Research on wild animals and their conservation. Covers marine mammals, elephant cognition, tree and habitat protection, and the illegal wildlife trade.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 study suggests that a 700-mile US-Mexico border wall could significantly alter wildlife movement and connectivity, threatening populations of some species. Design tweaks and technology can improve animal movement, but the impact on biodiversity is still uncertain.
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.
A study found that climate change is causing wild Soay sheep in Scotland to shrink in size, as milder winters make survival conditions less challenging. The 'young mum effect' also plays a role, where young ewes produce smaller offspring.
A recent study by the Wildlife Conservation Society finds that cancer is a major threat to wild animal populations, with certain species at risk of extinction due to contagious cancers and pollution. The study highlights the need for increased health monitoring and resource allocation to safeguard animals and humans.
A new study by the Wildlife Conservation Society reveals that analyzing fecal DNA can accurately estimate tiger populations. This non-invasive technique allows researchers to identify individual animals and establish baseline numbers in areas where camera trapping is impractical.
Kris Hundertmark challenges the two-species concept of North American and Eurasian moose based on DNA analysis revealing three genetic groups with regional variation. The chromosome and morphology differences between the two species are minor and not functional.
The first study of a rare egg-laying mammal, the long-beaked echidna, reveals elusive habits and provides new data on nocturnal foraging behaviors and home-range sizes. The research, published in Journal of Mammalogy, informs conservation strategies for the species threatened by hunting and habitat loss.
Researchers discovered that the Galapagos giant tortoise and marine iguana are targeted by mosquitoes feeding on reptile blood, raising fears of devastating native wildlife diseases. The mosquito's adaptation to life in Galapagos could enable rapid spread of new diseases due to the islands' lack of immunity.
A recent study analyzes the impact of human activity on large-scale terrestrial migrations, revealing that up to a quarter of migrating species have gone extinct. Human activities such as fencing, farming, and water restrictions have altered habitats and reduced migration routes, leading to significant declines in animal populations.
A network of wildlife conservation areas can save up to 90% of bird species in Africa affected by climate change. The research team found that protected areas will provide new habitats for birds forced to move due to changing temperatures and rainfall.
Researchers found that mockingbirds can recognize individual humans who pose a threat to their nests, leading to aggressive behavior. The birds' ability to recall these threats may be key to their success in urban environments where many species struggle to thrive.
Researchers found that 80% of tested sea otters in Washington State had morbillivirus and 60% had Toxoplasma, with implications for the ecosystem's balance. The study highlights the need to monitor the health of the state's otter population, as they are 'sentinels' for environmental problems.
A Purdue University study found that animals can easily access runway areas, increasing the likelihood of plane strikes. The study suggests enclosing airport perimeters with partially buried fencing and frequent maintenance to deter wildlife.
The US wildlife trade is plagued by a lack of coordination and regulation, leading to the importation of millions of animals each year. This can have devastating effects on native species, food supply chains, and human health, as evidenced by previous disease outbreaks such as monkeypox.
A recent study by Brown University and the Wildlife Trust found that US wildlife imports are fragmented and insufficiently coordinated, failing to accurately list over four in five species entering the country. This lack of regulation poses significant risks to human health, food supply chains, and ecosystems.
Researchers used Google Earth to locate a quarry site in Egypt where they discovered fossilized remains of small mammals from the early Miocene Epoch. The finds may provide insights into the migration of animals from Asia to Africa and the evolution of African wildlife.
UC Davis establishes Mountain Gorilla One Health Program to conserve gorillas & address human health, livestock, and agricultural issues. The program aims to improve gorilla health & prevent disease from affecting human populations.
A new study reveals widespread and substantial declines in wildlife populations in Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve. The researchers found that a growing concentration of human settlements near the reserve is linked to large losses of wildlife, including giraffes, hartebeest, impala, and warthogs.
A Virginia Tech graduate student has received the first-ever Rachel Carson Award for Scientific Excellence from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for her work developing successful culture systems and feeding regimes for endangered freshwater mussels. The award recognizes Mair's extraordinary results in fish and wildlife conservation ...
Russell Mittermeier, a leading expert on biodiversity and ecosystem conservation, will deliver the Roger Tory Peterson Memorial Lecture at Harvard University. He has been recognized for his critical work on biodiversity hotspots and species conservation, offering hope for the future of conservation efforts.
Researchers use new software to rapidly identify individual tigers and estimate populations by matching unique stripe patterns from camera trap photos. The software is up to 95% accurate in identifying tiger species from scanned photos, aiding tiger conservation efforts.
Sarah Keenan Jacobi, a Lincoln Park Zoo researcher, has been awarded the prestigious Smith Fellowship to develop a framework for efficiently allocating resources for conservation. The fellowship program will support her research on managing habitat and controlling invasive species such as reed canary grass.
A survey in a Yorkshire village found that people are less aware of past changes in local bird populations, indicating 'generational amnesia.' The study's results suggest that wildlife knowledge is not being passed on from older to younger people.
Researchers at San Francisco State University are using non-invasive techniques to study hormones in wild mammals, revealing surprising results about behavior, social systems, and hormone function. These findings challenge previous research models and suggest species-specific adaptations for reproduction and survival.
Long-term research reveals a quarter-century of data on penguin numbers, showing a decline of over 20 percent in the last 22 years. Penguins are struggling with food scarcity, leading them to nest outside protected areas where they fall prey to predators.
A study by the Wildlife Conservation Society found that middle-class communities in Eastern Africa have lower fish levels due to increased motorized fishing vessels and decreased cultural restrictions. In contrast, wealthy communities have healthier fish populations due to diversified economies and technological advancements.
Two federal scientists, Martin Raphael and Eric Forsman, have won national awards for their research on the habitat and ecology of the marbled murrelet and the northern spotted owl. Their work emphasizes a strong partnership between research and management to improve the status of these bird species.
A recent study suggests that the Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda could support a large lion population, with estimates suggesting up to 905 individuals. The research, led by University of Wisconsin-Madison professor Adrian Treves, used aerial surveys and prey data to predict lion abundance.