Natural World the latest news on the climate crisis, wildlife conservation, biodiversity and animal welfare

560 Dolphins Killed or Captured As Annual ‘Barbaric’ Japanese Hunt Comes To A Close

Campaigners are urging the public to ‘stop buying tickets for shows’ as 33 wild dolphins are caught alive for aquariums and parks

by Nick Ames

Robot Elephant Replaces Real Animals for Cruelty-Free Indian Temple Rituals

It’s hoped the robot elephant – created by artists who supply pachyderm statues for Dubai Shopping Festival – will phase out elephant abuse across India

by Nick Ames

And The Winner Of The Ethicalist’s UAE Nature Photo Competition Is ….

We were overwhelmed by the number of stunning entries for UAE nature photo competition but there could only be one winner

by Anthea Ayache

The Ugly Truth: Why Do We Save The Cutest Animals?

Are so-called ‘ugly’ endangered animals being neglected in favour of cute, fluffy ones because they don’t conform to human standards of beauty?

by Sarah Freeman

Venice Canals Dry Up As Italy Faces Further Drought

Gondolas have been left stranded and water ambulances are unable to navigate some Venice canal routes as forecasters warn of another drought

by Nick Ames

The Plight of The Pangolin: The World’s Most Illegally Trafficked Mammal

WARNING: GRAPHIC PICTURES They’re almost blind and most people have never heard of them but more pangolins have been killed than elephants and rhinos combined

by Sarah Freeman

Saudi Arabia Unveils $25m Plans to Rewild Critically Endangered Arabian Leopard

The news comes as images of the big cat adorned billboards across Dubai, London and New York to mark Arabian Leopard Day

by Nick Ames

Why Conflict-Free Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend

You don’t want to celebrate Valentine’s with a diamond that’s paid for a civil war or been plucked from the ground by a child. Luckily, you can sparkle with ethical jewellery

by Rae Ritchie

Seagrass Prairies: Why We Need To Save The Savannas Of The Sea Now

They protect our coastlines and trap microplastics in their ribbon-like-leaves, so why are seagrass prairies the ocean’s most overlooked habitat?

by Sarah Freeman