Research by Montana State University ecologist Diane Debinski found that eastern monarch butterflies are delaying their fall migration, staying in the field for nine days longer than they did in 2003. This delay was linked to a similar shift in the timing of milkweed blooming, which could have implications for population dynamics and v...
A new study suggests that reintroducing wolves to the Scottish Highlands could lead to an expansion of native woodland, sequestering one million tonnes of CO2 each year. This could help address the UK's carbon removal target and contribute to climate recovery.
Scientists have released new high-quality genome sequences for two critically endangered pangolin species, revealing genetic vulnerabilities and extinction risks. The research provides essential information for rescue operations and focusing on the best ways to conserve these unique animals.
A decades-long study reveals that the Schaus' swallowtail butterfly in Florida experiences increased populations following strong hurricanes. The butterflies benefit from the clearing of their host plants, allowing for an abundance of food for caterpillars to grow and thrive after storms.
Researchers at University of Oxford critically evaluated CITES effectiveness, highlighting critical flaws in state-led law enforcement approach and socio-economic analysis exclusion. They propose a new decision support tool based on inclusive governance processes to revise or redesign CITES rules and regulations.
A combination of ecological restoration, economic initiatives, and political stability has led to a 30% increase in India's tiger population over the past two decades. The country's unique approach to coexistence between humans and predators involves protected reserves and multi-use landscapes where tigers and people share space.
A new study reveals that India's successful tiger recovery is driven by factors such as protection, prey availability, peace, and prosperity. The country has managed to double its tiger population since 2010, thanks in part to the establishment of protected areas and conservation efforts.
The studies, published in various journals, found that prey depletion has a significant impact on population dynamics of large African carnivores. In protected areas, lion populations have shown growth due to increased prey availability, while African wild dogs face challenges with low prey density and high competition from lions.
Borealis Mud Volcano provides a hard substrate for various species like anemones and octocoral colonies, sustaining local fish populations. The volcano's carbonates also offer shelter and feeding opportunities.
A new bioinformatics pipeline analyzes whole-genome sequencing data to accurately estimate genetic relatedness in animal populations. The tool identifies identical DNA fragments inherited from a common ancestor, revealing previously undetected relatives and providing more detailed insights into relatedness structures.
Researchers found genetic variants that confer a benefit to chimpanzees in specific habitats, particularly those related to malaria. The study suggests that climate and land use changes will impact different chimpanzee groups differently.
Research found coyotes are more abundant in areas with regulated hunting, contrary to expectations. Coyotes expanded their range due to habitat loss and fragmentation, filling niches left by other species.
Researchers discovered a single gene, vgll3, regulating thousands of genes in salmon sexual maturation, influencing traits like reproductive cell development and growth patterns. This study sheds light on how genetic variation can impact complex traits like puberty onset and has significant implications for managing wild populations.
A new database reveals significant gaps in hippo population knowledge, with fragmented populations relying on protected areas. The research calls for coordinated surveys and a centralized spatial database to improve conservation efforts.
A new study estimates that 4 million Alaska common murres died following the 'warm blob', a marine heat wave that impacted ocean productivity and food supply. The die-off had devastating effects on seabird populations, with colony sizes dropping by half in some areas.
A new study assesses the sustainability of varying Pacific walrus harvest rates under different climate and human disturbance scenarios. The research finds that current harvest levels are within a sustainable range if assessed regularly and adjusted accordingly.
Researchers simulated viral outbreaks to evaluate dispersal metrics from genomic sequences, finding that certain measures are less impacted by sampling size. The study reveals the relationship between viral spread and host animal dispersal capacity, as well as human interference factors.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 3, 2024
The survey reveals critical low lion numbers in Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley National Parks, while hyena populations show resilience across four major protected areas. Advanced spatial capture-recapture methods set a new standard for wildlife monitoring in Africa.
A recent study suggests coral heat tolerance adaptation may not keep pace with ocean warming, and some sensitive species may face extinction. The research modelled different climate scenarios, revealing that natural selection may be insufficient to ensure coral survival under expected warming levels.
A study of 57 adult chimpanzees found that social play before group activities like hunting or territorial defense increased collaboration and cooperation. Play also helped to relieve tension and resolve conflicts, suggesting its role in maintaining cohesive societies.
Researchers found that Florida panthers are not at increased risk for contracting chronic wasting disease from eating infected deer. The study provides relief to conservation efforts, as the disease has spread through North America's deer and elk populations.
Researchers suggest that manatees may have only become a permanent fixture in Florida after Europeans colonization began, contradicting the common assumption of their long history in the state. The study suggests that warming waters and human activities may have encouraged the manatees to stay and breed.
Researchers at Uppsala University developed a mathematical model to understand how seabird species coexist on isolated islands. The model shows that different species use distinct fishing zones, maximizing energy intake based on traits like wing length and diving depth.
Large-scale declines in African elephant populations have been confirmed over 53 years of survey data. Forest elephant populations decreased by 90%, while savanna elephant populations fell by 70%. The study, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, provides a comprehensive assessment of African elephants and highli...
A study published in Environmental Communication found that social media can harness public awareness and engagement to support wildlife conservation. The caracal, a small wild cat native to Africa, has gained popularity on Facebook and Instagram, leading to increased support for its conservation.
A nationwide coyote survey reveals that human hunting practices may increase, rather than reduce, local coyote numbers. Coyotes are found to be most abundant in grasslands and agricultural landscapes.
A 2023 avian flu outbreak in Washington state killed 56% of a large breeding colony of Caspian terns and had significant impacts on the Pacific-coast population. The virus was also transmitted to harbor seals, causing an inflammatory response in their brains.
A mathematical model developed by researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University predicts how the environment affects the life choices of salmon, revealing a complex impact on population evolution. The model correctly forecasts changes in migration patterns in response to environmental conditions, shedding light on eco-evolutionary respo...
The German wolf population boasts the world's highest survival rates of wolves, with young wolves reaching 75% annual survival probability. The expansion is attributed to suitable habitats and protection, leading to a median survival time of three years.
Researchers found recurrent severe droughts and erratic wet conditions in the Greater Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, with a 5 degree C temperature rise over six decades. The study highlights the importance of understanding regional climate trends to predict future climate conditions and mitigate their impact on wildlife populations.
Researchers explored how future changes in the North Water Polynya could impact marine communities. Changes in plankton and fish populations were found to have significant effects on the entire ecosystem. Polar bear numbers are projected to halve due to declining phytoplankton and copepods.
Scientists used acoustic mapping technique to track vulnerable capelin species and observe massive predation event involving Atlantic cod. The study revealed that as climate change causes Arctic ice sheet to retreat, capelin will be more stressed and vulnerable to natural predation events.
A three-decade study found polar bears exposed to increased pathogens due to environmental changes, with females at higher risk. The study, published in PLOS ONE, highlights the need for further disease screening in polar bear populations.
Researchers at McMaster University discovered thousands of bacteria and fungi on the wings of bats in Lillooet, British Columbia, which may help combat white-nose syndrome. The findings suggest that a probiotic cocktail could be effective against the disease, with promising results from previous tests.
A recent study found that reducing moose populations to historical levels through hunting can help reduce wolf numbers and protect caribou populations. In regions where moose populations were reduced, 3.2 times fewer wolves were killed to protect caribou populations.
A new parasite, Pachysentis canicola, has been discovered on the Channel Island fox, causing severe intestinal damage and inflammation in infected individuals. The study highlights the importance of biosecurity in the Channel Islands National Park and underscores the impact of human activity on isolated ecosystems.
The study found that uneven distribution of resources gives some individuals more access to play than others. Wildlife is a major draw for nature-based tourism, but human recreation has unintended consequences for biodiversity. To coexist with wildlife, it's essential to follow common-sense rules and minimize disturbance.
Researchers found lacerations, hair loss, and skin ulcerations affecting polar bears' feet, as well as other parts of their body. The study suggests climate warming is causing ice buildup and injuries due to freeze-thaw cycles, wet snow, and thin sea ice.
A research team, led by Francesco Ferretti, located signs of white sharks at four sites in the Sicilian Channel, a stronghold of the endangered species. The team used improved methods and technologies, including eDNA sampling and camera traps, to detect the presence of the sharks.
A team of researchers from UConn and Washington State University explored how environmental DNA (eDNA) can help better understand population size and health in wood frogs. They found that environmental factors impact eDNA concentrations, but the precision of this method remains unclear due to sample-to-sample variation.
A study published in Biology Letters reveals that harbor seals in Alaska's Iliamna Lake are genetically isolated from other seal populations across the Pacific. The researchers found significant differences between the lake seals and marine populations, suggesting they may be a unique endemic form of harbor seal.
A genetics study suggests that bonobos have three distinct populations, each with unique genetic patterns. The research highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect these groups and ensure the species' survival.
A study found that western spotted skunks have a home range of up to 12 square miles, exceeding similar size mammals and even deer. The skunks' extensive range is likely due to limited food resources. Their sensitivity to winter weather also raises concerns about climate change impacts.
Wildlife rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority successfully monitored lion populations in the Murchison Falls Nile Delta, estimating a density of 13.91 lions per 100 km². The study highlights the cost-effectiveness and value of rangers' skills in conservation efforts.
A recent study led by University of Wyoming scientists found that managing free-roaming horses within the Bureau of Land Management's maximum appropriate management levels would benefit sage grouse populations. Grazing by wild horses can reduce shrub density, vegetation cover, and abundance of key forbs used by sage grouse.
In a 30-year experiment, scientists witnessed rapid evolution of marine snails in response to pollution and climate change. The snails' adaptation was driven by genetic diversity and gene flow from neighboring populations, allowing them to rapidly adapt to their new environment.
Two populations of the same wild species, Brassica fruticulosa, have evolved differently under similar environmental conditions, revealing distinct adaptation strategies to soil salinity. The study identifies two adaptive responses, one involving sodium restriction and the other through efficient osmotic adjustment mechanisms.
Researchers found that single-housed adult fish exhibited a longer egg-laying period and slower aging process compared to group-housed counterparts. The study suggests that early-life social environment may influence life-long attributes beyond the typical relationship between growth rate and lifespan.
Climate change affects deer populations by altering their physiology, behavior, and distribution. As temperatures rise, some species adapt to milder winters, while others struggle with heat stress and parasites.
A new study from Stanford University provides a tool for conservationists and law enforcement to protect captive tigers and prosecute wildlife crimes. The researchers analyzed the genetic diversity of privately held tigers in the US, finding that many are a mix of wild tiger ancestry, but also reflect characteristics of the illegal trade.
Researchers analyzed DNA in fecal samples to determine the diet of Alaska and southern resident killer whales. They found that both populations prefer salmon, but differ in when they switch to hunting other fish species. The study provides key insights into the delicate balance between regional abundance of different fish species.
A recent study published in PLOSONE reveals that young, bred corals from the Coral Seeding approach are more resistant to bleaching under extreme heat stress. This finding provides evidence that assisted coral recruits can play a crucial role in securing the future of coral reefs.
The study confirms Mantella cowanii's presence at historic localities and estimates its population size and survival rates, painting a concerning picture. Population sizes range from 13 to 137 adults, with some populations potentially extirpated.
Researchers from the University of Kansas have identified a new species of fanged frog, Limnonectes cassiopeia, found in the Philippine island of Luzon. The species was overlooked due to its similarity to the well-known Luzon Giant Fanged Frog. Key differences include smaller toe discs and unpigmented toe pads.
A recent Science study reveals that bat population decline led to a significant increase in pesticide use by farmers, resulting in more than 1,000 infant deaths. The study found a 31% rise in pesticide use and an 8% increase in infant mortality rate, highlighting the potential harm of pesticide misuse on human health.
A recent study found that actively managed habitats can slow or reverse population declines in at-risk butterflies. Habitat management, such as prescribed burns and planting nectar plants, appeared to dampen the effect of climate change on butterfly timing.
Researchers found a pregnant porbeagle shark was likely killed by a great white shark, highlighting the complexity of shark interactions. The study used satellite tags to track the shark's movements before it stopped transmitting, indicating it had been hunted and eaten.
Researchers uncover critical insights into reproductive challenges faced by threatened species with small population sizes and biased sex ratios. Infertility accounts for an average of 17% of hatching failures in the hihi, primarily due to early embryo death.
A study sequenced the genomes of nearly 300 rabbits to understand their colonization success. Researchers found that domestication-linked genes are often eliminated in feral populations due to natural selection, leading to a mix of domestic and wild origin. This helps explain how domestic animals can thrive in the wild.
A study by the Open Wild Wheat Consortium explains how Aegilops tauschii, a wild grass, contributed to the genetic diversity of bread wheat, enabling its rapid spread across different climates. This hybridization event allowed humans to settle down and form societies.