Introduction In Maharashtra, people begin the grand festival of Diwali not with lights or firecrackers, but with gratitude. They express this gratitude through Vasu Baras (also called Govatsa Dwadashi), a sacred tradition that marks the first day of Diwali celebrations in many parts of the state. On this day, families—especially women—worship the cow and calf…
When most people hear “hibernation,” they imagine animals sleeping through the cold winter months to survive harsh conditions. However, some animals actually hibernate in the summer too. This process, known as aestivation (or estivation), is a survival tactic used by various species to cope with intense heat, drought, or limited food supply. Similar to winter…
Malaria parasites, responsible for nearly 600,000 deaths annually—mostly among children—are transmitted by female mosquitoes during blood feeding. Traditionally, the focus has been on killing mosquitoes with insecticides rather than eliminating the malaria parasites they carry. However, researchers at Harvard University have discovered two drugs that can effectively clear malaria from mosquitoes when absorbed through their…
Japanese sportswear company Asics has announced it will stop using kangaroo leather in its athletic footwear. The move follows a recent decision by German brand Adidas. The company announced it would no longer use kangaroo skin in its soccer cleats. Asics’ sustainability team shared an update in an email to Animal Wellness and the Center…
A toxic algal bloom off South Australia’s coast, active since March, has killed over 200 marine species, including sharks and octopuses. Stretching across roughly 150km of coastline, the bloom has had a devastating impact, with ray-finned fish making up 47% of the deaths and another 26% being sharks and rays, according to OzFish data reported…
Learn about International Leopard Day, its significance, how it’s celebrated globally, and why protecting leopards is crucial for biodiversity and ecological balance. International Leopard Day: Raising Awareness for the Elusive Big Cat Every year on May 3rd, wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists around the world observe International Leopard Day. This special day is dedicated to raising…
All 50 U.S. states are reportedly dealing with an outbreak of the H5N1 bird flu virus in 2025, with dairy farms among the hardest hit. The virus has already begun infecting humans, and experts are raising concerns about the potential for a new pandemic in the country. Although bird flu has been present on Earth…
Bornean elephants may be the smallest of their kind, but they’re still giants at around nine feet (2.7 meters) tall — about two feet (60 cm) shorter than African elephants. Found only on the island of Borneo, mainly in Malaysia’s Sabah state, fewer than 1,000 remain in the wild, earning them an endangered status. In…
Across the globe, certain dog breeds have gained notoriety for their potential dangers and aggressive tendencies. Understanding these breeds and the associated risks is crucial for promoting responsible ownership and ensuring public safety. Pit Bull Terrier: Also Read: Fascinating Trivia About Kidneys Rottweiler: German Shepherd: Doberman Pinscher: Siberian Husky: Bullmastiff: Alaskan Malamute: Chow Chow: While…
Big cats, belonging to the Panthera genus, are a majestic and diverse group of large feline predators that roam various habitats around the world. Distinguishing between these magnificent creatures requires an understanding of their unique characteristics, markings, and behaviors. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just curious about these powerful predators, here’s a guide to…
