Articles tagged with Domesticated Animals
The discovery provides first evidence of the use of a bridle bit to control an animal in the Near East before the appearance of horses. The study reveals that early domestic donkeys were controlled using soft bits, likely made from rope or wood.
Researchers discovered tooth wear linked to bit-wearing on ancient donkey remains from the Early Bronze Age (EB) period. The findings suggest that donkeys may have worn bits as early as 2700 BCE, long before the introduction of horses.
A new DNA method efficiently screens vampire bat blood meal and faecal samples to determine which domestic animals they feed on, while also assessing population structure. This technique may aid in preventing rabies exposure by identifying animal hosts at risk.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool discovered that small-scale farming was initiated by indigenous communities in Turkey's Anatolian plateau, contradicting previous theories. The study found evidence of crop cultivation and herding of sheep and goats, suggesting a stable and persistent use of crops for over 5 centuries.
Researchers discovered a fossilized hair from a goat dated back to the Neolithic Corded Ware period, shedding new light on mortuary practices and animal husbandry of the culture. The find supports evidence that domestic animals were kept during this time period in Finland.
A study published in Animal Cognition found that horses prefer to approach humans with submissive body postures over dominant ones. This preference is thought to be an instinctual understanding of larger vs. smaller postures, as seen in evolutionary communication.
Researchers have developed a new welfare assessment grid to help zookeepers monitor the physical and psychological wellbeing of animals in their care. The grid provides daily monitoring of factors such as environment quality and daily procedures, enabling zookeepers to identify potential problems and improve animal welfare.
A census of medium and large mammals found in 22 forest remnants surrounded by sugarcane plantations in São Paulo State, Brazil revealed that 90% of expected species were recorded. The study found rare animals such as the giant armadillo not present, but generalist species like white-eared opossums adapted to disturbed environments.
A new study by Vetmeduni Vienna found that shearing alpacas in a standing position produces the least amount of stress for the animals. The research team used clinical parameters and saliva/faeces cortisol levels to measure stress, finding that restraint without shearing had no significant impact on these values.
Analyses of 14 ancient horse genomes reveal that domestication led to changes in forelimbs and coat colors, as well as the presence of genetic variants associated with milk production for human consumption. The study suggests that early domestication was not limited to a small group of stallions but involved multiple founders.
Scientists have identified a highly contagious disease threatening the endangered San Joaquin kit fox population. Researchers confirmed diagnosis of sarcoptic mange in 15 kit foxes and found no evidence of recovery from untreated infections.
A new study investigated the potential role of North American animals as hosts for Zika virus. Researchers tested common animal species, including goats, pigeons, raccoons, and ducks, for infectious virus presence and antibodies. The findings suggest that these animals may serve as an unseen reservoir for Zika virus in urban environments.
Research at Kobe University found that horses send signals to humans both visually and physically when faced with unsolvable problems, adapting their behavior based on humans' knowledge. This high social cognitive ability may have been acquired during domestication, enabling horses to form close bonds with humans.
A new pathogen, Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis, has been identified as causing anthrax-like disease in chimps, gorillas, elephants, and goats across four African countries. The bacteria share distinct genetic and biological characteristics with Bacillus anthracis.
Researchers discovered that ambling horses first appeared in Medieval England, where they were bred by Vikings and later distributed globally. The genetic study found a specific variant of the DMRT3 gene associated with gaitedness in ancient horse remains.
Researchers found domestic goats in the Southern Caucasus match with wild goats from the Fertile Crescent, suggesting introduction of already-domesticated goats. Genetic sequencing reveals sudden cultural changes and agriculture adoption around 7,500-8,000 years ago.
Researchers observed striped hyenas joining grey wolf packs in the Negev desert, suggesting a mutually beneficial relationship. The unlikely alliance may have arisen from necessity, with hyenas utilizing their keen sense of smell and wolves leveraging their agility to tackle prey.
A recent study by Vetmeduni Vienna's Centre for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer found that simulator-based training in large animal gynaecology is nearly as efficient as animal-based training. Students who trained four times on horses scored best with regard to a correct diagnosis, while those trained solely on the simulato...
Research reveals that domesticated grains were adopted late and sporadically in North Africa, with communities instead integrating them into their existing nomadic lifestyle. This challenges the conventional narrative of a gradual transition to settled agriculture.
SUNY Downstate researchers identified areas of high probability of plague bacteria in the western United States. Their findings can be used by public health agencies to target specific areas for enhanced plague surveillance, particularly in regions with significant animal hosts.
Research suggests that wild pumpkin and squash were initially used for non-food purposes, such as containers and tools, before humans discovered their edible value. The loss of megafauna allowed wild plants to grow in new environments, leading to the evolution of palatability.
Researchers aim to create a 'smellscape' to understand how critters navigate by scent and convert odors into spatial information. They will use computational modeling to simulate odor navigation processes and test their models on diverse species.
A new study proposes a logical classification scheme for dogs and wolves, revealing that domestic dogs are descendants of two interbred species: an extinct Asian wild dog and the grey wolf. This finding has implications for wolf conservation, as some hybrids have evolved into full species.
A study of 214 species finds that vertical slits indicate ambush predators, while horizontally elongated pupils suggest grazing prey. Researchers believe this shapes allows for optimal vision in dim light and panoramic view.
A study found that Griffon vultures in Catalonia have high levels of lead in their tissues, affecting their immune systems and reproductive function. The birds' diet, which mainly consists of carrion from domestic and wild hunting species, increases their likelihood of ingesting lead.
Researchers are developing a new reference genome sequence for domestic horses to better understand genetics in animal health and well-being. The new sequence aims to improve the ability to identify diseases and traits in horses.
Human bites can transmit over 600 bacterial species through oral flora, posing a significant risk of infection. Prompt treatment within 24 hours of an animal or human bite is crucial to prevent serious injury or infection, with antibiotic treatment recommended for hand bites to reduce the risk of infection and disability.
Researchers found eight genome regions that contributed to tameness and aggression, including genes involved in nervous system development. The study sheds light on the genetic basis of domestication and its impact on animal behavior.
Researchers used a 'big data' approach to rank top 100 pathogens affecting humans and animals, with E.coli and HIV taking top spots. The Hirsch Index method aggregates scientific work on diseases to guide policy at a continent-wide level.
A new mathematical model helps understand how resource provisioning affects wildlife disease, with findings that more food doesn't always lead to better health outcomes. The research highlights the importance of considering the complex interactions between food availability, immune defense, and disease transmission.
Researchers have successfully used computer models to locate and eliminate high numbers of tsetse flies in Senegal, resulting in a 99.6% reduction. The eradication effort aims to control the devastating disease that affects humans, livestock, and wildlife.
A new study of 36 species found that brain volume – not body size – is the key to self-restraint. Animals with varied diets showed superior cognitive powers, while those with larger brains were more likely to inhibit counter-productive behavior.
Researchers found that African elephants can use human pointing cues to find hidden food, demonstrating an understanding of this complex gesture. This study reveals that the ability to understand pointing is not unique to humans but has evolved in a lineage of animals.
University of Granada Professor Javier Alba-Tercedor has won the Best Film award for his detailed images of a domestic fly's inside using microtomography. The high-resolution scans were made possible by a Skyscan 1172 micro-CT instrument, achieving 1.4 µm per pixel resolution.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified leptospirosis as a significant health threat in Botswana, where the disease can cause flu-like symptoms, meningitis, and even death if untreated. The pathogen was found in banded mongoose, which can transmit the disease to humans through contaminated water or soil.
Researchers found that the banded mongoose in Botswana carries Leptospira interrogans, the pathogen that causes leptospirosis. The study highlights the widespread but neglected disease as a significant public health risk in Africa.
Researchers compared the genomes of domestic pigs with wild boars to reveal genetic differences that could improve pig health and combat diseases like diabetes, obesity, and Alzheimer's. The study also identified genes linked to smell, shedding light on human diseases.
Researchers discovered a gene called Taqpep that helps establish periodic patterns like stripes or spots in felines. Variations in the Edn3 gene are responsible for dark hair color, suggesting a link between genetic mechanisms and animal coat patterns.
The Neolithic Age saw a direct connection between the development of an agricultural society and the emergence of sophisticated carpentry. Archaeological evidence suggests that as humans transitioned from hunter-gatherers to farmers, they also developed heavier axes and woodworking tools capable of felling trees.
Researchers mapped genetic differences between domesticated fungus Aspergillus oryzae and its wild relative, finding extensive genome remodeling. The study suggests microbes undergo metabolic changes for desired functions rather than growth and form alterations.
Researchers found that domesticated fungi, used to brew sake and soy sauce, have undergone extensive metabolic remodeling. This process led to the suppression of toxins and the evolution into 'cell factories' for enzymes and metabolites.
Research reveals that great tit populations from central and North Europe have distinct gene activity responses to long days, influenced by latitude. This difference affects their reproductive cycles and ability to adapt to climate change.
Researchers analyzed ancient pottery for signs of terrestrial, marine, and freshwater organisms, finding that fish and aquatic resources continued to be exploited after the advent of farming. This suggests a gradual transition from hunting to agriculture in Western Europe, challenging previous assumptions about the abrupt shift.
Ancient structures at Göbekli Tepe in Turkey were initially thought to be the world's oldest temples, but an archaeologist argues they may have been large communal houses instead. The presence of art and decoration does not necessarily mean the buildings were exclusively religious spaces.
A study of 161 marine mammal tissue samples reveals an association between severe illness and co-infection with two parasites, Sarcocystis neurona and Toxoplasma gondii. The infections caused more severe disease symptoms in animals infected with both parasites.
Researchers discovered infected cats and wildlife with Toxoplasma gondii in a natural area, suggesting feral cats are the source of infection. The parasite is shed in cat feces and transmitted to animals through soil, water, or contact with infected animals.
A three-month-old female French bulldog was found to have cryptorchid testicles and a large clitoris, revealing the first ever genetic alteration in this breed. The puppy underwent surgical sterilisation to prevent medical complications.
A new molecular imaging technology has been developed by researchers at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid to detect live cellular processes. This technology differs from conventional medical imaging, allowing for earlier detection of anomalies and facilitating treatment.
Research by Alice Schmidt examined stress in young horses during initial training, finding that mounting is a significant source of stress. However, exercise and proper training can alleviate stress levels over time. Gentle handling from the start is crucial to develop a strong bond between horse and rider.
Researchers found that short-snouted dog breeds have rotating brains up to 15 degrees, while the olfactory lobe has relocated, affecting smell perception. The study highlights unique plasticity in the canine genome due to human intervention through breeding.
The study found that the African wild ass is the living ancestor of today's domestic donkeys and that a subspecies called the Nubian wild ass may still exist. Researchers used mitochondrial DNA samples from living animals, skeletons, and archaeological sites to trace the family trees of the domestic donkey.
Paleoanthropologist Pat Shipman suggests that humans' ability to nurture other animal species contributed to the development of language and tool-making, ultimately leading to domestication. This 'animal connection' allowed early humans to develop a system of communication and observation, which became increasingly advantageous over time.
A newly discovered strain of virulent airborne fungi has caused several deaths in Oregon and is expected to spread to California and other areas. The fungal disease, Cryptococcus gattii, typically affects transplant recipients and HIV-infected patients, but the new strain appears to be a threat to otherwise healthy individuals.
Researchers found that domestic guinea pigs excelled in a water maze test due to their improved ability to decipher guidance symbols, while wild cavies were stronger swimmers. The study suggests an adaptation in domesticated animals for efficient problem-solving in human-made environments.
New research reveals the mechanical properties of footpads vary predictably across animal sizes, with bigger critters requiring stiffer shoes. The study found that larger animals have softer pads on rear feet, which may help them recover energy from each step and enhance propulsion.
Researchers have solved the puzzle of how the Falkland Islands wolf, an extinct species, got to the islands. DNA analysis reveals that the closest relative is a South American dog species called the maned wolf and the bush dog.
A state-of-the-art surveillance system will be developed to monitor emerging and re-emerging infections in wildlife, assessing risks to domestic animals and humans. The project aims to predict and manage disease threats from wildlife, using cutting-edge molecular technologies.
In Brazilian folk religion Candomblé, animal sacrifice plays a crucial role in the believers' requests and desires, believed to 'feed' supernatural deities known as orishas. The practice is fundamental to many religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
A Stanford study finds that dogs that bred with wolves thousands of years ago passed on a genetic mutation for dark coat color to their wild ancestors. This mutation is now found in nearly exclusive in North America's black wolf population, which has a selective advantage over lighter-colored wolves in forested areas.
The Nipah virus is a deadly brain and lung disease that spreads through contact with infected animals or contaminated food, particularly date palm sap and fruit bitten by bats. Researchers are working to identify transmission pathways and prevent further outbreaks.