Orangutans Escape Rehab Facility After Landslide & Other Animal News

Humpback Whale Breaks Migration Record, Traveling 8,000 Miles

While humpback whales record the longest migrations of any mammal, one particular humpback whale recently broke the migration record. After traveling some 8,000 miles between breeding grounds and across three oceans, the whale settled off the coast of Zanzibar. Sightings of the humpback around the globe have confirmed the hypothesis that whales migrate between breeding grounds.

The rate of movement between breeding grounds has increased among whale species in recent years after food scarcity has forced them to migrate elsewhere to survive. Other factors affecting long migration patterns include ocean conditions and climate change. A whale will likely move locations if stuck in an area with few mates or little sustenance. Similarly, a whale will migrate if it faces too much competition for food in one area. Overall, the whale’s journey has revealed new findings about whale behavior and migration patterns to scientists.

Poaching and Wildlife Trafficking Rates on the Rise in Latin America

New International Fund for Animal Welfare research analyzed wildlife trafficking in 18 Latin American countries. The study suggested that Mexico, Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, and Colombia reported high rates of wildlife trafficking. For instance, Mexico was responsible for 45% of all animals poached or captured from their native habitat. The report outlined nearly 700 animal species, including reptiles, monkeys, macaws, and even mountain lions.

Wildlife crime is prevalent in Latin America due to its ease and low risk of consequences. Legal systems and law enforcement groups across Latin America do little to regulate the illegal wildlife trade, making the criminal behavior accessible to many in Hispanic America. Find out more information about the study on wildlife trafficking here.

18 Orangutans Escape Rehab Facility After Landslide

After the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme (SOCP) Quarantine and Rehabilitation Center in Indonesia was struck by a landslide, 18 orangutans escaped from the facility. All have been recovered by authorities, except for one, who remains on the loose. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported after the natural disaster. Find out more about the incident and how to donate here.