Image of ‘twin babies’ used by anti-abortion activist appears to show sugar gliders
An image used by anti-abortion activist Joanna Howe, claiming to show aborted twins, has been identified as likely depicting sugar gliders. Experts have analyzed the image and concluded it does not resemble human embryos, citing characteristics typical of marsupials. Howe is utilizing the image to rally support for legislation aimed at restricting abortion access in New South Wales.
- ▪The image in question is believed to be of sugar gliders, not human embryos.
- ▪Digital forensics analysis supports that the image is from a TikTok video about rescued sugar gliders.
- ▪Medical experts have stated that if the image were of aborted human embryos, it would show different characteristics and tissues.
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| Original publisher | The Guardian — World |
| Canonical URL | https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/may/27/anti-abortion-activist-joanna-howe-twin-babies-image-likely-to-show-sugar-gliders-ntwnfb |
| Publication time | Tue, 26 May 2026 15:00:02 GMT |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-26T15:07:49.943Z |
| Last seen | 2026-05-26T15:07:49.943Z |
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
A composite of two screenshots: the first from a video by TikTok user germainmaur showing two rescued baby sugar gliders (left), and the second from an X post from Joanna Howe (right). Composite: TikTok via user germainmaur/X via @ProfJoannaHoweView image in fullscreenA composite of two screenshots: the first from a video by TikTok user germainmaur showing two rescued baby sugar gliders (left), and the second from an X post from Joanna Howe (right). Composite: TikTok via user germainmaur/X via @ProfJoannaHoweAbortionImage of ‘twin babies’ used by anti-abortion activist appears to show sugar gliders Joanna Howe says the image was sent to her by a woman ashamed of her abortion, and used it to support ‘rally for Emma and Ruth’ in favour of NSW bill Get our breaking news email, free app or…
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