Whale Sightings off New England

Scientists report a large number of whales off New England, including an orca eating a tuna and a high concentration of rare sei whales. The area is important core habitat for endangered North Atlantic right whales, with concerns about vessel strikes and entanglements.

Endangered Vaquita Marina Porpoises in the Gulf of California

The critically endangered vaquita marina porpoises in the Gulf of California have been sighted in very low numbers, with conservation efforts facing challenges due to illegal fishing practices and lack of enforcement of protection regulations.

Critically Endangered Right Whale Sighting off Marin County Coast

A critically endangered right whale was spotted off the Marin County coast, thrilling scientists. The species was driven nearly to extinction by commercial whaling and faces ongoing threats from human activity. Very little is known about their movements and behaviors due to their rarity.

Orangutan self-medication discovery

Orangutan named Rakus in Sumatra, Indonesia was observed self-medicating by chewing on pain-relieving leaves and applying them to his wounds. Researchers believe this behavior could trace back to a shared ancestor with humans. Orangutans are critically endangered due to habitat loss.

Discovery of Bee Hive in Toddler's Bedroom

A family in Charlotte, North Carolina, discovered a 'monster' in their toddler's bedroom, which turned out to be a hive of 50,000 bees. They are slowly removing the bees as extermination was not an option due to the bees being endangered.

Endangered Bornean Orangutan Baby Born at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

An endangered Bornean orangutan baby was born at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in Florida, marking a milestone in orangutan conservation efforts.

Endangered Sea Turtles Release in Georgia

Nearly three dozen endangered sea turtles were released into the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Georgia after being stunned by cold waters in northern states.

Rediscovering Lost Species

Many species are becoming endangered or extinct, some are considered 'lost' if not seen in 10 years, leading to difficulties in conservation efforts. 'Charismatic' animals have better chances of being rediscovered and protected, while 'uncharismatic' species face challenges. Researchers use innovative methods like scent detection dogs and eDNA to rediscover lost species.

Birth of Rare Pygmy Hippo in Athens Zoo

Athens zoo welcomes the birth of a rare and endangered pygmy hippopotamus, the first in 10 years. The baby is a male, a significant event due to a lack of male pygmy hippos in captivity. Pygmy hippos are endangered, with only about 2,000-2,500 left in the wild.

Illegal Killing of a Whooping Crane in Louisiana

A $5,000 reward is being offered to find out who killed a whooping crane in Louisiana. The bird was shot and found dead in January, leading to a spinal fracture and internal bleeding. Whooping cranes are endangered, and it is illegal to harm them in any way.

Endangered Indigenous Languages in America

Majority of Indigenous languages in America are endangered, according to new research. NPR's Scott Detrow interviews Native American language preservationist Alaina Tahlate.