Scientists Ruminate on Ruminants

NZ scientists have joined the fight to save the planet – from methane. The gas produced by ruminants (cud-chewing animals) is one of the leading causes of global warming, well ahead of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. NZ researchers are experimenting with feeding sheep tannin-rich prairie grass, and have made steps towards creating a ‘green cow’ by altering the animal’s digestive system and removing the microbes behind methane production.