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New study debunks the biggest fear about yo-yo dieting
For years, “yo-yo dieting” has been blamed for wrecking metabolism and causing lasting damage, but a major new review says the fear may be wildly overblown. After analyzing decades of studies in humans and animals, researchers found little convincing evidence that losing weight and regaining it actually causes long-term harm. While regaining weight can erase some health improvements, it doesn’t appear to make people worse off than before.
Watch adorable animals compete for best chewer in 2026 Crunch-a-Thon
The campaign spotlights an endangered marsupial.
The real reason exercise makes you stronger isn’t what you think
Exercise may be training your brain just as much as your body. Researchers discovered that certain brain cells stay highly active even after a workout ends, and those lingering signals appear to help the body build endurance over time. In experiments with mice, blocking these brain cells prevented improvements in stamina, even when the animals still exercised normally.
Scientists discover tiny gut particles that may drive aging and chronic disease
A new study suggests microscopic particles from the gut may actively drive inflammation and chronic diseases associated with aging. Remarkably, gut particles from young animals appeared to counter some aging-related damage in older animals, hinting at new possibilities for future treatments.
Can fossilized vomit tell you what prehistoric animals ate?
Learn how paleontologists study fossilized vomit to explore what prehistoric predators ate.
Can you clone an animal forever? Scientists have spent two decades finding out.
A 20-year study found that re-cloning success declines after a number of generations.
Scientists seek to understand effects of rain falling on snow in the Arctic
When rain falls on snow in the Arctic, ice layers can form on top of and within the snowpack. This increasingly common dynamic can influence the ability of animals, including caribou and muskoxen, to forage and move across the landscape. That, in turn, affects the people who rely on wildlife for subsistence, culture, wellbeing and income. Given the widespread impacts of rain-on-snow events, Colorado State University researchers are studying and modeling their effects in Arctic systems. The work is especially important considering the rapid rate of climate change across the region
Don’t reach for the bug spray: crickets stroke a sore antenna, as cues suggest insects feel pain
The behavioural cue of ‘flexible self-protection’ is a way to establish whether an animal feels pain, scientists say
Iowa politics: Gov. Reynolds to sign animal cruelty bill into law Monday
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds will sign a bill making animal torture a felony, a move supporters say strengthens protections and increases penalties for the most severe cases of abuse.
Fox Pulls Back From Live-Action Comedies, Seeks Viable Business Model
Fox is "taking a step back" from live-action comedies while mulling a viable business model with modest license fees.
Ice age humans in China crafted surprisingly advanced stone tools 146,000 years ago
Scientists in China discovered that ancient humans were making surprisingly advanced stone tools during a harsh ice age 146,000 years ago. The tools, created by Homo juluensis, show careful planning and complex thinking rather than simple stone-chipping. Researchers dated the site using tiny calcite crystals inside animal bones, revealing the tools are much older than expected. The discovery challenges the idea that human creativity only thrives in easy, prosperous times.
Posthumous degree to be awarded to former animal science student
Alison Ciancio, a former animal science student, will posthumously be awarded her degree in recognition of her academic dedication, service to others and lasting impact on the Iowa State University community.
WOAH Statement on Hantavirus - WOAH - World Organisation for Animal Health
Hantavirus is a zoonotic disease, meaning it originates in animals — primarily rodents — before crossing into human populations.
IN8bio Reports First Quarter 2026 Financial Results and Recent Business Highlights
Advancing next-generation γδ T cell engager platform with initial animal data expected in 2026Reported glioblastoma (GBM) data showing ~97% improvement in progression-free survival vs. standard-of-care; updated median overall survival (mOS) data to be presented at ASCO 2026Hosting R&D Day on May 21, 2026 in New York City NEW YORK, May 07, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IN8bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: INAB), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing innovative gamma-delta (γδ) T cell therapies and γδ
Rare Pink Katydid Slowly Transforms Green and Upends Camouflage Science
Camouflage is a widely studied antipredator technique that we thought we understood. A rainforest insect, however, is rewriting the textbooks on the subject as it reveals previously unseen behavior. O...
UFC 328 Embedded, Episode 3: 'I love my job'
On the third episode of UFC 328 Embedded, Tatsuro Taira packs his suitcase and heads to New Jersey; Joshua Van hits one last strength and conditioning session with his mother; Ateba Gautier takes his traditional fight week trip to see some animals; Waldo Cortes Acosta hits everything but the pads ...
Science: A novel gene-therapy approach to ‘functionally cure’ HIV succeeds in some monkeys
Six animals suppressed AIDS virus after one shot of treatment that makes cell-receptor antibody
Elanco Animal Health CEO reveals efforts to stop screwworm outbreak
Elanco Animal Health CEO Jeff Simmons discusses response to screwworm outbreak concerns on 'The Claman Countdown.'
Nuturing a Future in Animal Science
Driven by a love for animals and people, animal science major Alexia Alexander has stayed focused on reaching her goals at NC State while building momentum for a career in veterinary medicine.
Elanco Animal Health Reports First Quarter 2026 Results
Raising Full Year Outlook and Innovation Target, Improving Year-End Net Leverage Ratio Target First Quarter 2026 Financial Results: Revenue of $1,371 million,...
Conserve Frontier Wildlife as a Naturalist in Red Dead Online
Harriet Davenport needs all the help she can get sampling and classifying the rare wild animals of the five states. Meanwhile, Gus Macmillan wants those animals’ heads (and hides) on his wall.
This simple amino acid supplement greatly reduces Alzheimer’s damage
A new study suggests a surprisingly simple compound could help fight Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers found that arginine—an inexpensive amino acid already considered safe—can reduce the buildup of toxic amyloid proteins in the brain, a hallmark of the disease. In animal models, oral arginine not only lowered harmful protein deposits but also improved behavior and reduced brain inflammation.
Intestinal infection linked to animal yoga, health officials warn
Nevada health officials are investigating reported cases of an intestinal infection they say has been linked to animal yoga.
Intestinal infection linked to animal yoga, health officials warn
Nevada health officials are investigating reported cases of an intestinal infection they say has been linked to animal yoga.
Intestinal infection linked to animal yoga, health officials warn
Nevada health officials are investigating reported cases of an intestinal infection they say has been linked to animal yoga.
Intestinal infection linked to animal yoga, health officials warn
Nevada health officials are investigating reported cases of an intestinal infection they say has been linked to animal yoga.
Intestinal infection linked to animal yoga, health officials warn
Nevada health officials are investigating reported cases of an intestinal infection they say has been linked to animal yoga.
Intestinal infection linked to animal yoga, health officials warn
Nevada health officials are investigating reported cases of an intestinal infection they say has been linked to animal yoga.
Humans And Animals Are Facing a Hidden Fertility Crisis, Scientists Warn
A potential disaster.
All of RFK Jr.’s run-ins with the animal kingdom
From beached whales to road-kill raccoons and an infamous brain worm, the Health and Human Services Secretary has had his share of wild encounters.
What’s Safe to Eat? Birds of a Feather Learn Together
In a study, Australian cockatoos figured out that a new food was OK to consume by observing one another, a vivid example of “social learning” in animals.
Huff-Lonergan, Hansen, Keating selected for endowed positions in animal science
Elisabeth Huff Lonergan, University Professor of animal science, was named the Morrison Chair in Meat Science. Stephanie Hansen, professor of animal science, and Aileen Keating, professor of animal science, will hold the title of Tyrone D. Artz, M.D., Chair for Faculty Excellence in Animal Science.
Birds in Cities Fear Women More Than Men and Scientists Don’t Know Why
A small but consistent difference in how birds respond to approaching humans hints at hidden cues shaping animal behavior.
How a soft spot for animals took a councilman out of politics
At an early age, Chris Seelbach had a soft spot for animals. Now, he's the CEO of SPCA Cincinnati.
Hatching a Career in Food Animal Medicine
Senior Deana Poteat, a double major in animal science and poultry science, will take the next step in her career this fall as a Food Animal Scholar with NC State's College of Veterinary Medicine.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0.3 Patch Notes - Switch 2 And Switch Updates And Fixes
Download it now
Sixth annual Brookgreen Gardens Spring Wine Festival deemed a success
Proceeds from the sold-out event benefit the mission and programs of Brookgreen Gardens, providing support for garden enhancement and renovation, educational offerings, preservation and conservation of sculpture and protection and care for native plants and endangered animals.
OpenAI Really Wants Codex to Shut Up About Goblins
“Never talk about goblins, gremlins, raccoons, trolls, ogres, pigeons, or other animals or creatures unless it is absolutely and unambiguously relevant,” reads OpenAI's coding agent instructions.
Trump wants to turn Fed into another 'political animal': Sen. Warren
The Senate Banking Committee will vote on Wednesday, April 29, over whether to confirm Kevin Warsh's nomination as the next chair of the Federal Reserve. This comes on the same day as Jerome Powell's last FOMC meeting as the head of the US central bank. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Ma.) — the ranking member of the Senate Banking Committee — speaks with Yahoo Finance Senior Fed Reporter Jennifer Schonberger about her questioning of Warsh, the likelihood that Powell will stay on the Fed's Board of Governors, and her perspective on President Trump's economic agenda.
Animal and Range Science Professor Is Changing Agriculture from the Ground Up
Selected for Class 52 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program, a Chico State professor is sharpening leadership skills through immersive training, travel, and collaboration—bringing new perspective and impact to agriculture, education, and industry connections.
Wild Foxes review – animal-obsessed fighter at elite sports academy wonders if more to life than boxing
Valéry Carnoy’s striking film brims with unsynchronised ideas and images, but the physicality and performances of the young cast are undeniable
Home Entertainment New Releases for April 28 Include 'Hoppers' Digitally, 'The Dust Bunny' on Disc
New releases for April 28 include Disney/Pixar’s Hoppers and Warner’s They WIll Kill You digitally, and Lionsgate’s The Dust Bunny on disc. Walt Disney Home Entertainment will release Pixar’s Hoppers for premium digital sale and rental April 28. The animated adventure finds animal lover Mabel seizing an opportunity to use a new technology to ‘hop’ her … Continue reading "Home Entertainment New Releases for April 28 Include ‘Hoppers’ Digitally, ‘The Dust Bunny’ on Disc"
Scientists may have found the brain’s switch for chronic pain
Deep within the brain, scientists have uncovered a hidden “switch” that may decide whether pain fades away—or lingers for months or even years. Researchers found that a small, little-known region called the caudal granular insular cortex (CGIC) acts like a command center, telling the body to keep pain signals alive long after an injury has healed. In animal studies, shutting down this pathway not only prevented chronic pain from forming but could even erase it once it had taken hold.
Global Health Experts Urge Urgent Action to Prevent Future Pandemics Where They Begin
BRONX, NY, April 27, 2026—A new paper published in The Lancet calls on governments to prioritize preventing zoonotic disease spillover—the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans—as a central pillar of global pandemic preparedness, The authors argue that w
Mystery of golden orb found in depths of ocean off Alaska finally solved: 'Everyone was like, What the heck? What is that?'
A two-and-a-half-year-old mystery concerning a strange golden object found miles below the sea surface isn't an egg or sponge — it's from an anemone-like animal.
The shocking origin of human eyes traces back to an ancient “cyclops”
A bizarre, cyclops-like creature from nearly 600 million years ago may hold the key to how your eyes—and even your sleep cycle—evolved. Scientists have discovered that all vertebrates, including humans, trace their vision back to a single light-sensitive “median eye” perched atop a worm-like ancestor’s head. As this ancient animal shifted from a sedentary to a more active lifestyle, it lost and then reinvented its vision, eventually giving rise to the paired, image-forming eyes we rely on today.
Overnight Science Digest: Rethinking thinking by examining animal and AI intelligences
This week’s science news theme—the convoluted relationships between humans and non-human intelligences—arose from an unexpected combination of two dichotomous groups, wildlife and AI. I’ve added in a…
North Star Sports hosts annual bike swap in Burlington
A portion of proceeds will be donated to Passion 4 Paws Animal Rescue.
Glocester petting zoo ordered to quarantine animals after reported infections
Health officials are investigating three confirmed and three probable cases of cryptosporidiosis reported after visits to Rusty Buckle Farm.
Transforming Animal Care, Advancing Human Health
Chancellor Gary S. May issued the following letter today (April 24):To the UC Davis Community:Late yesterday we celebrated another historic gift: $75 million from Kathy Chiao and Kenneth Hao — the second largest individual gift ever made to the UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine.
Bat tests positive for rabies in Haddonfield, health officials say
A bat found in Haddonfield, New Jersey, has tested positive for rabies, the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services confirmed on Friday.
Health officials warn public after 6 rabid animals found in Providence County
The Rhode Island Department of Health is warning the public after at least six animals tested positive for rabies over the last six weeks
Help Support Science With The City Nature Challenge This Weekend
One of the favorite challenges of the year for outdoor lovers happens this weekend: the City Nature Challenge. This worldwide initiative aims to observe and identify as many wild organisms as possible—plants, animals, fungi, and more ...
What to know about citizen science and why public participation matters
Through community science programs, Bay Area residents can document plants and animals and contribute to scientific research just by using their phones.
What to know about citizen science and why public participation matters
Through community science programs, Bay Area residents can document plants and animals and contribute to scientific research just by using their phones.
Worms swam Earth’s oceans 525 million years ago, much earlier than scientists believed
New fossil discovery reveals 535 million-year-old worms, annelids, that were already crawling and swimming, reshaping early animal evolution.
What if humans could regrow tissue? New study moves science closer
For centuries, the inability to regrow lost body parts has been considered a defining limitation of humans and other mammals. While animals like salamanders can regenerate entire limbs, humans are left ...
Hofstra Guest Speaker Highlights Why Public Health Can No Longer Work in Silos
Public health challenges don’t exist in silos, and neither should their solutions. “The importance of the One Health approach – looking at humans, animals, plants, environments, and ecosystem health – we have to use a broad-based approach when we look at complex diseases,” said Dr. Laura Kahn, a
289-million-year-old mummified reptile reveals how breathing began on land
A remarkably preserved, mummified reptile from 289 million years ago is rewriting what we know about how animals first breathed on land. This tiny creature, Captorhinus aguti, reveals the earliest known version of the rib-powered breathing system used by modern reptiles, birds, and mammals — a crucial innovation that helped vertebrates thrive outside water.
Gov. Evers responds to calls for action by Ridglan Farms protesters
Animal rights activists called for Gov. Tony Evers to shut down a Dane County beagle breeding and research facility.
Teacher Feature: Indian River Co. educator brings animals, adventure to science class
CBS12 News' next “Teacher Feature” from the School District of Indian River County creates a sense of wonder in her classroom.
How can scientists visualize cellular life with greater precision? - Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Highlights Salk researchers collaborated with scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine to develop a new class of probes for imaging living cells The probes, called visible-spectrum antigen-stabilizable fluorescent nanobodies (VIS-Fbs), generate high-contrast images with minimal disruption to normal cellular activity The technology enables more precise investigation of complex biological processes, including cell signaling, development, and disease progression LA JOLLA—Fluorescent proteins have revolutionized science, enabling researchers to tag and visualize individual molecules in living cells, tissues, and animals. Using these tools, researchers have watched viruses infect cells in real time, observed cellular trash collection, and tracked the signaling that spurs tumor growth.
EXCLUSIVE: Ubisoft Cancels Alterra, Its Animal Crossing-Inspired Game
Ubisoft has cancelled yet another game, this time ending development on the Animal Crossing-inspired title Alterra.
JRC Summer School non-animal approaches in science
The JRC hosts an international biennial Summer School on non-animal approaches in science for post-graduates and early-career scientists, sharing knowledge on cutting-edge non-animal methods, promoting their use in research and regulation, and exploring related career paths.
Birdfy’s new 4K feeder wants to teach you about the birds it identifies
The Birdfy Feeder Metal 2 features a chew-proof design to protect its seed stockpile from squirrels and other animals.
Indonesia advances One Health and pandemic preparedness through CARE-I
CARE-I is financed by the Pandemic Fund, a global financing mechanism established in 2022 to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The programme focuses on advancing the One Health approach by strengthening collaboration across human, animal and environmental health sectors at both national and subnational levels. It will be implemented for three years from 2026 to 2028.
Hundreds bring their pets to Tuskegee University for annual animal health fair
Veterinary students and professionals gave free health examinations for pets and offered families a variety of vaccinations at a low cost.
Beltrami County 4-H'er selected for statewide Animal Science Ambassador Team
Miley is one of 19 youth leaders chosen from across the state to serve on this statewide group dedicated to advancing 4-H animal science programs and engagement.
Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream solves Animal Crossing: New Horizon's biggest problem
I quickly burnt myself out playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons. I don't expect that to happen with Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream
The Trump team’s puzzling ‘all is well’ message on the economy
After spending the early part of the Iran war trying to sell Americans on an economic message of short-term pain for long-term gain, President Donald Trump and his team have increasingly reverted to their previous posture: that of Kevin Bacon in “Animal House.”
This tool-using cow stunned scientists with her smarts
Veronika the cow scratches hard-to-reach body parts using a brush. This feat is forcing scientists to rethink which animals can use tools.
Sunweb ends sale of excursions involving wildlife entertainment
Sunweb Group will stop selling excursions with wild animals used for entertainment, following new animal welfare guidelines.
Miami hospital with troubled history is DCF’s go-to health center for seniors
“She wasn’t treated like a human. She was treated like an animal,” one patient’s daughter said.
PETA Buys Madison Square Garden Entertainment Stock in Bid to Get Animals Out of Christmas Spectacular
PETA has just purchased stock in Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSGE)—the parent company of Radio City Music Hall—and plans to use its
Top 10 most dangerous animals in the world | BBC Science Focus Magazine
Which animal kills the most humans in a year? From dogs to mosquitos, here are the top 10 most deadly creatures on Earth.
Blue Prince Devs Want You To Go Into These Indie Games Blind
Pick up Animal Well, Blue Prince, Outer Wilds and more, but don't find out anything else about them first
Rock the Paws: Companion Animal Care hosts event to support pets for seniors
Companion Animal Care of Brevard County hosts \
Scientists just solved a 160-million-year fossil mystery “I’ve never seen anything like it”
A rare fossil discovery is shedding light on the “missing years” of early sponge evolution. Scientists found a 550-million-year-old sponge that likely lacked hard skeletal parts, explaining why earlier fossils are so scarce. This supports the idea that the earliest sponges were soft-bodied and rarely preserved. The finding changes how researchers hunt for the origins of animal life.
The real science of Pokémon
The Pokémon franchise, including its recent game Pokémon Pokopia, is inspired by real animals and their ecology. It’s no surprise that so many scientists love to try and “catch ’em all”
Pinckney-area pet store asking the community to support local
The store has been open for over 13 years and sells items for dogs, cats, horses, reptiles, indoor and outdoor birds and other small animals.
Wild Animals Are Adapting to City Life in Surprising Ways, Scientists Reveal
There's a pattern to their behavior.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Has Been Updated To Version 3.0.2, Here Are The Full Patch Notes
Celebrating 25 years with a special item...
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Has Been Updated To Version 3.0.2
The latest patch celebrates 25 years
Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0.2 update out now, special gift available
Animal Crossing: New Horizons just released a version 3.0.2 update, and it includes a special item to celebrate the series' 25th anniversary.
From hooves to scales: Vet Fest showcases animal science at Auburn
Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine (AUVCM) hosted its third annual Vet Fest on April 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located at their campus on Wire Road, this free, family-friendly event invites the entire Auburn community to learn and see what the college of veterinary medicine does. With plenty of educational and hands-on activities, Vet Fest aims to both educate and entertain its guests.
Animal Science Major Finds Familiar Sense of Community on the Farm
Elizabeth Reed left her hometown seeking a fresh start. Her determination and passion for livestock led her to leadership, and a close-knit community at the University Farm.
Hong Kong animal groups urge HKTVmall boycott over life science experiments
Online retailer facing major backlash after its parent company confirmed tests on pigs’ and sheep’s detached heads and limbs.
The Science Behind the Pain of Losing a Beloved Pet
Earlier this year, one particular Reddit thread struck a nerve with dog owners across the country. The original poster reportedly lost their dog and asked their boss for a couple of days off to grieve...
Forage 2026 | A balancing act: The science of silage
The discussion about what to feed beef cattle throughout the year is among the most important conversations for the operation. For many, silage is a consideration. Galen Erickson, Ph.D., Nebraska Cattle Industry Professor of Animal Science and Beef Feedlot Extension Specialist, University of Nebraska-Lincoln,...
Monkey business: Small fleet keeps getting violations for handling lab animals
JKL Secure Freight's been getting in trouble with the USDA -- and an animal-rights groups -- over its handling of monkeys for science experiments. A look at the fleet's roadside-inspection history doesn't inspire much confidence either.
Strengthening One Health through coordinated action on implementation, science, policy and financing - WOAH - World Organisation for Animal Health
Today, the Fourth Quadripartite Executive Annual Meeting will convene in Lyon, France, from 8-9 April 2026. The meeting will focus on preventing future health crises through more integrated systems for managing the health of animals, humans, plants and ecosystems. Preventing future health crises requires urgent, coordinated action that recognizes the deep interconnections between the health of […]
Strengthening One Health through coordinated action on implementation, science, policy and financing - WOAH - World Organisation for Animal Health
Today, the Fourth Quadripartite Executive Annual Meeting will convene in Lyon, France, from 8-9 April 2026. The meeting will focus on preventing future health crises through more integrated systems for managing the health of animals, humans, plants and ecosystems. Preventing future health crises requires urgent, coordinated action that recognizes the deep interconnections between the health of […]
The ‘oldest fossil octopus’ is probably another animal
In 2000, researchers thought they found the oldest fossil octopus, which lived over 300 million years ago. But it may just be a half-rotten nautilus.
Judge tosses PETA’s lawsuit against the American Kennel Club over dog breed health
NEW YORK (AP) — The animal rights group PETA's lawsuit over the health of French bulldogs and some other popular dog breeds has been dismissed, with a judge saying a New York law was misapplied to the…
Scientists discover reversible male birth control that stops sperm production
Scientists at Cornell University may be closing in on the long-sought “holy grail” of male contraception: a safe, reversible, nonhormonal method that completely halts sperm production. In a breakthrough mouse study, researchers used a compound called JQ1 to temporarily shut down meiosis—the critical process that produces sperm—without causing lasting harm. After treatment stopped, sperm production bounced back, fertility returned, and the animals produced healthy offspring.
World Health Day 2026: Together for health. Stand with science
On World Health Day 2026, celebrated on 7 April, WHO unites and mobilizes the world under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science.” celebrating the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants, and the planet. The year‑long campaign spotlights both scientific achievements and the multilateral cooperation needed to turn evidence into action.
Federal Agency Unveils Three Potential Osteoarthritis Treatments
With funding from ARPA-H, three teams of researchers have regrown bone and cartilage, even entire knees, in animal studies. Human trials are not far off.
Interactive exhibits shine at IMAG History & Science Center in Fort Myers
Gulfcoasting takes you inside IMAG with Jason Drew and Director Christian Gould — exploring interactive science, the Gulfcoast Weather Experience, and the outdoor estuary where longtime animal residents steal the show.
Scientists found a “lost world” of animals that shouldn’t exist yet
A remarkable fossil discovery in southwest China is rewriting the story of how complex animal life began, showing that many key animal groups appeared millions of years earlier than scientists once believed. Dating back over 540 million years, the fossils reveal a surprisingly diverse and advanced ecosystem from the late Ediacaran period—before the famous Cambrian explosion. Among the finds are early relatives of starfish, worm-like creatures, and even ancestors of animals with backbones, suggesting that the roots of modern life were already taking shape.
On plant health and embracing new plant-breeding techniques in South Africa
The major challenge currently confronting South Africa’s agriculture is the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. For many farmers across the country, the most urgent tasks are both securing sufficient vaccines and rolling them out quickly in the coming months, particularly as the beef and dairy industries continue to suffer big losses. There is also pressure on sheep, goats, and other livestock to prevent the disease from spreading. As efforts to get the country through this monumental challenge continue, I believe it is important to sharpen our focus on the broader task at hand: strengthening biosecurity. This covers both animal and plant health. In recent years, we haven’t focused much on plant health, except a few times, such as when we had a goss’s wilt scare in the maize industry, a few cases of citrus black spot, or cases of sclerotinia in sunflower seeds. But the fact that South Africa managed to control the outbreaks of these particular diseases when they occurred a few years ago was due to organized agricultural and government scientific capabilities, and, most importantly, the availability of crop protection or agrochemicals necessary to address some of them. Therefore, as the animal health division in the Department of Agriculture focuses on the pressing challenge of the day, the foot-and-mouth disease, there is an opportunity for the plant health division to assess if they have all the requirements to tackle any outbreak that may occur on fruits, vegetables or crops in future. The challenge with crop diseases is that they can spread quickly and cause much more rapid damage in the field than we typically see with livestock. Therefore, speed is everything in ensuring the appropriate controls are available. I raise this as an important area, particularly given the drastic climate variation we observe across the country. The production conditions in some areas have changed noticeably over time, which may introduce new risks. The other essential part is ensuring that South Africa has access to the best crop protection technology available in the market. Many technology developers worldwide have operations in South Africa. Therefore, the Department of Agriculture, along with the Agricultural Research Council, must continuously interact with technology developers to assess the various crop protection technologies they are releasing globally and determine their suitability and need in South Africa. This will require a proactive approach from the government, unlike the current approach, in which technology developers typically approach regulators with new technologies. The government, recognising the food security risks, must take a proactive approach to ensure that South African farmers have access to the latest crop protection technologies, thereby safeguarding the country’s food security. Beyond crop protection, we must never forget that South Africa’s agriculture is key to ensuring that the country is the most food-secure country at the national level in sub-Saharan Africa. South Africa is also the only African country in the top-40 global agricultural exporters, having more than doubled since 1994 on the back of the adoption of high-yielding seed cultivars. South Africa has been the only African country to adopt a bold approach to embracing science and adopting genetically engineered seeds for grains and oilseeds in the early 2000s. Since then, we have seen crop yields improve noticeably, contributing to the gains we mentioned above. But ensuring that South Africa improves further is not a given. The key lies in South African regulators’ attitudes towards new technologies. We have to maintain a progressive approach and not give in to the politics of non-food and non-scientific voices that shout on the sidelines. Food security is national security, and the government must ensure we progress, leaning on science. Therefore, the registration of high-yielding new genomic techniques is required. South Africa cannot afford to fall behind the EU, the USA, South America, and many of its competitors in global agriculture. The Department of Agriculture’s crop science division must adopt a progress-and-science-embracing approach for the good of the country. Thanks for reading AgriView! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. Subscribe Share