Animal sentinel

Animals can sometimes help keep us safe from things that might hurt us, like chemicals or diseases. These animals are called "sentinels." Just like a guard standing watch, an animal sentinel keeps an eye out for any signs that something might be wrong.

Scientists use animal sentinels to help them monitor and understand the health of ecosystems and human populations. For example, if certain animals in a particular area are getting sick or showing signs of exposure to pollution, it could be a red flag that something harmful is happening in that environment. By studying the animals, scientists can learn more about what's causing the problem and take steps to fix it.

Some common animal sentinels include birds, fish, and rodents. These animals are often chosen because they can be easily monitored and have been shown to be good indicators of environmental health. But it's important to remember that these animals are living creatures and they deserve to be treated with respect and care. Scientists should always work to minimize any harm to the animals they study and do their best to keep them healthy and safe.