Trained Dogs Join Researchers in Hunt for Rare Plants in Arizona

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Arizona’s Desert Botanical Garden is enlisting the help of trained dogs to locate the endangered Canelo Hills ladies’-tresses orchid. This rare plant, found in southern Arizona, is difficult to spot due to its brief flowering period. However, dogs’ exceptional sense of smell allows them to detect the orchids more effectively.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service first classified the Canelo Hills ladies’-tresses orchid as endangered in 1997. A 2021 analysis identified several significant threats to the species, including habitat loss, declining pollinator populations, drought, and climate change.

In 2022, trained dogs successfully located the orchid in its natural habitat. Researchers are optimistic that these specially trained animals will continue to support efforts to restore the wild population of this rare plant.

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