Hope for bats suffering from WNS
Bats in North America have been at risk in recent years from white-nose syndrome, the result of a fungi that was transported from Europe. The European bats have developed an immunity to it, however, in North America, the fungus forces bats out of hibernation and out into the wild when there is no food, water or shelter, quickly decimating their fat stores and ultimately leading to their deaths. But a study out of Vermont is showing hope: up to 96 per cent of bats in a cave survived last winter. It is possible that, under extreme duress, bats are quickly adapting to the fungus – and that may save their species.
Go hunting, lose the modelling contract
L’Oreal, the hair and makeup giant, has severed ties with a 17-year-old World Cup fan after she posted photos of herself hunting in Africa. Outrage on social media when Axelle Despiegelaere posted the image quickly overshadowed the fairy tale modelling contract and the company, who has stopped all animal testing and funded new development of non-animal testing options, withdrew their support.
Even hunters are against Keystone XL
The National Wildlife Federation, a group that supports sport hunting, has posted a blog against the development of the Keystone XL pipeline. Citing four different species that will be impacted, NWF passionately stated they hope President Obama will axe the pipeline project.
Read before you post
A simple joke went a little too far recently. Posting a production photo of director Steven Spielberg alongside one of the animatronic Triceratops developed for the film Jurassic Park, Jay Branscomb broke the internet. Tens of thousands of shares and comments were posted on Facebook, demanding an end to trophy hunting, calling out Steven Spielberg as a monster and seeking justice. The lesson? Read before you post.
Blog Roll:
Defender Radio Episode 138: The Wolf Effect
July 6 – Men brave flooded field to save fox in Saskatchewan
July 8 – Caiman in Toronto park shows need for greater humane education
July 10 – Mainstream magazine takes on anti-trapping fight
