Universal RNA barcoding system for tracking gene transfer in bacteria
In the microscopic world of bacteria, gene transfer is a powerful mechanism that can alter cellular function, drive antibiotic resistance and even shape entire ecosystems. Now an interdisciplinary group of researchers has developed an innovative RNA 'barcoding' method to track these geneti Read more
Death by feral cat: DNA shows cats to be culprits in killing of native animals
Feral cats have long been suspects in killing native species reintroduced into Australian conservation areas. DNA testing of the carcasses puts felines firmly in the frame. Read more
Pioneering work generates feline embryonic stem cells in boon for cats
Researchers have succeeded in generating high-quality feline embryonic stem cells using sperm and eggs from testes and ovaries discarded during sterilization surgery. Read more
Near-complete skull discovery reveals 'top apex', leopard-sized 'fearsome' carnivore
A rare discovery of a nearly complete skull in the Egyptian desert has led scientists to the 'dream' revelation of a new 30-million-year-old species of the ancient apex predatory carnivore, Hyaenodonta. Read more
Tigers in the neighborhood: How India makes room for both tigers and people
In India, tigers haven't just survived they're making a comeback. Despite a growing population and increasing pressure on their habitats, the number of wild tigers is rising. The reason? According to a new study, it's a combination of ecological restoration, economic initiatives, and Read more
Ecologist's studies on the effects of prey depletion on populations of large African carnivores
Studies determine how prey density affects African wild dogs and lions. Read more
Toxoplasma gondii parasite uses unconventional method to make proteins for evasion of drug treatment
A study sheds new light on how Toxoplasma gondii parasites make the proteins they need to enter a dormant stage that allows them to escape drug treatment. Read more
Uganda: Major survey brings new light to carnivore conservation
Lion numbers in the country are at a critical low while hyenas are faring well across four major protected areas in Uganda, according to new survey findings. Read more
Early North Americans made needles from fur-bearers
Paleoindians at Wyoming's LaPrele mammoth site made needles from the bones of fur-bearers, likely to creat garments from the animals' furs to keep warm in a cool climate. Read more
Great apes visually track subject-object relationships like humans do, study finds
Great apes track events with their eyes in the same way that humans do, according to a new study. Read more
Mountain lions coexist with outdoor recreationists by taking the night shift
Mountain lions in greater Los Angeles are proactively shifting their activity to avoid interacting with cyclists, hikers, joggers and other recreationists, finds a new study. Read more
Power of aesthetic species on social media boosts wildlife conservation efforts, say experts
Facebook and Instagram can boost wildlife conservation efforts through public awareness and engagement, according to a new study. Read more
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 their isolated environment on Cat Ba Island in Vietnam. One of these remarkable adaptations is the ability Read more
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. Read more
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. Read more
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. Read more
Kidney disease in cats: High-quality feline iPSCs generated without genetic footprint
High-quality feline induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have now been generated. The feline iPSCs are also footprint- and feeder-free. Further research using these stem cells is expected to elucidate the pathogenesis of cats' chronic kidney disease and develop therapeutic agents. Read more
