Articles tagged with Wildlife
A new study published in Molecular Ecology found that hares with genetic variation at a specific gene locus have higher reproductive success, including increased fertility and fecundity. The research suggests that variability at the individual level can provide advantages for survival and reproduction.
More than 1,069 tigers have been seized in tiger range countries over the past decade, with India leading the way. The seizures highlight severe poaching pressure on Indian tigers, with potentially more than 100 wild tigers being plundered each year.
Two new tools, Wildlife Health Event Reporter and Outbreaks Near Me, enable public reporting of sick or dead wild animals to detect wildlife disease outbreaks that may pose a risk to humans. These tools can also provide early warnings of emerging diseases.
A University of Alberta research team has found a mechanism underlying both addiction and obesity, which could lead to new treatments for these diseases. The study revealed that dopamine plays a key role in the formation of spatial memories in the brain, and its release is associated with feelings of reward.
Researchers from Ohio State University found that urban bird nests have lower nest survival rates due to human-provided food sources like trash cans and birdfeeders. Despite higher predator numbers in urban areas, these birds are less likely to be attacked because they can feed themselves.
A new peer-reviewed paper reveals most of the world's remaining tigers are clustered in just six percent of their available habitat. Effective conservation efforts focused on these 42 'source sites' can prevent extinction and seed a recovery of the wild tiger, requiring an additional $35 million annually.
A study found that organic farms have more butterflies than conventional farms, but a combination of conventional farming and nature reserves could support even more butterflies. The research suggests that the trade-off between food production and wildlife conservation depends on the quality of the spare land.
The Wildlife Picture Index, a new monitoring tool, shows a 36% net decline of biodiversity in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. Camera traps collected thousands of images, revealing that large mammals declined faster than small primates and deer.
Research from the University of East Anglia has shown that commercial farming of porcupines is driving hunting and contributing to a devastating decline of wild populations. The study found that half of farmers interviewed were unregistered, with many using wild animals as founder stock or capturing them for sale.
A recent study led by Daniel Streicker analyzed hundreds of rabies viruses from 23 North American bat species, providing estimates of cross-species transmission (CST) frequency. CST occurs only once for every 72.8 transmissions within the same species, with factors like geographic range and genetics influencing its likelihood.
Researchers documented a wild cat species imitating the call of its intended victim, a small monkey known as a pied tamarin, to draw it within striking range. The behavior was confirmed through observations in the Amazonian forests of Brazil, providing insights into the psychological cunning of wild felids.
A study of banded mongooses in Uganda found that these animals pass on traditions from one generation to the next, a practice previously thought to be reserved for humans and intelligent animals. This discovery has significant implications for understanding how complex cultures can develop.
Researchers from UC Davis Health have found E. coli O157:H7 in fecal samples of wildlife species common to California's Central Coast region, including cowbirds, coyotes, crows, mice, and feral pigs. While the presence of the bacterium is rare, it suggests there are potential sources of pathogen movement that need to be assessed.
A new study found that protected areas with strong anti-poaching efforts are critical for maintaining populations of forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and chimpanzees in the Ndoki-Likouala Conservation Landscape. The region is considered one of the most important sites in Central Africa for all three species.
New research from the University of Leeds found that organic farming provides only a 12% increase in biodiversity compared to conventional farming, which produces higher yields. The study raises questions about how to balance food production with wildlife protection on agricultural land.
Researchers used genetic data and oceanographic information from satellites to find two distinct populations of franciscanas in Argentina's coastal waters. The findings suggest that environmental factors, such as water temperature and turbidity, play a significant role in shaping population structure in marine animals.
Scientists have discovered lingering oil from the 1989 Exxon Valdez spill is still being ingested by wildlife in Prince William Sound. The study used biomarkers to reveal long-term exposure to oil in harlequin ducks, demonstrating that consequences of oil spills can last for decades.
Ferrets, introduced for rabbit hunting, are spreading across La Palma, with a growing population affecting the island's native fauna. The researchers found that the ferret population is directly related to prey availability and shelter in rural areas, highlighting concerns over their impact on bird species and endemic lizards.
The World Wildlife Fund's latest report reveals that the China-Myanmar border is allowing illegal wildlife trade, with vendors selling tiger bone wine and other products to buyers in China. The report highlights the need for effective enforcement of laws to end all illegal trade.
The Kaiser's spotted newt, a Critically Endangered species, is being proposed for an Appendix I listing due to e-commerce sales threatening its survival. Online trade in endangered wildlife products will be regulated through CITES governments' increased efforts.
The CITES Standing Committee has given Peru a six-month deadline to address critical issues over the illegal mahogany trade, including implementing a computerized tracking system and harmonizing harvest and export quota systems. Failure to meet these requirements may result in suspension of mahogany exports from Peru.
The World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies has urged its members not to use tiger bone or other endangered wildlife parts, citing lack of medicinal benefits. The call aims to support tiger conservation and reduce trade in big cat products.
A study by Argentine scientists reveals that yellow fever outbreaks in howler monkey populations in northeastern Argentina have tragic conservation implications for the endangered brown howler monkey. The research emphasizes the importance of wildlife monitoring as an early detection method for pathogens affecting both animals and humans.
International conservationists warn that allowing Tanzania and Zambia to sell their stockpiled ivory could lead to increased slaughter of elephants throughout Africa. The team argues that the two countries have not met the necessary criteria to demonstrate their elephant populations are secure and law enforcement is effective in combat...
Recent biologging studies reveal surprising behaviors, such as Atlantic bluefin tuna's 5,000-foot dives and elephant seals' annual 40,000-mile migrations. The research also provides insights into ocean animals' physiological parameters, environmental preferences and conservation status.
A study published in BMC Ecology found that rescued chimpanzees in Cameroon are from the same region, suggesting local trade is a significant issue. The research also revealed that protected areas are being targeted for poaching, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect endangered subspecies.
Researchers at Purdue University emphasize the importance of understanding local human cultures in conserving African wildlife. Their study highlights how selective logging can help sustain local antelope populations, reducing hunting pressure on protected species.
Researchers have discovered over 30 species of invertebrates and 100 single-celled organisms at the East Stoke Fen nature reserve. The findings highlight the importance of protecting 'cryptic biodiversity', which helps natural ecosystems recover from environmental change.
Camera traps in the Sumatran jungle have captured images of a rare female tiger and her cubs, providing unique insight into their behavior. The tigress and her cubs were seen stopping to sniff and check out the camera trap, giving researchers valuable information about their habitat and population.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists found that housing development around national parks and protected areas poses a significant threat to wildlife habitats. The research used data from the US Census and local sources to track changes in housing units near conserved lands since 1940, projecting growth rates until 2030.
A new warbler species, the 'limestone leaf warbler', has been discovered in Laos and Vietnam. The bird is characterized by its distinct vocalizations and morphological differences from other warblers in the area.
A new study by the Wildlife Conservation Society reveals high densities of western lowland gorillas in a Congolese swamp forest, with estimated populations exceeding 5,000 individuals. The researchers warn that protection is needed to safeguard these gorillas and their environment from imminent threats.
Researchers found that skunks' distinctive black-and-white coloration is not enough to deter predators, but rather it's the combination of color and body shape. In areas where skunks are common, predators avoid animals with similar shapes or colors, highlighting a stronger learning component in prey recognition.
China's new initiatives aim to replace 'paper tigers' with real conservation efforts, including improved policing of tiger trade and awareness-raising campaigns. The International Tiger Coalition welcomes China's engagement and recognizes the country's crucial role in wild tiger conservation.
A Spanish researcher analyzed wolf feces and found that 62.8% of prey was roe deer, while domestic sheep and goats only made up 7.7% and 2.9%, respectively. The study suggests that wolves do not prioritize easily available prey like domestic animals.
UC Davis launches PREDICT initiative to detect disease-causing organisms in wildlife before they spill over into people. The team aims to minimize pandemic impact by being ready for early detection and rapid response.
The researcher aims to understand the nesting ecology of bog turtles in southwestern Virginia and evaluate factors limiting nesting success. Diagnostic ultrasound is used to examine ovarian cycle and clutch characteristics.
A new study released in PLoS ONE explores the cumulative impacts of energy development on species in the West, with potential consequences for sage-grouse populations. The research highlights the need for scientifically credible conservation planning tools to balance natural resource development with wildlife conservation.
A state-of-the-art surveillance system will be developed to monitor emerging and re-emerging infections in wildlife, assessing risks to domestic animals and humans. The project aims to predict and manage disease threats from wildlife, using cutting-edge molecular technologies.
A study found Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (Map) in various wildlife and domestic ruminants, suggesting transmission between species. The bacteria causes severe diarrhea in ruminants and has been linked to Crohn's disease in humans.
A study by Michigan Technological University researchers suggests that using native prairie plants to produce bioenergy can reduce the negative impacts of crop-based biofuels on wildlife habitats. The conversion of grasslands to corn for ethanol production is posing a significant threat to bird species and freshwater ecosystems.
A study outlines a strategy for growing bioenergy while protecting wildlife habitats. The approach involves using perennial-dominated prairies as feedstocks to minimize harm to wildlife. Harvesting diverse prairie can avoid loss of wildlife habitat and high fertilizer runoff associated with corn ethanol cultivation.
Researchers have sequenced DNA barcodes for 25 hunted wildlife species to monitor the elusive trade of wildlife products. The barcodes can help crack down on illegal bushmeat trafficking and support conservation efforts.
A study by WCS field scientists found that a single road in the park can change how indigenous communities use their resources, leading to commercial hunting and wildlife depletion. The researchers recorded over 11,000 kilograms of wild meat moving through markets between 2005-2007, with prices increasing by up to 60%.
A new study reveals that oil development in the Arctic is attracting opportunistic predators like Arctic foxes, ravens, and gulls, which feed on nesting birds. These predators are using oil infrastructure to build nests or dens, leading to a significant loss of nests in areas closer to oil development.
Researchers have published genetic sequences, known as 'DNA barcodes,' to identify species of origin from leather products and meat in international trade. The study, led by the American Museum of Natural History, identifies 25 commonly traded mammals and reptiles, including duikers, Nile crocodiles, and alligators.
A study analyzing bird persecution in Spain over 14 years reveals a significant decline in direct attacks on wildlife. The drop in hunting activities and increased awareness among urban populations have led to an end in the 'war' against wildlife in southern Europe.
The Saola's population has declined sharply since its discovery in 1992, with only a few dozen individuals remaining. The primary threats to the species are hunting and snaring, which can be devastatingly effective due to the Saola's vulnerability to dogs.
University of Illinois researchers found that prioritizing sites closer to people can increase financial support for conservation. The study suggests compromising on ecological value for locations near human populations can improve outcomes.
In Brazilian folk religion Candomblé, animal sacrifice plays a crucial role in the believers' requests and desires, believed to 'feed' supernatural deities known as orishas. The practice is fundamental to many religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
A new book demystifies bats and eliminates many myths surrounding rabies, providing an overview of the virus variants that cause bat rabies and geographical patterns of occurrence. The book aims to increase public understanding of rabies and its impact on humans, pets, farm animals, and wildlife.
A WCS study has been adopted by the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service to restore waterways throughout the U.S. The study found that increases in woody vegetation lead to a greater diversity and abundance of riparian birds.
Scientists from the University of Leeds and the Zoological Society of London have found that mosquitoes are regularly hitching a ride on tourist boats and breeding with existing populations.
A team of researchers will survey Kasatochi Island to monitor its recovery from the 2008 volcanic eruption. The interdisciplinary research focuses on the island's ecosystem development, with an emphasis on insect and bird species.
A new oral vaccine shows promise in protecting prairie dogs against plague, offering a potential solution for endangered black-footed ferrets. Meanwhile, shipwrecks and man-made structures are found to increase the risk of invasive species taking over coral reefs, threatening their diversity and native life.
A 2007 legal interpretation of the Endangered Species Act could lead to fewer species being listed for protection, resulting in reduced conservation efforts. Researchers warn that this policy sets the stage for 'wilderness zoos,' which would erode habitats and threaten endangered species.
A nationwide tiger population estimate in Nepal reveals the presence of 121 breeding tigers, a promising sign for conservation efforts. The study employed camera trapping and habitat occupancy surveys to derive information on abundance and distribution.
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has successfully reintroduced critically endangered Chinese alligators into the wild, with the population now multiplying on their own. The reintroduction effort, which started in 1999, included captive-bred animals from North American zoos and partner agencies in China.
A new monkey species, Mura's saddleback tamarin, has been discovered in the Amazon region of Brazil. The monkey is related to saddleback tamarins and faces threats from planned dams and highway construction.
A study found long-term declines of elephants, giraffe, and other animals in Kenya's national parks are occurring at the same rates as outside the country. The research highlights the problems of maintaining protected areas on wildlife and ecosystems inside and outside the parks.