Articles tagged with Zoo Animals
A recent study found that viruses normally infecting Asian elephants, not those from African elephants, cause severe cases of a mysterious illness. The research also identifies 12 new herpesviruses and sheds light on the evolution of these viruses.
Researchers discovered a specialized ligament structure in giraffes that prevents leg collapse under immense weight. The suspensory ligament, found in long-necked animals, enables giraffes to stand upright without active muscle engagement, reducing fatigue.
A team of researchers combined 3D technologies with advanced range estimator tools to provide detailed data on wildlife species' range and movements. This project utilized the San Diego Supercomputer Center's resources to create highly detailed data sets and visualizations, enabling faster calculations and improved accuracy.
A Georgia Institute of Technology study discovered that larger animals urinate in the same time as smaller ones, due to the role of gravity in fluid flow. The research has potential applications in designing more efficient water systems and products, such as better-engineered tanks and fire hoses.
A recent study using nearly 600 animals across three dozen species found that those with bigger brains and more diverse diets outperformed others in self-control tests. The researchers suggest that brain wiring and dietary diversity may be key factors in explaining differences in animal intelligence.
Researchers found that camels release less methane in absolute terms than cows and sheep of comparable body size. However, when adjusted for feed conversion, methane production is similar between the two groups. This suggests that camels' lower metabolism could explain their ability to thrive in food-scarce environments.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that indoor rabbits can develop a vitamin D deficiency due to lack of UVB radiation exposure. This deficiency can lead to various health problems, including dental issues and weakened immune systems.
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that infants can use known verbs to learn new nouns by paying attention to how words are used in sentences. This suggests that word learning occurs naturally and can be facilitated by everyday conversations.
Zoos spend significant resources on endangered species, but their efforts are often ineffective due to a lack of coordination and international legislation. Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark found that certain groups of threatened species are overrepresented in zoos, while others are underrepresented.
The Catalina Island Conservancy's contraception program has successfully managed the island's bison population, drastically reducing the calving rate from over two-thirds to 10.4%. The program uses porcine zona pellucida (PZP) and has no apparent effect on pregnant females or their offspring.
A Stanford-led study reveals that mammals can manipulate sex ratios of their offspring to produce extra grandchildren. Females and grandmothers strategically choose sons over daughters to increase reproductive success.
A study with zoo baboons found that they can accurately discriminate between different quantities, relying on a cognitive approach known as the analog system. This ability is shared by humans and children who have not yet learned to count, suggesting a fundamental talent for making approximate quantity judgments.
Three new species of slow loris were identified, revealing distinct differences in body size, fur thickness, habitats, and facial markings. This reclassification may increase legal protections for the endangered or threatened animals, as well as highlight the cruelty of keeping them as pets.
The study investigates how orangutans use their vision to search for food and navigate their surroundings, shedding light on their cognitive abilities and behavior. The research also aims to develop enrichment programs for captive animals, helping to reduce boredom and promote natural behaviors.
Researchers at PLOS ONE found that caged mink consume fewer food treats when exposed to stimulating environments, such as water for wading. The study also showed that these animals sleep more soundly, contradicting the common notion of boredom leading to increased wakefulness.
A study analyzing DNA from museum koala skins found that a retrovirus has infected koalas for at least 120 years, primarily in northern Australia. The virus, known as KoRV, is linked to increased susceptibility to diseases such as Chlamydia and leukemia.
Researchers at Newcastle University used biomechanical motion capture to analyze pigs' gait and identify those at risk of becoming lame. The study aims to develop a farmer-friendly system to predict leg problems and reduce lameness, improving health and welfare on UK farms.
Researchers found cheetahs' longer strides and faster stride frequencies allow them to reach high speeds, while greyhounds maintain a constant stride rate. The study suggests wild cheetahs may be able to outstrip their captive cousins due to biomechanical differences.
Researchers found that wild orangutans in north Borneo exhibit an immediate stress response to eco-tourist interactions, but levels return to baseline after the encounter. The study suggests that low levels of predictable disturbance may have a minimal impact on these endangered species.
Researchers find that mammals with relatively large brains tend to have a somewhat bigger digestive tract. The storage of fat plays a key role in brain size evolution, with more fat an animal species can store leading to a smaller brain.
A team of researchers used ancient DNA to analyze the color variations seen in Paleolithic cave paintings, finding that all phenotypes existed in pre-domestic horse populations. This study lends weight to the argument that artists were reflecting their natural environment.
A new study led by a University of Florida researcher verifies that the pet trade is the No. 1 cause of invasive amphibian and reptile introductions in Florida. The study documents 137 non-native species, with about 25% traced to one animal importer.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have successfully produced stem cells from two endangered species, a drill and the northern white rhinoceros. These cells could enable lifesaving medical therapies or offer the potential to preserve or expand genetic diversity by offering new reproduction possibilities.
A study of 90 animal thigh bones reveals how trabeculae lattice structure supports loads in different species, leading to potential development of new, lightweight materials. The research found that trabecular struts vary in geometry depending on animal size, and could be used to create stronger, lighter bodywork for vehicles.
A study found that 75% of Spanish zoos have insecure animal housing, putting invasive species and the environment at risk. Birds are most likely to escape from these areas, emphasizing the need for improved zoo security measures.
A rare saola was photographed for the first time in over a decade in Laos, shedding light on its critically endangered status. The species, found only in dense forests along the Lao/Vietnamese border, is one of the most threatened large mammals globally.
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.
Researchers measured dolphin and rodeo bull head movements to study balance systems. Contrary to a leading theory, the findings show that dolphins have similar head motions as the cattle, defying expectations of smaller organs due to overwhelming senses.
A new chameleon species has been discovered in Tanzania's Magombera Forest, with the specimen named Kinyongia magomberae. The discovery highlights the importance of protecting this area, which is home to endangered red colobus monkeys and under threat from habitat loss.
The $40-million-per-year frog leg trade may be a significant contributor to the spread of amphibian chytrid, a fungus causing respiratory and neurological damage. The Smithsonian team's research highlights the need for improved monitoring and regulation of the trade to mitigate disease risks.
The Genome 10K Project aims to sequence the genomes of 10,000 vertebrate species to understand evolutionary changes and inform conservation efforts. The project will analyze genomic data to reveal evolutionary changes and annotate experimental findings related to specific sites of change.
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.
Dean Franklin, an engineer, and two physicians, Robert Rushmer and Robert Van Citters, pioneered noninvasive imaging and treatment of the heart. They developed devices that measured blood flow, heartbeat dimensions, and blood pressure without cutting open the body.
A surgically implanted capsule-sized pump has been developed to provide continuous pain relief for big cats, reducing the need for daily injections. The pump was successfully used on two leopards at a Tennessee sanctuary, demonstrating its effectiveness in delivering pain medication quickly and efficiently.
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has successfully reintroduced critically endangered Chinese alligators into the wild, with the population now multiplying on their own. The reintroduction effort, which started in 1999, included captive-bred animals from North American zoos and partner agencies in China.
Researchers discovered that red pandas prefer artificial sweeteners like aspartame, which may reflect unique structural variations in their sweet taste receptor. This finding could lead to insights into individual differences in human taste function and nutritional health.
Research reveals that elephant legs are much bendier than Shakespeare's depiction, with joints flexing significantly during locomotion. Studies also show that the animals' mobility range is comparable to that of trotting horses.
Researchers developed a biomimetic jumping robot inspired by grasshoppers, capable of jumping 1.4 meters and navigating rough terrain with ease. The tiny robot can be fitted with sensors and solar cells to aid in search and rescue operations or explore remote areas on Earth or other planets.
A study by the University of Exeter found that only 30% of captive-born carnivores survive in the wild, with most deaths caused by humans. The research highlights the need for conservation projects to better prepare animals for living in their natural environment.
A recent study found that nearly all petting zoos have hand hygiene facilities, but compliance is often low. Food and drinks are commonly allowed in petting zoos, posing a risk to infants and children. Implementing simple measures such as signage and running water can increase hand hygiene compliance.
Researchers at Emory University's Yerkes National Primate Research Center found that elephants can recognize themselves in a mirror, exhibiting complex behaviors like self-awareness and social complexity. This discovery suggests convergent evolution with humans and highlights the species' high level of intelligence and empathy.
Researchers at Ohio University found that salamanders and the ancient lizard-like animal tuatara can both walk and run on land, using energy-saving mechanisms similar to those in fast-running animals. This discovery suggests that these early vertebrates may have had a key role in shaping the evolution of locomotion in later species.
Despite losing some predators, anti-predator behavior can persist due to co-adapted suites with multiple predators. Studies of wallabies show that retention of anti-predator behavior is possible even after isolation from all predators.
A study at Bristol Zoo Garden and Paignton Zoo Environmental Park found that zoos can inspire children to engage with animals through non-traditional forms of education. However, the research also revealed challenges in conveying scientific and environmental messages, highlighting the need for zoos to adapt their approaches.
Wildlife species are declining at an alarming rate due to habitat loss, poaching, and pollution. Scientists from the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) have developed a new method using satellite technology to monitor endangered populations in hard-to-reach locations.
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is using high-tech satellite maps to count and track endangered species, including elephants and giraffes. The project aims to help conserve wildlife populations living in hard-to-reach locations, such as the Serengeti and South America.
Researchers at UCSD aim to improve care of laboratory animals with automated monitoring technology. The Smart Vivarium project combines cameras, sensors, and AI to enable 24/7 monitoring and analysis of animal behavior.
A landmark study on lemur nutrition by Dr. Jennifer Campbell reveals that lemurs have different dietary requirements, with some eating leaves, fruits, insects, seeds, and nuts. Her research has led to the development of a proper diet for the animals, improving their health and reproductive success.
A koala scoliosis study reveals that the condition takes different forms in marsupials compared to humans. The research, conducted by Emily Milbourne, aims to describe the normal anatomy of koalas and investigate the causes of scoliotic animals.