In brief
Employees are encouraged to adopt and care for lab rats and zebra fish as the agency shifts its research focus.
In a surprising move, the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) in North Carolina is giving its employees a chance to become pet parents to lab rats and zebra fish. Historically used as test subjects for chemical toxicity, these animals now face uncertain futures as the agency restructures under government budget cuts. The E.P.A. Research Triangle Park facility, which has housed approximately 20,000 animals, is establishing an adoption program to find homes for these critters. An internal email announced the initiative, encouraging staff to participate with a motivational slogan: “Adopt love. Save a life.” While the adoption process is currently on a temporary hold as criteria are developed, many hope to see these animals rehomed quickly. Previously, the agency also had two rabbits, which have already found their new families. The initiative not only seeks to care for animals in need but also highlights broader trends in how scientific research organizations are adapting to fiscal policies affecting their operational programs.
