Why langurs drink salt water
A new study shows the remarkable adaptability of the critically endangered Cat Ba langurs. Despite low genetic diversity, the langurs have retained key genetic traits that help them survive in…
Geometric mechanics shape the dog’s nose
The noses of many mammals, such as dogs, ferrets and cows, feature grooves forming a multitude of polygons. A team has analyzed in detail how these patterns form in the…
Rangers lead ground-breaking effort to monitor Uganda’s lion population in critical stronghold
New study highlights the vital role of wildlife rangers in lion conservation and identifies Uganda’s Nile Delta as a key area for protection.
Dogs contaminate ponds with parasite medications
Most dog owners didn’t know that flea and tick treatments are dangerous to aquatic life, suggesting more awareness could ease the problem.
Both cats and dogs often enjoy playing fetch with their owners
Although more common in dogs, 4 in 10 pet cats also choose to play fetch with their owners, researchers report.
Do coyotes have puppy dog eyes? New study reveals wild canines share dog’s famous expression
A new study challenges the hypothesis that ‘puppy dog eyes’ evolved exclusively in dogs as a result of domestication.
‘Who’s a good boy?’ Humans use dog-specific voices for better canine comprehension
Humans slow their own speech when talking to their dogs, and this slower tempo matches their pets’ receptive abilities, allowing the dogs to better understand their commands, according to a…
New tool can assess elderly dogs’ frailty
Researchers have developed a tool that can aid owners and veterinarians in assessing an elderly dog’s frailty. The tool — when coupled with simple assessments of body and muscle condition…
Recording the cats in the hats
Researchers have found a way to scan the brains of cats while they’re awake, using electrodes concealed under specially knitted wool caps.
Bacterial ‘flipping’ allows genes to assume different forms
Imagine being one cartwheel away from changing your appearance. One flip, and your brunette locks are platinum blond. That’s not too far from what happens in some prokaryotes, or single-cell…