A team of Chinese scientists has transferred a gene crucial in human brain development into the genomes of monkeys in what is probably an ethically contentious endeavor. They assessed whether the changed monkeys performed better in cognitive tests than their control colleagues in subsequent experiments. The findings have been published in the journal National Science … [Read more...] about In a Contentious Study, Scientists Implanted a Human Brain Gene Into Monkeys
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Every Day a Small Flock of Guinea Hens Consumes Thousands of Ticks
If you're looking for a natural way to keep your yard free of ticks, fleas, and mosquitos while also reaping the benefits of fresh eggs and potentially delicious meat, consider raising guinea fowl. While not as well-known as other backyard birds like chickens, turkeys, or ducks, guinea fowl are renowned for their tick-hunting abilities. While research on their tick-control … [Read more...] about Every Day a Small Flock of Guinea Hens Consumes Thousands of Ticks
Diego: The Casanova of Tortoises Who Saved His Species by Fathering Over 900 Offspring
In the world of wildlife conservation, few stories are as remarkable – or as amorous – as that of Diego, the Hood Island giant tortoise from the Galápagos. Dubbed the “sex-crazed tortoise” by admirers, Diego has fathered an astonishing 900 offspring, single-handedly (or should we say, single-shelledly?) rescuing his species from the brink of extinction. Born in the 1910s … [Read more...] about Diego: The Casanova of Tortoises Who Saved His Species by Fathering Over 900 Offspring
While Waiting to see The Veterinarian, a Sleeping Calf Softly Snores on His Human’s Lap
A rescued calf named Mike fell asleep on his owner Dan's lap while waiting to visit the veterinarian, giving out charming gentle snores. Mike was surrendered to the Barn Sanctuary in Chelsea, Michigan by a local farmer who was unable to care for Mike's numerous medical difficulties. Because of his health, a local farmer saved this lucky kid from slaughter. He will now find a … [Read more...] about While Waiting to see The Veterinarian, a Sleeping Calf Softly Snores on His Human’s Lap
A Family of Gregarious African Meerkats Gives a Wildlife Photographer a Warm Welcome
While staying at Jack's Camp in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park in northern Botswana, South African wildlife photographer Nick Kleer was greeted by a friendly meerkat. Kleer just lay down on the ground, surrounded by the gregarious suricates. Kleer's head and torso were even employed as strategic lookout positions. Kleer expressed his happiness by saying that he was … [Read more...] about A Family of Gregarious African Meerkats Gives a Wildlife Photographer a Warm Welcome