Articles tagged with Wild Populations
A new study has revealed that Italian wolves have maintained a pure population despite facing threats such as competition for food and space. The researchers analyzed mitochondrial DNA samples from over 100 Italian wolves, finding unique sequences that indicate the species has remained genetically distinct from feral dogs.
USGS scientists have linked recent boreal toad deaths in Rocky Mountain National Park to a chytrid fungus. The fungus has been identified as the cause of amphibian die-offs globally and is being studied for its origin, incidence, distribution, and control methods.
The Isle Royale wolf population has rebounded after years of decline, with five new pups added to the total count. The Middle Pack now controls most of the island's area, increasing access to moose for food. Meanwhile, the East Pack maintains control over the eastern end of the island.
A new population of non-native Asian swamp eels has been found in south Florida, near the eastern border of Everglades National Park. The eels' genetic differences from previously discovered populations suggest a separate introduction and raise concerns about their potential to disrupt native species and food webs.
Researchers found that three out of 11 wild wolves carried the enzyme corticosteroid-induced alkaline phosphatase, which is also found in dogs. This enzyme reflects long-term stress and indicates the presence of hepatic disease in the wolves. In contrast, captive wolves had no enzyme, suggesting they are healthier.
Researchers found that suppressing natural fires harms Northern Idaho ground squirrels, isolating them into shrinking groups where non-native plants overtake fire-resistant seed-laden grasses. The biologists propose two solutions: restoring habitat and reintroducing controlled fires to restore native vegetational structure.
Researchers Joel Berger and Steven Cain found that the length of bison birthing periods is not longer in brucellosis-exposed populations. This allows ranchers to predict when it's safe to put cattle on public lands where bison live, typically delaying until July.
The USGS conducts a continent-wide bird survey using over 2,500 skilled amateur birders and professional biologists. The organization also monitors water quality at abandoned mines, assesses woodcock survival, and launches the Frogwatch USA program to engage scientists and the public in amphibian conservation.
A new study found that cannibalism among flour beetles regulates population growth and stabilization. By manipulating life stages, researchers demonstrated a link between cannibalism and stable populations.
Conservation efforts have led to a resurgence of the Greater Prairie Chicken population in Illinois, with numbers increasing from just six resident males to over 500 birds. The success is attributed to an experimental program that imported birds from healthy populations elsewhere, addressing genetic diversity and habitat loss issues.
Killer whales have begun preying on sea otters in western Alaska, leading to a decline in sea otter populations and an increase in sea urchin numbers. This chain of events is linked to the collapse of seals and sea lions, which are the killer whales' usual prey.
Researchers found a near-100% loss of hatchlings due to predation and lack of migration between two forest preserves. The study suggests genetic isolation and potential extinction threats for the Illinois population.
A recent census reveals that Grauer's gorilla populations have remained stable despite growing human pressures, with 16,900 individuals estimated. However, local populations are increasingly threatened due to poaching and habitat loss, highlighting the need for continued support of conservation efforts.
The report examines residents' fears about wolf interactions with livestock, humans, and the native deer population. Despite these concerns, states with wolves have minimal livestock losses, highlighting a more nuanced understanding of wolf ecology.
A University of Georgia ecologist has estimated the relative importance of predation and plant quality on insect populations using time-series analysis. The study found that top-down forces regulate winter moth populations, while bottom-up forces dominate green oak leaf roller moth populations.
Researchers found that Conservation Reserve Program lands provide substantial breeding habitat for small grassland birds. The study suggests the program may be helping to stem decline in bird populations, with some species experiencing long-term population increases.
The Isle Royale moose population has declined significantly, with only about 500 remaining after a devastating winter. This decline is attributed to the island's moose being severely stressed from lack of food and deep snows, with an abundance of balsam fir browse providing limited sustenance.
A multiyear project may provide ecological insights for animal conservation, as tiny prairie voles adjusted to both immigration and emigration among different habitats to maintain a stable overall population. The study found that birth and death rates compensated for movement among habitats with varying environments.
Wild honeybee populations have collapsed due to a combination of factors, including harsh winters, wet springs, and blood-sucking mites. As a result, small and medium-sized fruit and vegetable growers will be hardest hit, leading to smaller yields and lower quality produce.