Articles tagged with Wildlife Management
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.
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.
A decade-long analysis of wildlife rescue records in NSW reveals a bias towards larger reptiles, with two species accounting for almost two-thirds of all rescues. Human behavior and environment play significant roles in shaping these interactions.
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.
Research shows that poverty and inadequate food supply drive poaching in East African national parks. The study found that alleviating food insecurity and poverty are key to building cooperation between parks and local villages. By addressing these needs, conservation efforts can be more effective.
The Safe-Hub platform provides a harmonized and standardized database for pollinator health, monitoring, distribution, and conservation. It offers various tools and resources, such as species distribution maps, knowledge library, and events calendar, to support recommendations and co-design solutions for wild pollinator decline.
A University of Maryland study highlights the complexity of designing wildlife corridors, which can vary widely in their effectiveness depending on the evaluation method used. The research found that none of the tested corridor designs captured all black bear movements, and some even failed to account for unique dispersal behaviors.
New study challenges prevailing conservation theories by finding no discernible impact of Maasai cattle grazing on the reserve's ecological well-being. The research confirms that large wild herbivores share spaces with cattle and that their direct effect is minimal.
A new Conservation Letter reviews the impact of built environments on raptors, identifying vehicles, wind turbines, and windows as consistently problematic obstacles. Proposed solutions include flight diverters, bird-friendly products, and habitat management to reduce collision fatalities and support conservation efforts.
A recent study reveals that red-backed salamanders are more abundant than expected in eastern North American forests, with an estimated 5,300 individuals per football field-sized patch. The discovery highlights the ecological importance of these small but mighty creatures in maintaining forest health.
Researchers used a dog-like robot integrated with AI to automate the identification and control of Red Imported Fire Ants, detecting three times more nests with greater precision. The system's effectiveness was tested in field trials, but challenges remain in scaling up production costs.
Researchers will develop an AI-driven system for photo-identification and tracking of Florida manatees, optimizing the cost-precision trade-off in traditional tracking methods. The project aims to streamline conservation efforts while providing essential information on population dynamics, health, risks, and vulnerability.
Research by University of Queensland reveals that Australian environmental laws are inadequate in stopping high rates of tree clearing for agriculture and development. The study found that 75% of cases in Queensland were exempt from assessment under the state's main vegetation management law, leading to severe deforestation rates.
The American Ornithological Society has announced its 2024 award winners in recognition of outstanding contributions to the scientific study and conservation of birds. Juan Carlos Reboreda and René Duckworth were awarded for their significant work on behavioral ecology, conservation, and evolutionary changes in bird behavior.
A new study found that Lake Erie walleye growth is influenced more by the size and experiences of their parents than by recent environmental conditions. The study analyzed data from 1982 to 2015 and found that cold winters and larger mothers were associated with faster growth in offspring.
Researchers found 16 native species of mammals using timber plantations as corridors and refuges in Central Panama. However, teak monocultures showed the lowest records of species, highlighting the importance of restoring natural habitats for comprehensive wildlife conservation.
A joint work programme between the UNFCCC and CBD is crucial to meet international commitments under the Paris Agreement and Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This unified approach can address the interconnected nature and climate crises, driving progress towards a sustainable future.
Researchers discovered that crown-of-thorns starfish larvae feed on Trichodesmium bacteria, a toxic and nutrient-poor food source. This finding may contribute to the increase in COTS populations devastating coral reefs worldwide.
A new tracking technology that adheres to a polar bear's fur has shown promise in studying the behavior and movements of subadult and adult male bears. The technology, known as Burr on Fur, allows researchers to track these groups without the need for satellite collars, providing valuable insights into their habits.
A study published in Ecological Applications found that wolves' return to northeast Washington has had a limited impact on white-tailed deer populations. Habitat quality and cougar predation were the primary factors shaping deer populations, with wolf predation having a smaller effect.
A record-breaking swim by two lion brothers across a predator-infested African river has been documented. The study, led by Griffith University and Northern Arizona University, highlights the incredible journey of Jacob, a 10-year-old local icon known for surviving multiple life-threatening incidents.
A research team finds that local community members are indispensable partners in enhancing community engagement in repairing damaged ecosystems. Local values and attitudes play a crucial role in promoting sustainable ecosystem management practices.
A recent study finds semi-natural habitats play a crucial role in conserving pollinator diversity, outpacing the impact of pesticide use. The research suggests that prioritizing habitat conservation can be more effective than reducing pesticide application in rice fields.
Human disturbance disrupts leopard-hyena competition, favoring hyenas. The study shows that male leopards retain dominance over hyenas but female leopards change behavior due to size disadvantage. Human expansion poses threat to leopards' survival and ecosystem balance.
New research found that non-native burros are altering plant growth, reducing ground cover and foliage density, and negatively impacting native wildlife species in the Sonoran Desert.
A study found that heath goannas are more effective in removing blowflies from the landscape than introduced European mammals. This reduces the emergence of 'fly strike', a disease affecting sheep, and has significant implications for the Australian sheep farming industry.
A study published in BioScience reveals substantial ecological impacts of elk and other ungulates following the removal of gray wolves from Yellowstone, Olympic, and Wind Cave National Parks. This has led to declines in long-term tree recruitment, influencing plant communities and ecological processes.
A recent study published in Current Biology indicates that outdoor recreation noise can trigger a fear response in wildlife, altering their behavior and habitat use. The research, conducted in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, found that different types of recreation noise, group size, and human presence affected animal responses.
Researchers confirmed that elephant calls contained a name-like component identifying the intended recipient through machine learning analysis. Elephants responded affirmatively to calls addressed to them and less so to those meant for others, suggesting an ability to learn and use arbitrary vocal labels like humans.
A collaborative research study found that frequent, low-severity fires support Mexican spotted owl habitat, while high-severity fire is detrimental. This finding suggests that restoring historic fire regimes could benefit both owl conservation and forest resilience.
Intensive wire snare removal efforts reduced snaring by almost 40% in protected areas of Viet Nam, according to an 11-year study. The effectiveness of snare removal was mainly achieved within the first 6 years, but its impact alone is unlikely to protect wildlife due to ongoing snaring threats.
A new study highlights the human impacts of endangered species mating with domestic relatives, causing economic loss and death. Conservation efforts are also overlooked for marginalized pastoralist populations, who often lack effective defense against aggressive wild males.
Researchers propose prioritizing large, interconnected protected areas with high ecological integrity to achieve global biodiversity targets. Identifying these 'Nature's Strongholds' can help coordinate efforts to conserve biodiversity at a global scale.
A new study improves statistical methods to protect wildlife populations by considering emigration and immigration processes. This allows for more accurate demographic projections and informed conservation strategies.
The North American Bsal Task Force has helped keep the novel pathogen at bay by developing diagnostic techniques, a rapid response template, and a surveillance program. Thirty-five of 80 North American amphibians can be infected with Bsal, causing lethal skin disease in susceptible species.
Researchers argue that mobility data can help understand human-wildlife interactions and inform policy decisions on sustainability-related issues. They propose aggregating datasets without personal identifiers to make them accessible to researchers, benefiting both conservation and private companies.
Domestic dog attacks on mountain tapirs in Colombia's cloud forests threaten their physical wellbeing and reproductive performance. Conservationists urge population management and control of domestic dogs to protect these endangered species.
A study led by Lincoln Park Zoo's Urban Wildlife Institute found that gentrified areas have more urban wildlife, limiting access to nature for marginalized communities. The analysis of data from 23 cities showed a 13% increase in species diversity in gentrified neighborhoods.
Fruit eating birds play a vital role in forest ecosystems by consuming, excreting, and spreading seeds to allow trees to grow and function. The study found that highly fragmented landscapes restrict bird movement, reducing carbon recovery potential by up to 38 percent.
A recent study on orchid bees in the Brazilian Amazon found that deforestation significantly impacted bee populations, with some species dwindling in just 10-17 years. The research, conducted in the 1990s, also revealed new species and highlights the importance of protecting rainforests.
Researchers created a model to predict extinction likelihood based on human hunting and environmental pressures. The model accounted for interactions between humans, animals, and their environment, considering factors like climate change and life history traits.
Research shows that long-term declines in pronghorn productivity are associated with increased oil and gas development and woody encroachment. Manual removal of trees and controlled burning could help protect iconic rangeland species like pronghorn.
A global wildlife study during COVID-19 lockdowns found that animal responses to humans varied by landscape conditions and trophic group. Herbivores became more active around humans, while carnivores tended to avoid them.
A new study reveals that prairie dogs are a crucial prey source for four species of raptors, including bald eagles, overwintering in the Southern Great Plains. The relationship between prairie dogs and their aerial predators has implications for raptor conservation through climate change.
Researchers propose releasing a parasitic wasp to control an invasive avian vampire fly threatening Darwin's finches on the Galapagos Islands. The study found only two native fly species, emphasizing the urgent need to protect these native species alongside the iconic birds.
Researchers found that brown bears' digging for cicada nymphs damages tree roots and alters soil nitrogen content, limiting tree diameter growth. This phenomenon is unique to human-planted conifer forests, with no similar effects in natural forests.
Climate change threatens the survival of African elephants due to habitat loss and water resource depletion. Policies protecting vital habitats can mitigate these impacts, with increased forest and savanna areas benefiting all age groups.
A global survey of 200+ major cultural organizations reveals significant room for improvement in social and environmental sustainability. However, top performers like the National Galleries of Scotland and Sydney Opera House showcase successful integration of sustainability into strategy and operations.
A new analysis of 14,000 fish surveys in 216 MPAs across 43 countries reveals that no-take MPAs are effective in restoring fish populations but come at a cost to coastal communities. The study suggests multiple-use MPAs, where fishing is regulated, can be a more equitable alternative.
A genetic study reveals two distinct clusters of deer populations in Nara, Japan, highlighting the need for reconciliation among stakeholders. The research emphasizes the importance of careful management to address conflicts between preserving sacred deer lineage and allowing admixture for conservation.
A recent study found that polar bears, closely observed by scientists, struggled to maintain weight when their preferred seal prey was out of reach during longer ice-free seasons. Despite trying various strategies, including resting and foraging, nearly all the bears lost weight rapidly, highlighting their vulnerability to climate change.
A new study found that relocated songbird chicks can successfully learn the diversity of songs they need to communicate and survive. Despite an initial lack of song diversity, the population recovered as it increased in size, suggesting that translocating nestlings may not lead to long-term problems.
Fishing cats were observed raiding bird nests in tall trees for the first time, providing a rare and unusual behavior that sheds light on their ecology. This unexpected finding may help piece together the ecology of these elusive felines and contribute to conservation efforts.
A Dartmouth-led research team created an experimental green roof to test the effect of native prairie microbes on soil microbial community development. Their findings demonstrate that active management accelerates soil development faster than passive reestablishment, fostering a more diverse and sustainable soil community.
Wildlife filmmaker Carlos Gauna and UC Riverside student Phillip Sternes observed a 5-foot-long pure-white shark pup shedding its embryonic layer. The location off central California's coast is proposed as a potential great white breeding ground, which could help protect endangered species.
A spatial model predicts pesticide exposure in bumblebees, explaining nearly 75% of the spatial variation. The model uses data on pesticide application and crop characteristics, but not flower attractiveness or chemical persistence.
A study published in Science found that an invasive ant species is altering tree cover in an East African wildlife area, making it harder for lions to hunt their preferred prey, zebras. The ant's arrival has shifted predator-prey behavior, potentially jeopardizing lion populations already on the brink of endangerment.
A three-year study has provided the first reliable estimate of giraffe population size for the region, revealing a mere 27 individuals remain within Bénoué National Park. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this subspecies from extinction due to threats from poaching and human pressures.
A study published in People and Nature found that large parts of the participants supported the return of wolves and elk to the Oder Delta region, with a strong appetite for rewilding initiatives. Locals, however, showed mixed feelings, with some reservations about the presence of large carnivores like wolves.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have created a standardized safety test to assess how dangerous robotic lawnmowers are to hedgehogs. The test uses specially designed hedgehog crash test dummies and has found that many models pose a threat to these animals, especially at night when they are most active.