Animals

Abandoned, stray animals flood Twin Cities shelters after the holiday weekend
The Animal Humane Society locations of Coon Rapids, Woodbury and Golden Valley report a total of 74 turn-ins of stray animals Friday through Monday, amounting to around three times the number of animals they see on average over the same period.
Birds, bugs and climate change
Many bird species are in decline across North America, with decades of falling numbers. In western Minnesota, researchers are examining the link between climate change, birds and the insects they eat.
Researchers use AI to help save a woodpecker species in decline
Minnesota researchers are using small audio recording devices to better understand the range and population of red-headed woodpeckers. The bird has seen a precipitous population decline over several decades. Scientists want to learn where the bird is doing well, so important habitats can be preserved.
State funding brings planned National Loon Center closer to construction
The three-story, 15,000 square foot building in Crosslake in Crow Wing County will aim to immerse visitors in the life of Minnesota's state bird. The National Loon Center hopes to begin construction in spring 2024 and open the facility a year later.
Ponemah pet clinic part of campaign for more Indigenous veterinarians
Members of Natives in Vet Med volunteered at a pet clinic in Ponemah on the Red Lake Reservation this week. It was an important part of the organization’s campaign to get more Indigenous people working in the veterinary field.