A weekly round-up of the most important animal stories happening around the world.
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Rare “Super Tusker” Elephant Shot to Death in Tanzania Reignites Calls for Trophy Hunting Ban
An American trophy hunter from Texas is alleged to be responsible for the killing, as trophy hunting in the area threatens the survival of the iconic Amboseli elephant population.
Canada Wants to market Seal Meat as a seafood delicacy to Boost Demand for the Controversial Product
The recently appointed Fisheries Minister of Canada is focusing on increasing sales of seal meat, despite widespread international condemnation of the annual hunt, where hundreds of thousands of harp seals are bludgeoned to death each year.
First Plant-Based Oscar Mayer Hotdog Launched by Kraft Heinz Not Company
The 140-year-old company has released a plant-based version of its famous hot dogs, marking the first alternative meat innovation from the joint venture between The Kraft Heinz Company and TheNotCompany.
Customs Officials Find Red Panda, Snakes, and Monkeys in Baggage at Thailand Airport
Six people have been arrested after trying to smuggle a total of 87 live animals in their luggage.
Miami Seaquarium Set to Close As County Officials Issue Eviction Notice
Officials cited a “long and troubling history of violations” at the venue, which has faced years of backlash over its animal welfare standards.
Over 400,000 Songbirds Killed by Organised Crime Groups in Cyprus
A new report has revealed that 435,000 migrating songbirds were illegally trapped, killed and eaten on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus last year.
New York City’s Beloved Owl Flaco Has Died, Prompting Calls for Stronger Bird Protections
The Eurasian eagle owl named Flaco, who escaped New York City's Central Park Zoo last year and became a beacon of hope for many, has died after striking an apartment building.
Rhino Poaching Increases in South Africa After Deadly Year
Latest government figures show nearly 500 rhinos were poached across the country in 2023, despite efforts to protect the animals.
Eleven Lions Saved From Conflict Zone in Sudan During Emergency Rescue
The animals have been living in a war zone for nine months, but are now safe and recovering at their new sanctuary home in South Africa.
Amazing Animals: This Tiny Fish Can Produce Sound as Loud as a Firework
A new study into one of the world’s smallest fish has revealed its unique drumming method that can generate a mighty sound.
UN Calls on South African Government to Protect Children from Trophy Hunting
The guideline suggests that allowing children to take part in trophy hunting is a form of psychological abuse, and could have ramifications for the hunting industry around the world.
Victory! Donkey Skin Trade Banned by African Union
In a landmark decision, a 15-year ban will soon make it illegal to slaughter donkeys for their skin throughout the African continent.
BMW Launches New Cars with Vegan Leather Interior as Standard
The all-electric BMW 5 Series Touring uses innovative, animal-free materials that are as robust as leather and more sustainable.
Animal Testing Lab in Oklahoma Closes, Now Being Transformed into Sanctuary for Rescued Lab Animals
The 30-acre lab closed after decades spent experimenting on dogs and cats. Now, an animal welfare charity has stepped in to make the space into an animal sanctuary for ex-lab animals.
Primate Experiment Centers in US Set to Receive Additional $30 Million in Taxpayer Funds This Year
The controversial animal testing centers will receive the huge sum to expand their operations, despite multiple welfare issues that have led to monkey injuries and deaths.
How to Upgrade Your Lifestyle (And Save Animals) in Three Simple Steps
After all the New Year's resolutions have been long gone and forgotten, there is still space to take steps towards the person you want to be in 2024.
UN Report Reveals One in Five Migratory Species Threatened with Extinction
The first-of-its-kind report finds alarming population declines are being fuelled by human activity, including hunting, overfishing, and habitat loss.
Could This AI-based Testing Alternative Help Get Animals Out of Laboratory Research?
Digital Animal Replacement Technology uses human stem cells, a digital workstation, and artificial intelligence to predict drug safety.
Petition Launched To Help Stop the Biggest Monkey Breeding Facility in the US
The proposed facility in a small town of Georgia could hold up to 30,000 monkeys who will be sold to be used in animal testing, but the plans are facing criticism from locals, environmentalists, and animal welfare campaigners.
US Bill to Phase Out Public Display of Captive Whales Reintroduced
The legislation would phase out orcas and beluga whales from being held in captivity at theme parks.