Endangered snail species are at risk of extinction due to the construction of a lithium mine

The country’s largest lithium mine is currently under construction in Nevada. The project threatens a tiny species of snail called the Kings River Pyrg – construction of the mine, which covers about nine square miles, lowered the water table. Without water, the Kings River Pyrg experiences habitat loss and nutrient declines, potentially leading to a reduction in population numbers.

A group of Native American tribes led the petition to protect the area. However, the court ruled against it and allowed construction to continue. Now another indigenous group, working with the Western Watersheds Project, wants to sue the government agencies overseeing the mine’s construction, citing their failure to monitor the construction’s impact on groundwater levels.

Since 2018, the groundwater level in the area has fallen by around 1.5 meters. Groundwater is necessary to recharge the natural springs that serve as habitat for the King River Pyrg. If the tiny snail species is not protected soon, it is at risk of extinction. Find out more about the Kings River Pyrg here.

The Swedish government allows hunters to kill protected wolves to reduce the population

Despite backlash from animal rights activists and the public, the Swedish government is continuing its annual hunt for wild wolves. Every year the government allows hunters to kill wolves to reduce population numbers, regardless of their classification as protected animals.

This year, Sweden is allowing a total of 30 wolves to be exterminated. Some argue that the slaughter is illegal under EU law, especially considering there are only 375 wolves in Sweden’s wild. The country is aiming to halve this population and now has 170 individuals as the new minimum. Sweden has been struggling to preserve its wild wolf population for decades. Between 1966 and 1983 there was no breeding wolf population in the country. The EU is likely to relax rules protecting wolves as their populations begin to recover across the continent.

The brand new dog breed, officially recognized by the AKC

The American Kennel Club recently added the Danish-Swedish farm dog to its list of recognized breeds, allowing it to compete in Best Show Dog competitions. Until 2026, farm dogs can compete in the Westminster Kennel Club dog show. The Danish-Swedish Farm Dog is an intelligent breed characterized by quick learning abilities and enthusiastic personalities. While many are thrilled by the news, others fear what it means for the breed’s welfare.

Some fear the breed is becoming too popular too quickly; others believe farm dogs should not be recognized in the AKC. In addition, animal rights activists fear that the prestige of show dogs will increase interest in purebred animals. This could negatively impact shelter adoption rates as owners prefer show dogs to shelters. Learn more about AKC recognized breeds here.

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