Researchers found Asian small-clawed otters to be generally more active and visible when people were present, suggesting a possible positive effect of visitors on their welfare. However, the study's findings highlight the need for further research to better understand the complex interactions between zoo animals and humans.
Researchers found that pregnant Pacific pocket mice trained to fear snakes produce more vigilant offspring, which survive better in the wild. This method of antipredator training may improve conservation breeding and reintroduction programs.
Research from Goethe University Frankfurt reveals that many zoo mammal populations are becoming demographically fragile due to declining birth rates and increasing numbers of older individuals. This trend poses a threat to species conservation goals, as stable and resilient populations are crucial for addressing biodiversity loss.
A new study published in Nature found that contraception and castration increase life expectancy in both males and females. In males, castration extends lifespan, while in females, various forms of sterilization are associated with increased life expectancy due to reduced energetic costs of pregnancy and lactation.
New research reveals American giraffe collections have been hybridized across species, reducing their conservation value. The study recommends phasing out hybridized animals from captive breeding programs and screening existing animals for better genetic matches.
A global study has discovered that birds' fear of novelty is strongly linked to their dietary specialization and migratory behavior. The research found that species with narrower diets and those that migrate may exhibit higher levels of neophobia, or fear of new things.
A study by PLOS reveals significant differences in gut microbiomes between captive and wild bears and pandas, particularly among giant pandas which have less diverse microbiomes than their wild counterparts.
A new vaccine against elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) has been shown to be safe and trigger a strong immune response, with the potential to prevent deadly EEHV disease in young Asian elephants. The vaccine was tested in adult elephants at Chester Zoo and successfully activated key parts of the immune system.
A genetic test developed by Dr Lauren Lansdowne can reliably determine the species of individual gibbons, helping to preserve vulnerable populations. The test uses DNA sequencing and has been validated using large-scale samples from over 200 gibbons in European zoos.
A large-scale study found that zoos are often breeding endangered animals in skewed sex ratios, which can limit genetic diversity and increase the risk of extinction. The research highlights the need for zoos to collaborate and share data on their animal populations to manage conservation efforts effectively.
A study by Kyoto University researchers found that captive otters in Japan are coming from Thailand, highlighting the country's role in illegal trade. The discovery sheds light on the risks posed by otter demand and aims to protect vulnerable species.
A recent study by researchers from Colorado State University and Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance found that poor grief support in some US zoos leaves staff feeling limited empathy from leadership, burned out, and unable to openly express their grief. The research emphasizes the importance of developing comprehensive grief-affirming po...
SourceCABI·JournalHuman-Animal Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025
Researchers argue that zoos should adopt a rational approach to population management, balancing education and conservation goals with the reality of animal mortality. Planned culling can help maintain self-sustaining populations and reduce carbon footprint by utilizing in-house meat supplies.
Researchers observed an Asian elephant named Mary systematically using a hose to shower her body, coordinating the water with her limbs. Another elephant, Anchali, displayed surprising tool-use behavior, including kinking and clamping the hose, suggesting possible sabotage.
A new study suggests that quieter zoo experiences can enhance visitors' understanding of animals and their habitats. By promoting silence, zoos can offer a more enriching experience for humans and non-human residents alike, while also restoring their original purpose as quiet spaces for contemplation.
Researchers studied a flock of Chilean flamingos locked indoors due to avian influenza, finding they became inactive upon release, but more alert while indoors. The study suggests providing varied activities can help alleviate bird stress during lockdowns.
A Penn State-led study found that female giraffes have proportionally longer necks than males, suggesting high nutritional needs drove the evolution of this trait. Giraffes adapt to reach leaves in trees by using their long necks, allowing females to access food with increasing demands as they mature.
The Komodo Dragon's teeth develop and replace rapidly, with up to five replacement teeth per position in its jaws. This allows it to quickly respond to prey capture or injury, making it an ideal model for studying theropod dinosaur life history and feeding strategies.
Researchers found that Eurasian jays settle for less preferred food options when rivals are present, while New Caledonian crows consistently choose the better, delayed reward. The study suggests that species' social tolerance and competition levels influence self-control in animals.
Researchers discovered bottlenose dolphins' ability to detect weak electric fields, which helps them search for fish hidden in sediment. This newfound sense also enables dolphins to navigate the globe using magnetic maps by sensing the planet's magnetic field at varying speeds.
A study by Annika Avedik and Marcus Clauss found that hippos' prominent tusks and wide gaping mouths restrict grinding jaw movements, making chewing inefficient. This limitation may have restricted common hippos to a semi-aquatic lifestyle.
A study found that captive giant pandas living in zoos outside their natural latitude exhibit reduced activity, potentially impacting their wellbeing. The researchers monitored the behavior of 11 pandas at six zoos, finding that daylight and temperature cues played a crucial role in regulating their circadian clocks.
Researchers have found evidence of genetic diversity in the prion protein gene of endangered Eld's deer, which could provide resistance to chronic wasting disease. The study suggests reducing the frequency of a variant associated with the disease and implementing strict management practices to prevent exposure.
A study of over 15,000 individual animals found that ungulates' diets and mating strategies are linked to stress risk. Animals without constant access to food are prone to behavioral problems. The research highlights the importance of providing suitable conditions, including food and social organization, for improved welfare.
The first global dataset of SARS-CoV-2 infections in animals has been published, providing a comprehensive overview of the virus's impact on animal populations worldwide. The dataset shows an increasing number of reported cases globally, with high diversity of variants detected in various species.
A new study investigates how birds experience neophobia, which could play a vital role in helping to save Critically Endangered species. The research gathered data on the behavior of captive Bali myna birds, revealing that juvenile birds may be more suitable for reintroduction than adults.
Researchers found that an elephant's folded skin plays a crucial role in its flexible and strong trunk, enabling it to grasp fragile vegetation and rip apart tree trunks. The study suggests that wrapping soft robotics with a skin-like structure could give machines protection and strength while maintaining flexibility.
A new study in Science found that many species of turtles and tortoises have slowed or switched off senescence, challenging evolutionary theories. Out of 52 species, 75% show extremely slow senescence, and 80% have slower senescence than modern humans.
Researchers assessed metabolites in African savanna elephants for the first time, finding little variation among six healthy adults on the same diet. The study establishes a technique to accurately capture metabolites and provides insights into metabolism and health relationships in these endangered animals.
A study led by Washington University in St. Louis found that nonlethal parasitic infections reduce herbivory rates and trigger trophic cascades impacting plant communities. The research used a mathematical model and global meta-analysis to highlight the ecological consequences of common parasitic infections in wild animals.
A study by Georgetown University researchers found that humans have transmitted diseases to wild animals nearly 100 times, with most cases occurring in captive settings like zoos. The study highlights the need for long-term monitoring and better understanding of wildlife disease to mitigate risks for human health and conservation.
A study found that Asian elephant males experience increased stress when alone or in male-dominated groups, while females show lower stress when accompanied by babies. The researchers also discovered that social bonds play a crucial role in regulating stress hormone levels in these animals.
New research reveals that zoos and aquariums can prioritize evidence-based environmental enrichment to benefit a wider range of species. The study highlights the need for greater diversity in enrichment types and species researched, as well as more attention to social enrichment.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that younger people are more interested in owning exotic pets, such as pythons, than older generations. The research suggests a growing trend towards unusual pet ownership among younger populations.
A high protein diet may harm polar bears, with captive bears showing signs of kidney disease and shorter lifespans. Researchers propose adopting a diet with a fat-protein ratio similar to that found in the wild to improve bear health and longevity.
The £10m Leverhulme Centre for the Holobiont aims to map associations between microbes and higher organisms to understand how they support each other. This knowledge can help manipulate the relationship to save species from extinction, grow crops more efficiently and restore habitats.
Researchers analyzed the largest cross-species database to assess species-specific cancer mortality rates and found conclusive proof that cancer risk is largely independent of body mass and life expectancy. The study highlights potent mechanisms of cancer resistance in larger species, contradicting intuitive expectations.
A recent study by Colorado State University researchers found that COVID-19 can evolve and spread rapidly among animal species after infection from humans. The team analyzed mutation types occurring in cats, dogs, ferrets, and hamsters, discovering a broad range of viral variants that emerged and became prevalent.
A new study has shed light on the gut microbiome of gorillas, revealing significant diversity among individuals and institutions. The research found that even healthy gorillas can have unique microbial profiles, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual context for health assessment.
Researchers found two prion gene variants in Père David's deer that may reduce susceptibility to CWD. The genetic variants were surprising given the population's small founder size and conserved prion protein gene. Studies are needed to confirm whether these variants provide protection against CWD.
Research using ring-tailed lemurs shows that fecal microbiota transplants can stabilize and restore a healthy gut microbiome after antibiotic use. The study confirms the effectiveness of this ancient treatment for reducing the negative effects of antibiotics on the gut, which can cause severe diarrhea and abdominal pain.
A new study used machine learning to predict the zoonotic capacity of 5,400 mammal species, identifying those at high risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2. The model, which combined data on biological traits with ACE2 receptor information, predicted 72% accuracy and identified numerous additional species with potential to transmit the virus.
A new study shows that gorillas can distinguish between human voices, reacting with distress when hearing unfamiliar or negative voices. The apes' ability to gauge threats by familiarity of human voices has implications for their wild cousins.
A study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that intelligent bird species such as parrots and great apes are at risk of poor welfare in captivity. The researchers recommend providing naturalistic diets, enrichment items, and stimulating environments to improve care and reduce psychological problems.
Global health practitioners urge integrating surveillance of zoonotic diseases into health security intelligence systems to effectively handle future pandemics. Companion, zoo, and shelter animals pose significant risks due to limited monitoring and stress levels, leading to potential transmission of animal infections to humans.
SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021
Researchers at the University of Bern created an in vitro cell culture model biobank from 12 different animal species to assess their susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found that rhesus macaques and cats may be particularly vulnerable, highlighting the need for close surveillance and early detection programs.
Researchers have developed a new method to rapidly monitor snow leopard stress levels in the wild using widely available equipment. The method extracts hormones from faecal samples and analyzes them on-site, allowing for quick and easy assessment of stress status.
A new study suggests accredited zoos have acquired the rare and legally protected earless monitor lizard without export permits, raising concerns about their involvement in wildlife trade. The acquisition of these protected lizards by zoos is contrary to international regulations and national laws.
Researchers found that elephants can store up to nine liters of water by dilating their nostrils, allowing them to suck up three liters per second. This unique ability has inspired the development of more efficient robots using air motion, and may also help conservation efforts for endangered elephant species.
A team of scientists successfully artificially inseminated 97 baby sharks, including some with no father at all, using a new technique that could help aquariums expand their shark breeding programs. The study found that freshly collected semen was effective in fertilizing eggs in 27.6% of cases.
A new study found that zoo YouTube videos focus disproportionately on mammals, with only 3% of content dedicated to conservation. However, the study also notes an increase in conservation-focused videos in recent years, highlighting the potential for social media to support global conservation education.
A survey of 656 students from six countries found that over a third were unaware of zoonotic risks and One Health concept. Education on these topics is crucial to prevent pandemics.
The discovery reveals a significant finding about the lives of ancient humans and their animals. The site contains 26 fragments of dog bones alongside human remains, dated to circa 4200-4000 BCE, indicating a long-term bond between species. The research challenges current understanding of Neolithic periods in the Middle East.
Duke Lemur Center successfully replicates wild hibernation conditions, revealing insights into metabolic disorders and aging. The study's findings have significant implications for human health, particularly in the development of new treatments for heart attacks and strokes.
A new study reveals that humans use 30% to 50% less water per day than chimpanzees and gorillas. This finding suggests an ancient shift in the human body's ability to conserve water, enabling early humans to venture farther from streams in search of food.
Specially trained detection dogs can be used to find endangered species, including otters in Germany and crested newts. They have been proven effective in over 90% of cases, often detecting species faster than other methods.
Researchers from Aalto University designed a video player that saki monkeys can activate on demand, promoting animal welfare and reducing stress. The study found that the animals spent more time watching certain types of videos, such as underwater scenes and worms, and exhibited less scratching behavior when presented with video content.
A research team from Leibniz-IZW found that water can be a vector for spreading mammalian viruses, with equine herpesviruses (EHV) remaining stable and infectious in water. The study suggests that viral stability in restricted freshwater sources enables their spread among animals, particularly during times of stress and congregation.
Research reveals captive Asian elephants carry less body fat than average humans, with females averaging 2-25% body fat and males carrying slightly less. The study suggests that activity levels may be key to maintaining elephant health, contradicting traditional notions of obesity.
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that certain animal species are susceptible to COVID-19 due to distinct structural features of the ACE2 receptor protein. The researchers used 3D modeling to simulate protein interactions and identified key features that enable viral entry into human cells.