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Why are so many animals endangered?
Up to 1 million of the world’s 8 million plant and animal species now face extinction. We begin with Lori explaining the results of the UN sponsored report just issued by Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), titled The IPBES Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services.
The 1800 page report, authored by 450 experts drawing upon 15,000 scientific and government sources concluded that 25% of mammal species, more that 40% of amphibian species, more that 33% of shark species and 25 % of plant species are facing extinction.
The primary causes due to human activity including pollution, poaching, overfishing, changes in land and water use, climate change, and invasive species. Read more here.
Hot Animal news
We continue with news stories including the huge IPO success of Beyond Meat, Walmart is expanding its pet services and pet pharmaceutical business, a mountain lion in California was found dead from rodenticide toxicity, designation of the giraffe as an endangered species is under EPA review, and more.
The PETA International Science Consortium.
Peter then welcomes Dr. Julia Baines, Science Policy Advisor at the PETA International Science Consortium Ltd. This robust organization with worldwide reach promotes non-animal testing methods that protect human health and the environment. It’s exciting, cutting edge work we all should applaud.
Tips on adopting abused animals
We conclude with a discussion about adopting formerly neglected and abused animals with Kit Darling, form Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, where she is Sciences Infection Control Coordinator. Kit provides advice and tips for success in these challenging, but usually rewarding endeavors.
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