What types of animals are protected under the AWA?
The AWA primarily covers warm-blooded animals, such as mammals, that are used in research, exhibition, and commerce. However, it does not cover certain animals like rats, mice, and birds that are bred for research, nor does it cover cold-blooded animals like reptiles and amphibians. Despite these exclusions, many institutions voluntarily apply AWA standards to all research animals to ensure ethical practices.
