What's eating these endangered orchids?
A species of seed-feeding fly is critically damaging orchid seeds, threatening their reproduction. The fly reduces seed production by over 95% in five species, putting already-endangered orchids at risk.
Endangered Species
Articles tagged with Endangered Species
Global trade in exotic pets threatens endangered parrots through the spread of a virus
A new study has detected BFDV in eight countries, raising fears for threatened species. The virus is believed to have originated in Australasia and can cause severe health issues in parrots.
New tool developed by UBC researchers helps conservationists make smarter decisions
A new tool developed by UBC researchers helps conservationists make data-driven decisions about which species to recover with limited funds. By analyzing empirical data and expert knowledge, the Priority Threat Management tool prioritizes conservation strategies for endangered species.
A breakthrough for Australia's fish
A research team from the University of Queensland has developed a new approach to help Australian freshwater fish species overcome obstacles like culverts. By creating a channel of slower flowing water, small and young fish can now navigate fast flows, increasing their chances of survival.
California plain shows surprising winners and losers from prolonged drought
A long-term study found that drought helped ecological underdogs by stressing dominant species, while carnivores suffered when their prey became scarce. The Carrizo Plain National Monument revealed patterns relevant for climate change, with implications for conservation efforts.
Satellite tracking reveals Philippine waters are important for endangered whale sharks
A new study tracked juvenile whale sharks across the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of the archipelago for the species. The study found that all tagged whale sharks stayed within the Philippines, with one individual traveling over 2,500 km through the Sulu and Bohol Seas.
Public support for Endangered Species Act is widespread
A new study finds that nearly four in five Americans support the Endangered Species Act, despite claims of controversy. The survey data contradicts claims that public opinion is divided on the issue, showing high levels of support across various groups.
Most Americans support Endangered Species Act despite increasing efforts to curtail it
A new study found that four out of five Americans support the Endangered Species Act, with support remaining stable over the past two decades. The survey also revealed a stark contrast between public opinion and policy-making decisions, highlighting the need for elected officials to be responsive to their citizens.
Rhino sperm from the cold
Scientists have developed a new cryoprotective mixture that significantly improves the motility of frozen rhinoceros sperm after thawing. The new mixture has been successfully tested with sperm samples from three rhino species and shows potential for increasing the success rate of artificial insemination.
Rethinking the orangutan
Orangutans' evolution has been heavily influenced by humans over thousands of years. The critically endangered species can adapt to survive in human-dominated landscapes, expanding their habitat range.
Detection of arboreal feeding signs by Asiatic black bears
Research in Japan found that Asiatic black bears create arboreal feeding signs (AFS) on trees with large mast energy values, indicating a cost-benefit analysis for climbing. AFS are also more likely during poor mast years when competition for hard mast is high.
UA genetics research verifies purity of the Mexican wolf
A recent study by researchers at the University of Arizona has found no evidence of domestic dog ancestry in the Mexican wolf population. The analysis of 87 Mexican wolves using genomic technology revealed a low percentage of genetic similarity with domestic dogs, suggesting that the species is genetically pure.
Primates in peril
The study highlights the devastating impact of human activities on primate populations, with up to 78% decline in their habitats by the end of the century. The authors recommend extending protected areas, reforestation, and promoting sustainable farming practices to conserve primates.
Deadly fungus found for first time in critically endangered amphibian species
Scientists have recorded Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a lethal fungus, for the first time in caecilians and amphibians in the Western Ghats. The fungus, Bd, causes chytridiomycosis and poses a significant threat to these species.
Getting conservationists and fishers on the same page
A new online tool, EcoCast, provides fishermen with computer-generated maps to target productive fishing spots while avoiding protected species. By predicting where different marine species are likely to be found under various ocean conditions, EcoCast aims to improve the economic and environmental sustainability of fisheries.
Limiting warming to 1.5 degree C would save majority of global species from climate change
A new report reveals that limiting warming to 1.5°C would avoid half the risks associated with warming of 2°C for plants and animals, and two-thirds of the risks for insects. Species in Southern Africa, the Amazon, Europe, and Australia would particularly benefit.
Armed conflicts in Sahara and Sahel endangering wildlife in the region
The Sahara-Sahel region is experiencing a dramatic population decline of species such as African elephants and dorcas gazelles due to armed conflicts. The research highlights the need for greater emphasis on environmental factors in peace process initiatives to protect local wildlife.
Massive study across western equatorial Africa finds more gorillas and chimpanzees than expected
A decade-long study reveals a significant increase in western lowland gorilla and central chimpanzee populations, with an estimated 360,000 gorillas and 130,000 chimpanzees. However, the majority of great apes exist outside protected areas, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to safeguard their habitat
Astro-ecology: Saving endangered animals with software for the stars
A collaboration between astrophysicists and ecologists is helping to monitor rare and endangered species using thermal infrared imagery captured by drones. The project aims to track, find, and monitor endangered animals easily and prevent poaching.
Proposed border wall will harm Texas plants and animals, scientists say
A proposed Texas border wall would threaten endangered species, cause habitat destruction, and disrupt the region's growing ecotourism industry. The construction of the wall and associated roads could also damage valuable riparian forest ecosystems and harm pollinators.
Chance is a factor in the survival of species
A recent study by Lund University found that chance plays a significant role in local species survival, sometimes overriding conservation initiatives. The researchers also discovered negative frequency-dependence, which counteracts the role of chance and helps rare species recover.
Reducing collateral damage
A new UC Santa Barbara-led study found that ending overfishing can promote population recoveries for many endangered species caught incidentally as bycatch. In about half the cases, overexploiting these mammals, turtles and birds occurs because we're also overexploiting the target species.
Scientists seeking rare river crayfish aren't just kicking rocks
Researchers at the University of Illinois used a combination of traditional kick-seining and environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques to study the rare Faxonius eupunctus crayfish. They found the species most abundant in the middle part of its 30-mile range, with up to 35,000 cubic feet of water flowing by each second.
New study sheds light on illegal global trade of pangolins
A new study reveals that animal traffickers are smuggling pangolins out of Central Africa, primarily for their meat and scales, due to high international demand. The price of giant pangolin scales has risen over 45 times the rate of inflation between 2002 and 2014, driving up local costs.
Monkey study shows a path to monitoring endangered species
A Brazilian-American research group has published a comprehensive study on monitoring the survival of muriquis, two critically endangered primate species. The study highlights key factors such as population trends, conservation priorities, and feasibility, providing a roadmap for preserving these unique animals.
Space-inspired study unravels mysterious constellations of the oceans
A new study reveals the location of 20 whale shark aggregation sites globally, increasing knowledge of abundance and geographic range. The research also identifies sex-ratio bias, site fidelity and hotspot sites, improving conservation efforts for this endangered species.
Feces from entangled North Atlantic right whales reveals 'sky-high' stress levels
A new study published in Endangered Species Research found that chronically entangled North Atlantic right whales have high hormone levels indicating severe stress. The research used fecal samples from live, entangled, and dead whales to investigate stress levels and determine cause of death.
Climate change, sparse policies endanger right whale population
The study reveals that climate change and insufficient international protection are endangering the North Atlantic right whale population, which has made modest gains in recent years. The lack of adequate policies in northern waterways increases the risk of ship traffic and commercial fishing gear harming the whales.
Spooky conservation: Saving endangered species over our dead bodies
A University of Queensland researcher suggests that conservation burials, where burial fees support threatened species conservation, have substantial potential to increase biodiversity. By generating revenue exceeding the cost of saving all threatened species, conservation burials could effectively protect endangered wildlife.
Under pressure
Climate change and human activities are putting North Atlantic right whales under immense pressure, with food scarcity and high mortality rates exacerbating their decline. The study predicts population growth will be hindered by climate-mediated food availability and policy-driven mortalities.
The sea turtle that refused to be beaten by the storm
Researchers discovered that adult sea turtles like Eleanor can survive and even thrive during tropical storms. The study found that sea turtles like Eleanor drastically change behavior when the storm strikes, using more energy than usual but still surviving without injury.
Want to save 41 percent of the planet's highly threatened vertebrates? Work on islands
A new database identifies 1,189 threatened island species and the invasive species driving their decline. Effective management could prevent extinctions for 95% of these species.
Conservation spending predicts rise and fall of global biodiversity
Research finds that increased conservation spending is effective in reducing biodiversity loss, with countries like Brazil experiencing fewer threats and Chile facing more. A new measurement assigns percentage of responsibility to protect threatened species based on their range within a country.
Malaysia embraces Melanie's work on the illegal wildlife trade
Research by Melanie Flynn, a University of Huddersfield lecturer, has led to Malaysia setting up environmental courts to deal with wildlife crimes. In contrast, the UK has made slower progress in tackling the issue, with inconsistent sentencing and limited resources hindering efforts.
Genetic rescue boosts recovery of Australia's endangered mountain pygmy possums
A genetic rescue technique has increased population numbers and survival rates of the endangered mountain pygmy possum, with a rapid growth of over 200 individuals detected since its introduction in 2011. Habitat restoration, predator control, and environmental protection also played crucial roles in conservation management.
Update on an endangered Philippine cycad species
The Critically Endangered Cycas wadei population is threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and fires. Empirical methods were used to determine the structure and density of the population, highlighting deficiencies in potassium in the soils as a major resource constraint.
Conservationists should harness 'Hollywood effect' to help wildlife
Researchers from the University of Exeter suggest that conservation scientists work with filmmakers to raise awareness of endangered species and environmental issues, leveraging the 'Hollywood effect' to inspire action. The study highlights both positive and negative impacts of cinema on public perceptions and attitudes towards wildlife.
Light at the end of the tunnel: Restored forest now shelters dozens of endangered species
The rehabilitated forest in Drabo harbours about 600 plant species and serves as a sanctuary for many animals. The restoration project has increased West-African forest species while declining pantropical weedy species.
Guelph study shows endangered sharks, rays further threatened by global food markets
A University of Guelph study using DNA barcoding technology found 71% of dried shark fins and manta ray gills were from endangered species. This highlights the need for stricter enforcement to prevent protected species from being traded internationally.
In search of Edwards' pheasant
Scientists are searching for Edwards' pheasant, a critically endangered bird species endemic to central Vietnam. Researchers have identified two potential locations where the bird may still exist, using data compiled from known sightings and recordings dating back to the late 1800s.
Coral gardening is benefiting Caribbean reefs, study finds
A new study found that Caribbean staghorn corals are benefiting from 'coral gardening,' which involves planting laboratory-raised coral fragments on reefs. The research provides important benchmarks for the long-term survival of coral reefs worldwide, which have been declining due to climate change and ocean pollution.
The world's largest canary
The São Tomé grosbeak is the world's largest canary, measuring 20 cm long and possessing a flat head and large beak. It is found only on the island of São Tomé in the West African Gulf of Guinea and is 50% larger than the runner-up species.
Small rodent species may become endangered
The hazel dormouse has experienced a 72% decline over two decades, with annual losses reaching 5.8%. Climate change and habitat loss are major concerns for the species' survival.
Drowsy dormice doze into decline
The UK's hazel dormouse population has declined by 72% over the past two decades, with conservation efforts proving insufficient to stem the decline. The research team is now calling for an urgent review of dormouse conservation to protect this beloved woodland mammal.
Finding new homes won't help Emperor penguins cope with climate change
A new study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientists predicts that dispersal among Emperor penguins will not prevent population decline due to climate change. Despite the ability of penguins to migrate to locations with better sea ice conditions, projected accelerated melting in Antarctica makes for a challenging dynamic.
How can you tell deep-sea octopuses apart? Check their warts
A new study compares physical characteristics of two similar octopus species, assigning names years ago but never rigorously compared. Researchers analyzed 72 specimens and devised a method to quantify subtle differences in wart distribution.
The perils of publishing location data for endangered species
The publication of rare species' location data can inadvertently contribute to poaching and further species declines. Biologists must reevaluate their publishing culture to protect endangered species.
Portland State researcher discovers new species of South American rabbit
A new species of South American rabbit has been discovered by Portland State University researcher Luis Ruedas, who found the creature to be larger and shaped differently from its cousins. The discovery is significant as it will require renaming other rabbit species in the region, potentially affecting conservation efforts.
Who swims where?
A global research team developed a new Web app to compare and align marine species occurrence maps from two extensive databases, improving the basis for ecological studies and policy decisions. The updated maps include 24,586 species, with some discrepancies found in the IUCN and AquaMaps datasets.
Noise created by humans is pervasive in US protected areas
A study by Colorado State University found that noise pollution was twice as high as background sound levels in a majority of US protected areas, causing harm to wildlife and visitor experiences. The research highlights the need to protect natural acoustic resources from human activities such as roads, aircraft, and development.
Digital life project uses 3-D to document endangered frogs
The Digital Life project has released 15 three-dimensional models of live frogs, including several endangered species, to raise awareness about their vulnerability to ecological threats. The project aims to promote conservation, education, and science by showcasing the extraordinary beauty and diversity of these animals.
GW study finds 33 percent of seafood sold in six DC eateries mislabeled
A recent study conducted by George Washington University found that 33 percent of seafood sold in six District restaurants was mislabeled. The DNA barcoding analysis revealed that the substitutions were mostly with closely related species or acceptable alternatives for menu listing.
The Cerberus Groundsnake is a Critically Endangered new species from Ecuador
Scientists have identified three new species of ground snakes in Ecuador, including the Critically Endangered Cerberus Groundsnake. The study highlights the importance of genetic analysis in resolving problematic species delimitation and conservation efforts.
Can facial recognition systems help save lemurs?
A new facial recognition system, LemurFaceID, identifies over 100 individual lemurs with 98.7% accuracy, providing a rapid and cost-effective method for long-term research of endangered species. This technology also offers a humane alternative to capture and collar methods.
UTIA project named Project of the Year for DoD Environmental Security Technology
The UTIA project used aerial acoustic recordings to track at-risk avian species on DoD facilities, improving compliance with environmental regulations. The project was recognized as the DoD's Project of the Year for 2016 for resource conservation and resiliency.
The solution from the skies to save endangered species
A new project from Liverpool John Moores University is using drones equipped with thermal cameras to help identify endangered species, such as rhinos and orang-utans. The technique involves analyzing thermal heat profiles to create a unique 'fingerprint' for each animal, allowing for more efficient conservation efforts.
An application of astronomy to save endangered species
A multidisciplinary team combines drones with infrared cameras to monitor animal populations, reducing costs and increasing access. The new technique uses thermal imaging to identify species, potentially aiding conservation efforts against poaching and habitat destruction.
Rhino genome results
The San Diego Zoo's Frozen Zoo cell cultures contain genetic variation missing in surviving individuals of the critically endangered northern white rhinoceros. Genome-wide levels of genetic diversity and inbreeding in both southern and northern white rhinos were examined to aid future efforts toward genetic rescue and assisted reproduc...
Robust rattan palm assessed as Endangered, new Species Conservation Profile shows
The Robust Rattan Palm has been assessed as Endangered due to habitat loss and over-harvesting. Its limited range of 40 km² in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire makes it highly vulnerable to extinction.
Exeter research helps protect loggerhead turtles
Researchers from the University of Exeter have tagged and tracked hundreds of loggerhead turtles in Greece to study their migration patterns. The results show most turtles come from nesting populations within 125 miles, but one female traveled over 1,000 miles to breed in Turkey and Syria.