Conservation
Giant woolly rat rediscovered in Papua New Guinea mountains
A Czech researcher has captured the first photos and videos of the elusive Subalpine Woolly Rat after it vanished from records for three decades. František Vejmělka's six-month expedition in New Guinea's highlands revealed new details about this massive rodent. The discovery highlights the untapped biodiversity in one of the world's last unexplored regions.
Guilds criticize declaration of 99 priority sites for conservation
Chile's Ministry of Environment aims to protect 99 priority sites covering nearly 4 million hectares to meet the goal of conserving 30% of the national territory. However, guilds such as Sonami, CPC, and SalmonChile have criticized the initiative, arguing it creates uncertainty for existing productive activities. Aarón Cavieres, director of the Biodiversity and Protected Areas Service, defends that it does not affect regularized projects.
South Africa's provincial nature reserves in crisis
South Africa's provincial nature reserves, vital for biodiversity conservation, are deteriorating due to underfunding, poaching, and mismanagement. A recent report highlights systemic failures across provinces, threatening ecological and economic potential. Urgent reforms are needed to meet national and international obligations.
North Atlantic dolphins facing shorter lifespans due to bycatch
Common dolphins in the North Atlantic are dying much younger, with female lifespans dropping seven years since the 1990s, according to a new study. Researchers analyzing stranded dolphins in the Bay of Biscay highlight bycatch from fishing as a key threat, urging better conservation measures. The findings reveal a 2.4% slowdown in population growth, signaling risks to marine ecosystems.
Trump administration targets jobs in environmental agencies
The Trump administration has initiated cuts to federal employees at the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of the Interior, focusing on conservation and research roles. Furloughs at the EPA coincide with the government shutdown, while the Interior plans to eliminate over 2,000 positions. Critics argue these moves undermine environmental protections amid ongoing litigation.
Study challenges narrative of accelerating extinction rates
A new analysis of 500 years of extinction data reveals that species losses peaked about a century ago and have since declined, contradicting assumptions of a rapidly worsening crisis. Researchers from the University of Arizona found that past extinctions were mainly driven by invasive species on islands, while current threats center on habitat destruction on continents. The study emphasizes the need for accurate assessments to inform conservation efforts.
E.O. Wilson shares quote on rainforest destruction
Scientist Edward O. Wilson has provided an inspirational quote highlighting the folly of destroying rainforests for short-term economic benefits. The quote compares such actions to burning a priceless artwork for mere cooking fuel. It appears in Earth911's weekly inspirations series.
Jaguar Population Rises in Mexico
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Jaguar numbers in Mexico have increased by 30% following conservation efforts, as announced on September 15, 2025. This positive development aids biodiversity recovery. Experts attribute the rise to protected habitats and anti-poaching measures.
Deep-sea mining poses new threat to sharks and rays
A new study warns that proposed deep-sea mining could endanger 30 species of sharks, rays, and chimaeras whose habitats overlap with mining zones. Nearly two-thirds of these species are already threatened with extinction from human impacts. Researchers from the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa highlight risks from seafloor disruptions and sediment plumes.