Genetic Exchange Between Ancient Humans and Neanderthals

Ancient Homo sapiens and Neanderthals had genetic exchanges long before Homo sapiens incorporated Neanderthal ancestry, with multiple instances of human-to-Neanderthal gene flow over 200,000 years. The study also suggests that small Neanderthal population sizes contributed to their extinction.

Local Extinction of Key Largo Tree Cactus in the United States

The United States has lost its only stand of the massive Key Largo tree cactus due to rising sea levels and intense storms. The cactus still grows in scattered islands in the Caribbean. Researchers are concerned about how other coastal plants will respond to climate change.

Extinction of Woolly Mammoths and Megaherbivores

A new study suggests that human predation by early hunter-gatherers was the main reason for the extinction of woolly mammoths and other giant plant-eating 'megaherbivores' around 50,000 years ago. The study found evidence of human hunting and overexploitation of large animals as the key driver of their extinction.

Extinction of Megafauna Due to Human Predation

A new study suggests that human predation by early hunter-gatherers was the main reason for the extinction of woolly mammoths and other giant herbivores around 50,000 years ago. The extinction of megafauna continues to be a concern in modern times due to human activity.

Prehistoric Human Impact on Megafauna Extinction

Prehistoric humans likely caused the mass extinction of megafauna species, reshaping life on Earth 50,000 years ago. The study by researchers at Aarhus University found that human hunting and ecosystem modification were the primary culprits behind the downfall of Earth's giants.

Endangered Humboldt Penguin Population in Chile

Humboldt penguin populations in Chile are at risk of extinction due to various threats including marine pollution, avian flu, and disturbance of nesting sites.

Apocalyptic Scenario of Supercontinent Formation

Scientists predict an apocalyptic scenario in 250 million years where a supercontinent formation will lead to failing food supply, rising sea levels, and extreme heat, causing almost all mammals, including humans, to die out.

Controversy Over Proposal to Cull Barred Owls to Protect Spotted Owls

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed culling roughly half a million barred owls to protect the northern spotted owl, a threatened species facing extinction due to competition from the more aggressive barred owl. Conservationists and animal welfare advocates are debating the moral implications of killing one species to save another.

Javan Tiger Conservation Efforts

Indonesian conservationists are investigating the possibility of the Javan tiger, declared extinct, still existing in the wild through DNA and camera traps. Recent DNA study suggests a strand of tiger hair matched the characteristics of the Javan tiger. Measures are being taken to confirm its existence and protect it from potential threats.