Articles tagged with Wildlife Management
A new study suggests that certified logging operations can protect jaguars and other large wildlife species. Camera trap surveys in Guatemala and Peru found high jaguar densities in managed concessions, with an average of 1.5 to 4.5 jaguars per 100 square kilometers.
A new study by University of Stirling researchers found disparities in wildlife management approaches across Europe, leading to worsening conflicts. The team assessed nine different schemes involving large grazing birds and discovered a lack of adaptation to changes in bird numbers and damage levels.
Researchers analyzed 667 hunt management systems across US and Canadian states, identifying hallmarks of science-based management such as clear objectives, evidence use, transparency, and external review. However, only 60% of these systems met these criteria, casting doubt on the science-based nature of North American wildlife management.
Researchers found that prescribed fire reduced bird species diversity, while mastication led to a 50% decrease in bird species and 60% reduction in total numbers of birds. The study suggests that current fire management practices harm wildlife and increase fire risk.
In a recent study, red foxes and coyotes were found to coexist in the urban environment of Madison, Wisconsin, due to abundant food resources. The animals' home ranges were classified into five categories based on human development, with coyotes preferring natural spaces and red foxes opting for developed areas.
Researchers found that coyotes preferred natural areas with high proportions of open space, while red foxes selected moderately developed areas. This spatial partitioning may promote coexistence between the two species in urban landscapes. The study's findings have implications for wildlife management in human-dominated environments.
A new study evaluates the prevalence of scientific rigor in wildlife research, finding that only 56.1% of studies tested hypotheses. The authors outline a rigorous scientific method to produce reliable knowledge, which is crucial for effective wildlife management and conservation.
A new review article challenges current methods for forecasting the persistence of slow-growing species, finding that reproductive success is a more reliable predictor. Researchers argue that conservation planners often get it wrong and suggest alternative tools based on realistic parameters.
Wildlife researchers developed a structured decision-making process to set sustainable wild turkey harvest targets when reliable abundance estimates are not available. The approach incorporates uncertainty about population and harvest parameters, allowing managers to apply principles of structured decision making.
A Baylor University professor and his team have developed a method to measure recreation disturbance across large landscapes, enabling better understanding of its impact on wildlife. The study aims to provide recreation managers with a tool to mitigate negative effects on wildlife while allowing for responsible recreation use.
A cultural backlash from US populism limits opportunities for state fish and wildlife agencies to adapt to changing social values. Traditionalist values are associated with lower trust in wildlife agencies, while mutualist values support restrictions on humans.
A new study examines the impact of rotational grazing and rest on greater sage-grouse nests, finding no significant increase in survival rates from rest periods. The research suggests that various grazing management systems can coexist with sage-grouse conservation.
A new study reveals that lead fishing tackle is the leading cause of mortality in adult common loons, resulting in 43% population decline over 24 years. The study found that jigs and sinkers accounted for most lead tackle objects ingested by loons.
Researchers discover that coyote populations are difficult to control due to increased immigration of younger animals vying for territories. The population's reduced reproductive capacity, largely composed of juveniles that rarely breed, contributes to the challenge.
A recent study by Virginia Tech researchers emphasizes the need to sustain benefits from voluntary conservation incentive programs after they end. The authors identified five research-based explanations for persistence outcomes, including landowners' attitudes and motivations, habit formation, access to resources, and social influences.
A recent study calls for strengthened human-wildlife conflict management in India due to the damage caused by up to 32 wildlife species. The research identifies effective prevention techniques, improved compensation schemes, and open dialogue between communities, governments, and conservationists as key solutions.
New UAlberta research reveals female elk adapt their behavior to avoid hunters as they get older, showing social learning plays a key role. After 10 years, female elk become almost invulnerable to hunting, adjusting their movements and behavior to safer areas.
A new study by Cornell University researchers estimates the densities of black bears in southern New York, finding an average density of about 13 bears per 38.6 square miles. The findings provide clues for how bears might continue to use landscapes farther north as their ranges expand.
A new species of fungus gnat has been discovered in Finland, with the scientific name Sciophila holopaineni honoring Tuomas Holopainen. The insect thrives in shadowy environments and is part of a larger group of insects that can indicate the state of natural biodiversity.
A proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the Sea of the Hebrides, Scotland, would provide essential conditions for basking sharks to forage and possibly breed. Satellite tracking data from 36 sharks showed 86% residency within the proposed area.
Researchers propose regional networks to link remote camera data globally, mirroring the success of standardized weather stations. This collaboration aims to monitor biodiversity trends and track wildlife populations in real-time, facilitating evidence-based conservation decisions.
A recent study in Science highlights a devastating crisis in Asian forests due to snaring, causing unprecedented extinctions. The authors recommend managing this issue by regulating homemade snares and preventing 'empty forests', emphasizing the urgent need for conservation action.
A model developed at Michigan State University shows how barred owls are dominating northern spotted owl territories and outcompeting them for resources. The model, called Dynamic N-occupancy, uses simple data on species presence to provide accurate estimates of local abundance and population growth.
Researchers tracked 41 boats across 28 sites in the Republic of Congo, collecting 5,500 hours of data on fishing trips. Fishers in urban areas travel far offshore with minimal safety gear, while those in rural areas make daily trips closer to shore.
The IUCN-led independent panel of scientists has been advising Sakhalin Energy to mitigate its impact on whales and the environment. The western gray whale population has grown 3-4% annually, from an estimated 115 animals in 2004 to 174 in 2015.
A new method developed by WCS, University of York, and Uganda Wildlife Authority improves ranger patrol allocation and targets specific conservation priorities. This resulted in a 250% increase in detections of illegal activities such as poaching and cattle encroachment without changing the number of rangers.
A new study from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, WCS, and CSU finds that dramatic increases in residential and energy development are associated with declining early winter recruitment in western Colorado's mule deer populations. The study suggests that these impacts on habitat may be having a greater effect on deer populations than previ...
Climate change is altering inland fish reproduction, growth, and habitats, with both positive and negative impacts on recreational fishing. Studies reveal changes in species ranges, migration timing, and predator-prey dynamics, highlighting the need for conservation and research strategies to sustain resilient fish communities.
Researchers found that female deer typically travel twice as far and take more convoluted paths than males, making it harder to contain chronic wasting disease. Dispersal rates are density-dependent, meaning higher deer densities lead to greater dispersal.
A North Carolina State University study found that hiking and hunting caused minor effects on wildlife distribution in protected Eastern forests. The study, which used citizen science camera traps, compared protected areas with similar habitats but different hunting regulations, and sites on and off hiking trails.
University of Adelaide researchers recommend a 'code of best practice' to minimize the impact of drones on wildlife and mitigate potential disturbances. The guidelines cover various factors, including species, environment, and UAV operation, to ensure informed use of drones in field research.
Researchers used NASA satellite data to predict mule deer birth rates by tracking vegetation growth patterns. This tool, called the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), measures vegetation health and helps forecast when does will give birth to fawns.
A Stanford University simulation model analyzes how modern interventions affect the Amazon rainforest and its indigenous inhabitants. The study reveals that agro-industrial land development and loss of traditional taboos lead to biodiversity decline and ecosystem collapse.
A recent study found that the San Nicolas Island fox population has extremely low genetic variation, making it vulnerable to extinction. Genetic rescue from other island fox subspecies could be necessary to preserve this important ecosystem member.
Researchers found that Arctic communities' ability to adapt to climate change is hindered by non-climatic factors such as resource availability, local governance, and economic disparities. However, with the right policies and practices, these communities can overcome these hurdles and successfully adapt to projected changes in climate.
A new method, known as the 'systems behaviour chart', is proposed by Dr Simon Black to focus conservation efforts and improve management. This tool can help identify early warning signs of ecological problems, such as population declines or increased mortality rates, allowing for timely interventions to be made.
A 15-year study found that high summer air temperatures have a significant impact on Eastern brook trout populations, particularly on the smallest fry and eggs. The researchers predict that if climate warming proceeds as projected, these fish could become extinct in 15 years unless they evolve to adapt.
A new farming scheme has been found to support 20% more species of butterflies while producing the same amount of crops as conventional farms. Farmers who sign up to the non-organic Fair to Nature growing protocol gain a premium price for their crops, in return for setting aside and actively managing wildlife habitat.
Consolidation of small populations and protected areas are key to saving the critically endangered species, researchers say. The study provides vital data to support a final attempt to prevent extinction, with priority forest protection zones identified as irreplaceable.
A new study published in Nature Climate Change suggests that climate change will not lead to widespread interbreeding among closely related species. Only about 6 percent of species with non-overlapping ranges are likely to come into contact by the end of this century.
New research highlights the need for improved monitoring of supply and demand in CITES to inform interventions addressing demand and promoting social responsibility. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding markets and addressing socio-economic drivers to effectively conserve trade-threatened species.
Researchers have developed a new method to identify where poachers operate in protected areas, providing spatial maps of illegal activities. The analysis reveals consistent poaching hotspots that can inform more efficient ranger patrols.
Scientists have devised a new method to investigate factors contributing to biological invasions of non-native species. The study successfully distinguished between two-wave and single-wave invasions using genetic data, allowing for better ecological understanding and management strategies.
A study by University of Georgia ecologists found that supplemental feeding can affect the spread of infectious diseases in wildlife, with some pathogens increasing transmission and others reducing it. The study provides practical suggestions for wildlife disease management and a roadmap for future research.
A new study by Clemson University and Cornell University found that birdwatchers are about five times as likely to engage in wildlife and habitat conservation as non-recreationists. Hunters were also found to be four times more likely to participate in conservation efforts. These findings suggest a strong connection between wildlife re...
A study by Cornell University researchers found that rural landowners who hunt and bird watch are more likely to engage in conservation efforts. These individuals, often referred to as 'hunter/bird watchers,' were found to be eight times more likely to participate in conservation actions than non-recreationists.
The iSpot platform has successfully gathered biodiversity data with an impressive 94% accuracy rate, thanks to its unique social network structure. The platform's reputation system motivates users to verify species, improving identification accuracy in 57% of cases.
Researchers used high-tech solutions to identify and relocate problem tigers in India, reducing human-wildlife conflict near protected areas. The stripe-matching software and individual histories helped make informed decisions on handling conflict-prone big cats.
The study highlights the top 10 ways remote sensing can be used in conservation, including species distribution, ecosystem processes, and climate change. The authors hope to jumpstart a new collaborative initiative that provides guidance for space agencies and partners on advancing wildlife protection and protected area management.
A Michigan State University study explores how attitudes about knowledge and power drive the wolf debate, identifying four themes: mistrust among decision-makers, special interest groups disenfranchising voters, political influencers overriding science, and local sources of information being ignored.
A new approach to disease outbreak management proposes using real-time information to adapt interventions, potentially saving up to £20 million in livestock losses. This flexible approach aims to improve outcomes by incorporating scientific discovery with policy making.
A recent study published in Oryx, a conservation journal, indicates that lowland tapir populations in French Guiana are at risk despite recent hunting restrictions. The research highlights the need for additional restrictions to ensure the long-term survival of this vulnerable species.
A new report confirms the American peregrine falcons' recovery trajectory is within predicted trends, with volunteer-generated data supporting population viability analysis. The study highlights the importance of considering geographic group health and behavior for threatened species, such as sea turtles and grizzlies.
Researchers found that mountain lions in the Santa Monica Mountains have dangerously low genetic diversity due to near complete isolation by freeways. Only one young lion successfully dispersed into the area over a decade, highlighting the need for increased connectivity.
A study suggests that certain population densities allow for coexistence between grouse shooting and hen harrier conservation. Grouse managers and conservationists agree on a possible compromise using a model that shows room for 70 pairs of harriers at relatively low cost to grouse shooting. This approach could involve removing excess ...
Research indicates that coyote predation on fawns in the East may not be significant enough to cause deer population decline, especially with reduced doe harvests. In contrast, extremely low doe survival rates combined with high fawn mortality support stabilization of Eastern deer populations.
Researchers argue that life history strategy and social behavior should guide management approaches, as 73% of carnivore species are declining. Highly cohesive social species require strict participation from all group members to ensure population persistence.
A new paper provides recommendations for conserving migratory wildlife that inhabit U.S. national parks, leveraging diverse scientific expertise. Key findings highlight the importance of protected areas and public engagement in safeguarding long-distance species movements.
The Catalina Island Conservancy's contraception program has successfully managed the island's bison population, drastically reducing the calving rate from over two-thirds to 10.4%. The program uses porcine zona pellucida (PZP) and has no apparent effect on pregnant females or their offspring.
The lab, a joint initiative between EcoHealth Alliance and Sabah Wildlife Department, will analyze wildlife health and genetic research, as well as assist in combating the spread of diseases. The facility is part of the USAID-PREDICT Project, aiming to strengthen public health work and protect the region's economic health.