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Do cloned pets actually look and act like the original?
Cloning may sound like something out of a science fiction movie, but it’s already happening here in the United States. One company has the patented technology to clone cats, dogs and horses, and will do it for you right now – for a price.
Viagen charges $35,000 to clone a cat. Cloning a dog will set you back $50,000, and a horse is $85,000.
That’s clearly a huge investment. What exactly do you get for your money?
First, Viagen needs a skin sample from a pet that’s either still alive, or just recently died. A lot of people turn to the company right after their pet dies, said spokesperson Melain Rodriguez, and it’s possible to do successfully if the death was within a few days ago and the body has been kept refrigerated.
Then starts the real science. The sample is shipped to the company’s lab in Texas, where cells from the skin are cultured. It takes a few weeks for those cells to grow and multiply until there are about 1 million cells. Those are then harvested, frozen and stored as long as they’re needed. (Viagen charges a lower rate for this genetic preservation: $1,600 plus an annual fee of $150, said Rodriguez.)
That’s phase one. When it’s time to clone the pet, the lab scientists will take an egg from a donor pet and remove that egg’s nucleus. Then, a nucleus from one of the millions of cells grown in Viagen’s lab is swapped in, giving that egg the nuclear DNA of your original pet.
What happens next is proprietary, Rodriguez said, but she explained it as giving the egg “a little jolt of electricity,” making it think it’s fertilized without any sperm. It starts to multiply and grow into an embryo, which is then implanted in a surrogate animal, which will eventually give birth to your cloned pet. Viagen transfers multiple embryos to boost the odds of a success, so sometimes customers will end up with multiple cloned puppies or kittens.
“What you have is an identical genetic twin to the original animal,” Rodriguez said. Do identical genes mean identical appearances?
“It’s like they’re identical twins,” said Rodriguez. “Human identical twins have the same DNA, but if human identical twins have freckles, their freckles are never exactly the same and in the same spot, or birthmarks or things like that.”
“Freckles” and “birthmarks” look more like color markings on pets. If your dog has a white stripe down the middle of its forehead, Rodriguez explained, the clone will typically have a white stripe on its head too – but it just might not be the exact same size or placement.
The pet’s personality is a bit harder to predict. “That’s probably the No. 1 question that we get: what is the personality of the clone going to be like compared to the original one?” Rodriguez said.
While the personalities of the clone and the original may differ, their general dispositions are usually alike. If your cat is very fearful, there’s a good chance its clone will be too. If your dog is laidback, the clone will probably be pretty chill.
“Temperament and intelligence have shown to have a very strong genetic component, so those are things that we see that are very similar in the cloned animals,” she said.
Sometimes there are quirks that the clone has that are eerily similar to the original pet, Rodriguez said. She’s heard customers say their clone has the exact same favorite toy as the original, or loves to sit in the exact same spot in the yard. They make for good anecdotes, but could just be coincidences.
Personality is a mix of genetics and environment, explained Rodriguez. “We caution the client to not expect a reincarnation of the original pet.”
Falconry Hunting in Morocco: Tradition, Techniques, and Cultural Significance
Falconry is an ancient practice that blends skill, patience, and a profound connection between humans and birds of prey. In Morocco, this ancient art has flourished, becoming an essential part of the cultural heritage. Understanding falconry in the Moroccan context involves exploring its history, techniques, and the significance it holds within Moroccan society.
The Rich History of Falconry in Morocco
Falconry dates back thousands of years, with roots tracing through various cultures across the Middle East and Europe. In Morocco, the practice has evolved into a sophisticated tradition, deeply embedded in the nation's culture. Historical records indicate that falconry was a noble pursuit among the Berbers and later adopted by various dynasties throughout Morocco's history.
The earliest documented evidence of falconry in Morocco dates back to the 8th century, aligning with the arrival of the Arab influence in the region. The Merenid dynasty in the 14th century also played a pivotal role in promoting falconry as they celebrated hunting as an elite sport, often portraying it in their literature and art.
Moroccan falconry primarily centers on the hunting of wild game birds. Although the pursuit has diminished with the advent of modernization, it remains a beloved activity among many Moroccans, symbolizing heritage and connection to the land.
Techniques and Training
Falconry requires a unique blend of art and science. The bonds formed between the falconer and the bird are akin to those between a trainer and an athlete, marked by mutual respect and understanding. The process begins with the selection of birds, usually various species of falcons known for their speed and agility, such as the Peregrine and Lanner falcons.
Training a falcon typically starts at a young age, focusing on building trust and establishing a bond. One of the most essential techniques employed is called "manning." This involves keeping the bird tethered and close to the falconer, providing comfort and security while allowing for initial flight experiences.
Food is a crucial aspect of training; falconers often use a reward-based system, feeding the birds their preferred prey to encourage performance. As the falcon becomes accustomed to its falconer, it learns to associate training sessions with positive reinforcement, fostering a cooperative spirit.
Hunting sessions usually begin at dawn when the temperature is cooler and the prey is more active. Falconers often scout for potential hunting grounds in advance, choosing locations with abundant game. When they spot a target, the falcon is released, showcasing its incredible speed and aerial prowess. The falcon's hunting strategy involves using its keen eyesight to spot quails, doves, and other birds, swooping down from high altitudes for surprising attacks.
Cultural Significance in Morocco
In Morocco, falconry transcends mere hunting; it embodies tradition, status, and national pride. Falconry festivals are held periodically, drawing participants from across the country, where enthusiasts showcase their birds and skills. These events serve as a celebration of Moroccan culture, fostering community spirit and unity.
Falconry has also found its place in Moroccan art and literature. Poets and musicians often reference falcons in their work, symbolizing freedom and nobility. Artisans create intricate falconry gear, including beautifully crafted hoods, gloves, and perches, reflecting the aesthetic and functional aspects of the sport.
Initiatives to preserve and promote falconry as a vital part of Moroccan heritage are evident today. Organizations are working to educate the younger generation about this ancient practice, ensuring that techniques and traditions are passed down through the years.
Conservation and Ethical Considerations
As falconry faces modern challenges, awareness regarding the conservation of raptors and their habitats is crucial. Environmental changes and habitat degradation pose significant threats to the species traditionally used in falconry. Consequently, responsible falconers advocate for sustainable practices that prioritize the birds' welfare and the integration of conservation efforts.
Successful falconers engage in breeding programs and habitat restoration, providing a dual benefit: ensuring the sustainability of available species and protecting natural ecosystems. Educational outreach is essential to instill a sense of responsibility among new falconers, fostering respect for nature and wildlife conservation.
Maintaining ethical considerations while practicing falconry is crucial for its future. Illegal hunting and poaching of raptors diminish populations, hindering the sport's sustainability. As such, falconers are increasingly encouraged to acquire birds through legal channels and participate in rehabilitation efforts for injured birds of prey.
The Future of Falconry in Morocco
Looking ahead, falconry in Morocco must navigate the balance between tradition and modernization. The rise of digital technology and global connectivity offers new platforms for falconers to network, share knowledge, and promote their culture to a broader audience. Social media has become an invaluable tool, allowing enthusiasts to showcase their skills and share their passion.
Moreover, educational programs in schools that include information on falconry can inspire youth interest in this ancient art. By fostering a deep appreciation for the practice, the younger generation can develop a sense of pride in their cultural heritage, ensuring its survival for years to come.
Additionally, collaboration with conservation organizations can provide valuable resources for falconers, ensuring that their activities remain in harmony with environmental protection efforts. This partnership can promote ecological awareness among practitioners, reinforcing their role as stewards of wildlife.
Community involvement through local falconry clubs can also enhance the practice's visibility and give space for newcomers to learn through mentorship. These clubs can organize events and competitions to celebrate the sport and encourage camaraderie among members.
Conclusion
Falconry hunting in Morocco stands as a profound testament to the nation's rich cultural heritage and historical significance. This intricate practice weaves together the art of hunting, conservation efforts, and traditional values, reflecting the deep bond between humans and nature.
As modern challenges arise, ongoing efforts to preserve this ancient practice are essential to its future. By fostering awareness, promoting ethical considerations, and nurturing passion among the younger generation, falconry can continue to thrive in Morocco, standing as a symbol of national pride and cultural richness.
Through dedication and respect for the art and the birds, the essence of Moroccan falconry will remain alive, captivating both participants and spectators alike. The timeless connection forged between falconer and falcon will thus echo through the sands of time, witnessing the continued legacy of this remarkable tradition.
