Articles tagged with Wildlife
A study led by Penn State researchers found that wood frog populations are more sensitive to changes in temperature or temperature interacting with precipitation than to changes in precipitation alone. This suggests that sensitivity to climate change cannot be predicted solely by knowing locations within the species' climate envelope.
The Sungazer lizard is critically endangered due to poaching and habitat loss, with its population declining by over a third in the last decade. A conservation assessment found that only half of the species' habitat has been irreversibly transformed by humans.
A recent study analyzed feral pigs, gray squirrels, and waterfowl from uncontaminated and contaminated habitats to assess environmental contamination. Many waterfowl tissues exceeded safe consumption levels, posing health concerns for both birds and humans.
Researchers will use genomic technologies to understand genetic basis of traits influencing wildlife and plant survival in changing environments. The project aims to advance understanding of how organisms cope with environmental challenges and develop guidelines for genomic interventions.
Researchers found that desert tortoises often overheat and die when encountering fencing meant to keep them safe from roads. The study suggests that designing and installing barrier fencing to minimize pacing and heat stress is crucial to prevent tortoise deaths.
A new royalty system for wildlife imagery could generate significant revenue for conservation efforts, particularly for carnivorous species like lions. The idea proposes that a portion of income from products featuring wildlife images be allocated to support conservation initiatives.
A new study by CIRES and NOAA researchers found that the spring snowmelt has arrived nearly three days earlier every decade from 1975 to 2016, while the first snow has been happening later. The end result is an increase in length of the snow-free season by about one week per decade.
Researchers discovered anthrax prevalent among Taï National Park's mammal carcasses, killing 31 of 55 chimps. The disease poses a significant threat to endangered species and emphasizes the need for long-term infectious disease studies.
Leading scientists from around the world gathered to discuss leveraging science to combat illegal wildlife trade. They identified opportunities to bring scientific knowledge to bear on the problem, including using data, collaborating on problem-solving, and assessing interventions.
A recent study by Virginia Tech researchers emphasizes the need to sustain benefits from voluntary conservation incentive programs after they end. The authors identified five research-based explanations for persistence outcomes, including landowners' attitudes and motivations, habit formation, access to resources, and social influences.
A new study published in PNAS reveals that urban food demand in the Amazon can impact wildlife as far as 1,000 km away from the city. Researchers found a 50% reduction in fish size and catch rate near Manaus due to overfishing by city-based boats, which also led to larger fish being more common and easier to catch further away.
A new study reveals a dramatic increase in pangolin hunting across Central Africa, with up to 2.7 million animals harvested annually. The research highlights the need for governments and local communities to work together to protect these critically endangered species.
A recent study suggests that climate change is impacting the survival rates of African wild dog pups, with warmer temperatures leading to fewer pups being raised. The research found that high temperatures caused packs to spend less time hunting and resulted in higher pup mortality rates.
A new study reveals birds are less likely to cross roads due to predation fears and territorial boundaries, with smaller forest-dependent species being the most affected. The findings highlight the need for measures to connect fragmented forests across roads, allowing wildlife to move freely.
A new analysis from Colorado State University found that each dollar invested in conservation easements produces benefits ranging from $4 to $12 for Coloradans. The state's investments have conserved over 114,000 acres of priority habitat, prime farmland, and scenic byways, as well as numerous miles of streams and rivers.
Researchers used RFID technology to track badger movements, finding that individuals often visit multiple locations outside their social groups. This challenges the long-held assumption of territoriality and anti-social behavior in badgers.
A new study by UMass Lowell researchers has identified gaseous mercury as the major source of pollution in the Arctic tundra. The findings reveal that airborne mercury is gathering in the region's soil and ultimately running off into waters, posing a significant threat to human health and wildlife.
Researchers expose burrowing bettongs to feral cats, observing improved evasion behaviors and increased vigilance. The study suggests this technique could aid the reintroduction of threatened Australian mammals onto the mainland.
Researchers found that an approach to pursuing equity with local communities' perspectives can bring better outcomes for habitats and wildlife, as well as some of the world's poorest people. Current practices are limited in their interpretation of equity, resulting in responses that sustain local perceptions of injustice and miss oppor...
A new study urges the UNESCO World Heritage Convention to better conserve wilderness areas by designating Natural World Heritage Sites (NWHS). Only 1.8% of the world's wilderness is currently protected, highlighting broad gaps in conservation coverage across the globe.
A recent study calls for strengthened human-wildlife conflict management in India due to the damage caused by up to 32 wildlife species. The research identifies effective prevention techniques, improved compensation schemes, and open dialogue between communities, governments, and conservationists as key solutions.
Scientists have identified a new fungal skin disease affecting European wild snakes for the first time. The study, led by the Zoological Society of London, confirms that snake fungal disease (SFD) is present in UK and Czech Republic snakes, posing no risk to humans or livestock.
The study found that wildebeest carcasses play a crucial role in the ecosystem, providing food for various animals and supporting fish populations. The nutrient-rich carcasses also decompose over time, releasing phosphorus that supports algae, insects, and fish.
A Southern California mountain lion population is plagued by inbreeding due to urbanization and highway barriers. Conservation efforts proposed a network spanning the Santa Ana Mountains and Eastern Peninsular Mountains to promote genetic diversity and connectivity.
A recent study found that polar bear mercury levels are declining, indicating a change in their diet and weight as they adapt to reduced sea ice. The researchers attribute the drop to increased consumption of lower-mercury prey, such as bowhead whales and bearded seals, in place of ringed seals.
Capuchin monkeys adopt most efficient technique for opening fruit quickly through social learning and individual experience. Older monkeys rely on their own experience, while younger ones pay more attention to watching others.
Researchers found that tourists often mistake wild monkeys' aggressive facial expressions for friendly or neutral ones, leading to increased risk of injury and disease transmission. The study suggests educating tourists through videos or guided visits with expert guides could improve both animal welfare and tourist experience.
A 10-year, $2.7 million project in Ontario reduced turtle deaths on a causeway by 89%, offering global lessons for protecting endangered species. The initiative included fencing, culverts, and public awareness campaigns to reduce roadkill, with significant success.
A study by Wildlife Conservation Society found that Congo's miners often hunt wildlife for food due to lack of alternative protein sources. The authors suggest strengthening wildlife-friendly mining regulations and increasing domestic food sources as solutions.
A new study by scientists from the Universities of Oxford, Montana, and the US Forest Service highlights novel approaches to tackling deforestation. The team built a multi-scale model of deforestation on Borneo's island using machine learning algorithms, predicting future deforestation risk faced by remaining forests.
A new study finds that private land conservation data is often inaccessible, hindering effective conservation efforts and taxpayer investments. The researchers suggest addressing capacity shortfalls in federal agencies and revising policies to improve transparency and accountability.
A new study co-authored by WCS explores the impact of reduced Arctic snow cover on tundra-dwelling wolverines. The research found that wolverines rely heavily on snow for denning, caching food, and other needs, making them more vulnerable to climate change.
A UC Davis study reveals that baboons position themselves strategically within their troop to optimize access to food and safety. Younger males tend to occupy central positions, while adult males take a more exposed role at the front of the group.
A new WCS study reveals that leopards are abundant in tea-garden landscapes in north-eastern India, but their presence doesn't lead to conflicts with people. The research found that leopards use tea-gardens due to dense ground vegetation cover and avoid developed areas.
The study reveals three primary genetic clusters of snow leopards, each found in a distinct geographical region. The discovery sheds light on the species' evolution, ecology, and conservation, highlighting the need for transboundary initiatives to protect this majestic big cat.
A new study reveals that African lions and other big cat species are facing a high risk of extinction due to declining prey populations. The research suggests that the loss of prey species during the last Ice Age is continuing today, with only 25% of preferred prey remaining for African lions.
The Massachusetts Wildlife Climate Action Tool has received a national award for its exemplary leadership in addressing climate change impacts on fish and wildlife species and their habitats. The tool, launched in 2015, provides information on climate change vulnerabilities and offers adaptation strategies to protect natural resources.
Researchers from Oxford's Wildlife Conservation Research Unit found that less affluent countries are more committed to protecting large animals than richer ones. The Mega-Fauna Conservation Index reveals that African nations, including Botswana and Tanzania, contribute significantly to conservation efforts.
A 35-year study of a protected alligator population has found that male and female alligators exhibit 'determinate growth,' stopping at some point after reaching sexual maturity. Females are reproductive far longer than previously thought, with one case reaching 46 years past onset of sexual maturity.
A new system aims to protect bald eagles from wind turbine collisions by detecting approaching birds and triggering deterrents. The technology, developed at Oregon State University, uses a camera-mounted system to identify eagles in flight and deploy colorful human-like figures to scare them away.
A study found low gene flow between Bengal tiger populations in western Himalayan foothills, highlighting the need for conservation strategies. Relocating villages and industries, reducing human dependency, and banning mining can help maintain genetic variation and spread beneficial genes.
The Wildlife Conservation Society emphasizes the importance of science in wildlife conservation, citing numerous examples including the prevention of American Bison extinction and forest elephant population recovery. Science informs their work through research papers, protected areas establishment, and policy development.
A collaborative study published in PLoS ONE found that fences with or without crossing structures can reduce roadkill by up to 54% across all species. Focusing on effective prevention methods, researchers also recommend increasing the duration and comparability of future studies to protect biodiversity.
Researchers at San Diego Zoo Global discovered that compatible panda personalities play a crucial role in breeding success. The study found that certain traits, such as excitability and aggression, are more effective when paired together.
Children from island locations in the Bahamas prefer invasive species like feral cats and pigs, while mainland children prefer mammals. Island children also show a greater preference for native species, highlighting the need to consider human factors in conservation decisions.
Researchers discovered blood-sucking flies can act as 'flying syringes' to detect emerging infectious diseases in wild animals. The method analyzes the origin of the blood and species of malaria parasites present, with potential implications for controlling global outbreaks.
Scientists from WCS have discovered a new species of wild ginger, Aframomum ngamikkense, in the Kabobo Massif, one of Africa's most biodiverse sites. The discovery underscores the importance of conservation efforts for this region, which has already yielded eight endemic species.
A new project led by UTIA faculty will recruit 14 undergraduate Research and Extension Fellows to explore agro-ecological farming in western Belize. The team will work with local partners to empower forest and wildlife stewardship while increasing the students' skills to become leaders in agricultural and conservation efforts globally.
A study by Michigan State University researchers found that allowing livestock to graze amidst protected wildlife disrupts their survival. Wildlife reacts differently to livestock invasions, requiring diverse policies for each species.
Researchers from the University of Washington and US agencies propose strategies for sustainable subsistence hunting, reducing crowding and ensuring ecological space. They emphasize the importance of monitoring subpopulations regularly and adjusting harvests accordingly to mitigate negative effects of habitat loss.
A new oral Ebola vaccine has shown effectiveness in a chimpanzee trial, offering hope for conserving wild ape populations threatened by diseases like Ebola and anthrax. However, the closure of captive chimpanzee facilities due to changing laws may hinder further research and development.
Native animals are declining on Melville Island due to reduced habitat and increased cat populations. Rangers are using fire management techniques to create more habitat for native wildlife by burning vegetation in the early season.
Researchers found that 83.7% of colic surgery patients returned to their previous activity level, with 78.5% regaining pre-surgical performance. Owners were highly satisfied with veterinary care (96.3%) and recovery (98.5%).
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has launched a $2.5 million fund to support projects that help wildlife adapt to climate change in wild landscapes and urban areas. The fund will focus on enhancing ecological processes and ecosystem functions, rather than just conserving or restoring historic conditions.
A new report led by Panthera suggests that Africa's protected parks and reserves can conserve up to 83,000 wild lions if well funded and managed. The study found that less than one third of the parks examined are currently conserving lions at more than 50% of their carrying capacity.
A new study led by Duke University finds that over 25,000 elephants were killed for their ivory between 2004 and 2014 in Gabon's protected area. The loss of forest elephants has significant implications for the preservation of the species.
Researchers found that tree encroachment in hirola habitats reduced grasslands, impacting the antelope's primary food source. Overgrazing, loss of elephants from poaching, and lack of fires also contributed to the decline. Solutions like elephant conservation and grass reseeding offer hope for hirola recovery.
Researchers have found that drone noise does not travel far into the water, posing little threat to marine mammals. The study suggests that UAVs can be used safely in marine environments with proper permits and guidelines.
A new analysis found that climate change is having a massive impact on threatened species, with nearly 700 species affected. The study suggests that negative responses to climate change have been vastly underreported, with only 7% of mammals and 4% of birds previously estimated to be impacted.
Male banded mongooses that faced poor conditions in their first year lived longer than those with an easier start, while variable conditions seemed to be beneficial for longevity and reproduction. The researchers used 14 years of data on wild banded mongooses in Uganda.