Amazed by the alligator’s ability to heal quickly from traumatic wounds, Henry F. Gomez, M.D. and professor at the University of Texas-Houston Health Science Center Medical School, is conducting studies in a field that few have chosen.

The average alligator is submerged in a pathogen-ridden environment of water and mud, yet this is no deterrent to its ability to rise above disastrous injuries. As Dr. Gomez gathers information, it is necessary to get blood samples from a large number of alligators.

To get their attention, empty soda cans are tossed in the water. (Casual litterers might want to take note of this when taking refreshment near alligator-infested waters.) Then the gators are bled and released, snouts pointed toward the water. It takes 15 minutes from start to finish.

Details and pictures here.

At the Central Park Zoo, guards, especially those in the snow monkey area, are more alert in the days leading up to Passover. Orthodox Jews removing leavened items from their homes are known to bring sacks of bread and cake to lend variety to the typical zoo diet. Observers note that the monkeys are the primary recipients.

Zoo officials frown on this annual practice, saying the animals get sluggish and fat from the extra food.

British researchers say that the doll depicts an unrealistic body image, and that little girls aspire to this image when they become adolescents.