Illegal global trade of pangolins

Science News

A baby pangolin.

Pinterest photo - author unknown.

Animal traffickers are taking advantage of remote ivory trade routes to smuggle pangolins – one of the world’s most endangered animals – out of Central Africa, a new study has found. Story here.

High levels of microplastics found in Northwest Atlantic fish

ScienceDaily

An Atlantic sturgeon. US Fish & Wildlife Service.

New study finds microplastics in the stomachs of 73 percent of mesopelagic (medium-depth) fish caught in the Northwest Atlantic -- one of the highest levels globally. More here.

The value of pollinator species diversity

Science 

An unidentified pollinator in Manitoba. PinP photo.

Large numbers of species are needed to support ecosystem functioning. Story here.

Tree rings reveal increased fire risk for southwestern US

Nature

The Pacheco fire in New Mexico. 2011.

Photo by John Fowler.

Historical record points to climate patterns that could prime the region for an intense fire season. Story here.

Animal health and welfare, two cornerstones of sustainable, responsible and effective food production

ILRI news

Improved animal health and welfare standards can also increase food production in ways that protect the environment and enhance the resilience of livestock producers and systems. More here.



Hogs see the sun and get fresh air on an "outdoor" 
farm in the UK. Photo credit - Andy & Hilary.

'Plastic in All Sizes' Found Everywhere in Once Pristine European Arctic

EcoWatch

A disturbing amount of plastic is building up in the once-pristine European Arctic.  More here.