Feral dogs near Chernobyl show rapid evolution due to radiation exposure, study finds

A study has found that feral dogs living near the Chernobyl nuclear disaster site are evolving faster than dogs in other areas. Researchers are analyzing the DNA of 302 dogs to see how radiation exposure may have influenced their genetic changes. The Chernobyl disaster occurred in 1986, leading to the evacuation of humans and allowing wildlife, including thousands of feral dogs, to thrive. Recent findings show distinct genetic differences between dogs near the power plant and those just 10 miles away. This research is an early step in understanding how radiation might affect evolution in larger mammals. Scientists aim to compare the DNA of Chernobyl's dogs with those from non-irradiated areas to explore the impact of radiation on their adaptation.