Articles tagged with Endangered Species
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.
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.
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.
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.
The BP Conservation Programme is awarding $600,000 to 29 student-led teams for critical conservation projects worldwide. Winners will attend practical workshops and learn from global experts to carry out their projects.
The Caucasus region, home to 51 globally threatened species, will receive a significant boost for conservation efforts thanks to $8.5 million in grants from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF). The funding will support conservation efforts across six countries, including Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkey, and Iran.
Researchers at the Wildlife Conservation Society discovered a large population of jaguars in Bolivia's Kaa-Iya Park, estimated to be one of the largest in any protected area. The park, which covers over 34,000 square kilometers, is also home to a diverse range of other wildlife, including endangered species such as the Chacoan guanaco.
Conservation efforts in Canada are threatened by growing human populations and economic development. Despite these challenges, conservation initiatives continue to focus on preserving biodiversity and ecosystem health.
A recent analysis of 11,633 species published in Nature found that more than 300 critically endangered species are completely unprotected. The study emphasizes the need for a major shift in conservation strategies to prevent large-scale species extinctions over the next few decades.
A staggering 42% of documented extinctions are mollusks, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts for these species. Nonmarine mollusk diversity is valued for its own sake and as an indicator of ecosystem health.
Conservation efforts have led to a significant decrease in poaching, reducing turtle egg removal from nearly 100% to approximately 21% on the Pearl Cays. Beach surveys and active protection of females and their eggs are crucial for the survival of this endangered species.
A new study found that listing endangered species may not effectively protect their habitats on private property. Landowners were more likely to improve or destroy habitats based on their values and perception of conservation responsibility.
A new study analyzing 11,000 mammal, amphibian and bird species reveals major gaps in the global protected area system, placing over 700 species at risk of extinction. The analysis highlights urgent conservation priorities for tropical areas, islands, and specific endangered species.
A ferret protein called glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (GPI) plays a key role in the reproductive process, allowing fertilized embryos to implant successfully. The discovery also sheds light on the mechanism of cancer cells, which can co-opt this process to invade healthy tissues.
A recent study by Ohio State University anthropologist Jeffrey McKee predicts that the United States will face a significant threat to global biodiversity within 50 years, with at least 10 additional species added to the threatened list. The prediction is based on a model that separates human population growth from environmental impact...
Researchers at Columbia University have developed a method to extract DNA from dung, enabling the study of wild animal populations without capturing or handling them. This technique has been shown to be reliable and efficient, allowing researchers to analyze genetic data on species such as Asian elephants, rhinos, and apes.
A recent study by Wildlife Conservation Society researchers found that the reintroduction of wolves and grizzly bears in Yellowstone has led to ecosystem dysfunction. Female moose showed little reaction to predator sounds and smells, indicating a lack of ecological recovery.
Researchers have identified nearly 900 square miles of forest in China's Qinling Mountains that could support giant pandas. The area includes five unprotected core habitats and two linkage zones that could connect isolated populations.
Researchers are turning to gene banking as an alternative to in situ conservation, using cryopreservation technologies to store viable cell lines from over 3,200 individual mammals, birds, and reptiles. This approach will be crucial for conserving endangered species' genetic material for future research and potential reintroduction.
According to a recent report from Conservation International, 25 primates are now threatened with extinction, with Asia accounting for almost 45% of the world's most endangered primates. Habitat loss and hunting are major factors in the decline of these species, and urgent conservation action is required to prevent extinctions.
Incorporating mate choice into breeding programs can increase the survival of young whitefish and other species by selecting for genetically superior males. However, this approach may also reduce genetic variation, requiring a balance between the two goals.
Bushmeat consumption has been linked to chemical poisoning, with 30% of samples containing organochlorines, carbamates, and organophosphorus. The Ghana government aims to reverse the extinction of wildlife through sustainable alternatives like wildlife farming and education campaigns.
Illicit crops, particularly opium poppies, are expanding into critical bird habitats in the Andes region of Colombia. This could lead to devastating effects on forest-dependent bird species if the expansion continues.
Researchers found that whitebark pines, large ranges, and low human density are key factors in the survival of grizzly bears. The ESA has helped protect these areas, leading to increased bear populations in places like Yellowstone.
Six scientists are recognized for their groundbreaking work on biodiversity conservation in China, Ecuador, Madagascar, Peru, and the US. The winners' efforts focus on tracking animal evolution, establishing national parks, studying lemur populations, and promoting indigenous cooperation.
A study suggests that the global extinction crisis is more severe than previously thought, with over 50% of declining mammal species losing historic ranges. Population extinctions are concentrated in densely populated areas, such as Southeast Asia and Eastern states.