Researchers found that African lions' genetic diversity loss in the KAZA region was caused by their need to adapt to different habitats. This suggests that ecological factors, rather than human impacts, are responsible for this loss. The study's findings have important implications for wildlife conservation managers.
The UK is losing 0.82 million tonnes of wheat yield each year due to herbicide-resistant black-grass, with potential implications for national food security. Researchers estimate that the worst-case scenario could result in an annual cost of £1 billion and a wheat yield loss of 3.4 million tonnes per year.
Researchers found that harbor porpoise calves carry a more neurotoxic mixture of PCBs than their mothers, who detoxify themselves by transferring the chemicals through lactation. The study highlights the need to monitor individual chemical composition to better understand the risk posed by these chemicals.
A study by ZSL and Imperial College London found that badgers covered 61% more land each month after a population was culled. Surviving badgers visited 45% more fields and increased the odds of visiting neighboring territories, potentially increasing TB transmission risk to both cattle and other badgers.
Researchers found that sharks are much rarer in habitats closer to people and fish markets, with a significant drop in average body size. The study suggests that industrial fishing is the main driver of this decline, which has major implications for ocean ecosystems.
Researchers found a positive correlation between economic growth and wildlife abundance, as well as more gender-equal societies and lower corruption levels. However, denser human populations reduced wildlife numbers, and some aspects of urbanization had negative impacts on certain species.
A study by Zoological Society of London reveals 55 UK animal species have been displaced due to climate change, with invertebrates most affected. The research highlights the need for a centralized platform to track and mitigate the impacts of climate-driven species movement.
Research suggests that avian malaria may be behind London's dramatic decline in house sparrow populations, with nearly all birds carrying the parasite. Infection intensity varied significantly among colonies, with higher rates linked to younger birds and declining populations.
Researchers discovered six distinct color morphs of the Asiatic golden cat in Northeast India, showcasing unique adaptations to varying habitats and prey. The phenomenon may provide insights into the species' resilience to climate change and habitat degradation.
Research by Zoological Society of London and University College London reveals that climate change is increasing the spread and severity of a fatal disease in UK common frogs. The disease, caused by Ranavirus, is predicted to become more widespread and frequent if carbon emissions continue at their current rate.
A nationwide investigation found no presence of the deadly fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) in UK wild newt populations. To safeguard wild and captive amphibians, private owners are urged to enforce strict biosecurity measures.
Researchers have uncovered three new species and subspecies of ancient mammals that once roamed the Cayman Islands. These mammals, including large rodents and a shrew-like creature, are believed to have gone extinct due to human arrival and introduced species.
Conservationists have successfully used acoustic monitoring devices to track the movements of reintroduced hihi birds, marking a breakthrough for conservation efforts. The 'stitch' call of the endangered species was found to change from random distribution to settled home range, indicating success.
Scientists at ZSL urge governments to prioritize the conservation of small mangrove patches despite their size, highlighting the critical ecosystem services they provide. The loss of these habitats threatens critically endangered species and coastal communities, and could exacerbate climate change impacts.
The latest ranking from ZSL's EDGE of Existence programme highlights the most ancient fish at risk of extinction, including guitarfish, angel sharks, and saws-on-their-faces rays. These unique species have few or no remaining close relatives, making each one irreplaceable if they go extinct.
Analysis of ancient DNA from an extinct Jamaican monkey named Xenothrix has revealed its surprising connection to South America's titi monkeys. The study shows that island colonization can dramatically impact animal evolution, leading to unique characteristics like slow movement and few teeth.
A recent survey by ZSL's SPOTT found that only 49 of the world's top palm oil producers and traders have committed to zero-deforestation pledges, but many lack effectiveness in addressing deforestation. Companies must provide detailed information on monitored areas and methods used to track forest cover.
Researchers at ZSL's Institute of Zoology have reclassified the world's largest bird as a distinct species, Vorombe titan. The giant elephant birds, thought to be extinct for over 1000 years, had unexpected diversity across three genera and four distinct species.
Scientists have discovered that humans arrived on Madagascar more than 6,000 years earlier than previously thought. Analysis of ancient bird bones found in the island reveals cut marks and depression fractures consistent with hunting and butchery by prehistoric humans.
A recent study suggests that climate change is impacting the survival rates of African wild dog pups, with warmer temperatures leading to fewer pups being raised. The research found that high temperatures caused packs to spend less time hunting and resulted in higher pup mortality rates.
Scientists have identified a new fungal skin disease affecting European wild snakes for the first time. The study, led by the Zoological Society of London, confirms that snake fungal disease (SFD) is present in UK and Czech Republic snakes, posing no risk to humans or livestock.
Scientists studied 12 incidents of starling drownings and found that on 10 occasions, more than 10 birds drowned. The team suggests that younger birds may be inexperienced in identifying water hazards, contributing to the phenomenon.
Researchers successfully eliminated a lethal chytrid fungus in a wild amphibian population using antifungal treatment and environmental disinfection. The breakthrough study, published in Biology Letters, marks the first time a fatal fungal infection has been eradicated from a wild population.
Scientists are calling for cooperation between conservationists and space agencies to monitor biodiversity loss, which has halved in just 40 years. Satellite images can reveal changes in vegetation productivity and provide information on ground-level biodiversity levels.
A study led by the Zoological Society of London found that harbour porpoises in European waters are struggling with reproductive failures, with almost 20% of females experiencing stillbirth or foetal death. PCB concentrations in UK porpoises were moderate despite being banned over 30 years ago.
A study by Zoological Society of London reveals that bachelor males in small, threatened populations can maintain genetic diversity and reduce inbreeding. These 'floaters' have a significant impact on population size and sex ratio, helping to increase breeding birds and influence the survival of the species.
Farmed Chinese giant salamanders are traded across China, kept in crowded conditions, and prone to devastating disease outbreaks. The industry poses a number of threats to the species, including the mixing of locally-adapted genetic strains making farmed animals unsuitable for future reintroduction to the wild.
A new TVR pilot may exacerbate the spread of bovine TB by altering badger behavior, according to researchers. The test aims to vaccinate healthy animals and cull infected ones, but its limitations mean many badgers carrying TB could be missed.
Fencing can disrupt predator-prey dynamics and limit access for migratory herbivores. The Zoological Society of London argues that fencing should be reconsidered as a conservation tool, prioritizing connected environments over physical barriers.
Scientists confirm the extinction of Darwin's frogs caused by chytridiomycosis, a fungal disease affecting amphibians. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect the remaining species, emphasizing the importance of preserving biodiversity.
Scientists from ZSL and Imperial College London capture images of five wild cat species, including the elusive bay cat, in a logged area of forest. The study reveals that large carnivores can survive in commercially logged forests, challenging conservation assumptions.
Conservationists at the Zoological Society of London have devised a novel method to identify suitable new homes for animals under threat from climate change. The research uses habitat suitability maps and correctly identifies sites that will remain viable in the future.
Scientists from the Zoological Society of London reveal that Galapagos sea lion exposure to humans and pets impairs their immunity, making them more prone to starvation. The research suggests a link between human activity and the emergence of diseases in the Galapagos sea lion population.
Malaysia's oil palm plantations are causing threatened forest frogs to disappear, paving the way for common species to move in. The study highlights the devastating impact of habitat loss on biodiversity, with amphibians being the most threatened vertebrates globally.
The study identifies key regions for conservation efforts, highlighting Southeast Asia, southern Africa, and Central America as top priorities. Conservationists must allocate limited resources effectively to protect the world's most unique and threatened species.
Research by the Zoological Society of London found that over 4,000 years ago, tropical Pacific Islands experienced a catastrophic mass extinction of birds, with around 1,300 species disappearing. The loss was largely due to overhunting and deforestation caused by human arrival.
Researchers at the Zoological Society of London found that chimpanzees enjoy solving a challenging puzzle as much as humans do. The chimps used sticks to redirect red dice through pipes until they fell into an exit chamber, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and ability to experience satisfaction without food rewards.
A new study reveals that nearly 1 in 5 reptiles are struggling to survive, with many species highly specialized and sensitive to environmental changes. The findings highlight the urgent need for conservation action to address habitat loss, hunting, and other threats, particularly in tropical regions.
The Sundarbans mangrove forest is disappearing at an alarming rate, resulting in loss of natural protection from tidal waves and cyclones. This will inevitably lead to species loss, including the endangered Bengal tiger.
A study published by the Zoological Society of London predicts that mammals will face a bleak future due to climate change, with 1/3 species at risk from cyclones and droughts. The research identifies primates as particularly vulnerable, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.
A new strain of avian pox has been identified in British bird species, particularly affecting great tits. The disease causes severe growths that can prevent feeding and increase predation susceptibility, with survival rates significantly reduced.
A new report by the Zoological Society of London identifies 100 of the most threatened animals, plants, and fungi on the planet, highlighting their unique value to nature. The report emphasizes that all species have a right to exist and should be protected, regardless of their perceived utility for humans.
Researchers from the Zoological Society of London identified the factors influencing the success of malaria parasites in New Zealand bird species, including two previously unknown strains. The study's findings provide insights into the traits that enable parasites to survive and thrive in new environments.
A review of global ocean commitments has shown little success over the past 20 years. Despite international agreements, governments have failed to meet targets for protecting vulnerable species and marine habitats, leading to increased fish stock depletion and ecosystem destruction.
Researchers at Zoological Society of London developed a method to assess disease risks associated with translocations, guiding successful reintroduction programs. The approach is now used on all reintroduction programs in Natural England's Species Recovery Programme.
Scientists and volunteers are working together to track the spread of a deadly amphibian fungus across the UK. The survey aims to identify the most at-risk species and develop strategies for conservation.
Common frog populations across the UK are experiencing dramatic population crashes due to Ranavirus infection, with an average 81% decline in adult frogs over a 12-year period. The research also suggests that some frogs may have immunity to the disease, offering hope for their long-term future.
Large mammal populations in African national parks have declined by up to 59% since 1970, with some species experiencing dramatic decreases. Despite this, improved management and conservation efforts in southern Africa offer a glimmer of hope for the long-term survival of these iconic species.
Researchers found 11 species of wildlife, including primates and crocodiles, in confiscated bushmeat. The study estimates that around 270 tonnes of potentially contaminated bushmeat is smuggled into Europe annually.
Researchers found that toad populations in Italy shifted their behavior from breeding to evacuation mode five days before a significant earthquake. The ionosphere disruptions detected pre-seismic cues like radon gas releases and charged particles, allowing the toads to detect earthquakes earlier.