been rallying against the project. @ShivanChanana brings you this report.

Biden administration approves Alaska Oil Drilling Project

In the united states of America a few hours from Seattle at a location that can only be reached by boat, marine scientists at the university of Washington's -- Friday harbor lab are breeding and studying the endangered sunflower sea stars. Following a massive die-off over the past decade. @mohammed11saleh brings you this report.

Bringing back the sunflower starfish

An ad in China compares women with body hair to Orangutans. It’s high time we stop conforming to societal norms.

Gravitas: Women with body hair compared to animals

A leading conservation research group has revealed that 40% of animals and 34% of plants are at risk of extinction in the United States. The research group - NatureServe - also found that 41% of ecosystems are facing a total collapse. @Mohammed11Saleh brings you this report.

U.S: 40% Animals, 34% Plants face extinction: NatureServe

A leading conservation research group says that 40% of animals and 34% of plants in the United States are at risk of extinction, while 41% of ecosystems are facing collapse.

40% of plants, animals at risk of extinction in the U.S.

A report by a U.S. conversation research group says that 40% of animals and 34% of plants in the United States are at risk of extinction. Not only this, over 41% of ecosystems are also facing collapse.

Plant & animal species in danger of disappearing in U.S.

Even the toughest of species have a limit as climate change continues to impact our world. The impact will be felt unequally with some animals struggling to survive and others finding ways to overcome the challenges.

Climate crisis threatens the animal kingdom

Furniture conservator Ben Bacon made a crucial discovery in London which helped in understanding why cave paintings were drawn by the Ice Age hunter-gatherers.&nbsp;

The 20,000-year-old markings present on the drawings were analysed by Bacon who concluded that they may be referring to a lunar calendar.&nbsp;

This helped a specialist team in proving how notes were made by early Europeans about the timing of the reproductive cycles of the animals.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-have-found-where-fearful-memories-live-in-our-brains-550278">Scientists have found where scary memories 'live' in our brains</a>

Bacon stated he felt “surreal” to work on what hunter-gatherers were trying to say. Across Europe, researchers have found cave paintings of animals like fish, cattle and reindeer.&nbsp;

However, archaeologists had failed to decode the meaning of different marks on the paintings, which included dots. So, Bacon took it upon himself to decode the mystery behind marks. 
&nbsp; 
After spending long hours researching in the British Library and on the internet, he "amassed as much data as possible and began looking for repeating patterns".

Specifically, he looked for a 'Y' sign which was present in a few paintings, which he decoded can be a symbol for “giving birth” as it showed one line extending from the other.&nbsp;

As his research advanced, he took the help of senior academics and friends. He collaborated with a team which included Durham University's two professors and one professor from University College London.

As they worked on the birth cycles of animals present in today's world, they decoded that the hunter-gatherers were maintaining a record of the mating seasons of the animals using the markings on the cave paintings by lunar month.

The Cambridge Archeological Journal published the findings of the team. Durham University's Prof Paul Pettitt said that he is "glad he took it seriously" when Bacon reached out to him.

WATCH| Do mosquitos bite you more than others? Here's why! | Science News | WION

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"The results show that Ice Age hunter-gatherers were the first to use a systemic calendar and marks to record information about major ecological events within that calendar,” he said.

"In turn, we're able to show that these people, who left a legacy of spectacular art in the caves of Lascaux (in France) and Altamira (in Spain), also left a record of early timekeeping that would eventually become commonplace among our species,” the professor said.

Bacon added that the ancestors were "a lot more like us than we had previously thought. These people, separated from us by many millennia, are suddenly a lot closer".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Furniture conservator Ben Bacon made a crucial discovery in London which helped in understanding why cave paintings were drawn by the Ice Age hunter-gatherers. The 20,000-year-old markings present on the drawings were analysed by Bacon who concluded that they may be referring to a lunar calendar.

Furniture conservator Ben Bacon made a crucial discovery in London which helped in understanding why cave paintings were drawn by the Ice Age hunter-gatherers. The 20,000-year-old markings present on the drawings were analysed by Bacon who concluded that they may be referring to a lunar calendar. This helped a specialist team in proving how notes were made by early Europeans about the timing of the reproductive cycles of the animals. ALSO READ| Scientists have found where scary memories 'live' in our brains Bacon stated he felt “surreal” to work on what hunter-gatherers were trying to say. Across Europe, researchers have found cave paintings of animals like fish, cattle and reindeer. However, archaeologists had failed to decode the meaning of different marks on the paintings, which included dots. So, Bacon took it upon himself to decode the mystery behind marks. After spending long hours researching in the British Library and on the internet, he "amassed as much data as possible and began looking for repeating patterns". Specifically, he looked for a 'Y' sign which was present in a few paintings, which he decoded can be a symbol for “giving birth” as it showed one line extending from the other. As his research advanced, he took the help of senior academics and friends. He collaborated with a team which included Durham University's two professors and one professor from University College London. As they worked on the birth cycles of animals present in today's world, they decoded that the hunter-gatherers were maintaining a record of the mating seasons of the animals using the markings on the cave paintings by lunar month. The Cambridge Archeological Journal published the findings of the team. Durham University's Prof Paul Pettitt said that he is "glad he took it seriously" when Bacon reached out to him. WATCH| Do mosquitos bite you more than others? Here's why! | Science News | WION "The results show that Ice Age hunter-gatherers were the first to use a systemic calendar and marks to record information about major ecological events within that calendar,” he said. "In turn, we're able to show that these people, who left a legacy of spectacular art in the caves of Lascaux (in France) and Altamira (in Spain), also left a record of early timekeeping that would eventually become commonplace among our species,” the professor said. Bacon added that the ancestors were "a lot more like us than we had previously thought. These people, separated from us by many millennia, are suddenly a lot closer". (With inputs from agencies)

Furniture conservator solves mystery of 20,000-year-old Ice Age drawings

Staff at ZSL London Zoo began the annual headcount of the park’s animals, The zoo includes mammals, birds, reptiles, fish and invertebrates. Watch further to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: London Zoo begins its annual headcount of animals

Hundreds of animals, including elephants and endangered grevy's zebras, have died in Kenyan wildlife reserves during east Africa's worst drought in decades. The Kenya wildlife service and other bodies counted the deaths of 205 elephants, 512 wildebeests, 381 common zebras, 51 buffalos, 49 grevy's zebras, and 12 giraffes in the past nine months. Here's a report from Amboseli National Park.

World of Africa: East Africa faces worst drought in decades

A 12-year-old mountain lion, famous among residents of Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles had to be put down after being captured just days earlier.&nbsp;Named P-22, the ageing mountain lion has for a decade been living in the shadows of Hollywood Hills. As per California officials, he was euthanised on Saturday (December 16) due to severe health problems.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mountain-lion-that-killed-a-chihuahua-in-hollywood-hills-captured-542992">'Brad Pitt' mountain lion that killed a chihuahua in Hollywood hills captured</a>

The ageing feline was captured on December 12 following reports of uncharacteristic aggression due to which he had attacked and killed a chihuahua dog named Piper who along with his owner was out on a walk.

As per Reuters, there were also concerns about the animal's health as it was feared that he had been struck by a car. Additionally, P-22 was believed to be suffering from other health problems.

Officials at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) said that the mountain lion was put to sleep at 9 am on Saturday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/alexa-siri-are-helping-users-battle-loneliness-making-disabled-people-more-independent-survey-542969">Alexa, Siri are helping users battle loneliness, making disabled people more independent: Survey</a>

Before that tests were conducted to ascertain the extent of the damage he had suffered. They revealed "significant trauma to the mountain lion’s head, right eye and internal organs, confirming the suspicion of recent injury, such as a vehicle strike," said the officials.

He was also found to be suffering from irreversible kidney disease, chronic weight loss, extensive parasitic skin infection over his entire body and localized arthritis due to which "compassionate euthanasia under general anaesthesia" was recommended by the medical team at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A 12-year-old mountain lion, famous among residents of Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles had to be put down after being captured just days earlier. Named P-22, the ageing mountain lion has for a decade been living in the shadows of Hollywood Hills.

A 12-year-old mountain lion, famous among residents of Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles had to be put down after being captured just days earlier. Named P-22, the ageing mountain lion has for a decade been living in the shadows of Hollywood Hills. As per California officials, he was euthanised on Saturday (December 16) due to severe health problems. Also read | 'Brad Pitt' mountain lion that killed a chihuahua in Hollywood hills captured The ageing feline was captured on December 12 following reports of uncharacteristic aggression due to which he had attacked and killed a chihuahua dog named Piper who along with his owner was out on a walk. As per Reuters, there were also concerns about the animal's health as it was feared that he had been struck by a car. Additionally, P-22 was believed to be suffering from other health problems. Officials at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) said that the mountain lion was put to sleep at 9 am on Saturday. Also read | Alexa, Siri are helping users battle loneliness, making disabled people more independent: Survey Before that tests were conducted to ascertain the extent of the damage he had suffered. They revealed "significant trauma to the mountain lion’s head, right eye and internal organs, confirming the suspicion of recent injury, such as a vehicle strike," said the officials. He was also found to be suffering from irreversible kidney disease, chronic weight loss, extensive parasitic skin infection over his entire body and localized arthritis due to which "compassionate euthanasia under general anaesthesia" was recommended by the medical team at San Diego Zoo Safari Park. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hollywood's famous mountain lion P-22 euthanised due to severe health issues

More than a tenth of plant and animal species on Earth could go extinct by the end of the century if the current trends on emissions continue, according to a recently published paper that seeks to raise awareness even as the world governments are on their final leg of negotiations for COP15 in Montreal.

The paper published on Friday in Science Advances journal paints an alarming picture of what could unfold if the current climate crisis continues to trend, arguing that a rise in temperature could fracture Earth’s web of life.

It claims that more than 42,000 plants and animal species out of the 150,388 species monitored by the IUCN could go extinct, pinning the blame squarely on human behaviour.

It came up with its assessment after using a supercomputer to model a synthetic Earth to understand the effect global heating and land use change could have on living beings.

According to researchers, 6 per cent of plants and animals will disappear by 2050 if there is no change in emission norms and eventually, the figure would rise to 13 per cent by the end of the century.

It noted that in the worst-case scenario, an estimated 27 per cent of plants and animals could disappear by 2100.

“We have populated a virtual world from the ground up and mapped the resulting fate of thousands of species across the globe to determine the likelihood of real-world tipping points,” said Dr Giovanni Strona, a co-author and a scientist at the University of Helsinki, reports the Guardian.

“This study is unique because it accounts also for the secondary effect on biodiversity, estimating the effect of species going extinct in local food webs beyond direct effects. The results demonstrate that interlinkages within food webs worsen biodiversity loss,” said the study’s co-author, Prof Corey Bradshaw of Flinders University in Australia.

<h2>Canada increases biodiversity funding </h2>

Meanwhile, Canada on Friday said that it was ramping up its international biodiversity funding to developing countries. It made the announcement during tense COP15 talks aimed at sealing a "peace pact with nature".

Canada's environment minister Steven Guilbeault said the&nbsp;government has pledged to increase the fund by 255 million Canadian dollars (US$186 million) in aid for lower-income countries to help them protect their ecosystems, bringing the total figure to 1.5 billion Canadian dollars annually.

(With inputs from agencies)

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More than a tenth of plant and animal species on Earth could go extinct by the end of the century if the current trends on emissions continue, according to a recently published paper that seeks to raise awareness even as the world governments are on their final leg of negotiations for COP15 in Montreal.

More than a tenth of plant and animal species on Earth could go extinct by the end of the century if the current trends on emissions continue, according to a recently published paper that seeks to raise awareness even as the world governments are on their final leg of negotiations for COP15 in Montreal. The paper published on Friday in Science Advances journal paints an alarming picture of what could unfold if the current climate crisis continues to trend, arguing that a rise in temperature could fracture Earth’s web of life. It claims that more than 42,000 plants and animal species out of the 150,388 species monitored by the IUCN could go extinct, pinning the blame squarely on human behaviour. It came up with its assessment after using a supercomputer to model a synthetic Earth to understand the effect global heating and land use change could have on living beings. According to researchers, 6 per cent of plants and animals will disappear by 2050 if there is no change in emission norms and eventually, the figure would rise to 13 per cent by the end of the century. It noted that in the worst-case scenario, an estimated 27 per cent of plants and animals could disappear by 2100. “We have populated a virtual world from the ground up and mapped the resulting fate of thousands of species across the globe to determine the likelihood of real-world tipping points,” said Dr Giovanni Strona, a co-author and a scientist at the University of Helsinki, reports the Guardian. “This study is unique because it accounts also for the secondary effect on biodiversity, estimating the effect of species going extinct in local food webs beyond direct effects. The results demonstrate that interlinkages within food webs worsen biodiversity loss,” said the study’s co-author, Prof Corey Bradshaw of Flinders University in Australia. Canada increases biodiversity funding Meanwhile, Canada on Friday said that it was ramping up its international biodiversity funding to developing countries. It made the announcement during tense COP15 talks aimed at sealing a "peace pact with nature". Canada's environment minister Steven Guilbeault said the government has pledged to increase the fund by 255 million Canadian dollars (US$186 million) in aid for lower-income countries to help them protect their ecosystems, bringing the total figure to 1.5 billion Canadian dollars annually. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

More than 10% of plant and animal species could go extinct by end of 21st century  

California's famous mountain lion P-22, often referred to as 'Brad Pitt' due to his good looks and easygoing attitude, has been captured to and tranquilised weeks after it attacked and killed a leashed chihuahua dog in Hollywood hills.

About four weeks back a video of the violent incident had gone viral on social video. As per KTLA, the tiny dog named Piper along with another canine was out on a leashed walk with its owner when the mountain lion attacked it. Piper was grievously injured and did not survive the attack.

The wild cat P22 is reportedly around 12 years old and is famous for roaming through residential areas. The male feline has been captured on CCTV frequently but his recent "agitated" behaviour&nbsp;is new and had alarmed the authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/alexa-siri-are-helping-users-battle-loneliness-making-disabled-people-more-independent-survey-542969">Alexa, Siri are helping users battle loneliness, making disabled people more independent: Survey</a>

"P-22 is a remarkably old cat in the wild and, after being deemed responsible for killing a leashed pet last month, may be exhibiting signs of distress," said the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The average lifespan of these large felines in the wild is around 10 years.

On Monday, Fish and Wildlife Department officers rang the bell at Sarah Picchi, a Los Feliz resident's house, &nbsp;and informed her "You have a lion in your back yard".

Talking to Los Angeles Times, Pichi revealed that the lion was tranquilised on Monday morning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/snakes-have-clitorises-claim-scientists-in-new-research-slamming-all-taboos-around-female-genitalia-542896">Snakes have clitorises, claim scientists in new research slamming all taboos around female genitalia&nbsp;</a>

Officials said that the ageing mountain lion is in stable condition after being sedated. A celebrity in his own right, P-22 as per BBC is the oldest Southern California cougar to be studied.

P-22's future remains unknown, the Fish and Wildlife Department has said that it would "determine the best next steps for the animal while also prioritising the safety of surrounding communities".

(With inputs from agencies)

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California's famous mountain lion P-22, often referred to as 'Brad Pitt' due to his good looks and easygoing attitude, has been captured to and tranquilised weeks after it attacked and killed a leashed chihuahua dog in Hollywood hills.

California's famous mountain lion P-22, often referred to as 'Brad Pitt' due to his good looks and easygoing attitude, has been captured to and tranquilised weeks after it attacked and killed a leashed chihuahua dog in Hollywood hills. About four weeks back a video of the violent incident had gone viral on social video. As per KTLA, the tiny dog named Piper along with another canine was out on a leashed walk with its owner when the mountain lion attacked it. Piper was grievously injured and did not survive the attack. The wild cat P22 is reportedly around 12 years old and is famous for roaming through residential areas. The male feline has been captured on CCTV frequently but his recent "agitated" behaviour is new and had alarmed the authorities. Also read | Alexa, Siri are helping users battle loneliness, making disabled people more independent: Survey "P-22 is a remarkably old cat in the wild and, after being deemed responsible for killing a leashed pet last month, may be exhibiting signs of distress," said the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The average lifespan of these large felines in the wild is around 10 years. On Monday, Fish and Wildlife Department officers rang the bell at Sarah Picchi, a Los Feliz resident's house, and informed her "You have a lion in your back yard". Talking to Los Angeles Times, Pichi revealed that the lion was tranquilised on Monday morning. Also read | Snakes have clitorises, claim scientists in new research slamming all taboos around female genitalia Officials said that the ageing mountain lion is in stable condition after being sedated. A celebrity in his own right, P-22 as per BBC is the oldest Southern California cougar to be studied. P-22's future remains unknown, the Fish and Wildlife Department has said that it would "determine the best next steps for the animal while also prioritising the safety of surrounding communities". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Brad Pitt' mountain lion that killed a chihuahua in Hollywood hills captured

Unlike animals, botanists can’t track a plant’s footprints through the forest or call them in with whistling songs. As a result, we are often not even sure what the world is losing until it’s too late. At least 40% of the world’s remaining plant species are in trouble and the rate of plant extinctions are at least 500 times higher than the background rate of extinction.

Why are plant species disappearing fast?

Neuralink is developing a brain implant in hopes to help paralysed people walk again. But now Musk's company is under the federal scanner for potential animal-welfare violations.

Gravitas: 1500 animals killed in Neuralink trials

According to a wide-ranging research, animals bred in captivity experience significant physical and behavioural changes that may disadvantage their survival chances once released into the wild.

WION Climate Tracker | Study: Animals bred in captivity develop physical changes

Who says only humans feel a sense of belonging and loss? A viral clip from Batticaloa in Eastern Sri Lanka shows a monkey at a funeral, where many families and friends of the deceased person are paying their final respects.

Who says only humans feel a sense of belonging and loss? A viral clip from Batticaloa in Eastern Sri Lanka shows a monkey at a funeral, where many families and friends of the deceased person are paying their final respects. It is said that the deceased person was the primate's 'human companion' and he used to feed the monkey regularly, whenever the primate came to the former's residence. #viralvideo : Monkey seen at the funeral of a person, who is said to have fed it regularly, whenever it visited his residence in #Batticaloa #SriLanka Primate is seen nudging the 'companion' who is lying motionless, to try and see if he would respond, but to no avail 😭💔 pic.twitter.com/5FJ1nzq9H5 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 19, 2022 × Amid the gathering of dozens of mourning family members and relatives, the primate is seen sitting near the mortal remains. The video shows persons in the gathering making attempts to move the monkey away, but to no avail. The monkey is seen seated by the feet of the mortal remains and thereafter moves towards the torso, as if to check whether the person is breathing. It appears that the monkey nudges the deceased person lovingly, in order to get his attention. The moving video that showcases the bond between the animal and the person who fed it, has touched viewers deeply. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Viral Video: Monkey shows up at funeral of 'human companion', seen nudging him

Humans have the access to rights all around the world but have you ever wondered about the rights of non-human entities? Well according to some experts, granting legal rights and protection to animals, trees and rivers is essential.

WION Climate Tracker: Experts want legal rights for non-humans

Do you love dogs? Well, if yes, that's good, and if not, you will now.&nbsp;

As per the research at the University of Basel, it was found that seeing, feeling, and touching dogs causes the prefrontal cortex of the brain to become increasingly more active.

The researchers found that this impact is less when you touch stuffed animals rather than real dogs.

The findings suggest that a deeper understanding of the accompanying brain activity could aid in designing more effective systems for animal-assisted therapy because engaging with animals, particularly dogs, is known to help individuals cope with stress and sadness.&nbsp;

The researchers observed the brain activity of 19 men and women as they looked at dogs, reclined with the same dogs against their legs, or caressed dogs as part of the study, Knowridge science report reported.&nbsp;

A fur-covered lion filled with a water bottle to match the dog's weight and temperature were used to stimulate the scenarios.&nbsp;

The researchers found that individuals' pre-frontal brain activity increased when they interacted with real dogs, with caressing being the most interactive action.

However, interactions with stuffed lions did not result in this, suggesting it may be because of bonding.&nbsp;The current stud demonstrates that volunteers' prefrontal brain activity increases with an increase in interactional closeness with a dog.&nbsp;

The study demonstrated that a dog could arouse emotions more strongly and activate attentional processes more so than stuffed toys.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Do you love dogs? Well, if yes, that's good, and if not, you will now. As per the research at the University of Basel, it was found that seeing, feeling, and touching dogs causes the prefrontal cortex of the brain to become increasingly more active.

Do you love dogs? Well, if yes, that's good, and if not, you will now. As per the research at the University of Basel, it was found that seeing, feeling, and touching dogs causes the prefrontal cortex of the brain to become increasingly more active. The researchers found that this impact is less when you touch stuffed animals rather than real dogs. The findings suggest that a deeper understanding of the accompanying brain activity could aid in designing more effective systems for animal-assisted therapy because engaging with animals, particularly dogs, is known to help individuals cope with stress and sadness. The researchers observed the brain activity of 19 men and women as they looked at dogs, reclined with the same dogs against their legs, or caressed dogs as part of the study, Knowridge science report reported. A fur-covered lion filled with a water bottle to match the dog's weight and temperature were used to stimulate the scenarios. The researchers found that individuals' pre-frontal brain activity increased when they interacted with real dogs, with caressing being the most interactive action. However, interactions with stuffed lions did not result in this, suggesting it may be because of bonding. The current stud demonstrates that volunteers' prefrontal brain activity increases with an increase in interactional closeness with a dog. The study demonstrated that a dog could arouse emotions more strongly and activate attentional processes more so than stuffed toys. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Interacting with dogs can help you reduce stress and depression, says study

Mid-autumn festival also known as the moon festival or moon cake festival is a traditional ceremony celebrated all across China. In the spirit of the festival, a theme park distributed special moon cakes among the animals.

China: Special mooncakes prepared for animals, celebrate mid-autumn festival

As California deals with a dangerous heatwave, Santa Barbara’s zoo keepers are going beyond to keep their animals cool. From lions to kangaroos, all are given homemade ice treats, and some even receive additional showers to help them remain cool while they sit in the heat all day. &nbsp;

For lions, handlers are setting out pieces of meat encased in an effort to keep them cool, they are also being fed meat-flavoured ice blocks. However, they might last a long time due to the high temperatures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/californians-told-to-not-charge-evs-as-ageing-electricity-grid-struggles-in-heatwave-511900">Also read |&nbsp;Californians told to not charge EVs as ageing electricity grid struggles in heatwave</a>

In conversation with Reuters, the zoo’s nutritionist said, "They got some ice blocks which are made out of beef bone broth, as well as some diluted goat's milk on it. And by providing that little bit of extra flavor to it, the animals, they might lick it, get a little bit of that extra hydration and cooling that they might not even realize. So we're kind of tricking them into helping them stay cool."

The nutritionist further gave an instance about Banjo, the emu, who was taking an advantage of the shower from the handler. She said, Banjo enjoys every last drop of water as he likes the pouring motion his body produces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-crude-oil-leaking-pipeline-operators-to-pay-13m-pollution-charges-510522">Also read |&nbsp;California crude oil leaking pipeline operators to pay $13m pollution charges</a>

Most people agree on taking extreme care of the animals during this crucial time by keeping them hydrated. The animal kitchen, due to this instance, has swapped the plates for huge meat bowls, and sacks of seeds.

In a state that has been devastated by extremely harsh weather and an ongoing drought, the heat wave continues to follow a period of extended high temperatures.

As per the National Weather Service, the heat in California will gradually increase over the week, initially searing the southern portions.

(With inpust from agencies)

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As California deals with a dangerous heatwave, Santa Barbara’s zoo keepers are going beyond to keep their animals cool. From lions to kangaroos, all are given homemade ice treats, and some even receive additional showers to help them remain cool while they sit in the heat all day.

As California deals with a dangerous heatwave, Santa Barbara’s zoo keepers are going beyond to keep their animals cool. From lions to kangaroos, all are given homemade ice treats, and some even receive additional showers to help them remain cool while they sit in the heat all day. For lions, handlers are setting out pieces of meat encased in an effort to keep them cool, they are also being fed meat-flavoured ice blocks. However, they might last a long time due to the high temperatures. Also read | Californians told to not charge EVs as ageing electricity grid struggles in heatwave In conversation with Reuters, the zoo’s nutritionist said, "They got some ice blocks which are made out of beef bone broth, as well as some diluted goat's milk on it. And by providing that little bit of extra flavor to it, the animals, they might lick it, get a little bit of that extra hydration and cooling that they might not even realize. So we're kind of tricking them into helping them stay cool." The nutritionist further gave an instance about Banjo, the emu, who was taking an advantage of the shower from the handler. She said, Banjo enjoys every last drop of water as he likes the pouring motion his body produces. Also read | California crude oil leaking pipeline operators to pay $13m pollution charges Most people agree on taking extreme care of the animals during this crucial time by keeping them hydrated. The animal kitchen, due to this instance, has swapped the plates for huge meat bowls, and sacks of seeds. In a state that has been devastated by extremely harsh weather and an ongoing drought, the heat wave continues to follow a period of extended high temperatures. As per the National Weather Service, the heat in California will gradually increase over the week, initially searing the southern portions. (With inpust from agencies)

Amid heatwave, zoo keepers use ice cubes and cold showers to keep animals cool

Splooting, or just stretching one's body out, is the most effective way that our four-legged friends (or foes) try to beat the heat, even though it may seem unusual to humans. Panda sploots are particularly hilarious, if you've had the chance to witness one.

Just in case you see any squirrels in New York City parks doing the&nbsp;same thing -- lying on their tummies&nbsp;and stretching their back legs out behind them, parks officials want you to know that its absolutely normal. Splooting is an incredibly effective way through which animals keep cool.&nbsp;

"It's just fine," NYC Parks tweeted on Monday, along with a photo of a splooting squirrel. "On hot days, squirrels keep cool by splooting (stretching out) on cool surfaces to reduce body heat. It is sometimes referred to as heat dumping."

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If you see a squirrel lying down like this, don't worry; it's just fine. On hot days, squirrels keep cool by splooting (stretching out) on cool surfaces to reduce body heat. It is sometimes referred to as heat dumping. <a href="https://t.co/pD1T3lPbBH">pic.twitter.com/pD1T3lPbBH</a>
— NYC Parks (@NYCParks) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYCParks/status/1557103824845914113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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There are numerous variations of the power position, according to <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://gilbertsvillevet.com/splooting/">Gilbertsville Veterinary Hospital</a>. There are three different types of sploots: the traditional sploot, in which one leg is tucked under the body while the other is kicked out to the side, and the full sploot (the animal has kicked both legs behind the body, exhibiting a full body stretch). Splooting also goes by various other cute names like "frogging," "frog dogging," "pancaking," and "superman."

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Sploot like nobody’s watching…<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SplootSeason?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SplootSeason</a> <a href="https://t.co/aqqRhmM5QJ">pic.twitter.com/aqqRhmM5QJ</a>
— National Park Service (@NatlParkService) <a href="https://twitter.com/NatlParkService/status/1552390696564412416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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So humans, next time you're&nbsp;in need of a cool down, you know what you should&nbsp;be doing.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Splooting, or just stretching one's body out, is the most effective way that our four-legged friends (or foes) try to beat the heat, even though it may seem unusual to humans.

Splooting, or just stretching one's body out, is the most effective way that our four-legged friends (or foes) try to beat the heat, even though it may seem unusual to humans. Panda sploots are particularly hilarious, if you've had the chance to witness one. Just in case you see any squirrels in New York City parks doing the same thing -- lying on their tummies and stretching their back legs out behind them, parks officials want you to know that its absolutely normal. Splooting is an incredibly effective way through which animals keep cool. "It's just fine," NYC Parks tweeted on Monday, along with a photo of a splooting squirrel. "On hot days, squirrels keep cool by splooting (stretching out) on cool surfaces to reduce body heat. It is sometimes referred to as heat dumping." If you see a squirrel lying down like this, don't worry; it's just fine. On hot days, squirrels keep cool by splooting (stretching out) on cool surfaces to reduce body heat. It is sometimes referred to as heat dumping. pic.twitter.com/pD1T3lPbBH — NYC Parks (@NYCParks) August 9, 2022 × There are numerous variations of the power position, according to Gilbertsville Veterinary Hospital. There are three different types of sploots: the traditional sploot, in which one leg is tucked under the body while the other is kicked out to the side, and the full sploot (the animal has kicked both legs behind the body, exhibiting a full body stretch). Splooting also goes by various other cute names like "frogging," "frog dogging," "pancaking," and "superman." Sploot like nobody’s watching…#SplootSeason pic.twitter.com/aqqRhmM5QJ — National Park Service (@NatlParkService) July 27, 2022 × So humans, next time you're in need of a cool down, you know what you should be doing. (With inputs from agencies)

Squirrels 'sploot' to beat the heat in New York

Trains in southeast England were stopped due to a huge tortoise on the railway track. The rail officials notified the passengers and trains between Norwich and Stansted airport were delayed for over an hour. Greater Anglia Rail tweeted 'animals on the railway,' referring to the tortoise that was blocking the line.

Just after the announcement, Diane Akers, a traveller on a train to Norwich, tweeted a picture of the tortoise standing on the track and informed the company that the tortoise is alive but hurt. She said that the top of the tortoise’s shell appeared to be badly gashed. The traveller tweeted that she couldn’t believe seeing the tortoise.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/greateranglia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@greateranglia</a> There is a giant tortoise on the line past Eccles Road going away from Norwich it’s still alive but injured <a href="https://t.co/jxX14Nx60P">pic.twitter.com/jxX14Nx60P</a>
— Diane Akers (@di_akers_) <a href="https://twitter.com/di_akers_/status/1554061899066740737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/tortoise-and-her-egg-found-in-new-pompeii-excavations-491663">Preserved for centuries: Tortoise and her egg found in new Pompeii excavations</a>

The tortoise was hurt and was transferred to be attended to by a specialised team for treatment, as per Georgie, a customer service representative for the rail company. The representative updated the passengers, saying, "We have been informed that he will make a full recovery."

Another passenger named Lydia Jane White also tweeted, "Train delayed because of a giant tortoise, too heavy to lift, stuck on the train tracks after having escaped from a local wildlife centre"—not something I thought I’d ever hear from a train driver! The Guardian reported.

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'Train delayed because of a giant tortoise, too heavy to lift, stuck on the train tracks after having escaped from a local wildlife centre' is not something I thought I'd ever hear from a train driver! 🐢 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/onlyinNorfolk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#onlyinNorfolk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/greateranglia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@greateranglia</a>
— Lydia Jane White (@Lydiaa_Jane) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lydiaa_Jane/status/1554134108510593026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giant-tortoise-believed-to-gone-extinct-century-ago-found-alive-on-galapagos-islands-486788">Giant tortoise believed to be extinct a century ago found alive on Galapagos Islands</a>

An hour and a half later, the railway company announced the reopening of the railway line, tough some additional delays were anticipated.

The UK has been facing scorching heat for a few days. Officials advised people to not travel unnecessarily through trains and public transport.

This summer, there were several days of train strikes in the United Kingdom as the unions representing railway workers demanded salary increases that came with inflation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Trains in southeast England were stopped due to a huge tortoise on the railway track. The rail officials notified the passengers and trains between Norwich and Stansted airport were delayed for over an hour.

Trains in southeast England were stopped due to a huge tortoise on the railway track. The rail officials notified the passengers and trains between Norwich and Stansted airport were delayed for over an hour. Greater Anglia Rail tweeted 'animals on the railway,' referring to the tortoise that was blocking the line. Just after the announcement, Diane Akers, a traveller on a train to Norwich, tweeted a picture of the tortoise standing on the track and informed the company that the tortoise is alive but hurt. She said that the top of the tortoise’s shell appeared to be badly gashed. The traveller tweeted that she couldn’t believe seeing the tortoise. @greateranglia There is a giant tortoise on the line past Eccles Road going away from Norwich it’s still alive but injured pic.twitter.com/jxX14Nx60P — Diane Akers (@di_akers_) August 1, 2022 × Also read | Preserved for centuries: Tortoise and her egg found in new Pompeii excavations The tortoise was hurt and was transferred to be attended to by a specialised team for treatment, as per Georgie, a customer service representative for the rail company. The representative updated the passengers, saying, "We have been informed that he will make a full recovery." Another passenger named Lydia Jane White also tweeted, "Train delayed because of a giant tortoise, too heavy to lift, stuck on the train tracks after having escaped from a local wildlife centre"—not something I thought I’d ever hear from a train driver! The Guardian reported. 'Train delayed because of a giant tortoise, too heavy to lift, stuck on the train tracks after having escaped from a local wildlife centre' is not something I thought I'd ever hear from a train driver! 🐢 #onlyinNorfolk @greateranglia — Lydia Jane White (@Lydiaa_Jane) August 1, 2022 × Also read | Giant tortoise believed to be extinct a century ago found alive on Galapagos Islands An hour and a half later, the railway company announced the reopening of the railway line, tough some additional delays were anticipated. The UK has been facing scorching heat for a few days. Officials advised people to not travel unnecessarily through trains and public transport. This summer, there were several days of train strikes in the United Kingdom as the unions representing railway workers demanded salary increases that came with inflation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Huge tortoise on railway track blocks trains in UK

Human interest and study in animal vocalisations have existed for a long time. The warning sounds of different primates vary depending on the predator. For example, dolphins communicate with distinctive whistles, and some songbirds may rearrange the components of their calls to convey different meanings. Most experts refrain from referring to this as a language because no animal communication satisfies all the requirements. Decoding nowadays has typically relied on meticulous observation up until recently. Currently, there has been a surge in using machine learning to handle the massive volumes of data that can be gathered by contemporary animal borne-sensors, The Guardian reported.

Aza Raskin, on the other hand, decides to strengthen human bonds with other living species while promoting their protection using machine learning, with the goal of deciphering non-human communication. She is the co-founder and president of the Earth Species Project (ESP). With her hands, the dolphin handler makes the ‘together’ and ‘create’ signals. The two trained dolphins exchanged sounds before emerging, flipping around and lifting their tails, coming up with a new trick of their own, and executing it. The founder claimed that this doesn’t establish that a language is there but simply stands as a reason that if they had had access to a language communication tool, then this would have been made much simpler.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-ai-that-can-gauge-distress-signals-of-baby-chickens-492892">Scientists develop AI that can gauge distress signals of baby chickens</a>

However, ESP claims that its strategy is different from others as it focuses on decoding all species' communication rather than any particular one. The founder said, "We’re species agnostic," says Raskin. "The tools we develop… can work across all of biology, from worms to whales," The Guardian reported.

Elodiw Briefer, an associate professor who studies vocal communication in animals and mammals, said that people are now using machine learning to understand animal communication. Briefer co-developed an algorithm to determine using pig grunts if the animal is feeling happy or sad.

Watch |&nbsp;Artificial intelligence will help track elephants’ migration patterns in Botswana

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DeepSqueak, analyses rats’ ultrasonic sounds to determine whether they are under stress. &nbsp;

Another project CETI (Cetacean Translation) is another initiative to translate sperm whale communication using machine learning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-use-artificial-intelligence-to-confirm-that-birds-are-more-colourful-near-equator-468608">Scientists use artificial intelligence to confirm that birds are more colourful near equator</a>

Another effort aims to automatically decipher the functional significance of vocalisation. It is currently in process in Professor Ari Friedlaendar’s lab, University of California, Santa Cruz, which specialises in ocean science. One of the biggest aims of the programme is to analyse how wild marine mammals behave underwater despite being difficult to witness directly. The animals are equipped with tiny electronic blogging devices that record their location, the kind of motion they are in and can see things through the video camera.

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Human interest and study in animal vocalisations have existed for a long time. The warning sounds of different primates vary depending on the predator. For example, dolphins communicate with distinctive whistles, and some songbirds may rearrange the components of their calls to convey different meanings.

Human interest and study in animal vocalisations have existed for a long time. The warning sounds of different primates vary depending on the predator. For example, dolphins communicate with distinctive whistles, and some songbirds may rearrange the components of their calls to convey different meanings. Most experts refrain from referring to this as a language because no animal communication satisfies all the requirements. Decoding nowadays has typically relied on meticulous observation up until recently. Currently, there has been a surge in using machine learning to handle the massive volumes of data that can be gathered by contemporary animal borne-sensors, The Guardian reported. Aza Raskin, on the other hand, decides to strengthen human bonds with other living species while promoting their protection using machine learning, with the goal of deciphering non-human communication. She is the co-founder and president of the Earth Species Project (ESP). With her hands, the dolphin handler makes the ‘together’ and ‘create’ signals. The two trained dolphins exchanged sounds before emerging, flipping around and lifting their tails, coming up with a new trick of their own, and executing it. The founder claimed that this doesn’t establish that a language is there but simply stands as a reason that if they had had access to a language communication tool, then this would have been made much simpler. Also read | Scientists develop AI that can gauge distress signals of baby chickens However, ESP claims that its strategy is different from others as it focuses on decoding all species' communication rather than any particular one. The founder said, "We’re species agnostic," says Raskin. "The tools we develop… can work across all of biology, from worms to whales," The Guardian reported. Elodiw Briefer, an associate professor who studies vocal communication in animals and mammals, said that people are now using machine learning to understand animal communication. Briefer co-developed an algorithm to determine using pig grunts if the animal is feeling happy or sad. Watch | Artificial intelligence will help track elephants’ migration patterns in Botswana DeepSqueak, analyses rats’ ultrasonic sounds to determine whether they are under stress. Another project CETI (Cetacean Translation) is another initiative to translate sperm whale communication using machine learning. Also read | Scientists use artificial intelligence to confirm that birds are more colourful near equator Another effort aims to automatically decipher the functional significance of vocalisation. It is currently in process in Professor Ari Friedlaendar’s lab, University of California, Santa Cruz, which specialises in ocean science. One of the biggest aims of the programme is to analyse how wild marine mammals behave underwater despite being difficult to witness directly. The animals are equipped with tiny electronic blogging devices that record their location, the kind of motion they are in and can see things through the video camera. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Can artificial intelligence actually help us to communicate with animals?

Raging wildfires are severely impacting the wildlife in France. On Tuesday, 363 animals from the Arachon Zoo had to be evacuated. The zoo is located in western France. The animals have already suffered and some of them have been weakened due to the heat. They were shifted to a zoo in central France.

Monkeys were evacuated first as burning trees affected their natural habitat. As per media reports, the evacuation was tricky as special arrangements had to be made to safely transport the animals.

Wildfires raging in France have also destroyed campsites in the wooded area as well.&nbsp;

Mostly debris, walls and a swimming pool were left of the campsite La Foret du Pilat, a stone’s throw away from the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune.

Firefighters on Wednesday checked the campsite to locate and mark any gas containers left behind by campers.

“The purpose is to secure them so that the companies that come for clean-up can do so safely,” firefighter captain Gilles Elschger said.

Firefighters in the southwest Gironde department have been battling since July 12 to tame the flames, which have so far ravaged nearly 50,904 acres (20,600 hectares) of land, the local prefecture said on Wednesday (July 20).

(With inputs from agencies)

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Raging wildfires are severely impacting the wildlife in France. On Tuesday, 363 animals from the Arachon Zoo had to be evacuated. The zoo is located in western France.

Raging wildfires are severely impacting the wildlife in France. On Tuesday, 363 animals from the Arachon Zoo had to be evacuated. The zoo is located in western France. The animals have already suffered and some of them have been weakened due to the heat. They were shifted to a zoo in central France. Monkeys were evacuated first as burning trees affected their natural habitat. As per media reports, the evacuation was tricky as special arrangements had to be made to safely transport the animals. Wildfires raging in France have also destroyed campsites in the wooded area as well. Mostly debris, walls and a swimming pool were left of the campsite La Foret du Pilat, a stone’s throw away from the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune. Firefighters on Wednesday checked the campsite to locate and mark any gas containers left behind by campers. “The purpose is to secure them so that the companies that come for clean-up can do so safely,” firefighter captain Gilles Elschger said. Firefighters in the southwest Gironde department have been battling since July 12 to tame the flames, which have so far ravaged nearly 50,904 acres (20,600 hectares) of land, the local prefecture said on Wednesday (July 20). (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

France: Raging wildfires force evacuation of 363 animals from zoo

Australia's unique wildlife is being devastated by bushfires, drought, habitat loss and global warming, a government report said Tuesday, warning that more species are headed for extinction.

The five-yearly State of the Environment report prompted calls for dramatic action to reverse the "poor and deteriorating" state of flora and fauna depicted by scientists on land and at sea.

The damage is being hastened by a climate that has warmed&nbsp;Australia's average land temperature by 1.4 degrees Celsius since the early 20th century, the report said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-largest-wildlife-overpass-begins-construction-this-month-469956">Construction of world’s largest wildlife overpass to begin this month in US</a>

A failure to manage the pressures "will continue to result in species extinctions," scientists warned in the report.

Australia's environment minister, Tanya Plibersek, said it was a "shocking document".

"If we continue on the trajectory that we are on now, we will see more threatened species, we will see drier rivers, we will see degraded landscape, we will see reefs dying," she told journalists.

"The path we are on is not sustainable."

Plibersek, a member of the centre-left Labor Party that came to power in May elections, criticised the previous conservative government for failing to publish the report, which it had received in December 2021.

She promised to carve out more of&nbsp;Australia's land and oceans for protection, pursue "fundamental reform" of environmental laws and empower a new environmental protection agency.

Ecological bomb

Australia's 2019-2020 "Black Summer" bushfires burned more than eight million hectares of native vegetation and killed or displaced 1-3 billion animals, the report found.

The fires were an "ecological bomb ripping through southeastern&nbsp;Australia", Plibersek said.

Marine heatwaves caused mass coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef in 2016, 2017 and 2020, scientists said in the report. Since then, a government report in March found the reef had again suffered mass bleaching.

Watch |&nbsp;Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary treats pets

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Millions of hectares of primary forest had been cleared since 1990, the report said.

More than seven million hectares of habitat for&nbsp;threatened species were cleared between 2000 and 2017 without being assessed under&nbsp;Australia's environmental conservation laws, it found.

In five years, more than 200 plant and animal species of national significance had been added to the list of threatened species under&nbsp;Australia's environmental laws.

"Australia&nbsp;has lost more mammal species than any other continent," the report said, with the number of new species listed as being under greater threat up by eight percent in five years.

Heartbreaking

Australia's cities are also growing at a rapid clip, scientists found, raising urban heat, pollution and waste while stretching water and energy resources.

"Sydney has lost more than 70 percent of native vegetation cover through development," the report said.

Sydney Habour's stormwater drains also created hotspots of pollution with concentrations 20 times higher than when the harbour was pristine.

"The findings of this report are heartbreaking, and the leadership failures that have led to loss at this scale devastating," said WWF-Australia&nbsp;acting chief executive Rachel Lowry.

"If we ignore the warnings of this report then iconic species like koalas across eastern&nbsp;Australia, or our largest gliding mammal, the greater glider, will disappear forever on our watch."

WWF-Australia&nbsp;said the report should be a "turning point" that lead to greater investment and stronger laws to protect&nbsp;Australia's wildlife and wilderness.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-watchdog-investigates-kmart-and-bunnings-over-consumers-faceprints-technology-despite-ban-496962">Australian watchdog investigates Kmart and Bunnings over ‘faceprints’ technology</a>

Lowry urged the new government to act quickly, condemning existing environmental legislation for "failing miserably" to protect threatened species.

The "devastating" new report showed coasts and marine environments were deteriorating, the Australian Marine Conservation Society said.

"We need to do more now, or we put at risk everything we rely on our oceans for -- our health, wellbeing, livelihoods and our culture," said the society's chief executive, Darren Kindleysides.

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Australia's unique wildlife is being devastated by bushfires, drought, habitat loss and global warming, a government report said Tuesday, warning that more species are headed for extinction.

Australia's unique wildlife is being devastated by bushfires, drought, habitat loss and global warming, a government report said Tuesday, warning that more species are headed for extinction. The five-yearly State of the Environment report prompted calls for dramatic action to reverse the "poor and deteriorating" state of flora and fauna depicted by scientists on land and at sea. The damage is being hastened by a climate that has warmed Australia's average land temperature by 1.4 degrees Celsius since the early 20th century, the report said. Also read | Construction of world’s largest wildlife overpass to begin this month in US A failure to manage the pressures "will continue to result in species extinctions," scientists warned in the report. Australia's environment minister, Tanya Plibersek, said it was a "shocking document". "If we continue on the trajectory that we are on now, we will see more threatened species, we will see drier rivers, we will see degraded landscape, we will see reefs dying," she told journalists. "The path we are on is not sustainable." Plibersek, a member of the centre-left Labor Party that came to power in May elections, criticised the previous conservative government for failing to publish the report, which it had received in December 2021. She promised to carve out more of Australia's land and oceans for protection, pursue "fundamental reform" of environmental laws and empower a new environmental protection agency. Ecological bomb Australia's 2019-2020 "Black Summer" bushfires burned more than eight million hectares of native vegetation and killed or displaced 1-3 billion animals, the report found. The fires were an "ecological bomb ripping through southeastern Australia", Plibersek said. Marine heatwaves caused mass coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef in 2016, 2017 and 2020, scientists said in the report. Since then, a government report in March found the reef had again suffered mass bleaching. Watch | Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary treats pets Millions of hectares of primary forest had been cleared since 1990, the report said. More than seven million hectares of habitat for threatened species were cleared between 2000 and 2017 without being assessed under Australia's environmental conservation laws, it found. In five years, more than 200 plant and animal species of national significance had been added to the list of threatened species under Australia's environmental laws. "Australia has lost more mammal species than any other continent," the report said, with the number of new species listed as being under greater threat up by eight percent in five years. Heartbreaking Australia's cities are also growing at a rapid clip, scientists found, raising urban heat, pollution and waste while stretching water and energy resources. "Sydney has lost more than 70 percent of native vegetation cover through development," the report said. Sydney Habour's stormwater drains also created hotspots of pollution with concentrations 20 times higher than when the harbour was pristine. "The findings of this report are heartbreaking, and the leadership failures that have led to loss at this scale devastating," said WWF-Australia acting chief executive Rachel Lowry. "If we ignore the warnings of this report then iconic species like koalas across eastern Australia, or our largest gliding mammal, the greater glider, will disappear forever on our watch." WWF-Australia said the report should be a "turning point" that lead to greater investment and stronger laws to protect Australia's wildlife and wilderness. Also read | Australian watchdog investigates Kmart and Bunnings over ‘faceprints’ technology Lowry urged the new government to act quickly, condemning existing environmental legislation for "failing miserably" to protect threatened species. The "devastating" new report showed coasts and marine environments were deteriorating, the Australian Marine Conservation Society said. "We need to do more now, or we put at risk everything we rely on our oceans for -- our health, wellbeing, livelihoods and our culture," said the society's chief executive, Darren Kindleysides. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Shocking' report lists devastation to Australia wildlife

Officials in Florida said that an elderly woman was killed by two alligators in a pond near her home after she fell into the water.

According to a statement from the Sarasota County Sheriff's office, the woman was seen falling into a pond along the course at the Boca Royale Golf and Country Club in Englewood at approximately 7:47 pm.

Authorities believe that although the woman "struggled to stay afloat", the alligators grabbed her and killed her.

Following the horrific incident, a trapper from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) removed the alligators from the pond.

In a similar incident, Sean Thomas McGuinness, a 47-year-old man's arm was torn off in May and he was found dead in John S. Taylor Park in Largo.

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In 2022, alligators have already taken the lives of multiple people even though their bites are relatively rare as per the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Over the last 10 years, Florida has averaged eight unprovoked bites per year that required serious medical attention, according to the commission.

It said in a statement that "The likelihood of a Florida resident being seriously injured during an unprovoked alligator incident in Florida is roughly only one in 3.1 million."

The commission added that only 26 people have been killed by alligator bites in Florida from 1948 to 2021.&nbsp; 
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(With inputs from agencies)

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Officials in Florida said that an elderly woman was killed by two alligators in a pond near her home after she fell into the water. According to a statement from the Sarasota County Sheriff's office, the woman was seen falling into a pond along the course at the Boca Royale Golf and Country Club in Englewood at approximately 7:47 pm.

Officials in Florida said that an elderly woman was killed by two alligators in a pond near her home after she fell into the water. According to a statement from the Sarasota County Sheriff's office, the woman was seen falling into a pond along the course at the Boca Royale Golf and Country Club in Englewood at approximately 7:47 pm. Authorities believe that although the woman "struggled to stay afloat", the alligators grabbed her and killed her. Following the horrific incident, a trapper from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) removed the alligators from the pond. In a similar incident, Sean Thomas McGuinness, a 47-year-old man's arm was torn off in May and he was found dead in John S. Taylor Park in Largo. × In 2022, alligators have already taken the lives of multiple people even though their bites are relatively rare as per the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Over the last 10 years, Florida has averaged eight unprovoked bites per year that required serious medical attention, according to the commission. It said in a statement that "The likelihood of a Florida resident being seriously injured during an unprovoked alligator incident in Florida is roughly only one in 3.1 million." The commission added that only 26 people have been killed by alligator bites in Florida from 1948 to 2021. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Florida: After falling into pond, elderly woman killed by two alligators

At a farm in northern Ukraine, a spooked-looking heifer has been limping since one of her hind legs was shredded by shrapnel in a Russian attack that has been mirrored on farms across the country since the war began.

The four-month-old survived bombardments that killed around a third of animals on the meat and dairy facility in Mala Rogan, a village around 25 kilometres (15 miles) south of Ukraine's second city Kharkiv.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-months-into-the-russian-aggression-ukraine-retreats-from-key-embattled-city-of-sievierodonetsk-491358">Four months into the Russian aggression, Ukraine retreats from key embattled city of Sievierodonetsk</a>

It was a "nightmare" recalls owner Lyubov Zlobina, 62, who says she is "haunted by the howls of cows burned alive" during the attacks on March 26.

"I cling on to this little miracle," she said, referring to the injured heifer, the distant thuds of shelling echoing in the background.

"I gave her antibiotics twice but sadly the wound is still oozing and she isn't putting on weight," she added.

"If we could take out the shard, maybe she would recover. For surgery, we'd have to take her very far away and we can't," said Zlobina visibly upset.

In the first weeks of the war, Mala Rogan was captured by Russian forces. They have since been beat back, leaving behind a battle-scarred hellscape.

Zlobina's husband, who served in the Soviet army in Afghanistan, showed AFP journalists several videos taken during the attacks.

"We were running in every direction out of the shed," Mykolai Zlobin, 57, recalled, describing how hay in the shed burst into flames. A cow that was giving birth had its head severed.

They had to knock down a segment of wall with a tractor to get the trapped cows out, all while explosions were falling around the panicked herd.&nbsp;

"I tried to save a few piglets but their mothers were protecting them under their bellies," said Zlobina. The hens, she said, clucked and pecked through the attack as if nothing was happening.

Yulia Koval, a 38-year-old farm employee said part of a roof fell in while she was trying to hurry calves from a farm building.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine to get more US rocket systems as Russia closes in on Severodonetsk

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"We could have not done it because everything around was falling apart. But we didn't have time to think it over, she says. We just wanted to save them, that's all."

Animals with serious injuries have since had to be put down.

'Attacking the cattle'

The shed now is a burnt out, rusted skeleton. Animals graze and mull about in fields surrounding the farm, which, unlike much farmland in eastern Ukraine does not appear to have been mined.

For the youngest and most vulnerable animals, a hastily-constructed shelter offers some protection but a more robust alternative will have be found for the winter.

Farms and agricultural land across Ukraine have been devastated by the war. Local media routinely report huge losses caused by Russian shelling.

Government figures suggest that 15 percent of the country's livestock have been killed since Russia invaded on February 24.&nbsp;

The NGO Open Cages Ukraine said in a June report that it expects the number of farm animals killed during the conflict to be around 300,000 by the year's end.

Also roaming the two-hectare farm in Mala Rogan are exhausted and starving stray dogs, abandoned by their owners who fled Russia's advance to towns and cities in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amnesty-international-accuses-russia-of-war-crimes-in-ukranian-city-of-kharkiv-487872">Amnesty International accuses Russia of ‘war crimes’ in Ukranian city of Kharkiv</a>

"Look at this injured ewe with her three lambs," Zlobina says, pointing at her as she tries to hide.

"She was attacked not even 24 hours ago."&nbsp;

"At first, the dogs ate the bodies of abandoned Russian soldiers and we sometimes found a foot or a hand on our land. Now they are attacking the cattle," she said.

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At a farm in northern Ukraine, a spooked-looking heifer has been limping since one of her hind legs was shredded by shrapnel in a Russian attack that has been mirrored on farms across the country since the war began.

At a farm in northern Ukraine, a spooked-looking heifer has been limping since one of her hind legs was shredded by shrapnel in a Russian attack that has been mirrored on farms across the country since the war began. The four-month-old survived bombardments that killed around a third of animals on the meat and dairy facility in Mala Rogan, a village around 25 kilometres (15 miles) south of Ukraine's second city Kharkiv. Also read | Four months into the Russian aggression, Ukraine retreats from key embattled city of Sievierodonetsk It was a "nightmare" recalls owner Lyubov Zlobina, 62, who says she is "haunted by the howls of cows burned alive" during the attacks on March 26. "I cling on to this little miracle," she said, referring to the injured heifer, the distant thuds of shelling echoing in the background. "I gave her antibiotics twice but sadly the wound is still oozing and she isn't putting on weight," she added. "If we could take out the shard, maybe she would recover. For surgery, we'd have to take her very far away and we can't," said Zlobina visibly upset. In the first weeks of the war, Mala Rogan was captured by Russian forces. They have since been beat back, leaving behind a battle-scarred hellscape. Zlobina's husband, who served in the Soviet army in Afghanistan, showed AFP journalists several videos taken during the attacks. "We were running in every direction out of the shed," Mykolai Zlobin, 57, recalled, describing how hay in the shed burst into flames. A cow that was giving birth had its head severed. They had to knock down a segment of wall with a tractor to get the trapped cows out, all while explosions were falling around the panicked herd. "I tried to save a few piglets but their mothers were protecting them under their bellies," said Zlobina. The hens, she said, clucked and pecked through the attack as if nothing was happening. Yulia Koval, a 38-year-old farm employee said part of a roof fell in while she was trying to hurry calves from a farm building. Watch | Ukraine to get more US rocket systems as Russia closes in on Severodonetsk "We could have not done it because everything around was falling apart. But we didn't have time to think it over, she says. We just wanted to save them, that's all." Animals with serious injuries have since had to be put down. 'Attacking the cattle' The shed now is a burnt out, rusted skeleton. Animals graze and mull about in fields surrounding the farm, which, unlike much farmland in eastern Ukraine does not appear to have been mined. For the youngest and most vulnerable animals, a hastily-constructed shelter offers some protection but a more robust alternative will have be found for the winter. Farms and agricultural land across Ukraine have been devastated by the war. Local media routinely report huge losses caused by Russian shelling. Government figures suggest that 15 percent of the country's livestock have been killed since Russia invaded on February 24. The NGO Open Cages Ukraine said in a June report that it expects the number of farm animals killed during the conflict to be around 300,000 by the year's end. Also roaming the two-hectare farm in Mala Rogan are exhausted and starving stray dogs, abandoned by their owners who fled Russia's advance to towns and cities in eastern Ukraine. Also read | Amnesty International accuses Russia of ‘war crimes’ in Ukranian city of Kharkiv "Look at this injured ewe with her three lambs," Zlobina says, pointing at her as she tries to hide. "She was attacked not even 24 hours ago." "At first, the dogs ate the bodies of abandoned Russian soldiers and we sometimes found a foot or a hand on our land. Now they are attacking the cattle," she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine farm animals burned alive in Russian bombing

Dubai has launched seven smart applications for residents to book animals for sacrifice. This comes ahead of Eid-al-Adha which falls in July this year. Authorities are trying to avoid waiting period for customers and overcrowding during Covid-19.

Ahead of Eid-al-Adha, people in Dubai can book animals through smart apps

Bumblebees are eligible for protection as endangered or threatened “fish” under California law, a state appeals court held in a win for environmental groups and the state’s Fish and Game Commission.

The Sacramento-based California Court of Appeal reversed a lower court’s ruling Tuesday for seven agricultural groups who argued that the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) expressly protects only “birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and plants” – not insects.

While “fish” is “commonly understood to refer to aquatic species, the term of art employed by the Legislature … is not so limited,” Associate Justice Ronald Robie wrote for the appeals court.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-finds-the-climate-crisis-could-lead-to-a-rise-of-smaller-bees-472803">Study finds climate change could lead to a rise of smaller bees</a>

CESA itself does not define “fish,” but the law is part of the California Fish and Game Code. The code’s definition includes any “mollusk, crustacean, invertebrate (or) amphibian,” Robie wrote. All those categories “encompass terrestrial and aquatic species,” and the state legislature has already approved the listing of at least one land-based mollusk, the opinion said.

“Accordingly, a terrestrial invertebrate, like each of the four bumblebee species, may be listed as an endangered or threatened species,” Robie wrote, joined by Acting Presiding Justice Cole Blease and Associate Justice Andrea Lynn Hoch.

Matthew Sanders of Stanford Law School’s Environmental Law Clinic hailed the decision as “a win for the bumblebees, all imperiled invertebrates in California, and the California Endangered Species Act.” Insects are “foundational to California’s agricultural production and healthy ecosystems,” he added.

Sanders’ clients – the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, Defenders of Wildlife, and the Center for Food Safety – petitioned the Fish and Game Commission to add the Crotch's bumblebee, Franklin’s bumblebee, Suckley cuckoo bumblebee, and Western bumblebee to the state’s endangered species list in 2018.

Watch |&nbsp;Seeking safety for bees in the urban jungle: Biologists study ways to conserve bees

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The commission quickly designated all four as “candidate species,” providing them with interim protections while it considered whether to list them as endangered.

However, the Almond Alliance of California, the California Farm Bureau Federation, and five other agricultural groups filed suit in Sacramento County Superior Court to establish that CESA does not protect insects – a point on which the legislature, agencies, and courts have vacillated since 1980, they said.

In 2020, the Superior Court ruled that the law’s reference to “invertebrates” had to be read in context, and included only aquatic animals.

Paul Weiland of Nossaman, lead counsel for the agriculture groups, said in an email Tuesday that they were “disappointed” and reviewing the decision before deciding “whether to seek further review.”

Attorneys for the state did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/one-species-may-benefit-from-climate-change-study-483922">One species may benefit from climate change: Study</a>

The case is Almond Alliance of California et al. v. Fish and Game Commission et al, Xerces Society For Invertebrate Conservation et al, intervenors; California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District, No. C093542.

For Almond Alliance of California et al: Paul Weiland and Benjamin Rubin of Nossaman

For the Fish and Game Commission: California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Deputy Attorneys General Jeffrey Reusch and Adam Levitan

For Xerces Society For Invertebrate Conservation et al.: Matthew Sanders, Stephanie Safdi, and Deborah Sivas of Stanford Law School, Mills Legal Clinic’s Environmental Law Clinic.

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Bumblebees are eligible for protection as endangered or threatened “fish” under California law, a state appeals court held in a win for environmental groups and the state’s Fish and Game Commission.

Bumblebees are eligible for protection as endangered or threatened “fish” under California law, a state appeals court held in a win for environmental groups and the state’s Fish and Game Commission. The Sacramento-based California Court of Appeal reversed a lower court’s ruling Tuesday for seven agricultural groups who argued that the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) expressly protects only “birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and plants” – not insects. While “fish” is “commonly understood to refer to aquatic species, the term of art employed by the Legislature … is not so limited,” Associate Justice Ronald Robie wrote for the appeals court. Also read | Study finds climate change could lead to a rise of smaller bees CESA itself does not define “fish,” but the law is part of the California Fish and Game Code. The code’s definition includes any “mollusk, crustacean, invertebrate (or) amphibian,” Robie wrote. All those categories “encompass terrestrial and aquatic species,” and the state legislature has already approved the listing of at least one land-based mollusk, the opinion said. “Accordingly, a terrestrial invertebrate, like each of the four bumblebee species, may be listed as an endangered or threatened species,” Robie wrote, joined by Acting Presiding Justice Cole Blease and Associate Justice Andrea Lynn Hoch. Matthew Sanders of Stanford Law School’s Environmental Law Clinic hailed the decision as “a win for the bumblebees, all imperiled invertebrates in California, and the California Endangered Species Act.” Insects are “foundational to California’s agricultural production and healthy ecosystems,” he added. Sanders’ clients – the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, Defenders of Wildlife, and the Center for Food Safety – petitioned the Fish and Game Commission to add the Crotch's bumblebee, Franklin’s bumblebee, Suckley cuckoo bumblebee, and Western bumblebee to the state’s endangered species list in 2018. Watch | Seeking safety for bees in the urban jungle: Biologists study ways to conserve bees The commission quickly designated all four as “candidate species,” providing them with interim protections while it considered whether to list them as endangered. However, the Almond Alliance of California, the California Farm Bureau Federation, and five other agricultural groups filed suit in Sacramento County Superior Court to establish that CESA does not protect insects – a point on which the legislature, agencies, and courts have vacillated since 1980, they said. In 2020, the Superior Court ruled that the law’s reference to “invertebrates” had to be read in context, and included only aquatic animals. Paul Weiland of Nossaman, lead counsel for the agriculture groups, said in an email Tuesday that they were “disappointed” and reviewing the decision before deciding “whether to seek further review.” Attorneys for the state did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Also read | One species may benefit from climate change: Study The case is Almond Alliance of California et al. v. Fish and Game Commission et al, Xerces Society For Invertebrate Conservation et al, intervenors; California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District, No. C093542. For Almond Alliance of California et al: Paul Weiland and Benjamin Rubin of Nossaman For the Fish and Game Commission: California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Deputy Attorneys General Jeffrey Reusch and Adam Levitan For Xerces Society For Invertebrate Conservation et al.: Matthew Sanders, Stephanie Safdi, and Deborah Sivas of Stanford Law School, Mills Legal Clinic’s Environmental Law Clinic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bees are ‘fish’ under California Endangered Species Act – state court

Have you ever wondered why mosquitoes are mainly attracted to human blood over other animals?

The scientists from Princeton University in the US believe that it has a lot to do with our ‘citrusy’ scent.

According to the study published in the journal Nature, mosquitoes evolved to bite humans by solely relying on odour molecules which are distinct from those emitted by other creatures in a particular environment.

These Aedes aegypti&nbsp;mosquitoes, which act as carriers for diseases like Zika, dengue and yellow fever, strongly prefer human odour over animals, The Independent reported citing the study.

The scientists arrived at this conclusion by scanning mosquito brains at a very high resolution to see how they would react to different types of scent.

To achieve this, they genetically engineered the mosquitoes to make their brains light up when they were active, and expose them to different types of scent.

To test how these blood-sucking flying insects differentiated between mammal and human scent, scientists collected hair, fur and wool samples and used odour from 16 humans, two rats, two guinea pigs, two quails, one sheep and four dogs.

They then collected human and animal odours non-destructively and designed a system which allowed them to pass human odour at the mosquitoes in the imaging setup, the UK-based newspaper reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-phantom-island-keeps-appearing-and-disappearing-on-google-maps-scientists-stumped-477360" hreflang="en">Mysterious ‘phantom island’ keeps appearing and disappearing on Google Maps, scientists stumped</a>

The scientists then found out that mosquitoes have been using just two of their 60 glomeruli (nerve centres) to detect the human odour.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-doesnt-get-high-after-two-bottles-complains-to-home-minister-477331" hreflang="en">Man doesn't get high after two bottles, complains to home minister</a>

The mosquitoes use these brain centres to detect two chemicals – decanal and undecanal – which have a slightly orangey, citrusy smell and are enriched in human odour, the study concluded.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Have you ever wondered why mosquitoes are mainly attracted to human blood over other animals? The scientists from Princeton University in the US believe that it has a lot to do with our ‘citrusy’ scent.

Have you ever wondered why mosquitoes are mainly attracted to human blood over other animals? The scientists from Princeton University in the US believe that it has a lot to do with our ‘citrusy’ scent. According to the study published in the journal Nature, mosquitoes evolved to bite humans by solely relying on odour molecules which are distinct from those emitted by other creatures in a particular environment. These Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which act as carriers for diseases like Zika, dengue and yellow fever, strongly prefer human odour over animals, The Independent reported citing the study. The scientists arrived at this conclusion by scanning mosquito brains at a very high resolution to see how they would react to different types of scent. To achieve this, they genetically engineered the mosquitoes to make their brains light up when they were active, and expose them to different types of scent. To test how these blood-sucking flying insects differentiated between mammal and human scent, scientists collected hair, fur and wool samples and used odour from 16 humans, two rats, two guinea pigs, two quails, one sheep and four dogs. They then collected human and animal odours non-destructively and designed a system which allowed them to pass human odour at the mosquitoes in the imaging setup, the UK-based newspaper reported. Also read | Mysterious ‘phantom island’ keeps appearing and disappearing on Google Maps, scientists stumped The scientists then found out that mosquitoes have been using just two of their 60 glomeruli (nerve centres) to detect the human odour. Also read | Man doesn't get high after two bottles, complains to home minister The mosquitoes use these brain centres to detect two chemicals – decanal and undecanal – which have a slightly orangey, citrusy smell and are enriched in human odour, the study concluded. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE

Scientists reveal why mosquitoes prefer human blood over other animals

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