Latest news with #Species
Business Wire
05-08-2025
- General
- Business Wire
Colossal Foundation Announces the Colossal Species Reintroduction Fund; First-Ever Dedicated Accelerator for Rewilding Animals to Native Habitats Globally
DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Colossal Foundation, the 501(c)(3) charitable organization of Colossal Biosciences, the de-extinction company, today announced the launch of its Species Reintroduction Fund. In collaboration with conservation non-profit, Re:wild, this first-of-its-kind fund will dedicate at least $250,000 annually to support every phase of reintroduction–including planning, genetic assessment and post-release monitoring for threatened species across terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems worldwide. By providing both financial support and technical collaboration, the Colossal Species Reintroduction Fund will support the release of animals into the wild, restore habitats, increase genetic diversity, and enhance species survival, benefiting both vulnerable wildlife populations and the human communities reliant on healthy ecosystems. 'The Colossal Foundation is committed to making extinction a thing of the past. The best way to do that is to stop extinction before it starts. The Fund is one of the ways in which we can accelerate those efforts globally,' said Colossal Co-founder and CEO, Ben Lamm. 'Now we are doing even more to mobilize resources and expertise to restore wildlife populations on the brink of disappearing all over the globe.' The Fund's inaugural cohort of six target species across six projects—and their respective recipient organizations—includes: Bolson tortoise (Critically Endangered) - New Mexico, USA; Turner Endangered Species Fund Black lion tamarin (Endangered) - Brazil; Instituto de Pesquisas Ecológicas California condor (Critically Endangered) - Idaho, USA; Nez Percé Tribe Golden skiffia (Extinct in the Wild) - Mexico; Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo Vietnam pheasant (Critically Endangered) - Vietnam; European Association of Zoos and Aquariums and Viet Nature Wampukrum harlequin toad (Critically Endangered) - Ecuador; Centro Jambatu Each species faces severe threats—such as habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species, and disease—and has experienced dramatic population declines or extirpation from its native range. Yet, each species plays a unique and vital role in its respective ecosystem. Through targeted conservation measures, the Colossal Species Reintroduction Fund strives to mend the harms threatening species survival and halt further biodiversity decline. 'Nature is in crisis due to human activities, and ecosystems around the world need our support to remain vibrant and resilient,' said Wes Sechrest, Re:wild chief scientist and CEO. 'Species reintroductions are critical in many of these places to return functional roles to natural environments–helping species, habitats, and human communities to thrive. We are excited that this new fund is dedicated to efforts at every reintroduction stage, from start to release to long-term management, supporting project teams through key challenges along the long road to ensuring ecosystem health for generations to come.' A UNIQUE GLOBAL EFFORT The Colossal Species Reintroduction Fund is the only fund in the world entirely dedicated to supporting wildlife reintroduction and rewilding projects globally. Through this singular focus, the Fund streamlines partnerships and resources to maximize success and scale impact. Projects will be supported for up to 12 months at a time with grant requests up to $50,000 per year considered. Fund Objectives: Strengthening Target Species Populations: Maximizing genetic diversity, abundance, and population viability through responsible conservation translocations that move wild or bred animals into the wild through reintroductions, reinforcements, ecological replacements, or assisted colonization. Restoring Habitats: Going beyond restoration to ensure habitats are managed for sustainable, long-term recovery that supports thriving populations of reintroduced species. Supporting Human Communities: Partnering with local and Indigenous communities to restore healthy ecosystems capable of supporting alternative livelihoods and aligning with conservation goals. Enabling Long-Term Conservation Conditions: Establishing robust management plans and policies that ensure species reintroductions continue to succeed well beyond the project timeframe. Within the next two years, the Colossal Species Reintroduction Fund will work with hundreds of conservationists across dozens of countries in their fight to reverse the species extinction crisis and bring balance back to ecosystems worldwide. Quotes from Inaugural Grantees: Mike Phillips, Director, Turner Endangered Species Fund (Bolson tortoise) 'Reintroduction projects on behalf of critically endangered species like the bolson tortoise, known in Mexico as Tortuga Grande, affirm that restoration is an alternative to extinction. To realize that certainty only requires that we choose to act. It is the power of choice that gives me hope. The Colossal Foundation's Species Reintroduction Fund is a choice of the finest kind.' Gabriela Rezende, Black Lion Tamarin Conservation Program Coordinator, Instituto de Pesquisas Ecológicas (Black lion tamarin) "It has always been clear to us that managing the endangered black lion tamarin populations through translocation and reintroduction is a key strategy not only for saving the species, but also for restoring the functional diversity of its native habitat—the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. But this work requires deep technical expertise and the courage to take significant risks. Having partners like the Colossal Foundation's Species Reintroduction Fund empowers us to meet this challenge and brings us one step closer to ensuring these populations move further away from the brink of extinction." Arely Ramirez Garcia, Freshwater Fish Conservationist, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo (Golden skiffia) "Bringing Skiffia francesae back to the wild is more than conservation—it's an act of love and responsibility. This tiny, golden fish once danced through the clear waters of Mexico, and its silence today is a reminder of how easily beauty can be lost. But extinction is not destiny. When we choose to act, to care, to restore, we rewrite that story. The Colossal Foundation's Species Reintroduction Fund is not just a lifeline for Skiffia francesae —it's a promise that hope can live again in the water." Gary Ward, Bird Curator, Zoological Society of London (Vietnam pheasant) 'We are delighted to receive this support from the Species Reintroduction Fund. This vital support will significantly advance our efforts to restore Vietnam pheasant back into safe wild habitat. We extend our sincere thanks to all of our partners on the Vietnamese Pheasant Recovery Team and our supporters who share our vision for a viable, secure, and stable population of Vietnam pheasant in the wild with protection supported by people locally, nationally, and internationally, this marks a major milestone.' Ben Goldsmith, Chair, Conservation Collective (Species Reintroduction Fund Advisor) 'Restoring missing native species to their former range is not only a moral imperative, but vital for ecological restoration, and utterly joyful. I'm so happy to have the opportunity to work on this initiative.' Dr. Axel Moehrenschlager, Chair, IUCN Species Survival Commission Conservation Translocation Specialist Group (Species Reintroduction Fund Advisor) 'Preventing the extinction of species that share our planet is the global priority for wildlife conservation. Conservation translocations like reintroductions are powerful to help species, restore ecosystems, and inspire hope for a brighter future. By launching and growing this Species Reintroduction Fund, we aim to empower current and emerging conservation champions to escalate responsible and courageous conservation actions around the world.' APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR NEXT COHORT The Species Reintroduction Fund is now seeking additional applications for its second cohort of grants. Proposals are encouraged from nonprofit, government, and academic organizations around the world with innovative strategies to reintroduce threatened species and restore critical habitats. For additional details, including fund eligibility criteria, deadlines, to submit an application, and program guidelines, visit: ABOUT THE COLOSSAL FOUNDATION The Colossal Foundation is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting the use of cutting-edge technologies for conservation efforts globally to help prevent extinction of keystone species. The organization deploys de-extinction technologies and support to empower partners in the field to reverse the extinction crisis. Learn more at ABOUT RE:WILD Re:wild protects and restores the wild. We have a singular and powerful focus: the wild as the most effective solution to the interconnected climate, biodiversity and human wellbeing crises. Founded by a group of renowned conservation scientists together with Leonardo DiCaprio, Re:wild is a force multiplier that brings together Indigenous peoples, local communities, influential leaders, nongovernmental organizations, governments, companies and the public to protect and rewild at the scale and speed we need. Learn more at
Metro
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Michael Madsen's cause of death revealed weeks after actor's death aged 67
Michael Madsen's cause of death has been confirmed after the Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill: Vol. 2 star died on July 3. Madsen's manager, Ron Smith, confirmed that the actor died earlier this month after suffering a cardiac arrest and being found unresponsive in his Malibu home. Now his death certificate from the L.A. County Medical Examiner has been released, confirming the cause of the cardiac arrest. The report, seen by TMZ, detailed that Madsen was dealing with cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, and chronic alcoholism, which brought on the cardiac arrest. Another significant condition was thromboembolic disease (also known as deep vein thrombosis). After Madsen's death, various celebrities and family members paid tribute to the actor, remembering him fondly. Per the NHS, symptoms of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) in the leg are: throbbing pain in 1 leg (rarely both legs), usually in the calf or thigh, when walking or standing up swelling in 1 leg (rarely both legs) warm skin around the painful area red or darkened skin around the painful area – this may be harder to see on brown or black skin swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them Madsen's son Luke, who he shared with ex-wife DeAnna, shared a loving but heartbreaking tribute on Instagram about his father, also mentioning his late brother. 'Some people's heroes wear capes. And fly shooting lasers out of their eyes. Some people's heroes can fight off armies and overcome anything. 'My hero wore a cowboy hat. My hero stood taller and stronger than any man I've ever met. My hero understood me better than anyone. My Hero is the coolest, most badass human being I know.' He concluded: 'Not only was my hero a famous tough guy movie star, my hero was my father, and he was a damn good one. Love you, Pops. I'll see you again some day. Tell Hudson I said hi.' Hudson Lee Madsen, was Luke's older brother and Madsen's son, who took his own life in 2022 when he was 26 years old. After appearing on screens for the first time in the 1980s, Madsen earned over 300 credits to his name throughout his career, including the likes of Sin City, Species and James Bond flick Die Another Day, as well as his long-running collaboration with filmmaker Quentin Tarantino. His first notable screen role was in the science fiction film WarGame in 1983, going on to appear in Killing Time, Blood Red and Thelma & Louise. More Trending His first real breakout role came in Quentin Tarantino's 1992 directorial debut, Reservoir Dogs, in which he played the criminal and main villain, Mr. Blonde. Following this role, he appeared in the Free Willy franchise, Mulholland Falls and Die Another Day, before other notable roles came in Tarantino's Kill Bill films in 2003 and 2004, and Tarantino's 2015 flick The Hateful Eight. Madsen was also cast in Sin City, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Scary Movie 4. In 2012, he also appeared on the ninth season of Celebrity Big Brother alongside Denise Welch, Frankie Cocozza and Natalie Cassidy, finishing in fourth place. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Chris Martin jokes about couple in Coldplay audience: 'Either they're having an affair or very shy!' MORE: Denise Richards 'granted restraining order' against ex Aaron Phypers after explosive abuse allegations MORE: Sarah Michelle Gellar addresses claims of feud with ex co-star Jennifer Love Hewitt
IOL News
16-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Protecting wildlife: South Africa to prohibit new captive lion breeding facilities
In a landmark decision, South Africa's government is set to ban new captive lion breeding facilities, marking a significant step towards ethical wildlife conservation and animal welfare. Image: Independent Newspapers Archives In a decisive move to protect South Africa's lions and reinforce ethical conservation practices, the government is set to ban the establishment of new captive lion breeding facilities. This forms part of a broader initiative to phase out commercial intensive breeding of lions and prioritise animal wellbeing. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said it is finalising a Prohibition Notice that will outlaw the creation of new captive lion facilities in the country. This step follows recommendations from the Ministerial Task Team and supports the Policy Position on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Elephant, Lion, Leopard and Rhinoceros. The notice comes after animal welfare organisation Four Paws South Africa recently called for government to expedite the implementation of the phase-out plan of the captive lion industry. Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said: 'This marks a turning point in our approach to wildlife conservation. By prohibiting new captive lion breeding facilities and addressing critical animal wellbeing provisions in the TOPS (Threatened or Protected Species) Regulations to be published in due course, we are committed to enforcing clear, effective, and legally robust measures that protect South Africa's natural heritage and address concerns raised by the public, conservation experts, and stakeholders.' The ban will be introduced through updated Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) Regulations under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA), 2004. 'The Lion Prohibition Notice implements a key recommendation from the Ministerial Task Team Report and is in line with the objectives of the Policy Position on the conservation and sustainable use of elephant, lion, leopard, and rhinoceros,' said the Department. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 'The Notice prohibits the establishment of new captive lion facilities for commercial purposes, aligning with global conservation standards and ethical wildlife management practices.' The Notice was tabled before the National Council of Provinces on June 10, 2025 and has since passed the 30-day consideration period. The Department confirmed that it has completed the necessary administrative processes for promulgation. Additionally, the Department is working with provincial Members of the Executive Council (MECs) under Section 87A(3) of NEM:BA to ensure effective implementation of the ban. Minister George is expected to provide further updates during stakeholder engagements, including at the upcoming G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group meeting at Kruger National Park. 'We are building a regulatory foundation that prioritises animal wellbeing, biodiversity protection, and practical enforcement,' said George. 'The Department remains fully committed to finalising and implementing these reforms without delay, ensuring a sustainable future for South Africa's wildlife.' THE MERCURY
Saudi Gazette
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Saudi Gazette
Michael Madsen, actor of ‘Kill Bill' and ‘Reservoir Dogs' fame, dead at 67
LOS ANGELES — Actor Michael Madsen, a stoic actor who worked frequently with director Quentin Tarantino and appeared in various acclaimed films from the 1980s onward, has died, according to his publicist Liz Rodriguez. He was 67. Rodriguez told CNN that Madsen had a cardiac arrest and was found unresponsive in his Malibu home Thursday morning. 'Michael Madsen was one of Hollywood's most iconic actors, who will be missed by many,' said a joint statement from his managers Susan Ferris and Ron Smith of Bohemia Entertainment and Rodriguez. Sgt. Christopher Jauregui, watch commander for Los Angeles Sheriff Department Lost Hills Station confirmed to CNN Thursday that deputies responded to Madsen's home in Malibu this morning and found him 'unresponsive.' He was pronounced dead at 8:25 a.m. local time and no foul play is suspected, Jauregui added. Madsen was a prolific dramatic actor who was best known for his work in several of Tarantino's films, including 'Reservoir Dogs,' 'Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood' and the 'Kill Bill' films. Known for his stony looks and calm, sometimes menacing demeanor, Madsen could play a fierce villain (see 'Kill Bill') as well as a protagonist, as seen in 1995's 'Species.' Having gotten his start in TV in the early '80s – an early role on 'St. Elsewhere in 1983 first put him on the map – Madsen soon transitioned to films, where he made an impression in 1991's Ridley Scott-directed hit 'Thelma & Louise,' in which he played Louise's (Susan Sarandon) put-upon love interest Jimmy. The next year saw his first collaboration with Tarantino in 'Reservoir Dogs,' the uber-violent ensemble piece in which Madsen played the sadistic Mr. Blonde. Thus began a prolific time for the actor – who appeared in primarily action films along with westerns like 1994's 'Wyatt Earp.' While much of Madsen's oeuvre strayed into B-movie territory, he continued to appear in higher profile hits as well, such as 'Donnie Brasco' in 1997, the James Bond film 'Die Another Day' in 2002, and 2005's 'Sin City.' Madsen's knack for demented villains was perfected in his portrayal of Sidewinder in the 'Kill Bill' franchise, one of the foes Uma Thurman's Bride must vanquish before defeating her main nemesis. The films were split into two volumes in 2003 and 2004. Other roles in which he shined include 2004's noir western 'Renegade' and 'The Hateful Eight,' another Tarantino film, from 2015. 'My career is like a heart monitor,' he said in a 1992 interview on the 'Reservoir Dogs' DVD. 'I get involved in a good project now and then to keep things going ... every movie you make can't be great, no matter who you are.' Madsen's off-screen life was marked by some legal and personal troubles. Last year, he was arrested on suspicion of domestic battery misdemeanor after a dispute with his wife DeAnna Madsen, according to Variety and online arrest records. The actor filed for divorce from DeAnna Madsen one month later. In 2019, Madsen was arrested for DUI, his second within 10 years, and in 2012, was arrested following a physical altercation with his then-teenage son. Madsen was open about his struggles, telling the Independent in a 2020 interview that he went through some 'terrible, terrible times,' including his DUIs and an injury following a motorcycle accident. 'Fame is not what it's cracked up to be,' he added. 'I'm not complaining, because I've had a great life. But it can wreak havoc on you if you're not protected.' In 2022, Madsen's son Hudson died by suicide in Hawaii. 'I didn't see any signs of depression. It's so tragic and sad. I'm just trying to make sense of everything and understand what happened,' Madsen told the LA Times. With over 320 credits to his name on IMDb, Madsen also had a whopping 18 titles in development at the time of his death. In the statement from his representatives following his death, they said Madsen had been 'doing some incredible work with independent film including upcoming feature films 'Resurrection Road', 'Concessions' and 'Cookbook for Southern Housewives.'' He was, the statement said, 'really looking forward to this next chapter in his life.' 'Cookbook' is a crime drama set in the early '70s in the American South, while 'Concessions' follows the closing of a legendary movie theater and costars Josh Hamilton. According to his IMDb, Madsen was also set to appear in 'Saturday at the Starlight,' a comedy set at a roller rink in the 1990s costarring Abigail Breslin and Denise Richards, and 'Oldfellas,' about aging mobsters at a retirement resort. Madsen was also preparing to release a book called 'Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems.' 'You'll make a great film when you least expect it, or don't really anticipate it ... I don't have a crystal ball or time machine, I can't know what's going to happen,' Madsen told Vulture in 2008. 'I just want longevity.' — CNN
The Onion
08-04-2025
- Business
- The Onion
Mega Millions Raises Price Of Tickets To $5
Mega Millions players will get slightly better odds and should start seeing more billion-dollar jackpots, but at a cost with tickets for the multi-state lottery jumping in price from $2 to $5. What do you think? 'This is going to price a lot of people out of being delusional.' Darrell Kloker, Recommendation Expert 'Bad day to be my baby formula budget.' Tina Waldman, Success Congratulator 'If I had five bucks, I wouldn't need to play the lottery.' Edmund Lindquist, Species Tabulator
