Giant panda Mei Xiang continues to be a wonderful mother to her newborn. Last night, she gently set the cub down on the floor of their den and walked into her main indoor enclosure to drink some water.
If time permits, we will take a cheek swab for DNA analysis.
Smithsonian’s Great Plains Science Program has partnered with Aaniiih and Nakoda Tribes of Fort Belknap Indian Community in northern Montana, in an effort to reintroduce the Nóouhàh-Toka’na, or swift fox. Conservation efforts have brought swift foxes back to 40% of their original range, but a 186-mile (300 kilometer) gap across their range in Montana threatens their survival.
We collect DNA samples from swift fox scat for identification and lineage tracing
As we celebrate the birth of our newest giant panda cub, take a look back at our top 10 favorite moments from the cub’s first two weeks, as seen on the Panda Cam!
and measurements, and take a cheek swab, which will allow us to analyze the cub’s DNA
The panda house is closed to the public beginning today, Sept. 1 to provide quiet for Mei Xiang as she enters the final stages of a pregnancy or pseudopregnancy.
A few months later, Mei Xiang gave birth to Bao Bao, who, DNA analyses revealed,
For centuries, biologists have used a classification system, known as taxonomy, to identify, name and categorize organisms into groups. Systematics is a branch of biological science that studies the distinctive characteristics of species and how they are related to other species through time. Thus, it is the basis used to understand the evolution of life.
In particular, the possibility of inclusion of “ancient DNA” obtained from historical
Frogs, toads, salamanders and newts are vanishing at an unprecedented rate. Smithsonian scientists are working to save amphibians through projects focused in Panama and Appalachia.
Image: Detecting Rare Salamanders Using Environmental DNA How do you find an elusive
‚Hoppy‘ Amphibian Awareness Week! All week long, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute will be sharing stories about amazing amphibians and the scientists working to save them from extinction.
Using DNA barcoding, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute scientist Jessica
One year ago, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo welcomed Xiao Qi Ji—a precious giant panda born in the midst of a global pandemic. As the giant panda team prepares to celebrate his first birthday Aug. 21, take a look back at his top 12 milestones that left panda fans around the world in awe and ‘aww.’
Veterinarians took a quick swab of the cub’s cheek for DNA analysis.
The Great Plains Science Program is a long-term research project from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
July 29, 2025 Study: New DNA Tool Identifies Animals by Their Droppings Research
‚Hoppy‘ Amphibian Awareness Week! All week long, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute will be sharing stories about amazing amphibians and the scientists working to save them from extinction.
Using DNA barcoding, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute scientist Jessica
