This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Wednesday, 25 December 2024
Flu At the Zoo
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is currently sweeping through zoo populations in many parts of the world. Deaths have occurred in zoos in the USA (notably, Phoenix, San Francisco and Seattle), as well as Vietnam. This virus probably infects zoo animals, when they contact wild birds coming into their enclosures. HPAI is not, however limiting its infections to rare bird species. Already, 3 lions, 47 tigers and a number of Cheetahs have died from this viral infection ( ). Animals in cages and enclosures are essentially 'sitting ducks' so far as HPAI is concerned. These diverse infections may also increase the probability of the virus mutating and acquiring the ability to transmit from human to human. This would be very bad news as it could trigger a new pandemic for our species.
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Wooden Tops 22. Lilac
Lilac is a hardwood that's occasionally used for small turned objects like pens and bowls. It can also be carved or used as kindling es...
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Greater spearwort ( Ranunculus lingua ) has been used in traditional medicine to treat rheumatism, skin conditions and digestive problems. -
Green buckwheat ( Fagopyrum tartaricum ) is also called 'Tartar buckwheat'. It's a domesticated food plant, producing kernels. ... -
Daily shots of my fully compostable Oyster mushroom pot, received for Christmas. Omelettes ahoy!
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