Articles tagged with Wildlife
Chimpanzees have been observed seeking out specific plants with medicinal properties to treat their ailments, and further pharmacological testing has confirmed the presence of anti-inflammatory and antibiotic compounds. These findings highlight the importance of studying animal behavior in discovering new medicines.
A new study found that neonicotinoid-treated seeds led to an 8% drop in butterfly species diversity, with the pesticide also affecting monarch butterfly populations. The research calls for publicly available data on pesticide use to understand the causes of butterfly decline.
A recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) in Finnish fur farms resulted in severe disease and widespread inflammation in infected animals. The virus caused significant adaptations to mammalian hosts, increasing the risk of potential human infection.
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.
Researchers found that Pacific Coast Feeding Group gray whales, a subset of the Eastern North Pacific population, have been getting smaller since around 2000. This decline could have major consequences for their health and reproductive success, and also raises alarm bells about the state of the food web.
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 study by Kyoto University found that snow leopards consume the plant genus Myricaria in their feces when hungry. This suggests a link between prey and plant intake in these large alpine cat carnivores. The research provides insight into improved captive environments and suitable conservation plans for snow leopards.
A new method developed by researchers at Florida Atlantic University and the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center improves the accuracy of acoustic tracking in marine animals. The method uses a movement model to reconstruct animal tracks, even in regions with uneven receiver coverage.
A Penn State-led study found that female giraffes have proportionally longer necks than males, suggesting high nutritional needs drove the evolution of this trait. Giraffes adapt to reach leaves in trees by using their long necks, allowing females to access food with increasing demands as they mature.
Researchers found evidence of coevolution driving speciation in cuckoo species. Cuckoo chicks evolved to mimic host chicks to evade detection and exploit more hosts.
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.
A study found that the sweat bee H. rubicundus is less sociable in Scotland than in Cornwall, exhibiting genetic differentiation and isolation. The authors explored this phenomenon in the context of the species' adaptability to extreme latitudes.
Researchers found isolated refuges in cities where species like wrentits, mourning doves, and gopher snakes thrive. Urban planning initiatives can support more biodiversity by creating habitat for species that avoid cities.
Harbor porpoises spend up to 60% of their day hunting small fish to stay warm in cold waters. New research shows that this strategy makes them more vulnerable to noise from motor boats and disturbances from humans.
A two-year study on nesting behaviors of Chimango Caracaras reveals that pairs share most parental responsibilities, including incubation, brooding, and food deliveries. This collaborative approach allows the birds to adapt to unpredictable food sources, which is unique among raptor species.
A new study reveals how the Ukraine war affected migratory eagles' behavior, with altered routes, reduced refuelling sites usage, and longer migration times. Researchers found that the conflict events exposed the birds to artillery fire, soldiers, and displaced civilians.
Researchers tracked migrating eagles through an active conflict zone in Ukraine, finding they used stopover sites less and made large deviations from their usual routes. This study provides the first quantitative evidence that armed conflicts can impact animal behavior.
A UMaine graduate student's research found that small mammal personalities determine the effectiveness of pilferage in mice and voles. Deer mice were the most accomplished thieves, while individuals with lower body condition and female voles were more likely to pilfer.
A study found that tool use among sea otters allows access to larger prey, reducing tooth damage. Female otters, which are more likely to use tools, can consume prey up to 35% harder than males.
Researchers discover Striated Caracaras' playful behavior, showing they interact with objects for fun and explore novel items. The study sheds light on how these birds learn about their environment and could provide insights into the evolution of play in nature.
Researchers have found that a parasitic worm, Eleaophora schneideri, is likely contributing to the decline of moose populations in some regions. The study found microfilariae scattered throughout the brains of infected animals, leading to potential increased morbidity and mortality.
A new study has confirmed that killer whales take only one breath between dives, providing insights into their unique physiological habits. The researchers used drone footage and biological data from tags to gather information on the animals' habits, revealing that residents spend most of their time making shallow dives.
A recent study by TUM, University of Jena, and Vienna University of Technology shows that city residents generally accept most animal species in urban environments. The majority of birds, mammals, arthropods, lizards, and frogs are popular, while cockroaches, rats, wasps, slugs, and pigeons are less liked. Urban planning can balance hu...
Desert isopods rigorously regulate their intake of macronutrients and calcium, preferring biological soil crust over plant litter. The research highlights the crucial role of ingested microorganisms in facilitating digestion and growth.
A new study by University of Colorado Boulder primatologist Michelle Sauther found that smaller animals like the lesser galago face extra challenges adapting to climate change. The research highlights the importance of protecting these small and nocturnal species, which are often overlooked in conservation efforts.
A Sumatran orangutan observed applying chewed Akar Kuning leaves to a facial wound, leading researchers to investigate the plant's potential healing properties. Rakus' treatment of his own injury may indicate an intentional behavior shared with humans and great apes.
A male Sumatran orangutan applied sap from a climbing plant with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties to a facial wound, closing it within five days. This self-medication behavior may have originated in a common ancestor shared by humans and orangutans.
A study found that households with traditional dirt floors and animals indoors have higher human flea populations, increasing disease risk. Upgrading flooring to concrete or board can help reduce flea infestations and improve quality of life.
A new study found that low-intensity grazing systems offer benefits for local biodiversity protection, but struggle due to inflexible regulations and a lack of workforce. Land users face economic constraints and restrictive policies, leading to declining participation in sustainable practices.
Researchers found widespread data gaps on environmental effects, emphasizing the need for updated information requirements in REACH legislation. They propose utilizing cross-species knowledge and grouping substances to increase understanding.
A new study led by the University of Arizona finds that early-life struggles can cut adult lifespan in red squirrels by at least 14%, but a natural food boom may buffer against these effects. The researchers suggest that climate change could disrupt this dynamic, potentially affecting animal resilience.
Researchers analyzed genomes of 363 bird species and found significant variations in cryptochrome 4 gene, indicating adaptation to environmental conditions. This specialization could be related to magnetoreception in migratory birds.
Researchers found that ketogenic diets reduced plasma levels of total Tau in females, mitigated elevations in plasma lipids, and improved circulating lipids. However, neither continuous nor intermittent ketogenic diets improved measures of cognitive or motor behavior in the TgF344-AD rat model.
A study from the Max Planck Institute found that storks choose routes with high densities of other storks, especially for young birds. As they gain migration experience, their preference decreases, suggesting a shift towards independence.
A new study reveals that three island bat species feed on over 40% of agricultural pests, including banana moths and turnip moths. This finding highlights the importance of bats in maintaining ecosystem balance and suggests that encouraging these mammals can be a win-win for conservation and local farmers.
A new study reveals that wildebeest populations which no longer migrate are less genetically healthy and more prone to decline. The loss of migration routes due to fencing and roads leads to lower genetic diversity, increased inbreeding, and reduced fertility.
A new project investigates how and why groups of animals fight each other, with implications for human evolution. The study focuses on warlike species like mongooses and termites to understand the factors that lead to extreme aggression and peace.
Researchers found high concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in peregrine falcon eggs across North America, indicating long-term exposure to phased-out flame retardants. The study highlights the persistence of flame retardant pollution in wildlife and potential health risks for humans.
A team of researchers developed an AI-powered computer vision model to detect Brazilian wild animals on roads and warn drivers in real-time. The system uses roadside cameras and portable computers to identify species such as anteaters, wolves, and tapirs, with the potential to save lives and reduce roadkill.
The study revealed three genetically distinct populations of rusty-patched bumblebees, highlighting the need for tailored conservation efforts. The analysis showed low colony abundance and high rates of inbreeding, threatening the long-term viability of the species.
Research at the University of Oxford discovered that socially connected great tit birds are more likely to use new foods, consuming twice as much novel food as less sociable individuals. This trend suggests that social birds expand their diets to mitigate competition costs, not increased exploratory behavior.
Research at the University of Gothenburg reveals a link between maternal protein intake during pregnancy and the formation of facial bone structures in offspring. The study found that a particular signaling pathway, mTOR, plays a crucial role in shaping the face.
A recent study suggests that Canada lynx had a broader past range in the US, potentially including parts of Utah, central Idaho, and Yellowstone National Park. The researchers used a validated model to estimate the species' historic distribution, taking into account factors such as climate change and land use.
Scientists from the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research observed spotted hyenas chasing and devouring flying birds at a waterhole in Namibia. They found that a single hyena can catch one bird every three minutes, adding to the known variety of their diet and hunting tactics.
A team of scientists has unveiled a new gecko species, Cnemaspis vangoghi, named after Vincent Van Gogh's iconic painting The Starry Night. The species was discovered in the Southern Western Ghats of India and features striking colouration reminiscent of one of the artist's most famous works.
Researchers found that birders with disabilities face constraints such as lack of accessible features and safety concerns, but also expressed interest in access to high-quality birding locations and information. The study aims to promote broader social inclusion for people with disabilities through wildlife recreation.
Two Micrurus mipartitus coral snakes have been observed battling for a caecilian in the dense rainforests of western Colombia, showcasing a rare example of kleptoparasitism among Elapidae family members. The study highlights the elusive nature of these reptiles and challenges of observing them in their natural habitats.
The study emphasizes the need for international cooperation to implement ecological interventions, such as protecting food sources and natural habitats, to prevent pathogen spillover. By conserving biodiversity, bats can be less stressed, reducing their shedding of viruses that can infect humans.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo discovered that Japanese tit birds use wing movements as a symbolic gesture to communicate with their mates, mirroring human-like behavior. The study found that the birds' wing-fluttering display prompted the mate to enter the nest box first, while the one who fluttered entered second.
Researchers successfully carried out pioneering fecal microbiota transplantations on Navy bottlenose dolphins, showing significant improvement and increased microbial diversity. The study's findings have important implications for marine mammal medicine, highlighting a non-antibiotic option to treat gastrointestinal diseases.
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.
Researchers discovered that wild animal hair undergoes seasonal changes to insulate against extreme temperatures. The inner microscopic details of the hairs change, allowing animals to survive in their environment.
A new AI-powered study reveals the global extent of threats to bats from hunting and trade, using online records from social media platforms. The research identifies 22 new countries involved in bat exploitation, covering regions such as Bahrain, Spain, and Sri Lanka.
Researchers at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance have made a groundbreaking discovery that establishes individual baseline values for African elephant blood cell counts, enabling earlier detection and intervention of clinical EEHV infection. This study provides a tool for elephant care facilities to improve preventive medicine and lifesa...
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.
A rare case of an opossum infected with rabies has been reported in Brazil, highlighting the risk of virus transmission to humans. The study found that dogs can act as vectors for the virus and that opossums are key to surveillance in urban environments.
A new study by the University of Liverpool warns that reforestation initiatives can harm wildlife and ecosystems if not done properly. The research highlights issues with tree-planting in non-forest systems, such as savannas and grasslands, which are under threat from increased tree cover.
A recent study published in Biological Conservation reveals that NY bobcat populations remain critically low, with occupancies below detectable limits. Researchers used trail cameras to monitor wildlife populations in central and western NY state, tracking white-tailed deer, red fox, coyote, eastern wild turkey, and gray fox numbers.
A study found that crop diversification in the Cerrado biome leads to increased numbers of native mammals and a decrease in invasive species such as wild boars. Diversified crops helped control invasive species that cause damage to farmers.
A global meta-analysis of six continents reveals that large wild herbivores have a significant impact on ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem variability. The study found that megafauna communities with larger herbivores tend to have positive effects on local plant diversity, while smaller species communities decrease it.