Endangered Species
Articles tagged with Endangered Species
UW researchers decipher beluga calls to bolster conservation efforts
Researchers at the University of Washington decoded over 1,700 beluga whale calls in Cook Inlet, revealing insights into their social behavior, communication patterns, and vulnerability to human noise. The study suggests that shipping noise may be disrupting critical calf-mother communication, threatening the population's recovery.
Forest restoration and spotted owl conservation can work together, study finds
Old newspapers track porpoise populations across the Baltic Sea
AI cuts wildlife tracking time from months to days
Researchers at Washington State University and Google developed an AI system that can process hundreds of thousands to millions of camera trap images in just a few days, reducing analysis time from months to days. The results aligned with human experts' models in roughly 85-90% of cases, making it a significant breakthrough for conserv...
Study projects plant extinction rates through 2100
Trafficked pangolin DNA reveals hotspots of illegal wildlife trade
How river DNA can track fish, frogs, fungi and human feces — all at once
Researchers have developed a technique to analyze DNA from water samples to track species, detect pollution, and monitor ecosystem health. The technology identifies DNA from various organisms, including fish, amphibians, mammals, and even leatherback sea turtles.
Timor green pigeon ‘likely to go extinct’ without urgent action
A new study by Charles Darwin University and BirdLife International estimates that fewer than 500 Timor green pigeons remain in the wild, with the species thought to be functionally extinct in Indonesia. The authors urge governments, conservation organizations, and local communities to take urgent action to save the species.
Why are mountain forests in Mexico and Central America hotspots for oak trees? New study led by The Morton Arboretum shows most definitive answer yet
A new study by The Morton Arboretum reveals that oaks rapidly diversified in the Americas when they encountered high-elevation terrain, forming a unique biodiversity hotspot. This is supported by data from 322 of the world's approximately 450 oak species, with Mexico and Central America home to at least 160 different oaks.
Hidden in the headlines: New study uses local news to assess wildlife poaching in Romania
A new study uses local news to assess wildlife poaching in Romania, revealing the roe deer as the most frequently poached mammal. The research highlights a darker side of human-wildlife conflict and underscores the need for community mindset shift and policy reform.
Two whale groups separated by seas—but not by genes, study finds
The Mediterranean fin whale population is found to be genetically connected to North Atlantic populations, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding highlights the need for reevaluation of conservation strategies and increased connectivity between populations.
Birds caught stealing from their neighbors
A new study reveals that birds in Hawaiian forests engage in kleptoparasitism, stealing materials from neighboring nests. The behavior, common among the scarlet I'iwi and crimson Apapane, could threaten species already under stress due to habitat loss and climate change.
Gut microbiomes of elephants altered by livestock in shared spaces
Research conducted by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and Save the Elephants found that elephants' gut microbiomes shifted significantly when sharing habitat with livestock. Microbes commonly found in livestock became more abundant, while beneficial microbes decreased.
New UN-backed atlas maps migratory lifelines of highly vulnerable bird species across the americas
The Americas Flyways Atlas charts critical habitats spanning 56 countries, revealing key breeding, stopover, and wintering sites for 89 highly vulnerable migratory bird species. The atlas provides governments with a blueprint to protect these birds from habitat loss, infrastructure, and climate change.
Global initiative to address mounting pressures from illegal and unsustainable taking of migratory species announced at UN wildlife conference
The Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species (GTI) aims to tackle the root causes of illegal and unsustainable taking, safeguarding wildlife and livelihoods. The initiative focuses on improving data, strengthening laws, engaging communities, and raising awareness.
The polar bear ‘umbrella’: How protecting one species saves many
A new study reveals that protecting polar bear habitat naturally safeguards the resources they rely on to survive, providing critical benefits to the ecosystem. By analyzing tracking data from 355 bears, researchers identified a high-use area near Cape Churchill, Manitoba, highlighting it as a prime location for a Marine Protected Area.
Amid new findings that more migratory species of animals are facing extinction nations gather in Brazil to agree on actions
Nations are coming together at the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) to address declining population trends and extinction threats among migratory species. The meeting aims to establish conservation policies and protections for over 2,000 species under threat.
Quantity not quality: Australia’s conservation expansion is failing biodiversity
A new study reveals that Australia's national park expansion has not effectively protected threatened species and ecosystems. Despite doubling the size of protected areas since 2010, critical conservation priorities are being overlooked.
Global strategies to protect seals and sea lions from avian influenza
A recent study by the University of California, Davis, highlights the devastating impact of H5N1 on pinniped populations worldwide. The virus has infected over 400 million poultry and tens of thousands of seals and sea lions, with significant consequences for conservation efforts.
FAU-FWC Study: Endangered smalltooth sawfish make a comeback in a historical Florida nursery
Researchers found juvenile smalltooth sawfish showing strong site fidelity to the South Fork of the Saint Lucie River, spending up to 87% of their time within a 0.4 square kilometer area. This suggests that the Indian River Lagoon is once again functioning as a nursery for this endangered species.
Florida’s most at-risk bat moves into safer artificial roosts
A new study by researchers from the University of Illinois has shown that bonneted bats can be lured to and inhabit safer bat boxes, which mimic their natural roosts and maintain a stable thermal environment. The study found that the external water jacket in the boxes provides a safer temperature for the bats, and that long-term follow...
Could ultrasound help save hedgehogs?
A new study reveals that hedgehogs can hear high-frequency ultrasound, up to 85 kHz, which could be used to design sound repellents for cars to deter them from roads. The findings suggest a potential solution to reduce hedgehog deaths, which are a major cause of road traffic accidents.
Narrow-ridged finless porpoises are more social than assumed, study finds
Researchers observed finless porpoises in Ise Bay, Japan, interacting with adults beyond their mothers, challenging the long-held assumption of their solitary nature. Infants approach and swim alongside adults who are not their mothers, suggesting a potential weaker mother-calf bond compared to other species.
Share of migratory wild animal species with declining populations despite UN treaty protections worsens from 44% to 49% in two years; 24% face extinction, up 2%
The interim update to the State of the World's Migratory Species report warns that 49% of migratory species populations are declining, with 24% facing extinction, due to habitat loss and overexploitation. The report highlights the need for coordinated international action to address these threats and protect migratory species.
The wild can be ‘death trap’ for rescued animals
A new study published in Global Ecology and Conservation found that released animals, like Bengal slow lorises, are at risk of being attacked by territorial peers. Only two out of nine released animals survived, with the others dying due to fatal attacks.
Celebrity dolphin of Venice doesn’t need special protection – except from humans
A solitary bottlenose dolphin in the Venetian Lagoon is monitored by researchers who assess its remarkable adaptation to urban surroundings. The team highlights the need for human behavior management to ensure the dolphin's welfare, rather than focusing on wildlife protection measures.
UMaine researcher develops model to protect freshwater fish worldwide from extinction
A computer model identifies potential threats to over 10,000 freshwater species worldwide, offering a cost-effective way to safeguard species before they become endangered. The tool analyzes 52 variables, including damming, pollution, and habitat degradation, to recognize ecological patterns that benefit multiple species at once.
Hunting pressure is shrinking safe space for mandrills in Equatorial Guinea
Research reveals that hunting pressure is shrinking safe space for mandrills in Equatorial Guinea's Monte Alén National Park. Mandrills are adapting to changing conditions by focusing on high-quality sites with limited human impact.
A Pitt-Johnstown professor found syntax in the warbling duets of wild parrots
Researchers found that wild Yellow-naped Amazon parrots use complex vocalizations with syntax, collocates, and a large repertoire of notes when fighting for territory. The team identified over 450 calls in warble duets, revealing precise rules governing the birds' communication.
Silver European eel discovered in Cyprus for the first time
The discovery of mature silver European eels in Cyprus highlights the importance of river fragmentation and local environmental conditions on eel populations. The finding also underscores the need for urgent implementation of Eel Management Plans to conserve this critically endangered species.
The North American wild mountain sheep could face extinction unless we act to protect their habitat
The North American wild mountain sheep is losing its habitat to industrial mining, human activity, and climate change. The book highlights the risks faced by this species, which nearly collapsed in previous decades but now faces grave risks from disease and habitat loss.
Illumina and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance partner to sequence the Frozen Zoo®, supporting critical conservation genetics efforts globally
The partnership aims to support conservation genetics efforts globally by sequencing up to 4,000 unique animal samples across 1,300 species. The project will provide valuable genomic insights to inform conservation management decisions and promote ecological resilience.
Chicago Botanic Garden, The Morton Arboretum pledge to safeguard threatened species for Reverse the Red Day
The Chicago Botanic Garden and The Morton Arboretum have pledged to protect endangered species such as Cucharillo and Stone's Paphiopedilum through collaborative conservation strategies. These institutions will co-host the 9th Global Botanic Gardens Congress in 2027 to accelerate crucial conservation work.
Devastation of island land snails, especially in the Pacific
A comprehensive review reveals devastating loss of island land snail biodiversity, with extinction rates ranging from 30% to 80%. The Hawaiian Islands, in particular, have lost up to 90% of their unique native snail species due to human arrival and colonization.
Strategic sex: Alaska’s beluga whales swap mates for long-term survival
A new study reveals how beluga whales in Alaska's Bristol Bay survive through a surprising strategy: they mate with multiple partners over several years. This polygynandrous system helps maintain genetic diversity despite the population's small size and isolation.
Nearly 8,000 animal species at risk as extreme heat and land-use change collide, Oxford study finds
A new Oxford University study finds nearly 8,000 animal species could face extinction by the end of this century due to combined effects of climate-driven extreme heat and human land-use changes. The study highlights the urgency of conservation and mitigation actions globally to prevent immense losses to biodiversity.
Connection and protection boost health in coral reefs
A new study by the University of Oxford and WCS reveals that connections between coral reefs can stabilize reef health, reducing the risk of collapse. By simulating future reef conditions under different management scenarios, researchers found that a dual approach improving land and sea conditions provides the best outcomes for reefs.
Global sports industry holds untapped potential for wildlife conservation
Research reveals that threatened species are overrepresented in professional sports emblems, offering a powerful new avenue for biodiversity conservation partnerships. Fans' emotional connections with team mascots can mobilize audiences to support conservation initiatives.
Turning team spirit into wildlife action
A new international study reveals that nearly 25% of professional sports teams worldwide feature a wild animal in its name, logo, or fan identity, with over half of these teams using threatened species. The researchers argue that sport organisations could actively support conservation through awareness campaigns and partnerships.
New camera traps snap nearly three times more images of endangered Sumatran tigers than before
Researchers found a robust and healthy population of critically endangered Sumatran tigers in the Leuser ecosystem, with over 282 high-quality images captured. The team identified 27 individuals, including females with high densities indicating a thriving social system and adequate habitats.
Drones: An ally in the sky to help save elephants!
Researchers found that elephants can learn to ignore drones within minutes of exposure, opening a new window into their behavior and social interactions. The study's results suggest potential for drones as a cost-effective observation platform in elephant conservation.
Trade risk of beautiful birds - how aesthetics drive wild bird exploitation for trade
A new global study found a correlation between a species' aesthetic value and its likelihood of being traded, particularly in live markets. The study highlights the troubling pattern that people's preference for visual beauty may unintentionally increase conservation risks for certain species.
Three new toad species skip the tadpole phase and give birth to live toadlets
Researchers have identified three new species of tree-dwelling toads from Africa that skip the tadpole phase and give birth to live toadlets. This rare reproductive strategy is found in less than 1% of frog species, making these toads exceptionally interesting.
Island reptiles face extinction before they are even studied, warns global review
A new study reveals that island reptiles are more threatened with extinction than mainland species, yet remain largely ignored by researchers. The study found that 30% of island-dwelling reptiles are threatened, while only 6.7% of reptile-focused research publications have studied them.
Managing ponds may help save native salamanders
Scientists suggest that managing pond conditions can tip the balance in favor of native species. Research found that longer hydroperiods, typically over 110 days, lead to larger and more stable populations.
Wild giraffes lose their conservation safety net as zoo populations hybridize
New research reveals American giraffe collections have been hybridized across species, reducing their conservation value. The study recommends phasing out hybridized animals from captive breeding programs and screening existing animals for better genetic matches.
Survival of the blandest: Unusual sharks face highest extinction risk
Research found that sharks with specialized physiologies and ecological roles are most threatened with extinction. Losing these species would diminish trait diversity, leading to a more boring world with less diversity of forms. The study suggests that overfishing is the single biggest driver of shark population decline.
Wildlife trafficking within a web of organized crime
A new study reveals the deep connection between wildlife trafficking and other serious crimes, including arms dealing and human smuggling. By mapping these intersections, researchers can focus on key players driving global networks, boosting anti-trafficking interventions.
Polar bears act as crucial providers for Arctic species
A new study reveals that polar bears act as crucial providers for Arctic species, leaving behind millions of kilograms of prey annually. This carrion provides a vital energy source for a wide network of arctic scavenger species, including Arctic foxes and ravens.
Endangered Kangaroo Island ground dweller found in trees
Researchers discovered that Kangaroo Island dunnarts are partially arboreal and use pygmy-possum nest boxes for shelter. The finding highlights the importance of tree hollows in biodiversity conservation, as these creatures also seek refuge in eucalyptus trees.
Extinction rates have slowed across many plant and animal groups, study shows
A recent study found that extinction rates in plants and animals peaked around 100 years ago and have declined since then. The researchers argue that past extinctions are not reliable predictors of current and future threats due to changing drivers such as habitat loss and climate change.
Future-focused conservation index identifies reptiles as highest conservation priority
A new index tool evaluates species' conservation priority based on future threats and traits, identifying reptiles as highest priority. The Proactive Conservation Index complements existing tools, offering insights into understudied species and facilitating proactive conservation strategies.
FAU’s Queen Conch Lab receives prestigious international award
The FAU Queen Conch Lab has developed mobile lab hatcheries to restore threatened Caribbean queen conch populations and promote sustainable seafood production. These self-contained units bring advanced aquaculture capabilities to coastal communities, supporting education, employment, and food security.
African wildlife poop sheds light on what shapes the gut ecosystem
Researchers analyzed feces samples from 11 herbivore species in Namibia's Etosha National Park to understand how environmental factors shape their gut microbiomes. The study found five types of bacteria serving as environmental indicators, which could help monitor ecosystem changes and animal adaptation.
The largest primate in the Americas could lose up to 61% of its climatically suitable habitat by 2090
Two muriqui species, largest primates in the Americas, face significant habitat loss due to climate change. By 2090, up to 61% of their suitable habitats may be reduced, mainly confined to coastal regions of the Atlantic Forest.
Chickening out – why some birds fear novelty
A global study has discovered that birds' fear of novelty is strongly linked to their dietary specialization and migratory behavior. The research found that species with narrower diets and those that migrate may exhibit higher levels of neophobia, or fear of new things.
In the Maya rainforest, even the jaguars pose for the camera
A community-managed forest in Guatemala's Maya Biosphere Reserve supports a rich variety of medium-to-large mammals and birds comparable to those in protected national parks. However, some vulnerable species avoid areas with high human access, revealing subtle, cryptic disturbances that ripple through the forest.
Mystery solved: How Europe’s largest bat catches and eats passerines mid-air
A team of researchers has shed light on how Europe's largest bat hunts and consumes small birds. The bats use loud and low-frequency ultrasound echolocation calls to detect prey at great distances, then pursue it in steep dives towards the ground, catching and eating birds in mid-air.
Method to assess the status of wild reindeer may help with conservation efforts
Researchers developed an environmental quality standard to evaluate reindeer populations, finding most areas rated as poor or medium. The standard aims to inform management efforts and secure long-term conservation of wild reindeer.