Explore

Drone Video Captures Great White Shark Near Whale Calf, Highlighting Marine Wildlife Observation

Drone Video Captures Great White Shark Near Whale Calf, Highlighting Marine Wildlife Observation

A drone video captured by wildlife photographer David Currie shows a large great white shark near a baby whale calf and its mother in the open ocean. The footage, shared on Instagram, provides an overhead view of the shark's proximity to the whales, emphasizing the predator's size and movement. While the video does not depict an attack, it underscores the importance of observing marine wildlife from a distance to understand their behavior and ensure safety for both animals and humans. The encounter highlights the need for awareness and respect in shared coastal waters, emphasizing adherence to local wildlife advisories and drone regulations.

Photographer Joel Sartore Reaches Milestone with 18,000th Species in Photo Ark

Photographer Joel Sartore Reaches Milestone with 18,000th Species in Photo Ark

Joel Sartore, a National Geographic photographer, has reached a significant milestone in his Photo Ark project by photographing his 18,000th species, the critically endangered red handfish. The Photo Ark, initiated in 2006, aims to document the diversity of animal life on Earth, highlighting species that are often overlooked. Sartore's work involves capturing images of animals in controlled environments such as zoos and aquariums, ensuring the animals are accustomed to human presence. His portraits, typically set against black or white backdrops, focus on the animals' unique features, aiming to raise awareness about biodiversity loss. The project has grown to include a wide range of species, from mammals and birds to insects and marine life, with the goal of showcasing the beauty and vulnerability of these creatures.

Biologists Rescue Rare Uncompahgre Cutthroat Trout from Colorado Wildfire

Biologists Rescue Rare Uncompahgre Cutthroat Trout from Colorado Wildfire

In response to the Gold Mountain Fire threatening the Uncompahgre National Forest in Colorado, biologists from Colorado Parks and Wildlife undertook a mission to save the last known population of the Uncompahgre cutthroat trout. The fire, which began on June 27, 2026, spread rapidly, endangering the habitat of this rare fish species. Eric Gardunio, an aquatic biologist, led a team to Nate Creek, where they successfully rescued 103 trout using electrofishing techniques. The fish were then transported to a quarantined hatchery, ensuring their survival amidst the ongoing wildfire. This effort was crucial as the Uncompahgre cutthroat trout is a unique genetic variant, only found in this specific region.

Scientists Use DNA Sampling to Reveal Hidden Freshwater Biodiversity

Scientists Use DNA Sampling to Reveal Hidden Freshwater Biodiversity

Scientists are employing advanced techniques like electrofishing and environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling to uncover the biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems, particularly in Ontario's rivers. A study led by University of Guelph biologist Mehrdad Hajibabaei identified hundreds of aquatic invertebrates that traditional methods had missed. This research highlights the presence of species such as mottled sculpins and blacknose dace, which are often overlooked. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding and protecting these ecosystems, as many species face threats from pollution, invasive species, and habitat loss.

Alaskan brown bear appears to wave at passing flock of birds

Alaskan brown bear appears to wave at passing flock of birds

“Waving at birds or getting a back scratch?"

Birdwatchers Note Decline in Songbird Species in Penn Forest Township

Birdwatchers Note Decline in Songbird Species in Penn Forest Township

Birdwatchers Note Decline in Songbird Species in Penn Forest Township

Big Bear Bald Eagle Jackie Faces Health Challenges Amid Public Support

Big Bear Bald Eagle Jackie Faces Health Challenges Amid Public Support

Big Bear Bald Eagle Jackie Faces Health Challenges Amid Public Support

IFRC Enhances Cross-Border Ebola Preparedness in East Africa

IFRC Enhances Cross-Border Ebola Preparedness in East Africa

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), along with other international organizations, is actively involved in enhancing cross-border Ebola virus disease preparedness in East Africa, particularly between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This initiative is crucial due to the high levels of population movement and porous borders in the region, which facilitate the spread of infectious diseases. The preparedness efforts include mobility mapping, point-of-entry surveillance, contact-tracing systems, and strengthening of laboratories. These measures aim to improve early detection and containment of potential outbreaks. Despite significant investments, challenges remain in the effectiveness and sustainability of these preparedness systems.

Leonardo DiCaprio and Partners Launch $200M Initiative to Save Endangered Species

Leonardo DiCaprio and Partners Launch $200M Initiative to Save Endangered Species

Leonardo DiCaprio, in collaboration with the Bezos Earth Fund and Re:wild, has announced a $200 million initiative aimed at the recovery of 100 species facing imminent extinction. This effort, known as the Phoenix Species Project, seeks to provide unprecedented support to a diverse range of species, including mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish, plants, and invertebrates across 30 countries. The project is a continuation of the Protecting Our Planet Challenge, which was launched in 2021 to protect significant land, freshwater, and marine areas. The funding, split equally between the Bezos Earth Fund and Re:wild, is intended to offer sustained investment beyond short-term grants, ensuring the long-term recovery of these species.

Lions' Encounter with Hippo in Botswana Ends in Unexpected Retreat

Lions' Encounter with Hippo in Botswana Ends in Unexpected Retreat

In Botswana, a pride of young lions encountered a hippo at a waterhole, leading to an unexpected outcome. The lions attempted to hunt the hippo, but the large mammal turned to face them, causing the lions to retreat. This encounter was captured on video by Julian Carter-Manning, founder of Yellow Zebra, a safari company. The footage shows the lions, primarily young adults, honing their hunting skills but ultimately backing away from the formidable hippo. The event took place in a private reserve, highlighting the natural interactions within pristine ecosystems.

Big Bear Eagle Jackie Undergoes Medical Tests Amid Health Concerns

Big Bear Eagle Jackie Undergoes Medical Tests Amid Health Concerns

Jackie, a well-known bald eagle from Big Bear, is undergoing extensive medical testing at the Ojai Raptor Center due to a mysterious illness. The eagle, famous for being part of a live nest camera project, has been suffering from severe anemia. Recent medical procedures included a CT scan and bone marrow biopsy, and Jackie is currently receiving supplemental oxygen. The Ojai Raptor Center is working to determine the cause of her condition, with additional lab work pending. The public has been asked to refrain from demanding frequent updates to allow the care team to focus on her treatment.

Wyoming's Historical Law on Rabbit Photography and Its Conservation Implications

Wyoming's Historical Law on Rabbit Photography and Its Conservation Implications

A historical Wyoming law, enacted in 1921, once required photographers to obtain a permit to photograph game animals, including rabbits, between January and April. This law was part of early conservation efforts aimed at protecting wildlife during sensitive winter months when animals were more vulnerable. The permit process was stringent, requiring a fee and recommendations from state electors. Despite its existence, the law was never used to prosecute anyone and was eventually revised in 1969 to regulate only commercial photography. The law's origins lie in the state's efforts to fund conservation through hunting and photography fees, reflecting a unique approach to wildlife management.