Global authority on nature conservation and sustainable use of resources
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.
Shark Bukangi, a three-meter female dusky shark, has been guided toward open water after weeks in Busan’s canal. Authorities report health concerns due to cooler waters; a final attempt to ensure safe release is underway as the animal remains near the canal mouth. The incident has drawn millions of visitors and raised questions about warming seas.
The IUCN has classified 96% of the world’s shallow-water coral reef systems as critically endangered and warned of possible ecosystem collapse by 2075 if current warming continues. The assessment, presented at COP17, blames heat stress from climate change and adds that reefs still show pockets of resilience that stronger emissions cuts and local conservation can protect.
The theft of a narrow-headed ant nest from Chudleigh Knighton Heath reserve in Devon has been reported. The nest holds thousands of ants and long-lived queens. Conservationists say the loss threatens the last England population and could set back years of work. Police are investigating and urge public information.
Pandas Ping Ping and Fu Shuang have arrived in September from Chengdu under a 10-year loan, are settling into Zoo Atlanta, and are part of Beijing's panda diplomacy as ties with the U.S. remain in focus. The zoo has renovated Panda Grove, ensured bamboo supply, and community members express joy as the bears reinvigorate a historic cultural symbol.