A female baby mountain lion has been found in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Mountain lions in the recreation area are very isolated as the park is bordered by the Pacific Ocean, agricultural fields, and greater Los Angeles. Therefore, scientists believe that the baby mountain lion is likely a product of inbreeding among related lions with limited mating choices. This could lead to genetic defects and abnormalities in the mountain lions. Listen to learn more about the newborn mountain lion and the concerns about mountain lion inbreeding.
Story Length: 2:56
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November 5, 2015
4:53
If you have looked closely at the eyes of different animals, you will notice their pupils come in various shapes: round, vertical or horizontal ovals or crescents. Scientists now think they know the reason behind the shape of some animals’ pupils. There is diversity in shape because it depends on how big the animal is and whether it’s a predator or prey. It also relates to their view of the horizon. Listen to hear more about the new discovery and what it can tell us about animals and evolution.
Read MoreSeptember 24, 2015
5:21
New technology is revolutionizing underwater science. A brand new field is using DNA testing to study and track species diversity in various ecosystems and environments. Biologists can study one liter of seawater and identify the fish that swam through that water. This allows them to study fish and whales without having seen them and without the expense of divers and equipment. But, there are a few issues with some of the data, such as finding the DNA of food that was eaten miles away. Listen to how data from genetic testing can be used to protect marine life, and how it is changing the research process.
Read MoreAugust 11, 2015
5:48
Many people travel to Africa to see large, exotic, wild animals in their natural habitat. Others travel to hunt these animals as sport. Recently in Zimbabwe, an American dentist on a hunting safari killed a beloved, protected lion named Cecil. It sparked outrage around the world even though many other animals are killed in Africa and yet few people pay attention. Temple Grandin, animal science professor and author, provides insight into why people felt more connected to Cecil, including the fact that he had a name.
Read MoreApril 11, 2014
5:16
The illegal animal smuggling trade is right behind drugs and weapons smuggling because there is a large market actively seeking exotic, illegal animals. Smugglers have found many creative ways to sneak animals in, from stuffing them in pant legs to tires.
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