Researchers found that giraffes on either side of the rift have not interbred for over 1,000 years, with females showing no signs of migration. The study suggests that Masai giraffes are more endangered than previously thought, requiring separate but coordinated conservation efforts.
A trained detection dog can find great crested newts even through soil and at a distance, potentially aiding critical conservation efforts. The study, published in PLOS ONE, found the dog achieved an 87% success rate in detecting the species across various environmental conditions.
A new database reveals thousands of incidents of primates killed by vehicles on roads over the past 30 years, with most species not at risk but some Endangered and Critically Endangered primates involved. Conservationists urge effective mitigation measures to protect wildlife navigating fragmented habitats.
Researchers say current recovery targets do not support culturally vital harvests, calling for a shift to meaningful abundance and distribution of plants and animals. A collaboration between Indigenous leaders and Canadian scientists aims to preserve traditional ways of life and restore nature.
Researchers use chromosome structure to determine that comb jellies were the first lineage to branch off from the animal tree, followed by sponges. This finding sheds light on how animals arose and evolved into the diverse species we see today.
A new holistic framework evaluates mental and psychological wellbeing in wild animals, including physical and behavioral indicators for positive and negative experiences. This approach has the potential to provide crucial early warning signals about species challenges and population declines.
The Grambank database reveals that regions with all Indigenous languages endangered face the greatest consequences of language loss. The analysis shows a decline in functional richness worldwide but highlights harshest effects in Northeast South America, Oregon, Alaska, and northern Australia.
Scientists tracked fertilized Nassau grouper eggs using an underwater microscope, finding that they stayed local in some years but drifted to nearby islands in others. The study reveals the importance of local reproduction and ocean currents in boosting populations and providing spillover benefits for neighboring islands.
George Mason University researchers have identified key methods for successfully reintroducing captive birds into the wild, including exposing animals to wild food and providing supplemental feeding after release. Their study provides evidence-based support for exploring the use of behavior and its management as an influential tool in ...
Fungal spores found in dung indicate large animals went extinct in two waves in the Colombian Andes, with major impacts on ecosystems. The study reveals that megafauna existed for thousands of years before disappearing and reappearing again, highlighting the sensitivity of habitats to local herbivore declines.
A study published in Scientific Reports predicts that less than 20% of endangered mountain gorillas would survive more than 100 days past the first confirmed case of Ebola infection. Vaccination strategies are suggested to increase survival rates, with at least half of habituated gorillas vaccinated within three weeks of confirmation.
A Penn State-led research team developed a statistical method to predict the effects of climate change on cold-blooded animals. The Physiologically Guided Abundance Model (PGA Model) combines field and laboratory data to forecast species geographical distributions and abundance in response to warming temperatures.
A recent study by the University of Exeter has confirmed the widespread trading of critically endangered European eels in international markets. The research found that about 40% of North American unagi samples contained European eel, suggesting a significant role for illegal trade in their supply chain.
A new study reveals that the most endangered turtles and crocodiles are those with unique life strategies, which carry out critical processes in their ecosystems. The researchers highlight the urgent need for effective conservation management plans to protect these species and their habitats.
A recent study led by Boston University researchers found that payments designed to motivate eco-friendly behavior often don't reconcile the tension between agricultural production and the planet's health. However, including more women in decision-making boosted cooperation between farmers on environmental issues and increased output.
Research found that inbreeding is a major factor contributing to the decline of the endangered Southern Resident killer whale population. The study, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, indicates that inbred individuals have lower survival rates and birth rates compared to those with lower levels of inbreeding.
A study from the University of Copenhagen found that extinct animal species on islands like Mauritius cannot be replaced, as they play a crucial role in seed dispersal and ecosystem balance. Reintroducing new species often causes more harm than good, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect native plants and animals.
A genetic census has been used to estimate the number and population structure of critically endangered western chimpanzees in West Africa. The analysis identified a total of 136 chimpanzees living in four different communities, with high levels of shared ancestry and genetic diversity.
Researchers at the University of Bern have determined the structure of the canine distemper virus docking protein, enabling the development of tailor-made active substances to prevent virus entry into host cells. This breakthrough paves the way for novel therapies and antiviral drugs against this highly contagious viral disease.
The Chinese sturgeon, critically endangered with a limited spawning ground, has a polygynandry mating system and breeding interval of 2-6 years. Genetic diversity remains relatively high despite inbreeding coefficients indicating low detrimental effects on offspring.
Cambridge researchers observe Unio crassus mussels squirting water jets up to a meter away from the riverbed to increase the chances of their larvae attaching to specific host fishes. This behavior has never been seen in any other mussel species and may be crucial for the endangered species' survival.
A University of Bristol study found that social animals limit individuality to conform with the behaviour of the group. Simple social behavioural rules can drive conformity behaviour in groups, eroding consistent behavioural differences shown by individual animals.
The study reveals that genetic variation is preserved in a highly fragmented population of the Saimaa ringed seal. The unique shape of Lake Saimaa compensates for the detrimental effects of small population size, allowing the species to maintain its adaptive potential.
Researchers have identified critical areas in northern, northwestern, and western Iran for urgent conservation action. The study used maps of threatened species to pinpoint regions necessary to protect critically endangered species like the Asiatic cheetah and Persian leopard.
A new study by Oxford University Press USA found that watching nature documentaries, such as BBC's Green Planet, increases public awareness of plants and their importance. The researchers measured online behavior and found a significant effect on viewers' interest in portrayed plant species.
Researchers at the University of East Anglia found that the Bahama Warbler may only survive on Abaco island after Hurricane Dorian devastated its forest habitat on Grand Bahama. The study, published in Bird Conservation International, reveals that the bird prefers areas with taller, more mature trees and can adapt to burnt vegetation.
Researchers from Portugal and Cape Verde discover a unique shark nursery in the Sal Rey bay on Boa Vista island, home to juveniles of several endangered species. The area is crucial for shark conservation and also protects marine mammals and turtles, highlighting the importance of its protection.
A Yale University-led study reveals that Chinese public opinion on ivory became more negative after the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) allowed the sale of African ivory to China. The research used machine learning techniques to analyze public opinion from Chinese media coverage b...
The endangered Amami rabbit plays a key role in dispersing seeds for the non-photosynthetic Balanophora yuwanensis plant. Researchers observed that the rabbit consumed both dry fruits and vegetative tissue from the plant, suggesting it serves as a major seed disperser incentivized by the plant's vegetative tissues.
A recent study reveals that elephants play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and storing atmospheric carbon in African rainforests. The loss of forest elephants would lead to reduced carbon sequestration, amplifying planetary warming. With critically endangered populations, conservation efforts must prioritize protecting these...
Australian scientists developed virtual models to reveal a crucial link between natural flooding and the extinction risk of endangered southern bell frogs. The study found that modern river regulation dramatically increases extinction risk in smaller wetlands.
Scientists discovered high levels of toxic chemicals, including 4-nonylphenol from toilet paper, in the bodies of orcas in B.C., which may contribute to their population decline. Forever chemicals like 7:3-fluorotelomer carboxylic acid were also found, highlighting the need for pollution management and regulation.
A new study estimates that Madagascar's unique modern mammal species could take 23 million years to evolve if the endangered ones go extinct, highlighting the urgent need for conservation action. The island's biodiversity is threatened by habitat loss and human activities.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of two endangered sharks, finding low genetic diversity and signs of inbreeding in great hammerheads. In contrast, shortfin makos showed higher genetic diversity and limited inbreeding, offering a glimmer of hope for conservation efforts.
Researchers at Osaka University have successfully induced precursors of eggs and sperm in white rhinoceros cells, paving the way to possibly rebuilding northern white rhino populations. This breakthrough uses advanced assisted reproductive technologies to address a key challenge in conservation efforts.
Nelson is studying outmigrant survival of endangered California salmonids, which are low due to poor water quality and predation. The study aims to quantify component mortality rates from these sources to elucidate the main causes of outmigrant loss.
A University of Queensland-led research group has created the world's first successful donkey embryo using in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), which could save dozens of endangered donkey species. The team used a specialist IVF process known as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to create the viable embryo.
A team of Berlin scientists has successfully grown stem cells and mini-brains from Sumatran rhino skin cells, paving the way for potential use in assisted reproduction. The next step is to create sperm cells that may help save the critically endangered species from extinction.
Researchers found that 90% of surveyed individuals did not recognize six out of seven endangered species. Increasing public knowledge and recognition can boost conservation support for these vulnerable animals. The study highlights the need for targeted marketing initiatives to change people's perception of lesser-known species.
Researchers created iPSCs from Okinawa rail, Japanese ptarmigan, Blakiston's fish owl, and Japanese golden eagle for conservation. The cells can differentiate into various cell types, providing a valuable resource for evaluating disease risks and pollution.
A review article by Osaka Metropolitan University researcher Professor Noritoshi Kawate explores the use of INSL3 as a hormone indicating gonadal functions in domestic animals. The study reveals that INSL3 secretions in bulls and male goats are stimulated by luteinizing hormone, making it a reliable fertility indicator.
Researchers developed a groundbreaking model to estimate bait vaccination effectiveness in wild animals by analyzing the proportion of immunized animals and vaccine applications. The study successfully tested the model using real data from Japan's CSF outbreak, demonstrating a measurable increase in immunized wild boars.
A new type of satellite imagery with a spatial resolution of 15 cm has been used to detect and monitor critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. The technology allows for the identification of individual whales and their habitats, which will have significant implications for conservation efforts.
The study finds that many species are protected too late, with insufficient time to recover and breed, and with limited financial resources to support conservation efforts. This analysis highlights the need for improved policy and increased funding to effectively protect endangered species in the US.
A new study reveals that losing endangered fruit-eating animals in the Atlantic Forest could severely disrupt seed-dispersal networks, leaving plants without an effective means to regenerate. Nearly 55% of specialist plant species rely solely on these frugivores for seed dispersal.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that most species are not receiving protection until their populations are precariously small, dimming their prospects of recovery. The study also highlights the issue of inadequate funding for protecting threatened and endangered species, which has persisted for decades.
Researchers have found evidence of genetic diversity in the prion protein gene of endangered Eld's deer, which could provide resistance to chronic wasting disease. The study suggests reducing the frequency of a variant associated with the disease and implementing strict management practices to prevent exposure.
A team of researchers has identified three new turtle nesting sites in the central Red Sea, which could inform efforts to protect endangered sea turtles. The discovery was made using drone surveillance and sediment samples to identify optimal nesting conditions.
A study of over 15,000 individual animals found that ungulates' diets and mating strategies are linked to stress risk. Animals without constant access to food are prone to behavioral problems. The research highlights the importance of providing suitable conditions, including food and social organization, for improved welfare.
A new noninvasive genetic survey technique allows researchers to identify salt marsh harvest mice and other small mammals without capturing them. The technique uses bait stations and genetics to collect fecal pellets from mice that come and go on their own.
A UC researcher is using information technology to track and study the endangered little brown myotis bat species in Ohio. The team has established a summer roost at Clendening Marina, where they are collecting data on the population's size and trajectory.
A new study reveals that bats' diets are more similar than previously thought, with both species eating a variety of insects and agricultural pests. The research found that the northern long-eared bat tends to pick up larger prey items due to its gleaning strategy.
Areas managed by Indigenous peoples have significantly more primate biodiversity than nearby regions. Lorises, tarsiers, monkeys, and apes are less likely to be classified as vulnerable or endangered when their territories overlap with Indigenous lands.
A new study investigates how birds experience neophobia, which could play a vital role in helping to save Critically Endangered species. The research gathered data on the behavior of captive Bali myna birds, revealing that juvenile birds may be more suitable for reintroduction than adults.
Scientists have discovered a way to harness animals' olfactory ability to protect endangered plants and animals by masking their scent, disguising it, or spreading similar scents. This method is more effective, sustainable, and animal-friendly than traditional deterrents like fences and lethal control methods.
The study found that feral cat predation is a significant threat to the critically endangered Kangaroo Island dunnart, which has only around 500 individuals left due to habitat loss and bushfires. The research highlights the need for control of feral cat populations in areas with threatened species.
The study creates a catalogue of genomic diversity for endangered chimpanzees, allowing researchers to pinpoint the origin of confiscated animals within 100 kilometers. This information can support conservation efforts and combat the illegal trade of chimpanzees.
Researchers at HKU's Conservation Forensics Lab have developed a powerful new tool for monitoring the trade of rare and endangered fish species in Hong Kong wet markets. Using environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, they were able to identify over 100 species of fish that had passed through the market.
A University of Michigan study predicts that expanding roads and a planned railway will dramatically increase tiger mortality, reducing populations from 130 to 50 animals over 20 years. Researchers urge Smart Green Infrastructure planning to minimize impacts on tiger biodiversity and prey.
Researchers found signs of concussions and head trauma in the brains of deceased headbutting muskoxen and bighorn sheep. The study provides insights into human injuries and opens the possibility that studying these animals could help researchers understand and reduce traumatic brain injuries.