The Lacey Act, a 100-year-old law regulating invasive animal species, has failed to effectively prevent their spread in the US. The study found that many animals were already established when added to the list and continued to spread after listing, highlighting the need for an efficient risk assessment procedure.
The World Wildlife Fund and Allianz Foundation offer a national climate change education program for high school students displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The program aims to empower these students to address climate vulnerability in the Southeast US.
Wildlife experts from WCS and FAO argue that keeping wild animals separate in wildlife markets can prevent disease outbreaks. Closing these trade hubs could significantly reduce the threat of emerging diseases like avian flu.
The wild tiger population has declined dramatically due to habitat loss and poaching, with only 7% of their historical range remaining. Experts warn that China's potential reopening of the tiger trade poses a new threat to the species' survival.
The Wildlife Conservation Society's 'Warm Waters for Cool Bears' project uses satellite imagery and meteorological data to predict where sea ice will persist, enabling conservation efforts. The study aims to inform management activities such as designating protected areas for polar bears and their prey species.
Researchers used fingerprints to count fisher populations, identifying individual animals and tracking their numbers in the wild. This method is simpler and less expensive than DNA fingerprinting, offering a promising tool for conservation.
A team of scientists from Conservation International and World Wildlife Fund discovered a rare nesting ground for the endangered Cantor's giant softshell turtle in Cambodia's Mekong River. The survey revealed an abundance of the species, allowing for the release of hatchlings into the wild.
The Institute of Ecosystem Studies has been recognized for its innovative deer management program, which balances forest health with deer populations. The program's success has informed deer management initiatives across the northeastern US and beyond.
A new census confirms the Amur leopard's precarious survival, with fewer than 35 individuals remaining in the wild. The species is threatened by encroaching civilization, poaching, and climate change, highlighting the need for expanded protected areas and conservation efforts.
UC Davis has been named a partner in a new $18.5 million national research center to study influenza viruses with pandemic potential. The Center for Rapid Influenza Surveillance and Research will expand the federal government's early-detection program for influenza and help reduce the chances of deadly outbreaks.
A new study reveals that forest elephants are being pushed into remote depths of national parks due to heavy poaching for ivory near roadways. Protected areas, however, are critical to elephant survival, with some areas experiencing increased abundance despite road access.
The World Wildlife Fund report reveals a significant growth in farmed salmon, leading to decreased wild salmon supply and economic impacts on fishermen. The study recommends harmonizing regulatory food safety standards and providing accurate information about salmon issues.
A study of 10 Northeastern urban forests found no common urban park plant complex, but shows that population levels impact native and nonnative species diversity. The research suggests that urban park managers should consider the ratio of native to nonnative species when implementing vegetation restoration projects.
Scientists have discovered that people working with chimpanzees in a Ugandan park are exchanging gastrointestinal bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant E. coli strains, with the animals. This finding highlights the potential for human activities to impact wildlife health.
Researchers warn that an immuno-contraception vaccine, which aims to control wildlife populations, is not fully effective and may manipulate natural reproduction in unpredictable ways. The vaccine also raises concerns about the potential for individuals who survive the vaccine to carry infectious diseases affecting other animals.
A new species of cichlid, Ptychochromis loisellei, has been named in honor of Dr. Paul Loiselle, an ichthyologist who has dedicated his career to safeguarding Madagascar's freshwater fishes. The newly described black and gold cichlid is about five inches long and found in several river systems in the northeastern part of the country.
Research has identified five hotspots of high mercury contamination in fish and birds across eastern North America, posing a risk to human health and wildlife. The study highlights the need for stricter regulations on mercury emissions from coal-fired power stations and municipal waste incinerators to mitigate this environmental threat.
Researchers from WCS discover Jackson's mongoose, a rare and poorly-known carnivore, in Matundu Forest, Udzungwa Mountains National Park. The discovery highlights the importance of protecting nearby forests to conserve this unique species.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation granted $378,780 to WHSRN for shorebird conservation programs. The program will focus on strengthening partnerships, protecting habitats, and applying tools for habitat conservation. WHSRN aims to conserve four high-concern shorebird species and their habitats across the Americas.
The Wildlife Conservation Society proposes a simpler, four-tiered system to measure conservation success for wildlife populations. The system aims to move beyond demographic sustainability and focus on ecological functionality, where species serve their role in ecosystems.
Enforcement patrols in the Serengeti National Park have significantly reduced poaching of elephants, African buffaloes and black rhinos. The study used a catch-per-unit-of-effort technique to estimate poaching intensity, finding that increased patrols led to a precipitous decline in poaching and population recovery.
Researchers discovered a pattern to Ebola's spread, linking it to wildlife populations and climate. The study found that the virus spreads both within and between species, with outbreaks more frequent than previously believed.
The Wildlife Conservation Society has fitted GPS collars on eight saiga antelopes in the Mongolian Gobi Desert, aiming to better understand their movements and develop a comprehensive conservation strategy. The saiga numbers have plummeted by 95% due to poaching for Chinese medicines and competition with livestock.
A study of 50 years of remotely sensed imagery reveals dramatic reductions in arctic ponds in Alaska, linked to recent climate warming. The shrinking ponds may impact waterfowl production and climate regulation, highlighting the need for land managers to address these changes.
Researchers from NASA and the Canadian Wildlife Service found that climate warming is negatively impacting polar bears due to shorter spring hunting seasons and reduced sea-ice cover. This can lead to a decline in female reproduction, reduced body weight, and increased human-bear conflicts.
A new animal-detection system, tested in Yellowstone National Park, shows promise in reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions. The system detected elk with high accuracy and could be cost-effective in areas with frequent large animal-vehicle collisions.
Researchers found a strong decline in lead levels in otters' bones between 1992 and 2004, reflecting reduced emissions from car fuel. The study highlights the importance of long-term monitoring and archiving of samples, providing valuable insights into human health impacts.
A six-year study at a massive experimental landscape found that wildlife corridors support more plant species, particularly native ones, than isolated areas. The results suggest that corridors are crucial for preserving both wildlife and plant biodiversity.
A study led by University of California, Santa Cruz researchers has confirmed that bullet fragments and shotgun pellets are the principal sources of lead poisoning in California condors. The study found that 77% of birds tested had lead levels linked to ammunition, highlighting the need for action to reduce lead exposure.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) has developed a database and web application called HEDDS to share information on sample collection sites, bird species sampled, and test results. The database provides current information on wild bird sampling for early detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the United States.
The US Department of Agriculture is launching an oral rabies vaccination project in southwestern Virginia to combat the spread of raccoon rabies. Translocation of wildlife poses a significant threat to the program's success due to its ability to spread disease and increase stress on infected animals.
A study by the Wildlife Conservation Society found that small, traditionally managed marine protected areas were more effective at protecting fish and wildlife than larger national parks or co-managed reserves. These community-led systems were often managed to meet local needs rather than strict conservation goals.
A comprehensive study finds tiger habitats have declined by 40% since last decade, with only 7% of historic range remaining. The report identifies 76 tiger conservation landscapes that can support viable populations, calling for increased protection and international cooperation.
The Wildlife Conservation Society has launched the 'Tigers Forever' initiative, aiming to increase tiger populations in key areas by 50% over a decade. The program involves working with local governments and partners to track tigers and boost anti-poaching activities.
A recent survey of Tanzania's Eastern Arc Mountain range has revealed over 160 animal species, including 11 previously undiscovered ones. The discovery highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect the region's unique wildlife and forests.
The most recent census found that efforts to protect the park's wildlife are reversing the trend of decline, with elephant populations increasing to 340 individuals. The park's large mammal populations have also increased, including buffalo and Uganda kob.
A five-year study by WCS and partners investigates how natural gas development affects pronghorn antelope in Wyoming's Upper Green River Valley Basin. Preliminary findings show that pronghorn can adapt to human presence but tend to avoid fragmented areas, and proximity to development has no effect on their health.
A recent study by researchers at the National Marine Fisheries Service has found significant amounts of Exxon Valdez oil buried in sand and silt in tidal feeding grounds of sea otters, ducks, and other wildlife. This discovery highlights the potential long-term impact of oil spills on marine ecosystems.
A massive marsh planting project is set to begin in coastal Alabama and Mississippi, aiming to restore salt marshes and their ecosystem services. The project, led by Dr. Cebrian, will focus on restoring black needlerush and other plant species, and will involve the coordinated efforts of researchers, resource managers, and volunteers.
A recent study documents six new frog species found in Laos over a two-year period, showcasing the country's remarkable biodiversity. Conservationists are concerned about the combined loss of forest cover and over-exploitation of species threatening much of Laos' wildlife.
A study by Losey and Vaughan estimates the economic value of ecological services provided by insects at $57 billion annually in the United States. The services include natural control of crop pests, pollination, and wildlife nutrition, valued at $4.5 billion, $3 billion, and $50 billion respectively.
A new airborne radar system measures snow depth on Arctic sea ice, aiding climate change research and understanding polar bear habitats. The project validates satellite measurements and provides insights into the region's climate and wildlife.
The Wildlife Conservation Society will use the grant to upgrade its software infrastructure, improving collaboration and communication among agencies. The donation is part of a $41 million Microsoft grant to support non-profit organizations globally.
The red knot's dependence on horseshoe crab eggs for survival is a major concern for wildlife management officials. Researchers have found that the number of horseshoe crab eggs is the most important factor determining the use of beaches by red knots.
Research in East Africa highlights the dual nature of land use, with positive impacts on local economies but negative consequences for native plants and wildlife. LUCID project explores links between social systems and environmental changes, aiming to understand why some communities maintain biodiversity despite agricultural expansion.
Agriculture can offer ecosystem services like cleaner air, water, and wildlife habitats by managing land in a way that appreciates non-marketable benefits. This approach aims to encourage farmers to provide these services with incentives and citizen payments.
Researchers used mathematical modeling tools to document the spread of sea lice from commercial salmon farms to wild Pacific salmon. The study found that a single farm could lead to a massive increase in parasite load, affecting the health of young fish.
University of Utah archaeologist Jack M. Broughton's study of ancient Native American bird bones reveals that California wasn't always abundant in wildlife as settlers arrived. Indigenous people hunted some species to local extinction, and wildlife returned after European diseases decimated Indian populations.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have identified a molecular mechanism involved in making the rabies virus pathogenic and lethal. They have developed a very safe vaccine for the immunization of wildlife, showing efficacy in raccoon, skunk, and mongoose species, offering new hope for prevention of deadly disease.
The Bornean elephant has been confirmed as a separate sub-species, with an estimated 1,100-1,500 individuals remaining in the wild. The Cardiff University study will provide essential conservation information and training for Malaysian organizations on wildlife monitoring techniques.
Dr Cleaveland's project seeks to eliminate rabies by targeting its primary source: dogs. The research also sheds light on the role of wildlife in transmitting diseases between species.
Wildlife Conservation Society's field vets collected samples from hundreds of wild birds affected by H5N1 strain, helping to develop a human pandemic influenza vaccine. The collaboration highlights the importance of protecting wildlife diversity and monitoring their health for potential benefits to humankind.
A new study by Conservation International and WWF reveals significant discrepancies between CITES and US Customs data on international wildlife trade, with figures varying wildly from 5,200 percent. The study identifies widespread errors and inefficiencies in recordkeeping, hindering effective conservation efforts.
Scientists in Alaska screened over 4,500 samples for avian influenza viruses, detecting 30 cases with varying subtypes. Notably, none of these strains tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 subtype, but researchers will continue to monitor the state's risk and build predictive models to understand virus evolution.
A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found that white-tailed deer in the chronic wasting disease (CWD) zone use very small home ranges, typically half a square mile in size. This suggests that deer may not be spreading CWD through long-distance travel, contradicting previous assumptions.
Researchers found serious flaws in the Florida panther's research and habitat requirements, leading to the development of new guidelines. The study suggests that reanalyzing existing data could help continue the positive trend in population growth.
Researchers observed western gorillas using sticks to test water depth and create a bridge in the wild. This discovery provides valuable insights into the evolution of tool usage in great apes and their abilities.
Airborne LiDAR technology has been successfully used to monitor and protect rare species such as California spotted owls and Delmarva fox squirrels. The system provides detailed measurements of forest canopy, tree height and biomass, enabling researchers to identify suitable habitats for endangered species.
The six most threatened National Wildlife Refuges in the US are at risk due to development and human activity, which deplete critical buffer zones. These areas provide essential resources for wildlife survival, highlighting the need for conservation efforts and cooperation with private landowners.
A new partnership between Roots of Peace and Conservation International aims to remove landmines from critical access corridors used by elephants in Angola, Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia. The project will create a conservation and development area, promoting sustainable reserve and ecotourism programs.