Articles tagged with Seabirds
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers from Wake Forest University found that female Nazca boobies have a shorter lifespan due to their high reproductive activity. The study suggests that the females' efforts to raise their chicks and find new mates may contribute to their shorter lives.
A study led by the University of Birmingham found that poor diet is partly responsible for the decline of a major Atlantic seabird nesting colony. The researchers analyzed feathers from over 180 specimens and found that changes in the birds' diets coincided with their population decline.
Global seabird food consumption decreased by 13 million tonnes between 1970 and 2010, while fisheries increased their catches of prey species. Seabirds are facing extinction due to unfair competition with massive vessels for food, entanglement in fishing gears, and plastic waste.
A new study uses tagged seabirds to measure ocean currents and track tidal patterns. This non-invasive method could provide crucial data for the marine renewable energy industry, helping identify sites for tidal energy generation.
A study of European shag diet composition found a dramatic shift from sandeel to other fish species, with potential implications for survival and population trends. Climate change may be driving this shift, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to mitigate its effects.
A study found that at least 17 white-tailed sea eagles died from avian influenza virus H5N8 in Northern Germany during the winter of 2016/2017. The analysis revealed that the virus was highly aggressive and caused a lethal inflammation of the brain, with no evidence of lead poisoning as a cause.
Researchers developed models that predict the month-by-month movements of longline fishing fleets on the high seas. These predictions can help regulatory agencies pinpoint potential hotspots where by-catch risks are greatest and take proactive measures to reduce accidental kills.
Researchers discover pyrosomes, known as 'sea pickles,' are thriving in colder waters off the Oregon coast, potentially disrupting regional fishing operations and food webs. The invasive species may be capitalizing on nutrient-poor conditions to feed on plankton, leading to systemic changes in the ecosystem.
New research highlights the critical impact of invasive rats on coral reef ecosystems, leading to severe ecological harm. Rat eradication is proposed as a high conservation priority to restore seabird-derived nutrient subsidies, benefiting terrestrial ecosystems and coral reefs.
Scientists discovered spectacled cormorant fossils in Japan dating back 120,000 years, indicating the bird's previously believed limited range was incorrect. Climate changes and human activity may have contributed to the species' extinction, with more research needed on its biological aspects.
International researchers found that illuminating gillnets with green LED lights reduced guanay cormorant deaths by 85%. This technology also reduced sea turtle catches by 64%, offering a cheap and effective way to reduce bird and turtle mortality in fishing.
A new study led by Francisco Ramírez from the University of Barcelona identifies key areas to protect 20% of sea bird populations in Patagonia. The research uses a multidisciplinary approach to define marine areas of interest in conservation, considering ocean currents and coastal ecosystems.
Researchers found that changes in sea surface temperature during late winter have a significant impact on juvenile survival, with reduced food availability due to warmer waters. The study suggests that climate change will lead to a faster decline in albatross populations.
A study finds that doubling the frequency of El Niño events may lead to higher population numbers and a lower chance of extinction for Brandt's cormorants. The birds' ability to cope with environmental changes is improved when El Niños are interspersed with favorable La Niña phases.
Researchers from Far Eastern Federal University found that pesticides are accumulated in the fat tissue of seabirds and marine mammals. The study, published in Marine Pollution Bulletin, showed high levels of organochlorine pesticides in these organisms, particularly in those with higher fat content.
North Pacific seabirds' prey preferences have shifted from fish to squid over the last 125 years, driven by commercial fishing and climate change. The findings suggest massive changes in ocean ecosystem structure, with species declining in trophic position and squid consumption increasing.
A new study found that Hookpod devices can effectively reduce seabird bycatch in pelagic longline fishing. By reducing bird deaths, these devices may help save threatened albatross species from extinction.
Researchers tracked individual albatrosses for their entire lives to identify intrinsic quality that drives performance, including reproductive success and longevity. The study found that birds born in warmer years were smaller and performed poorly, while those from denser populations had reduced success.
Climate change is altering Scotland's seabirds' diet, with European Shags increasing their diversity of fish prey. Warmer waters signal changes in sandeel availability and hunting habits, potentially impacting conservation efforts.
A new animal movement model reveals seabirds orient themselves over an ocean and compensate for wind drift without landmarks, hinting at a 'map sense'. This breakthrough paves the way for analyzing animal decision-making using GPS tracking data.
A study published in Nature Communications found that migratory shorebirds are declining due to dependence on mudflats in the Yellow Sea. The researchers analyzed citizen science data and found that even brief visits to the mudflats were crucial for population trends.
A new study found that puffin pairs that migrate close together have higher breeding success rates. Female winter foraging efforts also play a crucial role in determining pair breeding success. The study used geolocators to track the migratory movements of 12 pairs of Atlantic Puffins, revealing that pairs following similar migration r...
Researchers are investigating whether seabirds use infrasound for navigation as they travel millions of kilometres across the ocean. The study aims to shed light on one of nature's unsolved questions and uncover how birds find their way year after year.
In a study published in The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, researchers found that fully grown Galapagos penguins who have fledged from their nests continue to beg for food from their parents. This post-fledging parental care is thought to be an adaptation to the fluctuating availability of food in the Galapagos archipelago.
Researchers found that nonresident seabirds concentrate their foraging efforts near Cordell Bank along the continental shelf break in Central California. This study identifies high-use foraging sites as a critical component of ocean conservation efforts.
Researchers at San Francisco State University developed a new study that models nonresident seabird foraging distributions to inform ocean zoning. The study could help protect foraging seabirds along the Central California coastline and prioritize conservation efforts.
Bacteria play a crucial role in determining the health of birds at the top of the food web. Seabirds feeding in areas rich in sulfate-reducing bacteria have high levels of mercury. This study suggests that bacteria provide a buffer to variation in mercury within the environment.
Researchers discovered that marine plastic debris emits a sulfurous compound, dimethyl sulfide, which attracts seabirds with keen sense of smell. This olfactory cue tricks birds into eating plastic, making them more likely to consume it than other species.
Researchers found that gannets use shallow and short dives with less swimming when at ocean fronts, indicating abundant food closer to the surface. This study highlights the importance of these habitats for marine ecosystem functioning and could inform conservation efforts.
Researchers found that Manx shearwaters suffered decreased breeding success when they had to spend more time rearing chicks, leading to delayed migration and reduced resting time. This study provides insights into the consequences of carry-over effects on migratory birds' annual cycles.
Researchers found that birds can engage in slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep while flying, with SWS occurring in one hemisphere or both hemispheres. The study revealed unique sleep patterns in flight, including the ability of birds to watch their surroundings while asleep.
Industry self-monitoring of small offshore oil spills is inadequate, leaving a gap in understanding the impact on seabird populations. Chronic pollution from small spills may have greater population-level impacts than single large spills.
Seabirds nest in areas where food is concentrated due to ocean currents and climate. The locations of nearly two million seabird colonies along Norway's coast north of the Arctic Circle are influenced by fish larvae hot spots.
Researchers analyzed old tourist photos to reconstruct the rise and fall of common guillemot populations on Stora Karlsö. The study found a significant increase in population size, with numbers more than five times bigger than in the early 20th century.
Researchers at Monash University found that drones are more precise than traditional ground counts for monitoring seabird colonies. Drones' down-facing perspective reduces the likelihood of missing birds and provides a more accurate count.
Researchers used autonomous acoustic sensors to detect and record marbled murrelet calls, identifying over 19,000 potential calls and confirming 7,218 actual calls. This technology offers a viable alternative to traditional surveys, enabling broader, more cost-effective searches for these endangered seabirds.
Examination of fishing hooks and baits reveals conflicting impacts on sharks and rays, with some methods potentially increasing catch and injury while others help sea turtles and other species.
A 50-year study on southern giant petrels in Antarctica shows a halved population and declining breeding success. Breeding success dropped from 60% to 40% between 1996 and 2015 in selected colonies. The decline is of conservation concern, with the species' global population around 50,000 pairs.
Researchers from Alfred Wegener Institute discovered plastic litter on the Arctic sea surface, with 31 pieces found in a 5,600km survey. The litter is likely to pose new challenges for Arctic marine life, which has already seen high levels of plastic pollution in its stomachs.
The Government of Chile has announced a plan to design a network of Marine Protected Areas for Patagonia's unique wildlife and ecosystems. With funding from the Waitt Foundation, the new MPA network will protect over 100,000 square kilometers of oceanic waters, meeting Chile's goal of 10% ecosystem protection by 2020.
A new study estimates that almost all seabirds have consumed plastic, with 90% of individual birds ingesting some form of plastic. This widespread impact is a concern, as plastic ingestion can cause gut impaction, weight loss, and death in seabirds.
Researchers predict that 90% of all seabirds alive today have eaten plastic, with the majority having it in their gut. Plastic ingestion causes gut impaction, weight loss and death, affecting marine biodiversity.
Researchers found that stronger winds forecasted by climate change could exacerbate the time females take to find food compared to males, affecting their wellbeing and potentially population sizes. This study on UK coastal seabirds highlights the impact of wind conditions on bird behavior.
A global study found that seabird populations have dropped by 69.6% since the 1950s, equivalent to a loss of about 230 million birds in 60 years. This decline is largely attributed to human activities such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change.
Researchers found that Elegant Terns have expanded their breeding range from the Gulf of California into Southern California, driven by declining productivity in the Gulf. The study suggests that ocean warming and overfishing are causing ecological collapse in the region.
The study found that between 30-47% of Balearic shearwater colonies are exposed to high levels of light pollution, posing a significant threat to the species. The researchers recommend establishing rescue campaigns specifically for emancipation periods to reduce mortality rates among these endangered seabirds.
Researchers analyzed ancient specimens, revealing open oceanic habitats for newborn mosasaurs. Contrary to classic suggestions, findings suggest eggs were not laid on beaches, and newborns likely did not live in sheltered nearshore nurseries.
A new analysis of seven years of bird sightings by volunteer birdwatchers found increasing trends for 14 species, including cormorants and harlequin ducks. The study suggests that these birds may be turning the corner, with positive trends also reported in nesting surveys.
Researchers found a strong correlation between Northern Hemisphere seabird diversity and environmental stressors, with puffins and auks serving as indicator species. The study suggests that climate change has shaped the geographic distribution and population size of existing species over the past 5 million years.
Long-lived diving birds experience declining blood oxygen stores, resting metabolism, and thyroid hormone levels with age. Despite these physiological changes, their diving performance remains unchanged.
Researchers tracked northern gannets' movement and behaviour using GPS devices, finding that fishing vessels influence their distribution and foraging patterns. The study suggests each boat can significantly impact seabirds within a 22km diameter circle surrounding it.
Researchers found that fishing boats affect seabird behavior across a vast distance of up to 22 kilometers. Gannets were drawn to the abundance of discards and boat activity rather than driftwood or idle vessels.
A simple bird scaring line, costing $200, can significantly reduce seabird mortality rates, particularly for albatrosses. The study found a 95% reduction in albatross deaths and a 73-95% lower mortality rate with the introduction of bird scaring lines.
A new approach to estimate seabird populations uses sound recordings to monitor colony size. Researchers set up recorders on remote islands in the North Atlantic and developed an algorithm to automatically count seabird calls, resulting in a more accurate population estimate.
A new analysis reveals the scope of by-catch in various regions, with high rates found in the eastern Pacific, Mediterranean, southwest Atlantic, and Southern Indian oceans. The study emphasizes the importance of community engagement and data-driven approaches to mitigate by-catch, particularly in less-regulated small-scale fisheries.
Phytoplankton release dimethyl sulfide, a chemical signal that attracts krill-eating birds, while also promoting cloud formation. This connection highlights the importance of marine top predators in regulating climate.
Researchers are tracking the movements of 10 Great Shearwater seabirds in the Gulf of Maine using satellite tags, providing insights into ecosystem health and food supply changes. The birds' feeding habits and reactions to changes in their primary food source, sand lance, will inform conservation efforts.
Researchers found that northern gannets avoid visiting neighboring colonies' fishing grounds, suggesting a mathematical explanation rather than territorial behavior. The birds follow specific patterns and routes to find food opportunities, reinforcing cultural transmission within their colonies.
Researchers used 'ethoinformatics' to analyze three years of migration data from miniature tracking devices attached to Manx Shearwater seabirds, revealing complex patterns of rest, flight, and foraging during migration. The study found that birds spent less time foraging in winter and more at rest in the southern hemisphere.
Researchers found that swallow-tailed gulls hunt most often under a new moon, when fish come to the surface under cover of darkness. The lunar cycle also influences the behavior of various marine species, including fish and squid.