Stephanie O'Neill

Primate pet ownership fuels a brutal industry. This bill could slow it down

Stephanie O'Neill

For most pet primates in the United States, life is marked by chronic stress, malnutrition and illness — if they survive at all. A bill in Congress would aim to make ownership of captive primates illegal in all 50 states.

Captive Primate Safety Act aims to curb illegal pet trade in the U.S.

Stephanie O'Neill

Wildlife trafficking is one of the world's biggest illegal trades, and the U.S. creates much of the demand for pet primates. Now there's a proposed ban on privately owning and breeding these animals.

NPR Headlines

How did the newt cross the road? With the help of the Chileno Valley Newt Brigade!

Stephanie O'Neill

In northern California, a group of volunteers spend every night from late fall through winter as crossing guards–escorting migrating salamanders across a rural road.

Meet the crossing guards who help tiny salamanders travel safely at night

Stephanie O'Neill

A group of volunteers spends every night for a few months acting as crossing guards for tiny amphibians: migrating salamanders.

NPR Headlines

Giving a kidney to a stranger? Researchers call it 'extraordinary altruism'

Stephanie O'Neill

Only about 300 to 400 people a year give a kidney to someone they never met. It's an act of generosity so unusual, a neuroscientist studies the people who do this.

The science behind the selfless act of donating a kidney to a stranger

Stephanie O'Neill

About 300 Americans a year give a kidney to a complete stranger. Researchers have studied the brains of these very generous people, and say they may feel others' pain more than the average person. (This story first aired on All Things Considered on November 28, 2024.)

The science behind the selfless act of donating a kidney to a stranger

Stephanie O'Neill

About 300 Americans a year give a kidney to a complete stranger. Research says these people have a larger amygdala -- perhaps making them feel others' pain more than the average person.