Artificial intelligence is opening new doors in wildlife research, and one team of scientists is using it to better understand how wild monkeys think. Researchers from Emory University recently introduced CapuchinAI, a portable testing station that combines a touchscreen, facial recognition software, and an automated food dispenser.

This month, OAA is highlighting a fantastic book to introduce young children (recommended for ages 0–3) to some of Ohio’s most common wildlife. Curious Critters Ohio features stunning photos of animals and engaging, simple language that encourages young nature lovers and their families to keep an eye and ear out for critters in their own backyards.

Colorado has taken a significant step toward more science-based wildlife management by ending the practice of allowing unlimited daily kills of several native furbearer species. On July 16, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission voted to establish a daily bag limit of two animals per species for coyotes, bobcats, foxes, badgers, and other species classified as furbearers.

China has announced a nationwide campaign to combat illegal bird and wildlife hunting, targeting poaching, illegal wildlife trade, and organized trafficking networks through the end of 2026. The effort includes stronger enforcement against crimes involving migratory birds, cross-border cooperation, and continued investments in biodiversity conservation.

A newly finalized federal rule removes the long-standing regulatory definition that recognized certain habitat destruction as "harm" under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). That definition helped protect endangered species by recognizing that destroying nesting sites, wetlands, forests, and other essential habitat can injure or kill wildlife, even when the harm isn't immediate or direct.

For many, wildlife population management brings to mind hunting or culling. But around the world, researchers, wildlife managers, and advocates are increasingly exploring another option: fertility control. OAA spoke with Dr. Millie Schaefer, founder and executive director of Cincinnati Urban Deer Advocates, about the growing role of nonlethal wildlife management and what the future may hold.

A loose ostrich running through rural Ohio may sound like an unusual or even humorous news story, but incidents like this raise important questions about exotic animal ownership, public safety, and animal welfare.

According to reports from local authorities, an ostrich escaped in Madison County, Ohio, on March 23, 2026, prompting a response from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies spent several hours searching for and eventually helping corral the bird before it was safely returned to its owner. The ostrich was spotted near Lafayette Plain City and Taylor Blair roads before authorities successfully reunited the animal with its home.

Though roadkill reporting may not seem like good news, a crowdsourced public-use roadkill reporting app was recently developed and made available by Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to identify “hotspots,” areas on roadways where collisions with animals tend to concentrate.

A national effort is underway to help shape the future of wildlife conservation. Led by the Wildlife Management Institute and its partners, this initiative invites practitioners, policymakers, and advocates to weigh in on updated “Foundational Elements of Fish and Wildlife Conservation.” Through an open-access questionnaire, participants can review past policy statements, suggest updates, and contribute new ideas that reflect today’s challenges and opportunities. With responses collected anonymously and shared widely across networks, this is a unique opportunity to ensure diverse perspectives help guide conservation policy for years to come.

Ohio Animal Advocates joins the Johnstown community and the broader animal welfare network in mourning the loss ofRick Armstrong, longtime caretaker of Butternut Farm Wildcat Sanctuary. Rick passed away on March 4th, just two days before his 83rd birthday.

For more than two decades, Rick served as the primary caretaker of the sanctuary—devoting his life to providing a safe, loving home for wildlife and domestic cats in need.

A deeply disturbing act of cruelty against a wolf in Wyoming has led to a guilty plea that may shape the future of animal protection laws—not only in Wyoming, but across the country.

While the outcome cannot undo the suffering inflicted, it represents something significant:
a growing recognition that animal cruelty must be taken seriously—and prosecuted accordingly.

Each spring, wildlife advocates across the country recognize Coyote Awareness Week, an annual event dedicated to increasing appreciation and understanding of one of North America’s most misunderstood animals.

Observed this year from March 16–22, 2026, Coyote Awareness Week invites communities to replace fear and misinformation with knowledge, compassion, and science-based wildlife stewardship.