Endangered Animals

April 8, 2025

100-Year-Old Tortoise Becomes First-Time Mom and Savior of a Species

There’s great news coming from Philadelphia Zoo. The institution has announced the hatching of four critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises. Given that prior to their birth, there were only 44 individual tortoises of their kind in all U.S. zoos combined, the arrival of these baby turtles is essentially a lifeline for the survival of this species. The hatching marks a first for both the zoo and the hatchlings’ mother.

Read Article

February 20, 2025

Monarch Butterfly Population Is Near a 30-Year Record Low in North America

The monarch butterfly is a symbol of change, both literally and metaphorically. Their migration heralds the oncoming cold months, while their metamorphosis from caterpillar to delicate winged insect signals wonderful transformation. With unique orange and black wings, monarchs are one of nature’s premier works of art, a sight to behold if you’re lucky enough to see them out in nature.

Read Article

December 2, 2024

Pack of Gray Wolves Has Been Detected Near California National Park for the First Time in 100 Years

Native gray wolves, once nearly driven to extinction in California by game hunters in the 19th and 20th centuries, are making an extraordinary comeback. Recently, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) discovered a rare pack in Sierra Valley, about 50 miles north of Lake Tahoe. This exciting discovery marks a significant milestone in the species’ resurgence, as they reclaim their ancestral territory.

Read Article

October 30, 2024

Night Parrot Previously Thought To Be Extinct Is Discovered by Indigenous Rangers and Researchers

Australia is an extremely biodiverse nation, boasting over 800 species of bird. Among these are petite penguins, sand pipers, and tropical cockatoos. One of the island’s delightful species that once flew is the night parrot, a delightfully sweet green and yellow critter with small black flecks on its wings. For most of the 20th century, the species was thought to be extinct. Sightings were virtually nonexistent, and today remain exceptionally rare.

Read Article

My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.