Giant African rats may soon be the key to fighting illegal wildlife trafficking. New research from nonprofit APOPO, published Oct. 29, shows that African giant pouched rats can be trained to ...

These giant rats are bred in captivity, but they’re also occasionally crossbred with wild individuals. Selected rats begin training at a very young age, but not all will be suited for the job.

Scent-detection animals, however, could be one of the most promising solutions and an international team of researchers has turned to the African giant pouched rat (Cricetomys ansorgei) in particular.

Two new studies add to the evidence that human activity, from fishing to urban development, is driving the evolution of wild animals. By Emily Anthes Call it the case of the incredible shrinking ...

Pangolin scales, elephant tusks, rhino horn, and a rare wood all are preferred objects in the illegal wildlife trade. African giant pouched rats, with their keen sense of smell, however, could ...

The selected giant rats are then trained to identify scents of wildlife items. When they’re able to do this well, they get a vest with a metal bell, which they pull on to make a sound when they ...

Giant African rats may soon be the key to fighting illegal wildlife trafficking.. New research from nonprofit APOPO, published Oct. 29, shows that African giant pouched rats can be trained to ...

Science | December 11, 2024. From Giant Tortoises to Immortal Jellyfish, These Impressive Animals Are Eight of the Longest-Living Species on Earth. Aging gracefully comes naturally to these ...

These giant rats are bred in captivity, but they’re also occasionally crossbred with wild individuals. Selected rats begin training at a very young age, but not all will be suited for the job.