Latest from Pets & Animals

Nine whales survive
Just nine of the 63 whales found stranded on a Northland beach on Friday have survived.

Whale death toll rises to 44
The number of whales to have perished on Karikari beach has now reached 44 - but rescuers are trying to save 14 survivors.

Whale rescue called off until morning
Fifteen whales still battling for survival after a mass stranding in the Far North are in a "fairly poor condition" but rescuers still hope to save them.

Harry the croc picks Gillard to win
Move over Paul the octopus - a new psychic force is predicting the outcomes of contests.

<i>Bridget Vercoe:</i> Elephant-herd idea cruel plan to make money
Bridget Vercoe writes that Auckland Zoo's scheme is ill-conceived and unnecessary.

Vets strike over elephant conservation plan
Sri Lanka's government wildlife vets have gone on strike over an elephant conservation plan.

Wild boar bowls man on street
A man knocked to the ground by a pig in a Northland street says the public should be warned a wild boar could be on the loose.

Sheep rustlers jailed
Two men accused of packing 14 stolen sheep into a car have been jailed for 10 months.

<i>Brian Rudman:</i> Is central Auckland any place for a herd of elephants?
Should a popular, well-used park give up part of its territory to a herd of imported elephants?

Getting the chickens before the eggs
In Auckland backyards, chooks have become the ultimate in free-range, recessionary accessories. James Russell takes a peek over the fence.