What do the bald eagle, grizzly bear, manatee, and gray wolf have in common? They are all species that were saved from the brink of extinction by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Recently, Dr. Jane Goodall and the Jane Goodall Institute, knowing the potential and success of this essential Act, have deepened work in advocating for, protecting, and enhancing the ESA. The ESA is a piece of U.S. legislation that is known as one of the most effective across environmental protections. Managed by the US Fish & Wildlife Service which lists species that are in danger of extinction by level of threat, the Act works to protect and recover these beings and their habitats. Since its approval in 1973, 99% of species protected under…
Author: Briana Litchholt
Briana Litchholt
Briana is an Intern with the Communications & Policy Department at the Jane Goodall Institute. She is a recent graduate of Case Western Reserve University where she studied Environmental Geology and Environmental Studies, and is currently pursuing her Master's in Environmental Sciences and Policy at Johns Hopkins University. In addition to learning about all aspects of environmentalism, she enjoys cooking and showing off her rock collection.
Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and so like many things related to human health, looking to our closest living relatives can provide some important insights. In fact, a recent study which included our own JGI staff in Republic of the Congo, found that chimpanzees in rehabilitation centers had low body weights and lower levels of fatty acids, which decreases their risk for cardiovascular diseases. By analyzing lifestyle and other factors that relate to heart health in sanctuary chimpanzees, we can learn more about how to best care for captive wildlife, and humans alike! This study, performed in conjunction with researchers at the University of Michigan, University of New Mexico, researchers in Uganda, and our own JGI staff at Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Center…
