What else is happening in Sweden?

🐦 The National Veterinary Institute (SVA) in Sweden has confirmed that the recent deaths of laughing gulls in the Stockholm area were caused by bird flu. The disease is believed to have arisen from migratory birds originating in southern Europe and there is a risk of it spreading into neighboring areas and to other bird species. The SVA warns dog owners to be cautious of their pets eating or chewing on sick or dead birds.

🌱 Sunflower seeds that were sent into space and experienced zero gravity will be planted across Sweden by children and young people. The seeds were launched in November 2022 and spent six minutes at a height of 260 km, and will now be donated to eight organizations for soil planting. The hope is that the project will increase interest and engagement in space among children and young people.

🌷 The Swedish Transport Administration is pulling up invasive lupins on roadsides in Dalarna to preserve biodiversity and promote biological diversity. Lupins are a problem as they outcompete lower-growing meadow species, including red-listed species such as night-scented orchids, field gentian, and meadow vetchling. The lupins will be burned after being pulled up in multiple rounds until they disappear for good.