Animals can predict earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, scientists say

In a groundbreaking study, scientists in Germany have initiated a comprehensive investigation into whether domesticated animals, particularly goats and dogs, possess the ability to predict natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. This research, led by Martin Wikelski of the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behaviour, comes on the heels of a prior study conducted in Sicily, where it was observed that goats displayed signs of nervousness prior to eruptions from Mount Etna, an active volcano. This earlier observation raised intriguing questions about animal behavior in response to geological events, prompting further exploration into the phenomenon. The current research involves a large-scale program wherein thousands of animals are being equipped with tiny transmitters to monitor and analyze their movements via satellite technology. The aim is not solely limited to understanding how these animals might sense impending natural disasters, but also extends to investigating other important aspects of animal health, migration patterns, and the impacts of climate change on wildlife. The data collected through this innovative tagging technology will provide valuable insights into how animals react before, during, and after significant natural phenomena, and could ultimately contribute to better understanding and predicting such disasters. Furthermore, the project leader emphasized the ambition to create a global observation network comprised of several satellites dedicated to wildlife monitoring. This network would help track animal behavior and health, while also allowing scientists to examine the broader implications of environmental changes and health crises among various animal populations. The influences of unknown factors, such as tectonic plate movements affecting the animals' behavior, will also be a focus of study, although the exact mechanics behind these reactions remain largely uncharted territory. The initiative to understand how animals might hold clues to geophysical events aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance predictive capabilities surrounding natural disasters. The researchers hope to unveil more about the links between animal behavior and crisis situations. Despite some setbacks due to geopolitical tensions affecting international collaboration, particularly with the suspension of work with Russian counterparts on the International Space Station, the research team has successfully developed a small satellite scheduled to launch in the coming year. This endeavor continues to push the boundaries of wildlife research and could potentially reshape disaster preparedness strategies in the future.