https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/plants_animals/mammals/ Mammals in the news, wild mammals, mammal conservation efforts, and domesticated mammals. en-us Sun, 19 Jul 2026 11:18:23 EDT Sun, 19 Jul 2026 11:18:23 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/plants_animals/mammals/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260715083551.htm A major DNA study has rewritten the koala's evolutionary story, revealing that the species suffered a dramatic population collapse about 100,000 years ago, long before humans arrived in Australia. By calculating the koala's mutation rate for the first time and analyzing hundreds of genomes, researchers discovered that every living koala traces back to a small group that survived extreme climate shifts and later repopulated eastern Australia. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:51:10 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260715083551.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260714225525.htm An unusual leopard gecko that naturally develops aggressive tumors may become an important new model for cancer research. Scientists found its tumors share key genetic changes with human cancers, offering a rare opportunity to study the disease as it develops naturally. Wed, 15 Jul 2026 09:47:30 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260714225525.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713000813.htm Chimpanzees showed a remarkable attraction to crystals, choosing them over ordinary stones and studying them with intense curiosity. The results suggest that the same unusual features may have fascinated early humans long before crystals had any practical use. Tue, 14 Jul 2026 22:56:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713000813.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713000811.htm A fossilized Edmontosaurus skull with a Tyrannosaurus tooth still embedded in its face has given scientists rare evidence of a dramatic predator-prey encounter. The discovery suggests the giant carnivore delivered an incredibly powerful face-to-face bite, offering new clues about how Tyrannosaurus hunted. Tue, 14 Jul 2026 02:48:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713000811.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260711010127.htm Scientists discovered that extreme deep-sea pressure squeezes valuable nutrients out of sinking organic particles, providing an unexpected food source for ocean microbes. The finding could rewrite our understanding of both deep-ocean ecosystems and how carbon is stored on Earth. Sun, 12 Jul 2026 08:14:55 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260711010127.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260710003540.htm Two striking Asian praying mantis species that have rapidly spread across Europe have now been officially classified as invasive, raising new concerns about their impact on native wildlife. Boosted by climate change and urban environments, these fast-breeding predators are expanding northward, where they prey on native insects, pollinators, and even small vertebrates while also reducing native mantis populations through deadly mating interactions. Sat, 11 Jul 2026 08:53:55 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260710003540.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260626125707.htm Researchers discovered that artificial streetlights can trap thousands of woodlice in mesmerizing circular "death spirals" never before seen in the wild. The surprising finding suggests that light pollution may be unintentionally altering the behavior of even the smallest ground-dwelling animals. Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:42:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260626125707.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260626124704.htm The rhythm of human laughter appears to have deep evolutionary roots shared with chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas, and orangutans. That ancient pattern may offer one of the clearest clues yet to how the vocal control needed for human speech gradually evolved. Wed, 01 Jul 2026 20:36:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260626124704.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260624115624.htm Scientists discovered ancient wolves on a tiny Baltic island where they could only have been brought by humans, suggesting an unexpectedly close relationship between people and wolves thousands of years ago. Evidence indicates the wolves were fed, possibly cared for, and may even have been managed or selectively bred long before modern ideas of domestication. Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:54:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260624115624.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260623083113.htm A hidden population of South African leopards has revealed a remarkable evolutionary story. Researchers analyzing entire leopard genomes discovered that the Cape Floristic Region’s leopards are not only much smaller than most African leopards, but also genetically distinct after being isolated for roughly 20,000 years. Surprisingly, despite their small population, they have retained much of their genetic diversity. Wed, 24 Jun 2026 08:00:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260623083113.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260623014018.htm A giant black coral estimated to be 300–400 years old has been discovered deep in Fiordland, New Zealand, astonishing researchers with its enormous size—about 4 meters tall and 4.5 meters wide. Scientists say it may be one of the largest black corals ever recorded in New Zealand waters and an important stronghold for the slow-growing species. Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:14:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260623014018.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260622091434.htm Scientists found that one tiny genetic change can completely alter how a coronavirus behaves in different species. Comparing SARS-CoV-2 with a closely related bat-only virus, they showed that a single amino-acid difference affects whether the immune system fights back or gets suppressed. This may help explain how some animal viruses make the leap to humans and become far more dangerous. Tue, 23 Jun 2026 21:21:16 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260622091434.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260621052722.htm The capture of a juvenile great white shark in Spain has provided fresh evidence that the Mediterranean's elusive "ghost" population of great whites still survives. Researchers reviewing 160 years of records say the discovery could even hint that the sharks are still breeding in the region. Fri, 26 Jun 2026 03:03:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260621052722.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260621031238.htm Tiny, tooth-sized fossils have just reshaped the story of our deepest ancestry. Paleontologists have discovered the southernmost remains ever found of Purgatorius—the earliest-known relative of all primates, including humans—in Colorado’s Denver Basin. Previously thought to be confined to Montana and parts of Canada, this shrew-sized, tree-dwelling mammal now appears to have spread southward soon after the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs. Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:55:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260621031238.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260620100424.htm A surprising ecological makeover unfolded when mountain lions began frequenting a small preserve south of San Francisco. Deer activity dropped, plants recovered, and shifts among predators like coyotes, bobcats, and foxes followed. The study shows that powerful “trophic cascades” aren’t limited to remote wilderness—they can happen in small, suburban preserves too. Sat, 27 Jun 2026 22:12:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260620100424.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260620100315.htm Researchers uncovered why H5N1 bird flu attacks cows’ udders instead of their lungs: the virus’s preferred receptors are concentrated in mammary tissue. The breakthrough could help scientists predict future bird flu jumps and spot unusual infections before they spread widely. Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:31:51 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260620100315.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260616103124.htm A surprising new study suggests the earliest primates didn't originate in tropical forests but in cold, dry parts of North America. Some may have even survived seasonal Arctic conditions by slowing their metabolism or hibernating. Researchers found that dramatic climate shifts, rather than warmth, played a major role in driving primate evolution and expansion. The discovery reshapes our understanding of how our own lineage began. Sat, 20 Jun 2026 09:28:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260616103124.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260616102223.htm Scientists have digitally preserved the world’s most endangered marine mammal by creating highly detailed 3D models of a vaquita skeleton using advanced imaging technology. The virtual archive provides an unprecedented look at the species and could help inspire conservation efforts before the tiny porpoise disappears forever. Wed, 17 Jun 2026 08:01:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260616102223.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260615033841.htm A new study found that chronic wasting disease can sometimes spread silently, with infectious prions present even in animals that show no symptoms. While there is no confirmed human risk, researchers say the disease’s ability to evolve and spread across species warrants close attention. Tue, 16 Jun 2026 10:06:24 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260615033841.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260613215510.htm One of the most celebrated claims about Yellowstone’s wolves is facing a major challenge. Scientists say the study behind the famous trophic cascade story relied on flawed methods that overstated the ecological impact of wolf recovery. Their reanalysis found no evidence for a dramatic, park-wide surge in willow growth. Instead, the effects appear smaller and vary from place to place. Sun, 14 Jun 2026 00:27:09 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260613215510.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260611024610.htm A potentially dangerous tapeworm linked to severe, cancer-like disease has now been found in the Pacific Northwest, marking its first detection in wild animals along the U.S. West Coast. Researchers discovered the parasite, Echinococcus multilocularis, in 37% of coyotes tested around Puget Sound—a surprisingly high rate for a region where it had never been reported until recently. Thu, 11 Jun 2026 09:31:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260611024610.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260610003056.htm For nearly 700 years, Indigenous hunters repeatedly used a bison kill site in central Montana—then suddenly stopped, even though bison were still abundant. Researchers uncovered evidence that recurring, decades-long droughts likely made the site less practical by reducing access to the water needed to process large numbers of animals. At the same time, hunting groups were shifting toward larger, more coordinated operations that required dependable resources and specialized locations. Thu, 11 Jun 2026 09:08:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260610003056.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260610003047.htm A groundbreaking new connectome maps every neural connection in an adult fruit fly’s central nervous system, creating an unprecedented view of how the brain and body work together. The findings suggest that complex behaviors emerge from distributed local circuits rather than a single central controller, offering new clues about intelligence, movement, and brain function. Wed, 10 Jun 2026 06:10:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260610003047.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260606075846.htm South Australia’s koala population has grown so large that it may be heading toward a self-made disaster, with forests struggling to support the animals. Researchers say targeted fertility control could prevent widespread starvation and habitat collapse before it’s too late. Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:35:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260606075846.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260602021633.htm Deer keds rely on flight and vision to find a host, but everything changes once they land. After shedding their wings forever, these parasites reduce the activity of key vision-related genes by about half. Scientists believe they are effectively trading sharp eyesight for extra energy that can be used for feeding and reproduction. Tue, 02 Jun 2026 08:26:08 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260602021633.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260601025324.htm A world-famous conservation program that helped save Sweden’s endangered wolverines is now struggling as funding stagnates and local trust erodes. Researchers say the decline offers a cautionary lesson: protecting wildlife requires long-term commitment, not just early success. Mon, 01 Jun 2026 03:55:53 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260601025324.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526022002.htm A sea slug smaller than a sesame seed has turned up in Taiwan’s coastal waters — and it’s so tiny and unusual that scientists realized they had discovered a completely new species. Named Thecacera sesama after its black-and-yellow “sesame-like” appearance, the translucent nudibranch was first spotted during a casual dive and later identified with help from a sea slug expert on Facebook. Wed, 27 May 2026 09:00:06 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526022002.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526021950.htm A sweeping new study of wild snakes in the southeastern US has revealed a hidden health crisis slithering beneath the surface. Researchers found that many snakes are carrying multiple infections at once, with a dangerous fungal disease called ophidiomycosis — or snake fungal disease — emerging as one of the biggest threats. Pygmy rattlesnakes appeared especially vulnerable, frequently infected with both the fungus and a parasitic “snake lungworm.” Tue, 26 May 2026 07:29:57 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526021950.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260523103943.htm Scientists have cracked open the “black box” of feline cancer in a landmark study that genetically analyzed nearly 500 cat tumors from around the world. The research uncovered striking similarities between cancers in cats, dogs, and humans — including shared cancer-driving genes tied to aggressive breast cancers. Sun, 24 May 2026 08:35:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260523103943.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519224319.htm Scientists in Australia are using cutting-edge DNA techniques to help save one of the world’s rarest marsupials — the critically endangered Gilbert’s potoroo, with fewer than 150 left in the wild. By analyzing tiny traces of DNA in the animals’ scat, researchers uncovered clues about the elusive fungi the potoroos depend on for survival. The findings could help conservationists identify safer new habitats and establish backup populations before disasters like bushfires wipe them out. Wed, 20 May 2026 00:45:48 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519224319.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519224303.htm Scientists have uncovered an astonishing new chapter in humpback whale migration: two whales were found to have traveled between breeding grounds in Australia and Brazil, crossing more than 14,000 kilometers of open ocean. One whale shattered records by covering at least 15,100 kilometers between sightings, marking the longest confirmed journey ever documented for an individual humpback whale. Tue, 19 May 2026 23:15:18 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260519224303.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517211429.htm A new study suggests humans became overwhelmingly right-handed because of two major evolutionary shifts: walking on two legs and developing much larger brains. Researchers found that as human ancestors evolved, their right-hand preference steadily intensified — transforming a mild tendency into one of humanity’s most distinctive traits. Mon, 18 May 2026 04:15:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517211429.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260514084421.htm Scientists have uncovered compelling evidence that dinosaur fossils may still contain traces of their original proteins, overturning a long-standing belief that fossilization destroys all organic material. In a remarkably well-preserved Edmontosaurus fossil from South Dakota, researchers detected remnants of collagen — the main protein found in bone — using advanced techniques including mass spectrometry and protein sequencing. Thu, 14 May 2026 09:02:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260514084421.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260513221807.htm Scientists exploring deep underwater canyons off the coast of Western Australia uncovered a hidden world packed with bizarre and elusive marine life — including signs of the legendary giant squid. By analyzing traces of DNA floating in seawater from depths exceeding 4 kilometers, researchers identified 226 species ranging from deep-diving whales to strange fish rarely or never seen in the region before. Some of the creatures may even be unknown to science. Thu, 14 May 2026 08:46:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260513221807.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260510030948.htm Scientists at the University of Rochester pulled off a remarkable experiment: they transferred a longevity-related gene from the famously long-lived naked mole rat into mice, and the mice ended up healthier and lived longer. The special gene boosts production of a substance called high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, which appears to protect against cancer, reduce inflammation, and support healthier aging. The modified mice showed stronger resistance to tumors, healthier guts, and lower levels of age-related inflammation. Sun, 10 May 2026 07:27:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260510030948.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260508003119.htm Fur seals may look like they’re simply resting after exhausting hunting trips at sea, but their bodies are secretly working overtime. Scientists discovered that hours after returning to land, the seals’ heart rates suddenly surge — sometimes doubling — as they recover from the intense physical stress of deep diving. The findings suggest that seals postpone much of their recovery until they’re safely ashore, likely flushing out lactic acid and rebuilding oxygen stores after days of nonstop diving and hunting. Sat, 09 May 2026 07:35:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260508003119.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260501052858.htm Deep in a dried-up riverbed in Brazil, scientists uncovered a bizarre prehistoric mystery—twisted jawbones from a strange, long-lost animal unlike anything seen before. Dating back 275 million years, this creature, named Tanyka amnicola, belonged to an ancient lineage that should have already faded away, making it a kind of “living fossil” of its time. Fri, 01 May 2026 09:07:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260501052858.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260427050554.htm A newly discovered prehistoric mammal may hold clues to how life survived the dinosaur-killing extinction. The tiny species, Cimolodon desosai, lived 75 million years ago and had traits—like a small body and varied diet—that likely boosted survival odds. Found in Baja California, the fossil includes rare skeletal remains that reveal how it moved and lived. Researchers believe its lineage helped mammals endure one of Earth’s deadliest events. Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:58:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260427050554.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260422044617.htm A vivid green pitviper hiding in Sichuan’s misty mountains has been revealed as a completely new species. Scientists had overlooked it for decades, assuming it was a common snake—until DNA analysis proved otherwise. Named after Laozi, it features striking differences between males and females, including bold stripes and eye colors. The discovery highlights just how many unknown species may still be lurking in well-studied regions. Wed, 22 Apr 2026 05:15:51 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260422044617.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260414075642.htm In the aftermath of Earth’s most catastrophic extinction event, one unlikely survivor rose to dominate a shattered world: Lystrosaurus. Now, a stunning fossil discovery—an ancient egg containing a curled-up embryo—has finally answered a decades-old mystery about whether mammal ancestors laid eggs. Using advanced imaging technology, scientists confirmed that these resilient creatures did reproduce this way, likely producing large, soft-shelled eggs packed with nutrients. Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:20:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260414075642.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260413043127.htm Gray whales are beginning to break their long-established migration patterns, venturing into risky new territory like San Francisco Bay as climate change disrupts their Arctic food supply. But this unexpected detour is proving deadly: nearly one in five whales that enter the Bay don’t survive, with many struck by ships in the crowded, foggy waters. Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:09:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260413043127.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260409101059.htm Dragonflies may see the world in a way that pushes beyond human limits—and surprisingly, they do it using the same molecular trick we evolved ourselves. Scientists discovered that these insects can detect extremely deep red light, even edging into near-infrared, thanks to a specialized visual protein strikingly similar to the one in human eyes. This ability likely helps them spot mates mid-flight by picking up subtle differences in reflected light. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:10:59 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260409101059.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401071943.htm High in a South American rainforest canopy, scientists have discovered a bizarre new termite species that looks strikingly like a miniature sperm whale. Named Cryptotermes mobydicki, this tiny insect has an elongated head and concealed mandibles that give it an uncanny resemblance to the iconic marine giant. Researchers were so surprised by its unusual appearance that they initially thought it belonged to an entirely new genus. Wed, 01 Apr 2026 23:06:19 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401071943.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401022027.htm Old canned salmon turned out to be a time capsule of ocean health. Researchers found that rising levels of tiny parasitic worms in some salmon species suggest stronger, more complete marine food webs. Because these parasites depend on multiple hosts—including marine mammals—their increase may reflect ecosystem recovery over decades. What looks unappetizing may actually be a sign of a healthier ocean. Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:20:39 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260401022027.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326064157.htm A sweeping global report finds that migratory freshwater fish are in steep decline, with populations down roughly 81% since 1970. These species depend on long, connected rivers, but dams and human pressures are cutting off their routes. Hundreds of species now need coordinated international protection. Experts say restoring river connectivity is critical to preventing further collapse. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:51:08 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326064157.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326011455.htm Snow flies have an unexpected way of surviving freezing temperatures. They produce antifreeze proteins to block ice formation and can even generate their own heat. Scientists also found that their genes are unusually unique, and they feel less cold-related pain than other insects. These combined traits let them stay active in conditions that would freeze most species. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 01:26:31 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326011455.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005908.htm Flower nectar often contains small amounts of alcohol, meaning pollinators like hummingbirds are drinking it all day long. Despite consuming human-equivalent amounts, they show no signs of intoxication—suggesting a surprising evolutionary tolerance. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:05:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005908.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324024245.htm Scientists have uncovered a new species of rhinoceros in the Canadian High Arctic, revealing that rhinos once lived far farther north than expected. The fossil, dating back 23 million years, is unusually complete and has helped reshape ideas about how these animals migrated between continents. Evidence suggests rhinos crossed from Europe to North America more recently than scientists once thought. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 07:13:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324024245.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323223929.htm Drone footage has revealed sperm whales headbutting each other—something scientists had only speculated about until now. Surprisingly, it’s younger whales doing it, not the giant males researchers expected. The behavior echoes old seafaring tales of whales smashing ships, once thought exaggerated. Now, scientists are eager to understand whether these clashes are play, practice, or serious competition. Mon, 23 Mar 2026 23:05:32 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323223929.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020245.htm Beavers may be unlikely climate heroes, but new research suggests they could play a powerful role in fighting climate change. By building dams and transforming streams into wetlands, these industrious animals dramatically reshape how carbon moves and is stored in landscapes. Over just 13 years, a beaver-engineered wetland in Switzerland stored over a thousand tonnes of carbon—up to ten times more than similar areas without beavers. Sun, 22 Mar 2026 07:21:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020245.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044643.htm Ravens have long been thought to follow wolves to find food, but new research shows they’re far more strategic. By tracking both animals in Yellowstone, scientists discovered that ravens memorize areas where wolf kills are likely and fly directly to those spots—sometimes from great distances. Rather than trailing wolves, they rely on learned patterns in the landscape. It’s a clever system that highlights just how intelligent these birds really are. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 21:52:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044643.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033115.htm Some feathered dinosaurs may have briefly taken to the skies—only to give it up later. By studying rare fossils with preserved feathers, researchers uncovered a surprising clue hidden in molting patterns, revealing that Anchiornis likely couldn’t fly at all. Instead of the neat, symmetrical feather replacement seen in flying birds, these dinosaurs showed a messy, irregular molt—something only flightless animals exhibit. Wed, 18 Mar 2026 06:08:57 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033115.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313002652.htm A newly identified Australian tree has been dubbed the “zombie” tree because it’s alive but unable to reproduce. Myrtle rust repeatedly kills its young growth, stopping the species from flowering or making seeds. Scientists are scrambling to grow disease-free seedlings in protected locations. Their hope is that a future generation may evolve resistance and bring the species back from the brink. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 21:53:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313002652.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260311213439.htm Researchers have discovered that hedgehogs can hear ultrasound, a surprising ability that could help protect them from cars. Since road traffic kills large numbers of hedgehogs, scientists believe ultrasonic repellents might be used to steer them away from danger. The animals’ ears appear specially adapted for detecting high-frequency sounds. If the idea works, cars could one day emit signals that warn hedgehogs before it’s too late. Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:51:03 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260311213439.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260311004716.htm Researchers have uncovered a molecular trick used by hornwort plants that could help future crops capture carbon dioxide more efficiently. A unique protein feature called RbcS-STAR causes the key photosynthesis enzyme Rubisco to cluster into dense compartments, helping it work more effectively. When scientists added this feature to other plants, Rubisco reorganized in the same way. The finding raises the possibility of engineering more efficient photosynthesis into major crops. Wed, 11 Mar 2026 06:05:55 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260311004716.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260306145610.htm Koalas suffered a massive population decline that left them with dangerously low genetic diversity. However, new genomic research suggests their rapid rebound may be helping reverse some of that genetic damage. As koala numbers rise, recombination is mixing their remaining DNA into new combinations, which can rebuild functional diversity. The findings suggest that fast population recovery can sometimes help species regain lost evolutionary potential. Fri, 06 Mar 2026 19:19:07 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260306145610.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260305182700.htm A new study shows that as humpback whale populations recover from past whaling, older males are gaining a major advantage in reproduction. Early in the recovery, breeding groups were dominated by younger whales. But as more mature males returned, they increasingly fathered more calves than their younger rivals. Scientists say experience in singing and competing may help older males win the breeding battle. Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:19:42 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260305182700.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260303201801.htm Returning rescued slow lorises to the wild may sound like a conservation success, but a new study shows it can turn deadly. Researchers tracked nine released animals and found that only two survived, with most killed in territorial attacks by other lorises. Scientists say better planning is essential to ensure wildlife releases actually help endangered species. Tue, 03 Mar 2026 23:19:55 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260303201801.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260303153357.htm Japanese snow monkeys don’t just soak in hot springs to escape the winter chill — their steamy spa sessions may also be reshaping their invisible world. Researchers in Japan found that macaques who regularly bathe show subtle but intriguing differences in lice patterns and gut bacteria compared to those who stay dry. Surprisingly, sharing the hot pools didn’t increase their parasite load, challenging assumptions about disease risk. Tue, 03 Mar 2026 17:55:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260303153357.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260303050628.htm In Yellowstone’s wild chess match between wolves and cougars, it turns out the real power play is theft. After tracking nearly a decade of GPS data and thousands of kill sites, researchers found that wolves often muscle in on cougar kills—sometimes even killing the cats—but cougars never return the favor. Instead of fighting back, cougars adapt. As elk numbers dropped, they shifted toward hunting more deer, which they can eat quickly and in safer terrain, helping them dodge wolf encounters. Tue, 03 Mar 2026 13:10:50 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260303050628.htm