Скачать или смотреть Paw & Order: Could the legal definition of an 'animal' be changing in Australia?

University of Adelaide animal and veterinary scientists are leading research into animal welfare law. They say that the future definition of an animal could change in Australia to more widely reflect all species of creatures.

'What is an animal?' should be a simple question. However, the legal definition across Australia’s various Animal Welfare Acts differs greatly from the biological definition.

The biological definition includes all animals from vertebrates like mammals and fish, to invertebrates such as insects.

The legal definition in all states and territories of Australia includes all mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds

However, only some states include fish, crabs, lobsters and octopuses and none include insects.

Depending on where you live in Australia different animals may be protected under animal welfare law.

Scientific research has found that some of these ‘less considered’ animals can experience pain and pleasure. Therefore, the legal definition of an animal is likely to change in the coming years to recognise these important breakthroughs in science.

And that could impact which animals are protected under animal welfare laws.

https://sciences.adelaide.edu.au/anim...