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Papadopoulos D. Indigenizing wild animal sovereignty. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PHILOSOPHY 2022; 54:583-601. [PMID: 38504775 PMCID: PMC10947386 DOI: 10.1111/josp.12498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Papadopoulos
- Unit of Ethics and Human‐Animal StudiesMesserli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine ViennaViennaAustria
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2
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Lewton J, Rose PE. Social networks research in ex situ populations: Patterns, trends, and future directions for conservation-focused behavioral research. Zoo Biol 2021; 40:493-502. [PMID: 34227153 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Social networks research using non-human animals has grown over the past decade, utilizing a wide range of species to answer an array of pure and applied questions. Network approaches have relevance to conservation, evaluating social influences on fecundity, health, fitness and longevity. While the application of network approaches to in situ populations with conservation concern appears in published literature, the degree to which ex situ and zoo-housed populations are the focus of "social networks for conservation research" is limited. Captive environments provide scientists with an ability to understand the social behavior of species that may be hard to observe consistently in the wild. This paper evaluates the scope of network research involving ex situ populations, analyzing output from 2010 to 2019 to determine trends in questions and subjects using ex situ populations. We show that only 8.2% of ex situ social network analysis (SNA) implications are of conservation-focus, apparent in papers relating to birds, carnivores, bats, primates, reptiles, and ungulates. Husbandry and welfare questions predominate in ex situ network research, but over half of these papers have nonpractical application (basic science). The chance of a citation for a basic science paper was 95.4% more than for a conservation-based paper. For taxonomic groups, primate-focused papers had the most citations. The focus of ex situ conservation-based networks research may be driven by the needs of conservation programs (e.g., population recovery outcomes) or by a need to evaluate the efficacy of ex situ conservation goals. We evaluate our findings considering the IUCN's One Plan Approach to conservation to show how in situ and ex situ network research is applicable to global conservation efforts. We have identified that there is a lack of application and evaluation of SNA to wildlife conservation. We highlight future areas of research in zoos and hope to stimulate discussion and collaboration between relevant parties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Lewton
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Silwood Park Campus, Ascot, UK
| | - Paul E Rose
- Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour, College of Life & Environmental Science, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.,WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, UK
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3
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Madliger CL, Love OP, Nguyen VM, Haddaway NR, Cooke SJ. Researcher perspectives on challenges and opportunities in conservation physiology revealed from an online survey. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 9:coab030. [PMID: 33959293 PMCID: PMC8084030 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Conservation physiology represents a recently emerging arm of conservation science that applies physiological tools and techniques to understand and solve conservation issues. While a multi-disciplinary toolbox can only help to address the global biodiversity crisis, any field can face challenges while becoming established, particularly highly applied disciplines that require multi-stakeholder involvement. Gaining first-hand knowledge of the challenges that conservation physiologists are facing can help characterize the current state of the field and build a better foundation for determining how it can grow. Through an online survey of 468 scientists working at the intersection of physiology and conservation, we aimed to identify characteristics of those engaging in conservation physiology research (e.g. demographics, primary taxa of study), gauge conservation physiology's role in contributing to on-the-ground conservation action, identify the perceived barriers to achieving success and determine how difficult any identified barriers are to overcome. Despite all participants having experience combining physiology and conservation, only one-third considered themselves to be 'conservation physiologists'. Moreover, there was a general perception that conservation physiology does not yet regularly lead to tangible conservation success. Respondents identified the recent conceptualization of the field and the broader issue of adequately translating science into management action as the primary reasons for these deficits. Other significant barriers that respondents have faced when integrating physiology and conservation science included a lack of funding, logistical constraints (e.g. sample sizes, obtaining permits) and a lack of physiological baseline data (i.e. reference ranges of a physiological metric's 'normal' or pre-environmental change levels). We identified 12 actions based on suggestions of survey participants that we anticipate will help deconstruct the barriers and continue to develop a narrative of physiology that is relevant to conservation science, policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine L Madliger
- Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Ave., Ontario, N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - Oliver P Love
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Ave., Ontario, N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - Vivian M Nguyen
- Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Neal R Haddaway
- Stockholm Environment Institute, Linnégatan 87D, 10451 Stockholm, Sweden
- Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change, Torgauer Strasse 19, 10829, Berlin, Germany
- Africa Centre for Evidence, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, 2092, South Africa
| | - Steven J Cooke
- Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
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Greggor AL, Berger-Tal O, Swaisgood RR, Cooke SJ, DeVault TL, Fernández-Juricic E, Gienapp A, Hall S, Hostetter C, Owen MA, Rankin S, Ruppert KA, Swaddle JP, Blumstein DT. Using Change Models to Envision Better Applications of Animal Behavior Research in Conservation Management and Beyond. FRONTIERS IN CONSERVATION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2021.653056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
While most animal behavior researchers have mastered the process of knowledge creation, generating knowledge that can readily be applied requires a different set of skills. The process and timeframe of fundamental scientific knowledge production is often not relevant to those who might apply it, such as conservation or wildlife managers. Additionally, the complex challenges that policy makers, managers and practitioners face are often not adequately communicated to and among scientists. This mutual disconnect in discourse, relationships, common terms, and practices is especially apparent when animal behavior researchers seek to have applied impact. We argue that bridging the complex implementation gap in animal behavior requires a formalized vision for change. We turn to change model theory, a tool commonly used in other fields for identifying the links between actions and outcomes necessary for enacting large-scale change. We focus on the subfield of conservation behavior with a change model that outlines specific ways to improve collaboration and coordination between animal behavior science and conservation practice. We present this targeted change model, review each strategy the model outlines, and highlight pressing actions that people from various career stages and backgrounds can take. We encourage researchers to further the alignment of science with management needs by developing the proper communication mechanisms for improved cultural exchange and plan future change model efforts directly targeting managers. Beyond the conservation behavior change model we present, we also discuss the broad applicability of change models to enhance the application of academic research to other fields. Fundamental science researchers are increasingly required to show impact of their work on society; the change model process we describe here can enable further impact.
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Elmer LK, Madliger CL, Blumstein DT, Elvidge CK, Fernández-Juricic E, Horodysky AZ, Johnson NS, McGuire LP, Swaisgood RR, Cooke SJ. Exploiting common senses: sensory ecology meets wildlife conservation and management. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 9:coab002. [PMID: 33815799 PMCID: PMC8009554 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coab002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Multidisciplinary approaches to conservation and wildlife management are often effective in addressing complex, multi-factor problems. Emerging fields such as conservation physiology and conservation behaviour can provide innovative solutions and management strategies for target species and systems. Sensory ecology combines the study of 'how animals acquire' and process sensory stimuli from their environments, and the ecological and evolutionary significance of 'how animals respond' to this information. We review the benefits that sensory ecology can bring to wildlife conservation and management by discussing case studies across major taxa and sensory modalities. Conservation practices informed by a sensory ecology approach include the amelioration of sensory traps, control of invasive species, reduction of human-wildlife conflicts and relocation and establishment of new populations of endangered species. We illustrate that sensory ecology can facilitate the understanding of mechanistic ecological and physiological explanations underlying particular conservation issues and also can help develop innovative solutions to ameliorate conservation problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Elmer
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Christine L Madliger
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Daniel T Blumstein
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1606, USA
| | - Chris K Elvidge
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | | | - Andrij Z Horodysky
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668, USA
| | - Nicholas S Johnson
- USGS, Great Lakes Science Center, Hammond Bay Biological Station, Millersburg, MI 49759, USA
| | - Liam P McGuire
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Ronald R Swaisgood
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA 92027-7000, USA
| | - Steven J Cooke
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
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Wyman MT, Pinter-Wollman N, Mooring MS. Trade-offs between fighting and breeding: a social network analysis of bison male interactions. J Mammal 2021; 102:504-519. [PMID: 34121954 PMCID: PMC8189686 DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyaa172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In most polygynous species, males compete for access to females using agonistic interactions to establish dominance hierarchies. Typically, larger and stronger males become more dominant and thus gain higher mating and reproductive success over subordinate males. However, there is an inherent trade-off between time and energy invested in dominance interactions versus courtship and mating activities. Individuals may overcome this trade-off by selectively engaging in more effective mating tactics. North American bison (Bison bison) are a species of conservation concern that exhibit female-defense polygyny with two predominant mating tactics: (1) tending individual females; or (2) challenging tending males as a satellite and then mating opportunistically. Here, we use social network analysis to examine the relationship between position in the agonistic interaction network of bison males and their mating, reproductive success, and reproductive tactics and effort. To assess the potential for social network analysis to generate new insights, we compare male (node) centrality in the interaction network with traditional David's score and Elo-rating dominance rankings. Local and global node centrality and dominance rankings were positively associated with prime-aged, heavy males with the most mating success and offspring sired. These males invested more effort in the "tending" tactic versus the "satellite" tactic, and they tended more females for longer periods during peak rut, when most females were receptive. By engaging in the most effective mating tactic, dominant males may mitigate the trade-off between allocating time and energy to agonistic interactions that establish dominance, versus courtship and mating. While less dominant males participated more in the alternative mating tactic, network analysis demonstrated that they were still important to the interaction network on both a local and global scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan T Wyman
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Science, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Noa Pinter-Wollman
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael S Mooring
- Department of Biology, Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, CA, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Goymann
- Abteilung für Verhaltensneurobiologie Max‐Planck‐Institut für Ornithologie Seewiesen Germany
| | - Martin Küblbeck
- Abteilung für Verhaltensneurobiologie Max‐Planck‐Institut für Ornithologie Seewiesen Germany
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Affiliation(s)
- Graeme Shannon
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, UK
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Teixeira D, Maron M, Rensburg BJ. Bioacoustic monitoring of animal vocal behavior for conservation. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniella Teixeira
- School of Biological SciencesThe University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Martine Maron
- School of Earth and Environmental SciencesThe University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Berndt J. Rensburg
- School of Biological SciencesThe University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
- Department of Zoology, DST‐NRF Centre for Invasion BiologyUniversity of Johannesburg Johannesburg South Africa
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He L, Dai Q, Yang Z, He K, Qing J, Huang F, Gu X, Yang X, Huang Y, Li D, Zhang H, Zhou X. Assessing the health status of released, captive-bred giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) through activity patterns. FOLIA ZOOLOGICA 2019. [DOI: 10.25225/fozo.054.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Liuyang He
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, 637002 Nanchong, China; e-mail: , , ,
| | - Qiang Dai
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 610041 Chengdu, China; e-mail:
| | - Zhisong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, 637002 Nanchong, China; e-mail: , , ,
| | - Ke He
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, 637002 Nanchong, China; e-mail: , , ,
| | - Jing Qing
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, 637002 Nanchong, China; e-mail: , , ,
| | - Feng Huang
- Liziping National Nature Reserve, 625400 Shimian, China; e-mail:
| | - Xiaodong Gu
- Sichuan Station of Wildlife Survey and Management, 610082 Chengdu, China; e-mail: ,
| | - Xuyu Yang
- Sichuan Station of Wildlife Survey and Management, 610082 Chengdu, China; e-mail: ,
| | - Yan Huang
- China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, 623006 Wolong, China; e-mail: , , ,
| | - Desheng Li
- China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, 623006 Wolong, China; e-mail: , , ,
| | - Hemin Zhang
- China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, 623006 Wolong, China; e-mail: , , ,
| | - Xiao Zhou
- China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, 623006 Wolong, China; e-mail: , , ,
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Webber QM, Vander Wal E. Trends and perspectives on the use of animal social network analysis in behavioural ecology: a bibliometric approach. Anim Behav 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2019.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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12
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Berger-Tal O, Greggor AL, Macura B, Adams CA, Blumenthal A, Bouskila A, Candolin U, Doran C, Fernández-Juricic E, Gotanda KM, Price C, Putman BJ, Segoli M, Snijders L, Wong BBM, Blumstein DT. Systematic reviews and maps as tools for applying behavioral ecology to management and policy. Behav Ecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/ary130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Oded Berger-Tal
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben Gurion, Israel
| | - Alison L Greggor
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA, USA
| | - Biljana Macura
- Mistra EviEM, Stockholm Environment Institute, Linnégatan, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carrie Ann Adams
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Arden Blumenthal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Amos Bouskila
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben Gurion, Israel
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ulrika Candolin
- Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Carolina Doran
- Department of Biology and Ecology of Fishes, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Kiyoko M Gotanda
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Price
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Breanna J Putman
- Section of Herpetology and Urban Nature Research Center, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michal Segoli
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben Gurion, Israel
| | - Lysanne Snijders
- Department of Biology and Ecology of Fishes, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bob B M Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel T Blumstein
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Mumby HS, Plotnik JM. Taking the Elephants' Perspective: Remembering Elephant Behavior, Cognition and Ecology in Human-Elephant Conflict Mitigation. Front Ecol Evol 2018. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2018.00122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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Primate Responses to Changing Environments in the Anthropocene. PRIMATE LIFE HISTORIES, SEX ROLES, AND ADAPTABILITY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-98285-4_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Abstract
Expanding human populations favors a few species while extinguishing and endangering many others (Maxwell et al., 2016; Pimm et al., 2014). Understanding how animals perceive and learn about dangers and rewards can aid conservationists seeking to limit abundant or restore rare species (Schakner and Blumstein, 2016; Greggor et al., 2014; Angeloni et al., 2008; Fernández-Juricic and Schulte, 2016). Cognition research is informing conservation science by suggesting how naïve prey learn novel predators (Griffin et al., 2000; Moseby et al., 2015; Schakner et al., 2016; Blumstein, 2016), the mechanisms underlying variation in tolerance of human disturbance (Bostwick et al., 2014), and when natural aversions and fear learning can be leveraged to humanely control predators (Nielsen et al., 2015; Colman et al., 2014; Norbury et al., 2014; Lance et al., 2010; Cross et al., 2013). Insights into the relationships between cognition and adaptability suggest that behavioral inflexibility often presages species rarity (Amiel et al., 2011; Reif et al., 2011; Sol et al., 2008; Zhang et al., 2014; but see Kellert, 1984). Human compassion and restraint are ultimately required to conserve species. Cognitive science can therefore further inform conservation by revealing the complex inner worlds of the animals we threaten and, in partnership with environmental psychologists, explore how such newfound knowledge affects our empathy for other species and ultimately the public's actions on behalf of species in need of conservation (Collado et al., 2013; Zhang et al., 2014).
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Traniello JFA, Bakker TCM. Behavioral ecology and sociobiology in post-truth society. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-017-2303-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Madliger CL, Love OP. The Power of Physiology in Changing Landscapes: Considerations for the Continued Integration of Conservation and Physiology. Integr Comp Biol 2016; 55:545-53. [PMID: 25805172 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icv001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The growing field of conservation physiology applies a diversity of physiological traits (e.g., immunological, metabolic, endocrine, and nutritional traits) to understand and predict organismal, population, and ecosystem responses to environmental change and stressors. Although the discipline of conservation physiology is gaining momentum, there is still a pressing need to better translate knowledge from physiology into real-world tools. The goal of this symposium, ‘‘Physiology in Changing Landscapes: An Integrative Perspective for Conservation Biology’’, was to highlight that many current investigations in ecological, evolutionary, and comparative physiology are necessary for understanding the applicability of physiological measures for conservation goals, particularly in the context of monitoring and predicting the health, condition, persistence, and distribution of populations in the face of environmental change. Here, we outline five major investigations common to environmental and ecological physiology that can contribute directly to the progression of the field of conservation physiology: (1) combining multiple measures of physiology and behavior; (2) employing studies of dose–responses and gradients; (3) combining a within-individual and population-level approach; (4) taking into account the context-dependency of physiological traits; and (5) linking physiological variables with fitness metrics. Overall, integrative physiologists have detailed knowledge of the physiological systems that they study; however, communicating theoretical and empirical knowledge to conservation biologists and practitioners in an approachable and applicable way is paramount to the practical development of physiological tools that will have a tangible impact for conservation.
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Greggor AL, Berger-Tal O, Blumstein DT, Angeloni L, Bessa-Gomes C, Blackwell BF, St Clair CC, Crooks K, de Silva S, Fernández-Juricic E, Goldenberg SZ, Mesnick SL, Owen M, Price CJ, Saltz D, Schell CJ, Suarez AV, Swaisgood RR, Winchell CS, Sutherland WJ. Research Priorities from Animal Behaviour for Maximising Conservation Progress. Trends Ecol Evol 2016; 31:953-964. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Revised: 09/03/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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21
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Ramos A, Petit O, Longour P, Pasquaretta C, Sueur C. Space Use and Movement Patterns in a Semi-Free-Ranging Herd of European Bison (Bison bonasus). PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147404. [PMID: 26841107 PMCID: PMC4740407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The successful reintroduction and restocking of the European Bison demands a reliable knowledge of the biology of this species. Yet little is known to date about the European bison, and empirical data remains insufficient to set up a reliable plan ensuring the reintroduction, maintenance and survival of populations in habitats that have been largely modified by human activity. Studies of the ecology, social behaviour and management of bison are therefore crucial to the conservation of this species and its cohabitation with humans. To meet these challenges, we focused on movement patterns and space use in a semi-free-ranging herd of European bison living in the Réserve Biologique des Monts-d’Azur (France). Bison spend over 80% of their time foraging and resting; foraging mainly occurs around the artificial feeding sites (i.e., hay racks) or in meadows. The time of day and the presence of snow have no influence on the time budget allocated to each activity. Animals, however, spend more time at the food racks in winter. Bison also spend most of their time in small groups of individuals, confirming the occurrence of both fission-fusion dynamics and sexual segregation in this species. Bison seem to follow a Lévy walk pattern of movement, which is probably related to the geographical distribution and size of food patches in the reserve. The conclusions of this study provide a better understanding of the sociality, life habits and habitat use of bison, and also describe how the provision of hay affects all these behaviours. These results could be useful in the development of tools to select the most suitable habitats for the reintroduction, management and conservation of bison populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Ramos
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Département Ecologie, Physiologie et Ethologie, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Institut Pluridisciplinaire Hubert Curien, Strasbourg, France
| | - Odile Petit
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Département Ecologie, Physiologie et Ethologie, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Institut Pluridisciplinaire Hubert Curien, Strasbourg, France
| | - Patrice Longour
- Réserve Biologique des Monts-d’Azur, Domaine du Haut-Thorenc, Thorenc, France
| | - Cristian Pasquaretta
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Département Ecologie, Physiologie et Ethologie, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Institut Pluridisciplinaire Hubert Curien, Strasbourg, France
| | - Cédric Sueur
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Département Ecologie, Physiologie et Ethologie, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Institut Pluridisciplinaire Hubert Curien, Strasbourg, France
- * E-mail:
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22
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Lifshitz N, St Clair CC. Coloured ornamental traits could be effective and non-invasive indicators of pollution exposure for wildlife. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 4:cow028. [PMID: 27766151 PMCID: PMC5069843 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cow028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Growth in human populations causes habitat degradation for other species, which is usually gauged by physical changes to landscapes. Corresponding habitat degradation to air and water is also common, but its effects on individuals can be difficult to detect until they result in the decline or disappearance of populations. More proactive measures of pollution usually combine abiotic samples of soil, water or air with invasive sampling of expendable species, but this approach sometimes creates ethical dilemmas and has limited application for threatened species. Here, we describe the potential to measure the effects of pollution on many species of birds and fish by using ornamental traits that are expressed as coloured skin, feathers and scales. As products of sexual selection, these traits are sensitive to environmental conditions, thereby providing honest information about the condition of their bearers as ready-made biomarkers. We review the documented effects of several classes of pollutants, including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, industry-related compounds and metals, on two classes of colour pigments, namely melanins and carotenoids. We find that several pollutants impede the expression of both carotenoids and brown melanin, while enhancing traits coloured by black melanin. We also review some of the current limitations of using ornamental colour as an indicator of pollution exposure, suggest avenues for future research and speculate about how advances in robotics and remote imagery will soon make it possible to measure these traits remotely and in a non-invasive manner. Wider awareness of this potential by conservation managers could foster the development of suitable model species and comparative metrics and lay a foundation for pollution monitoring that is more generalizable and biologically relevant than existing standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Lifshitz
- Corresponding author: Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Z-708, 11455 Saskatchewan Drive, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E9. Tel: +1 780 492 9685.
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Krochmal AR, Roth TC, Rush S, Wachter K. Turtles outsmart rapid environmental change: The role of cognition in navigation. Commun Integr Biol 2015; 8:e1052922. [PMID: 27065017 PMCID: PMC4802741 DOI: 10.1080/19420889.2015.1052922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals inhabiting changing environments show high levels of cognitive plasticity. Cognition may be a means by which animals buffer the impact of environmental change. However, studies examining the evolution of cognition seldom compare populations where change is rapid and selection pressures are strong. We investigated this phenomenon by radiotracking experienced and naïve Eastern painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) as they sought new habitats when their pond was drained. Resident adults repeatedly used specific routes to permanent water sources with exceptional precision, while adults translocated to the site did not. Naïve 1-3 y olds from both populations used the paths taken by resident adults, an ability lost by age 4. Experience did not, however, influence the timing of movement or the latency to begin navigation. This suggests that learning during a critical period may be important for how animals respond to changing environments, highlighting the importance of incorporating cognition into conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy C Roth
- Department of Psychology; Franklin and Marshall College ; Lancaster, PA USA
| | - Sage Rush
- Department of Psychology; Franklin and Marshall College ; Lancaster, PA USA
| | - Katrina Wachter
- Department of Psychology; Franklin and Marshall College ; Lancaster, PA USA
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Wong BBM, Candolin U. Lessons for a changing world: a response to comments on Wong and Candolin. Behav Ecol 2015. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arv040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Piel AK, Lenoel A, Johnson C, Stewart F. Deterring poaching in western Tanzania: The presence of wildlife researchers. Glob Ecol Conserv 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2014.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Smith KR, Barthman-Thompson L, Gould WR, Mabry KE. Effects of natural and anthropogenic change on habitat use and movement of endangered salt marsh harvest mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108739. [PMID: 25310800 PMCID: PMC4195649 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The northern salt marsh harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris halicoetes) is an endangered species endemic to the San Francisco Bay Estuary. Using a conservation behavior perspective, we examined how salt marsh harvest mice cope with both natural (daily tidal fluctuations) and anthropogenic (modification of tidal regime) changes in natural tidal wetlands and human-created diked wetlands, and investigated the role of behavioral flexibility in utilizing a human-created environment in the Suisun Marsh. We used radio telemetry to determine refuge use at high tide, space use, and movement rates to investigate possible differences in movement behavior in tidal versus diked wetlands. We found that the vast majority of the time salt marsh harvest mice remain in vegetation above the water during high tides. We also found no difference in space used by mice during high tide as compared to before or after high tide in either tidal or diked wetlands. We found no detectable difference in diurnal or nocturnal movement rates in tidal wetlands. However, we did find that diurnal movement rates for mice in diked wetlands were lower than nocturnal movement rates, especially during the new moon. This change in movement behavior in a relatively novel human-created habitat indicates that behavioral flexibility may facilitate the use of human-created environments by salt marsh harvest mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R. Smith
- Department of Biology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, United States of America
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Stockton, California, United States of America
| | | | - William R. Gould
- Department of Economics, Applied Statistics and International Business, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, United States of America
| | - Karen E. Mabry
- Department of Biology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, United States of America
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Sinn DL, Cawthen L, Jones SM, Pukk C, Jones ME. Boldness towards novelty and translocation success in captive-raised, orphaned Tasmanian devils. Zoo Biol 2013; 33:36-48. [PMID: 24375492 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Translocation of endangered animals is common, but success is often variable and/or poor. Despite its intuitive appeal, little is known with regards to how individual differences amongst translocated animals influence their post-release survival, growth, and reproduction. We measured consistent pre-release responses to novelty in a familiar environment (boldness; repeatability=0.55) and cortisol response in a group of captive-reared Tasmanian devils, currently listed as "Endangered" by the IUCN. The devils were then released at either a hard- or soft-release site within their mothers' population of origin, and individual growth, movement, reproduction (females only), and survival across 2-8 months post-release was measured. Sex, release method, cohort, behavior, and cortisol response did not affect post-release growth, nor did these factors influence the home range size of orphan devils. Final linear distances moved from the release site were impacted heavily by the release cohort, but translocated devils' movement overall was not different from that in the same-age wild devils. All orphan females of reproductive age were subsequently captured with offspring. Overall survival rates in translocated devils were moderate (∼42%), and were not affected by devil sex, release method, cohort, release weight, or pre-release cortisol response. Devils that survived during the study period were, however, 3.5 times more bold than those that did not (effect size r=0.76). Our results suggest that conservation managers may need to provide developmental conditions in captivity that promote a wide range of behaviors across individuals slated for wild release.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Sinn
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water, & The Environment, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; School of Zoology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
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