Satellite data analysis suggests climate-induced algal blooms could be behind hundreds of deaths in Botswana that sparked flurry of theories in 2020 More than 350 elephants that died in mysterious circumstances probably drank toxic water, according to a new paper that warns of an “alarming trend” in climate-induced poisoning. The deaths in Botswana’s Okavango delta were described by scientists as a “conservation disaster”. Elephants of all ages were seen walking in circles before collapsing and dying. Carcasses were first spotted in north-eastern Botswana in May and June 2020, with many theories circulating about the cause of death, including cyanide poisoning or an unknown disease. Continue reading...

Female almost the length of a shipping container was found dead on a drumline in August, primary industries department has revealed Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast The largest great white shark ever caught in Queensland’s shark control program died while pregnant with four pups, the primary industries department has revealed. A female white shark was found dead on a shark-catching drumline near Gladstone in August. Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries took samples for research purposes and has been collaborating with researchers interstate, a spokesperson said. Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email Continue reading...