Science In Action
Bird flu reaches Antarctic region
Oct 26, 2023
Bird flu reaches the Antarctic region, posing a threat to isolated bird populations. Mummified mice found on Andean volcanoes challenge assumptions about vertebrate survival in extreme conditions. Chimpanzees in Uganda are experiencing menopause, a phenomenon thought to be unique to humans and some whales. Geophysicist uses seismic activity on Mars to uncover the composition of its core.
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Quick takeaways
- The highly infectious variant of avian influenza, H5N1, has reached the remote Bird Island in the South Atlantic, posing challenges for scientists in managing the outbreak and safeguarding diverse bird populations.
- Chimpanzees, like humans, also experience menopause, challenging previous assumptions and providing insights into the evolution of menopause in humans and ancient hominin ancestors.
Deep dives
Bird Island's Battle with H5N1 Bird Flu
The H5N1 bird flu strain, which has been spreading globally, has reached Bird Island in the remote South Atlantic. The British Antarctic Survey has confirmed deaths among brown skuas due to the virus. The logistics of conducting research and managing the outbreak in such a remote location pose significant challenges for scientists. As the virus continues to spread to different species, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of research staff while monitoring the impact on the island's diverse bird populations.
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