37 Facts About Animal News 2018

Amazing Animal Discoveries of 2018

2018 was a year full of fascinating animal news. From new species being discovered to incredible animal behaviors, the world of wildlife never ceases to amaze. Here are some of the most interesting facts from that year.

1. Scientists discovered a new species of orangutan in Sumatra, Indonesia. Named the Tapanuli orangutan, it’s one of the most endangered great apes with fewer than 800 individuals left.

2. A rare black leopard was spotted in Africa for the first time in over a century. This elusive cat was photographed in Kenya, capturing the world's attention.

3. Researchers found that octopuses sometimes punch fish. This behavior is thought to be a way of keeping fish in line during collaborative hunting.

4. A new species of electric eel was discovered in the Amazon. This eel can deliver a shock of up to 860 volts, the strongest of any known animal.

5. The world's oldest known wild bird, a Laysan albatross named Wisdom, hatched another chick at the age of 68. Wisdom has raised over 30 chicks in her lifetime.

Unusual Animal Behaviors

Animals often surprise us with their unique behaviors. 2018 was no exception, with several noteworthy observations.

6. Dolphins were observed using coral to self-medicate. They rub against certain types of coral to treat skin conditions.

7. A group of humpback whales was seen adopting a lone dolphin. This unusual interspecies interaction puzzled scientists.

8. Elephants in Botswana were found to be sleeping less than two hours a day. This is the shortest sleep duration recorded for any mammal.

9. Crows in Japan were seen using traffic to crack nuts. They place nuts on the road and wait for cars to run over them, then retrieve the cracked nuts.

10. A study revealed that bees can understand the concept of zero. This advanced numerical comprehension was previously thought to be unique to humans and some primates.

Conservation Success Stories

Efforts to protect and conserve wildlife saw some significant successes in 2018. These stories highlight the positive impact of conservation work.

11. The population of mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains surpassed 1,000 for the first time since records began. Conservation efforts have helped this critically endangered species recover.

12. China announced a ban on the domestic trade of ivory. This move was a significant step towards ending the illegal ivory trade and protecting elephants.

13. The Arabian oryx was reclassified from "endangered" to "vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List. Conservation programs have helped increase their numbers in the wild.

14. A new marine protected area was established in the Ross Sea, Antarctica. This area is now one of the largest marine reserves in the world, safeguarding a diverse range of species.

15. The Amur leopard population in Russia increased to over 100 individuals. This critically endangered big cat is slowly making a comeback thanks to conservation efforts.

Incredible Animal Adaptations

Animals have evolved some remarkable adaptations to survive in their environments. Here are some of the most intriguing adaptations observed in 2018.

16. The Saharan silver ant was found to be the fastest ant in the world. It can run 108 times its body length per second, which is equivalent to a human running at 360 mph.

17. A species of deep-sea fish called the Mariana snailfish was discovered living at depths of over 26,000 feet. It thrives in the extreme pressure and darkness of the Mariana Trench.

18. Researchers discovered that the glass frog has transparent skin, allowing it to camouflage perfectly with its surroundings. This adaptation helps it avoid predators.

19. The tardigrade, also known as the water bear, was found to survive extreme radiation. These microscopic creatures can endure conditions that would be lethal to most other life forms.

20. A study revealed that the axolotl, a type of salamander, can regenerate its heart, brain, and limbs. This remarkable ability makes it a subject of interest for regenerative medicine research.

Animal Intelligence and Communication

Animals communicate and demonstrate intelligence in ways that continue to astonish scientists. 2018 brought several new insights into animal cognition and communication.

21. Parrots were found to have the ability to understand and use human language in context. Some parrots can even form simple sentences.

22. A study showed that prairie dogs have a complex language with different "words" for various predators. They can describe the size, shape, and color of a threat.

23. Dolphins were observed calling each other by unique "names." Each dolphin has a distinct whistle that it uses to identify itself and others.

24. Ravens demonstrated problem-solving skills on par with great apes. They can use tools and plan for future events, showcasing their advanced cognitive abilities.

25. Elephants were found to communicate using seismic signals. They can detect vibrations through the ground, allowing them to communicate over long distances.

Rare and Endangered Species

2018 saw the spotlight on several rare and endangered species, highlighting the need for continued conservation efforts.

26. The vaquita, the world's smallest and most endangered porpoise, had fewer than 30 individuals left. Conservationists are working tirelessly to save this species from extinction.

27. A rare white giraffe was spotted in Kenya. This giraffe has a condition called leucism, which causes a partial loss of pigmentation.

28. The Javan rhino population in Indonesia increased slightly, with 68 individuals recorded. This critically endangered species is slowly recovering thanks to conservation efforts.

29. A new population of the elusive snow leopard was discovered in the Himalayas. This finding gives hope for the survival of this endangered big cat.

30. The Kakapo, a flightless parrot from New Zealand, had a record breeding season. Conservation efforts have helped increase their numbers to over 200 individuals.

Fascinating Animal Facts

Animals never cease to amaze with their unique traits and behaviors. Here are some more fascinating facts from 2018.

31. The mantis shrimp has the most complex eyes in the animal kingdom. It can see polarized light and has 16 color receptors compared to humans' three.

32. A study found that pigeons can recognize individual human faces. They can differentiate between people who feed them and those who do not.

33. The mimic octopus can impersonate other sea creatures. It changes its shape, color, and behavior to mimic predators like lionfish and sea snakes.

34. The immortal jellyfish can revert to its juvenile form after reaching adulthood. This process allows it to potentially live indefinitely.

35. A species of spider was discovered that can glide through the air. Known as the Selenops spider, it can steer itself while falling to escape predators.

36. The axolotl, a type of salamander, can regenerate its heart, brain, and limbs. This remarkable ability makes it a subject of interest for regenerative medicine research.

37. The tardigrade, also known as the water bear, was found to survive extreme radiation. These microscopic creatures can endure conditions that would be lethal to most other life forms.

Final Thoughts on Animal News 2018

Animal news in 2018 brought some fascinating stories to light. From the discovery of new species to heartwarming tales of animal rescues, there was no shortage of interesting developments. Scientists made strides in understanding animal behavior, while conservation efforts saw both triumphs and challenges. The year also highlighted the ongoing battle against poaching and habitat destruction, reminding us of the importance of protecting our planet's wildlife.

These stories not only entertained but also educated, showing the resilience and beauty of the animal kingdom. They underscored the need for continued research and conservation efforts. As we look back on 2018, it's clear that animals continue to captivate and inspire us. Let's carry these lessons forward, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and learn from the incredible diversity of life on Earth.