Orcas Take Revenge
A pod of orcas wreaked havoc in the Mediterranean Sea, attacking and sinking yachts. Experts believe the attacks were in response to a critical moment of agony for the pod’s matriarch. While some saw the behavior as playful, others feared for the safety of both the whales and the yachts.
‘Panda Politics’
China recalled its pandas from the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., just before a critical meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Biden. The recall sparked a diplomatic stir, but Biden announced that Beijing had agreed to send two pandas to San Diego, strengthening the bond between the two nations.
Monkeys Taking Over Thailand
Thailand experienced a rise in monkey gangs, causing concerns for tourists. These monkeys have become more aggressive, robbing people, and even biting when confronted. While the situation on Koh Phi Phi has not reached critical levels, the monkeys have been invading buildings and causing residents to flee their homes.
Mysterious Dog Pneumonia
A mysterious respiratory illness plagued dogs in the United States, leading to coughing, fever, and lethargy. Veterinary experts have been working to identify the cause and provide treatment for affected dogs.
Big Decisions in Animal Rights
2023 brought significant legal advances in animal rights, including the ban on dog meat sales in South Korea and efforts to limit ivory trade. Colombia also considered a ban on bullfighting, while Canada took a stand by banning the trade of elephant ivory and rhino horns.
Source: Reuters and The Associated Press