Short Wave Will Bark For Science
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Mar 5, 2025 Meet Jack, an extraordinary conservation dog trained to sniff out whale scat, aiding vital marine research. His unique skills help track elusive wildlife elements, making a significant impact on data collection. Discover the science behind dogs' incredible sense of smell and how they differentiate complex chemical compounds. Explore the unique bond between Jack and his handler, Colette, as they navigate land and ocean challenges together, showcasing a remarkable partnership in environmental conservation.
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Jack's Conservation Work
- Colette Yee and her dog Jack work for Rogue Detection Teams.
- Jack, a blue heeler mix, is trained to sniff out various targets for conservation projects, including bumblebee nests, scat, and invasive species.
Whale Poop Project
- On one project, Colette and Jack were tasked with finding whale poop in the ocean.
- This information helps scientists study whale health, stress levels, pregnancy, and toxin consumption.
Training and Challenges
- Colette trained Jack to recognize whale scat on land and then in a boat.
- Because whale scat sinks quickly, they had to follow whales and use wind and currents to locate the scat before it disappeared.