Global authority on nature conservation and sustainable use of resources
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo has welcomed two new African lion cubs born to Zamaya on July 4, while keepers monitor their health behind the scenes. The birth underscores ongoing conservation work for the species, with public debut planned after vaccines are complete and the cubs join the pride in a larger 13-acre African Adventure habitat.
Cornwall’s Fal estuary hosts biodiverse seagrass meadows and maerl. New council initiative Fal Rivers to Reef aims to cut agricultural runoff, restore habitats, and safeguard native oysters through farm improvements, data-led planning and collaboration with landowners.
Whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, have been spotted near the Hudson Canyon about 100 miles off New York, with NOAA considering a National Marine Sanctuary designation to protect the area. The sightings come as warmer Gulf Stream–driven currents draw tropical species closer to metro waters. A 24-hour pelagic trip captured the moment, while researchers note the species remains endangered and face ongoing threats.
Iceland has moved to modernise its whaling laws with a bill aiming for a permanent ban on commercial whale hunting. Ministers are evaluating options while public opposition and ethical concerns grow. As 80 fin whales have already been caught this season (out of a 150-quota), the move gains political momentum.
Researchers have described a previously unrecognised small wildcat from Bolivia's Yungas cloud forests and given it the scientific name Leopardus tilcayo. Genetic analysis has shown the tilcayo split from related tiger cats about 1.4 million years ago. Scientists have confirmed the species from sanctuary animals, museum specimens and camera-trap records but they still do not know its full range or population size.
A spectacled caiman and a python have been seized from a private property in Hale, Greater Manchester, under the Dangerous Wild Animal Act 1976. The animals have been moved to a zoo for specialist care after a Trafford Council operation with police and the RSPCA.
Botswana has authorised the hunting of 23 elephants and other wildlife to supply meat for Independence Day celebrations, a move critics say risks conservation and public health amid concerns over fair meat distribution and foot-and-mouth disease. Authorities say proceeds support communities and conservation, while residents express unease.
Bukangi the 3-meter dusky shark has been guided toward open water after weeks of confinement in Busan’s canal. Authorities say the shark’s health is stable while nets and barriers remain in place to prevent a rerouting; observers note the event drew millions of visitors and highlighted warming seas as a factor.
A global assessment indicates 96% of shallow-water reef systems may be critically endangered by 2075, with climate change the single most consistent threat. The findings call for rapid emissions cuts, stronger protection, and local conservation to safeguard reefs and the communities that depend on them.