Daily Roundup: August 27, 2009

The Potter Phenomenon: Fictional character Harry Potter (and his owl, Hedwig) may have inspired an owl-adoption trend. Long-lived and difficult to care for, the owls are often abandoned, says the owner of U.K animal sanctuary that houses the rescued animals. Ecorazzi and Telegraph

Three's a Crowd: Researchers successfully created monkeys with genetic material from two mothers and one father. Washington Post

Green Light for Gas: Australia's federal environment minister Peter Garrett approved an A$50 billion liquefied natural gas project that will be the country's biggest resources development deal. Reuters and Canberra Times

The End: California will soon be out of the car manufacturing business. The state's last auto plant is scheduled to close in March. Los Angeles Times

Lead Case: More than 1,300 children in central China tested positive for lead poisoning caused by pollution from a manganese processing plant. Two environment officials are being investigated for dereliction of duty. Associated Press

--Della Watson