Gene Designed Animals

"Scientists working with mice have found that by removing a single gene they can turn normally cautious animals into daring ones, mice that were more willing to explore unknown territory and less intimidated by sigfhts and sounds that they have learned can be dangerous…[suggesting] that the stathmin, the protein that the engineered mice were missing, may help brain cells form new memories in the amygdala, where unconscious fears appear to be stored."

New York Times Friday November 18th, 2005

Next up:

A Boat-Tailed Grackle that that can’t stop talking about itself.

“Oh you flew down the midatlantic region? I did that last year. I used to go there all the time when I was in college. It’s so overpopulated now with poseurs.”

An incredibly ambitious Ground Squirrel.

“…first my solo album and a few guest spots on Will & Grace just to get my acting chops. I can always do some print work on the side. I have GOT to get my agent to introduce me to Brian Glazer…”

A brusque Long-nosed Tree Shrew

“I don’t care where we go to eat. No! I’m not mad. I’m just a little sick of waiting for you to make a decision that’s all.”

A conspiratorial Prairie Mole

"...you see, the so-called 'hijackers' were secretly hired by the US Government, so that only further influenced me to buy a gun and just double-stock my self-made Spider Hole Survival Shelter."

A condescending Bactrian Camel

"Excuse me, this is the designated silent area? No talking or loud bleating is permitted. We just ask that you be aware and responsible for your own noise pollution."

A Florida Manatee who could care less.

“I don’t give a rat’s ass what you think!”