First Mummified Saber-Toothed Kitten Found in Siberian Permafrost

Nov 20 2024

A 35,000-year-old mummified saber-toothed cat cub has been unearthed in Siberia, marking the first known mummy of its kind. Discovered near the Badyarikha River in Yakutia in 2020, the Homotherium latidens cub was preserved in permafrost, with abundant fur, soft tissue, and intact forelimbs. This rare find sheds light on the anatomy and lifestyle of the extinct predator, renowned for its long, blade-like canines.

Published in Scientific Reports, the study details the cub’s thick, soft, dark brown fur and preserved “beans” – the fleshy pads on its paws. Lead researcher Alexey V. Lopatin described seeing the mummy as a “fantastic feeling,” providing an unparalleled view of an ancient predator. The discovery represents the first Homotherium specimen found in Asia, adding to fossil evidence from Europe and North America.

Paleontologist Jack Tseng hailed the find as transformative, noting the rarity of such well-preserved soft tissue. Radiocarbon dating places the cub in the Pleistocene epoch, offering a glimpse into feline evolution, as Homotherium split from other cats 18 million years ago. DNA extraction and further analysis of the skeleton and muscles are expected to unlock more secrets of this remarkable ice age predator.

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Parliamentary Secretary Attends EU Fisheries Council Of Ministers In Brussels

Nov 20 2024

Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Animal Rights, Alicia Bugeja Said, participated in the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council of Ministers in Brussels.

Discussions centred on ensuring the sustainability of the fisheries and agriculture sectors, determining Mediterranean fishing quotas for 2025, and addressing agricultural challenges through targeted assistance.

During her address, Bugeja Said underscored the need to recognise and reward the sacrifices made by Maltese and Gozitan fishers. She highlighted the daily struggles they face to secure their livelihoods, emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting them.

“We have implemented various measures to assist local fishers and will continue to introduce initiatives aimed at fostering a more sustainable sector,” she affirmed.

She also called for stricter enforcement in the Mediterranean to ensure all countries, particularly non-EU states, adhere to regulations. Furthermore, she advocated for additional scientific research to justify increasing fishing quotas.

“As a country, we are pressing for higher quotas because scientific evidence and data confirm that our current fishing practices are sustainable and do not harm fish populations, including popular species such as tuna and dolphinfish,” Bugeja Said explained.

On agriculture, Malta pushed for greater flexibility in CAP Strategic Plans and State Aid regulations, urging for funding not only during crises but also to proactively address climate-related challenges like droughts and floods.

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Flaming New Look: New CPD Uniform Revealed

Nov 20 2024

Civil Protection Malta have revealed their flaming new look – the brand new uniform which is set to accompany the officers into the field to protect the public.

‘Lit for duty. Fired up for action’, wrote the CPD on social media to accompany a quick-shot video showcasing the outfit.

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Marbled Electric Ray Spotted in Maltese Waters

Nov 20 2024

A marbled electric ray (Torpedo marmoratus), known in Maltese as haddiela, was recently photographed in Maltese waters by Alessio Marrone. The image was shared by marine biologist Alan Deidun, drawing attention to this uncommon sighting.

The marbled electric ray is capable of delivering an electric shock of up to 200 volts, which it uses mainly to defend itself against predators. Typically a solitary and nocturnal species, it is more commonly found in the Atlantic but does occasionally appear in the Mediterranean.

Sightings are rare, as the ray tends to remain hidden in sandy sea beds during daylight hours. However, its distinctive marbled pattern makes it stand out when spotted.

Divers and marine enthusiasts are reminded to observe the ray from a safe distance, as its electric discharge can be harmful. This encounter highlights the rich biodiversity of Malta’s marine environment and reinforces the importance of protecting it.

Alan Deidun’s post featuring Marrone’s photograph sheds light on the lesser-seen inhabitants of Malta’s waters, encouraging greater appreciation and respect for local marine ecosystems.

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