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2024 Year in Review: Amazing Animal Stories

To recap 2024, NewsForKids.net is taking a look back at some of the most interesting stories we’ve covered this year.
Today we’re looking at some amazing stories from the world of animals.

Moo Deng Draws Attention to Endangered Species

Moo deng, a pygmy hippo in Khao Khoew Zoo, Thailand
A baby pygmy hippo named Moo Deng has become a huge internet star. Videos and pictures of Moo Deng have made her famous online, and have drawn thousands of people to the zoo in Thailand where she lives. The zoo hopes her fame can help bring attention to her endangered species.


Cloned Endangered Ferret Has Babies

Antonia's kits, Sibert and Red Cloud, being held in gloved hands. Their black feet are prominently displayed.
Two baby black-footed ferrets have made history as the first endangered animals to be born from a cloned mother. Scientists are hoping their birth will help in the recovery of this endangered species.


Elephants Learn About Getting Hosed

Mary showering (top), Anchali cutting off the water (bottom)
Scientists have long known that elephants are clever. They can solve problems, they talk to each other, and they have long memories. But researchers were surprised at the way two Asian elephants recently showed off their understanding of an unusual tool – a hose.


Rats Trained to Sniff Out Wildlife Smuggling

Last year, the rats were tested at the Dar es Salaam seaport in Tanzania, a busy international port. The scientists had hidden illegal wildlife products in several containers. The rats were able to locate over 83% of the hidden items. Above, a rat taking part in a training exercise.
Scientists in Tanzania have trained rats to help detect illegal wildlife products being smuggled out of the country. The rats have learned to recognize the smell of these items, and can alert their handlers when they find them. The program is still being tested, but the method could help protect some endangered animals.


At 74, World’s Oldest Bird Lays Another Egg

Wisdom, left, watches as her partner prepares to sit on their egg.
The world’s oldest known wild bird is an albatross named Wisdom. She’s around 74 years old, and has recently returned to her nesting place in the Midway Atoll. Wisdom may be old, but she’s still active. She has just laid her first egg in four years.

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