Articles tagged with Endangered Species
Scientists have discovered a new Pacific iguana species in central Fiji, Brachylophus bulabula, which joins only two other living species. The study found that each of the 13 islands where living iguanas were sampled showed distinct genetic lines not seen elsewhere, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
Researchers found that current mathematical models overlook random differences between individuals in a given population, leading to underestimated extinction risks. The study's results suggest that factors such as sex ratio variations and physical variation within populations can significantly impact extinction rates.
Scientists at the University of Bristol developed an intelligent, visual surveillance system to track African penguins' population dynamics and social behavior. The 'Penguin Recognition Project' uses unique biometric identifiers to monitor large numbers of species cheaply and automatically.
Researchers used DNA barcoding to identify 190 species of Canadian freshwater fish, representing a significant advance for conservation practices. The approach was successful in 93% of cases, offering promise for species-level identification and management.
A recent study published in Conservation Letters found that many animal species need broad landscape-level conservation to survive due to ecological processes. The research identified 20% of threatened amphibians and 40% of threatened freshwater turtles relying on conservation action at a large scale.
A new family tree of all British birds provides clues about which species might be endangered next, with declining populations clustered together on the same branches. The study found a link between closely related birds and chances of population decline, but also noted that geographical area inhabited by species is not a key factor.
Researchers use feces found by trained dogs to learn about the habits of rare and endangered mammals, revealing that farms with less than 30% natural vegetation have fewer endangered species. The study highlights the importance of preserving open grasslands for threatened species like maned wolf and giant anteater.
A study published in INFORMS journal Interfaces found that US polar bear research is flawed due to inadequate forecasting methodologies. The researchers concluded that the studies do not adequately support assumptions about sea ice changes and polar bears' ability to adapt, making it difficult to justify listing the species as endangered.
A new study has introduced a nonlethal method to measure the body composition of small rodents using Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorbtiometry (DXA). This technology allows for accurate measurements without harming the animals, facilitating longitudinal research and increasing scientific collaboration between field and laboratory researchers.
A study by the Wildlife Conservation Society found that healthy wolf packs can keep coyote numbers in check, leading to higher survival rates for pronghorn fawns. In areas with abundant wolves, only 10% of fawns survived without them, whereas in wolf-free areas, 34% did.
Researchers have discovered critical details of shark behavior, including migration routes and gathering sites. The findings suggest that open-ocean sharks are particularly threatened from overfishing, and that some species congregate at established 'stepping stone' sites, which can help inform conservation efforts.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has awarded a major grant to the Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences to support shorebird conservation programs. The Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network will conduct conservation activities at 68 sites in nine nations, with a focus on addressing declines in shorebird populations.
Scientists have discovered significant populations of new, rare, and threatened species in Ghana's Atewa Range Forest Reserve, underscoring the area's high biological diversity. The findings include Critically Endangered frog and butterfly species, as well as eight new species of katydids.
A new underwater nursery in Biscayne National Park is dedicated to the propagation of staghorn corals. The nursery aims to develop effective fragmentation and propagation methodologies to help recover the species from decline due to climate change, coral diseases, and hurricanes.
Researchers found that hybrid young salamanders survived more in the wild than pure native or introduced species, challenging prevailing scientific thought. The study raises questions about managing endangered populations and considers hybrids as threats to native salamanders.
A new DNA analysis revealed that five of nine relic populations of what biologists believed to be greenback cutthroat trout are actually Colorado River cutthroat trout. This study highlights the need for accurate identification and management strategies to conserve the species.
Researchers suggest assessing levies for by-catch to fund conservation measures. This approach would give fishermen financial incentives to avoid catching noncommercial species while providing funds to address more hazardous threats to seabirds and turtles.
A team of scientists from Conservation International and World Wildlife Fund discovered a rare nesting ground for the endangered Cantor's giant softshell turtle in Cambodia's Mekong River. The survey revealed an abundance of the species, allowing for the release of hatchlings into the wild.
Ecologists and philosophers protest a new definition of 'endangered species' that could weaken the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973. The new definition limits endangered species to those at risk of extinction within their current range, which may hinder conservation efforts for species like wolves, grizzly bears, and jaguars.
Marine turtles migrate hundreds of miles to foraging sites, equally loyal as nesting sites, according to University of Exeter research. The study tracked twenty green and loggerhead turtles, finding they return to same feeding grounds up to five years later.
A new census confirms the Amur leopard's precarious survival, with fewer than 35 individuals remaining in the wild. The species is threatened by encroaching civilization, poaching, and climate change, highlighting the need for expanded protected areas and conservation efforts.
A comprehensive assessment by Conservation International found that 20 grouper species are threatened with extinction, with eight already listed as under extinction threat. The report highlights the need for better fishery management and marine protected areas to prevent further decline.
The Tibetan antelope population may be increasing due to a combination of better enforcement and growing conservation ethic in local communities, according to WCS biologist George Schaller. He witnessed no direct evidence of widespread poaching during an eight-week expedition across Tibet's remote Chang Tang region.
The US shortnose sturgeon population has increased by over 400 percent in the Hudson River since the 1970s, marking a rare recovery of an endangered species. The study suggests that protection and conservation efforts can lead to successful recoveries, even in areas with high human activity.
Jennifer Fewster, a UCF doctoral student, is studying giraffe excrement at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge to understand what animals eat in the wild and improve captive nutrition. Her research could help conserve endangered herbivores by mimicking their natural landscape and food supply.
A new forest reserve in Colombia has been created to protect the chestnut-capped piha, an Endangered bird species restricted to a few tiny remnant forest patches. The reserve also safeguards habitats for seven Vulnerable and four Endangered frog species, including one believed to be found only at this site.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation granted $378,780 to WHSRN for shorebird conservation programs. The program will focus on strengthening partnerships, protecting habitats, and applying tools for habitat conservation. WHSRN aims to conserve four high-concern shorebird species and their habitats across the Americas.
A new study reveals that human behavior can trigger a 'rarity effect' in endangered species, driving them into an extinction vortex. This phenomenon resembles the Allee effect, where low population densities increase extinction risk. The pursuit of rare species for luxury items or social status exacerbates this effect.
A comprehensive worldwide map of mammals, birds, and amphibians shows that endangered species from different groups don't inhabit the same areas, contradicting conservationists' assumptions. This discovery has significant implications for conservation planning and decision-making.
A global study has found that pinpointing rare bird species isn't a reliable way to assume where other endangered animals occur. The research gathered data on 9,626 bird species, 4,104 mammal species, and 5,619 amphibian species to show that closer examination is needed for conservation efforts.
A new study estimates that up to 73 million sharks are killed annually for their valuable fins, exceeding UN reports by three times. The shark fin trade's high demand and lack of regulation threaten slow-to-produce shark populations.
In a groundbreaking finding, researchers discovered that chimpanzees in the Ebo forest, Cameroon, utilize stone hammers to access nutrient-rich seeds. This behavior was previously thought to be restricted by geographical boundaries and challenges the long-held cultural spread model of tool use among chimpanzees.
Scientists call for a new initiative to address the growing proportion of threatened and extinct amphibian species, with 32% at risk. The alliance aims to combat diseases, habitat loss, invasive species, and other causes through research, training, and conservation efforts.
Researchers analyzed 22 multispecies plans and found that 41% of covered species were unconfirmed. This lack of data can lead to nonuniform land use, posing a threat to protected species.
Scientists track Caspian Sea sturgeons using satellite technology for the first time, providing critical data for conservation efforts. The study aims to learn more about species biology and behavior, challenging long-held assumptions and contributing to better management of endangered populations.
Researchers discovered that rats and mongooses rarely penetrate forest interior due to poorer habitats for reproduction, making natural forests ideal refuges for threatened island species. Conservation efforts should prioritize protecting remaining large blocks of natural forests on Pacific islands.
A coalition of conservation groups protected a vital 1,600-acre site in Colombia's Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta massif, safeguarding the last breeding ground of the Globally Endangered Santa Marta Parakeet. The site also provides habitat for 18 bird species and five threatened amphibians.
A recent study by Columbia Climate School researchers found two genetically distinct populations of Asian elephants in northeast India, separated by the Brahmaputra River. This discovery is significant for future conservation planning, highlighting the importance of preserving genetic diversity to protect the endangered species.
The study highlights the limitations of using surrogate animals to predict endangered species decline, arguing that target species are more relevant. The authors advocate directly examining the target species before resorting to substitute animals.
Research by Dr. Mark Boyce found that removing one egg from a whooping crane nest increases the probability of nest success, leading to an increase in population numbers and establishment of new populations. The program has been successful in enhancing the conservation of the species, with over 200 birds currently thriving.
Researchers highlight difficulties in using substitute species, citing the need for direct examination of target species. The study concludes that surrogate species are not a viable solution to conserve endangered species.
A new study by Conservation International and WWF reveals significant discrepancies between CITES and US Customs data on international wildlife trade, with figures varying wildly from 5,200 percent. The study identifies widespread errors and inefficiencies in recordkeeping, hindering effective conservation efforts.
Researchers found serious flaws in the Florida panther's research and habitat requirements, leading to the development of new guidelines. The study suggests that reanalyzing existing data could help continue the positive trend in population growth.
A conservation biologist has been awarded a $500,000 MacArthur Fellowship to study and protect endangered plants and animals in Madagascar. The award recognizes the individual's exceptional originality and dedication to their creative pursuits in the field of conservation.
Research at Duke University found that hybrid kittens born to Florida panthers and Texas animals have a three times higher chance of becoming adults. This is due to the introduction of new genetic material, which helps reduce genetic abnormalities in purebred Florida panthers.
A team of scientists proposes rewilding vast ecological history parks with large mammals from Africa, aiming to revitalize ecosystems and create jobs. The plan could fill gaps in the web of interactions between species, restoring diverse ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
A recent study found that about half of protected species are no longer declining in numbers. The research highlights the importance of considering agency administration and funding in evaluating the success of conservation efforts under the Endangered Species Act.
A study found that maximum avoidance inbreeding strategies can help reduce population crashes and extinction risk when released into the wild. This approach is more effective than limited inbreeding for certain species.
A new long-haired forest primate, named Highland Mangabey, has been discovered in Tanzania's Southern Highlands. The critically endangered species is characterized by a distinctive call and adaptation to the cold climate, with an estimated population of between 500-1,000 animals.
The study found that species listed under the Endangered Species Act for a longer period were more likely to improve in status and less likely to decline. Additionally, species with critical habitat designation and dedicated recovery plans tended to fare better in terms of conservation status.
The world's largest freshwater wetland is under unprecedented pressure from economic development, alterations of its water courses, and conversion to other land uses. Climate change poses a significant threat to the Pantanal's ecosystem, biodiversity, and species composition.
A new study predicts that up to 14% of all bird species will be extinct by 2100, leading to a decline in forest ecosystems and agriculture worldwide. This dramatic loss may also encourage the spread of human diseases and negatively impact ecosystem processes such as decomposition, pollination, and seed dispersal.
A Stanford University team is working to restore native forests in Hawaii by offering landowners financial incentives. They are focusing on the restoration of koa trees, which provide numerous ecosystem services including recharging freshwater aquifers and storing carbon.
Scientists have successfully grown sperm progenitor cells in a laboratory culture, paving the way for potential new treatments for male infertility. The breakthrough, led by Hiroshi Kubota, could also enable the creation of genetically modified animals and extend the reproductive life of endangered species.
The center, established at Virginia Tech, aims to study and propagate endangered mussels. Researchers produce nearly 50,000 juvenile mussels annually and work on projects like surveying bivalves for stress indicators and studying pearl production.
A global assessment of amphibian populations reveals that nearly one-third of species are threatened with extinction, with many more considered vulnerable. Key drivers of decline include habitat destruction, air and water pollution, and climate change.
A recent study has found that the extinction of a host species can lead to the loss of up to 200 associated species, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts. The researchers calculated the expected levels of co-extinction across diverse systems and identified 6300 species at risk of being classified as co-endangered.
A Queen's biologist calls for immediate protection for two distinct rock ptarmigan populations in Newfoundland and Alaska, citing genetic differences and threats from human activities. The study's findings suggest that these populations should be considered separate species, deserving special preservation under the Species at Risk Act.
The West Nile virus has a devastating impact on small populations of sage-grouse, with a 25% decrease in late summer survival rates. The bird species lacks resistance to the virus, making it essential to improve habitats and implement effective mosquito control measures.
The use of artificial reproduction technologies in wildlife conservation aims to understand fundamental reproductive mechanisms in various species. Dr. David Wildt highlights the importance of collaboration between specialists from different disciplines to achieve genuine conservation.