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Wildlife Research
Journal Prestige (SJR): 0.874  Citation Impact (citeScore): 2 Number of Followers: 17  Hybrid journal (It can contain Open Access articles)ISSN (Print) 1035-3712 - ISSN (Online) 1448-5494 Published by CSIRO Publishing  [21 journals]
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- Power of faecal pellet count and camera trapping indices to monitor
mammalian herbivore activity-
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Authors: Naomi E. Davis, Julian Di Stefano, Jim Whelan, John Wright, Lorraine Taylor, Graeme Coulson, Holly Sitters
Abstract: Naomi E. Davis, Julian Di Stefano, Jim Whelan, John Wright, Lorraine Taylor, Graeme Coulson, Holly Sitters
Efficient monitoring of changes in animal populations is essential for effective wildlife management. We compared the statistical power of faecal pellet counts and camera trapping to detect spatial and temporal changes in mammal activity levels. Indices derived from pellet count occurrence data can be used to simultaneously monitor multiple species where detection of medium to large effect sizes is adequate; however, using frequency indices derived from camera trapping maximises the statistical power of monitoring programs to detect changes in populations. Photograph by Matthew Hoskins (Parks Victoria).
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-06-07
DOI: 10.1071/WR21135
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- Opportunistic datasets perform poorly in Ecological Niche Modelling: a
case study from a polymorphic lizard-
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Authors: Roberto Sacchi, Marco Mangiacotti, Stefano Scali, Elisa Donati, Alan J. Coladonato, Marco A. L. Zuffi
Abstract: Roberto Sacchi, Marco Mangiacotti, Stefano Scali, Elisa Donati, Alan J. Coladonato, Marco A. L. Zuffi
Sampling procedures not exactly designed for a specific purpose (‘opportunistic’ data) are commonly used to model species distribution and analyse niche segregation among species. By analysising niche overlap among morphs in a polymorphic lizard, we show how opportunistically collected data have serious limitations without properly accounting for the spatial structure of the data. We point out the need of being cautious in interpretation of ENMs when occurrences are spatially nested. Photography by Roberto Sacchi.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-06-07
DOI: 10.1071/WR21039
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- Seasonal and daily activity of non-native sambar deer in and around
high-elevation peatlands, south-eastern Australia-
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Authors: Sebastien Comte, Elaine Thomas, Andrew J. Bengsen, Ami Bennett, Naomi E. Davis, Sean Freney, Stephen M. Jackson, Matt White, David M. Forsyth, Daniel Brown
Abstract: Sebastien Comte, Elaine Thomas, Andrew J. Bengsen, Ami Bennett, Naomi E. Davis, Sean Freney, Stephen M. Jackson, Matt White, David M. Forsyth, Daniel Brown
The sambar deer has been identified as a major threat to high-elevation peatlands in south-eastern Australia. Our 4-year camera study revealed that sambar deer utilised peatlands during October–June. Sambar deer activity was crepuscular and was greatest in dense woody vegetation cover close to roads. Ground-based shooting reduced sambar deer activity in peatlands. Photograph by camera trap.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-26
DOI: 10.1071/WR21147
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- Reduction in growth rates of wild horse populations treated with the
controlled-release immunocontraceptive PZP-22 in the western United States
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Authors: Kayla Grams, Allen Rutberg, John W. Turner; Jr
Abstract: Kayla Grams, Allen Rutberg, John W. Turner, Jr
Between 2008 and 2015, we observed and treated mares with the PZP-22 immunocontraceptive vaccine on two large wild horse ranges in the western USA. Mares were hand-treated during gathers or remotely darted. Population growth decreased linearly as the proportion of mares treated and vaccine effectiveness increased, with growth rates diminishing by as much as 74% relative to baseline levels. Photograph by Allen Rutberg.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-25
DOI: 10.1071/WR21101
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- Deltamethrin reduces survival of non-target small mammals
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Authors: Amanda R. Goldberg, Dean E. Biggins, Shantini Ramakrishnan, Jonathan W. Bowser, Courtney J. Conway, David A. Eads, Jeffrey Wimsatt
Abstract: Amanda R. Goldberg, Dean E. Biggins, Shantini Ramakrishnan, Jonathan W. Bowser, Courtney J. Conway, David A. Eads, Jeffrey Wimsatt
Insecticides are applied worldwide as a tool to control both wildlife and/or human diseases but we need to document the impact these chemicals have on non‐target animals. We examined and discovered that deltamethrin (an insecticide used to control flea vectors of the plague bacterium) reduced survival of non‐target small animals in three different study sites in the western United States. Insecticides are an important tool to conserve species threated by wildlife diseases, but we need to consider and evaluate their effects on non‐target animals when making management decisions regarding the best methods to reduce disease prevalence. Photograph by Amanda R. Goldberg.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-25
DOI: 10.1071/WR21153
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- Patterns of livestock depredation by snow leopards and effects of
intervention strategies: lessons from the Nepalese Himalaya-
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Authors: Marc Filla, Rinzin Phunjok Lama, Tim Filla, Marco Heurich, Niko Balkenhol, Matthias Waltert, Igor Khorozyan
Abstract: Marc Filla, Rinzin Phunjok Lama, Tim Filla, Marco Heurich, Niko Balkenhol, Matthias Waltert, Igor Khorozyan
Livestock depredation drives large carnivores into conflicts with humans and poses a major threat to snow leopards in Asia. This study in the Nepalese Himalaya, which assesses livestock depredation by snow leopards regarding suitable intervention strategies, shows an urgent need for improved herding practices, predator-proofing corrals, and deterrent applications. We recommend controlled experiments to assess the effectiveness of different interventions – and wide application of the most effective ones to promote human–snow leopard co-existence. Photograph by Marc Filla.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-19
DOI: 10.1071/WR21169
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- Increasing fire severity negatively affects greater glider density
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Authors: Jarrah C. May-Stubbles, Ana Gracanin, Katarina M. Mikac
Abstract: Jarrah C. May-Stubbles, Ana Gracanin, Katarina M. Mikac
Increases in wildfire severity in Australia’s temperate forests is a major threat to forest-dependant species. Our study assessed the effect of differing levels of fire severity on the greater glider population density in southern New South Wales and found lowest densities in high fire-severity sites. We highlight the importance of low fire-severity sites as refuges in the short-term after wildfires. Photograph by Monica Knipler.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-18
DOI: 10.1071/WR21091
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- Chainsaw hollows carved into live trees provide well insulated
supplementary shelters for wildlife during extreme heat-
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Authors: Stephen R. Griffiths, Kylie A. Robert, Christopher S. Jones
Abstract: Stephen R. Griffiths, Kylie A. Robert, Christopher S. Jones
Hollow-dependent endotherms can experience hyperthermia and dehydration when occupying poorly insulated nest boxes during extreme heat. In this study, we compared cavity microclimates inside different artificial hollows during extremely hot summer weather, and showed that chainsaw hollows carved into live trees provide a much more stable and buffered microclimate than do log hollows and nest boxes. We recommend that managers consider incorporating chainsaw hollows into wildlife conservation programs in regions that experience extremely hot weather events. Photograph by Stephen Griffiths.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-05
DOI: 10.1071/WR21112
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- Animal welfare outcomes of professional vehicle-based shooting of
peri-urban rusa deer in Australia-
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Authors: Jordan O. Hampton, Darryl I. MacKenzie, David M. Forsyth
Abstract: Jordan O. Hampton, Darryl I. MacKenzie, David M. Forsyth
Vehicle-based shooting is widely used to control peri-urban deer populations, but the animal welfare outcomes of this technique have not been quantified in Australasia. We assessed the animal welfare outcomes of professional vehicle-based shooting of peri-urban rusa deer in eastern Australia. Our study showed that animal welfare outcomes varied among shooters and with shooting distance, and that the frequency of the most adverse animal welfare event (escaping wounded) was 3.5% of deer that were shot at and hit. Image by Juliana D. Spahr.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-05
DOI: 10.1071/WR21131
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- Seasonal population dynamics and movement patterns of a critically
endangered, cave-dwelling bat, Miniopterus orianae bassanii-
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Authors: Emmi van Harten, Ruth Lawrence, Lindy F. Lumsden, Terry Reardon, Andrew F. Bennett, Thomas A. A. Prowse
Abstract: Emmi van Harten, Ruth Lawrence, Lindy F. Lumsden, Terry Reardon, Andrew F. Bennett, Thomas A. A. Prowse
Knowledge of the seasonal movements of small insectivorous bats is essential for their conservation. We describe the seasonal cycle of congregation and movement patterns of the southern bent-winged bat, a critically endangered taxon in southeastern Australia. We record previously unknown movements by this taxon, and a more-than doubling of the overnight flight distance currently used to define management buffer zones. These findings have important implications for managing emerging risks, such as mortalities at windfarms and potential spread of exotic disease. Photograph by Emmi van Harten.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-02
DOI: 10.1071/WR21088
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- Bayesian modelling reveals differences in long-term trends in the harvest
of native and introduced species by recreational hunters in Australia-
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Authors: Paul D. Moloney, Andrew M. Gormley, Simon D. Toop, Jason S. Flesch, David M. Forsyth, David S. L. Ramsey, Jordan O. Hampton
Abstract: Paul D. Moloney, Andrew M. Gormley, Simon D. Toop, Jason S. Flesch, David M. Forsyth, David S. L. Ramsey, Jordan O. Hampton
Recreational hunting is popular across Australia for native and introduced wildlife species but little is known about long-term trends in harvest. We assessed recreational harvest levels via hunter surveys from three groups of wildlife (deer, ducks and quail) over 11 years in Victoria, Australia. Our study revealed that harvest levels for introduced deer have increased markedly, but there has been little change for native ducks and quail. Changes in hunter numbers, behaviour and efficiency are important to monitor for sustainable wildlife use. Photograph by Steven Wade.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-05-02
DOI: 10.1071/WR21138
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- Space use and daily movement patterns in an arid zone agamid lizard
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Authors: Adam Bernich, Kimberly Maute, Isabella C. Contador-Kelsall, Paul G. Story, Grant C. Hose, Kristine French
Abstract: Adam Bernich, Kimberly Maute, Isabella C. Contador-Kelsall, Paul G. Story, Grant C. Hose, Kristine French
Data on the space use and movement patterns of a species are important, but are lacking for many species. Here we tracked central bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) across different seasons to describe their space use and movement patterns, and to investigate what influences these patterns. Movement patterns were, as expected, driven by temperature, but unlike related species, there were a high proportion of individuals roaming over large areas. Photograph by Adam Bernich.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-04-27
DOI: 10.1071/WR20152
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- Estimating habitat characteristics associated with the abundance of
free-roaming domestic cats across the annual cycle-
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Authors: Hannah E. Clyde, D. Ryan Norris, Emily Lupton, Elizabeth A. Gow
Abstract: Hannah E. Clyde, D. Ryan Norris, Emily Lupton, Elizabeth A. Gow
Managing free-roaming cats requires understanding where cats are found and how this varies across the year. Using trail cameras in rural and urban areas in southern Ontario, Canada, cats were more likely to be found near buildings and away from agriculture in the spring/summer and near major roads and away from coyotes in the fall/winter. Our results have important implications for the development of management plans and the design of future studies. Photograph by Emily Lupton.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-04-27
DOI: 10.1071/WR20205
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- Diverse moth prey identified in the diet of the critically endangered
southern bent-wing bat (Miniopterus orianae bassanii) using DNA
metabarcoding of scats-
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Authors: Johanna G. Kuhne, Jeremy J. Austin, Terry B. Reardon, Thomas A. A. Prowse
Abstract: Johanna G. Kuhne, Jeremy J. Austin, Terry B. Reardon, Thomas A. A. Prowse
The southern bent-wing bat is a critically endangered insectivorous miniopterid bat, the diet of which has never been described. Our study used metabarcoding of arthropod DNA in bat scats and guano to show the species feeds predominately on moths, many of which are agricultural pest species. Our research provides crucial diet knowledge and a framework for further study of insectivorous bat diets. Photograph by Steve Bourne.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-04-26
DOI: 10.1071/WR21052
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- Impacts of ‘Curiosity’ baiting on feral cat populations in
woodland habitats of Kangaroo Island, South Australia-
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Authors: Rosemary Hohnen, James Smith, Josh Mulvaney, Tom Evans, Trish Mooney
Abstract: Rosemary Hohnen, James Smith, Josh Mulvaney, Tom Evans, Trish Mooney
A feral cat eradication program is underway on Kangaroo Island, but controlling cats in large stretches of woodland remains a significant challenge. To address this issue, we tested the efficacy of the feral cat bait ‘Curiosity’ in woodland habitats. After baiting, the density of feral cats fell from 1.18 to 0.58 cats km −2, and 75% (six of eight) of GPS-collared cats within the zone died. Photograph by Rosemary Hohnen.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-04-26
DOI: 10.1071/WR21090
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- Improving access to conservation detection dogs: identifying motivations
and understanding satisfaction in volunteer handlers-
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Authors: Nicholas J. Rutter, Arthur A. Stukas, Tiffani J. Howell, Jack H. Pascoe, Pauleen C. Bennett
Abstract: Nicholas J. Rutter, Arthur A. Stukas, Tiffani J. Howell, Jack H. Pascoe, Pauleen C. Bennett
Conservation Detection Dogs (CDDs) are a highly effective means of collecting data on elusive and low-density plant and animal species, yet they can be inaccessible for many conservation organisations. A model in which skilled and committed volunteers participate in CDD training and deployment may increase CDDs accessibility. This study explores the motivations and satisfaction of handlers in a volunteer-based CDD model over 3 years and discusses implications for recruitment and retention to promote long-term cost effectiveness of volunteer-based programs. Photograph by Naomi Hodgens.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-04-14
DOI: 10.1071/WR21113
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- Remote sensor camera traps provide the first density estimate for the
largest natural population of the numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus)-
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Authors: Sian Thorn, Marika Maxwell, Colin Ward, Adrian Wayne
Abstract: Sian Thorn, Marika Maxwell, Colin Ward, Adrian Wayne
A density estimate derived from camera trapping and spatially explicit capture recapture (SECR) modelling was produced for the first time for the numbat, a small cryptic mammal with individually distinct coat patterns. This has resulted in better population estimates. With refinements, this could form the basis of a standardised approach to assessing and monitoring numbat populations and their responses to translocations, threats and management, leading to better biodiversity conservation outcomes. Photograph by remote sensor camera, Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-04-14
DOI: 10.1071/WR21115
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- Unique utilisation pattern responses of five sympatric ungulates to local
phenological gradients-
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Authors: Hila Shamon, Andy J. Boyce, Kyran Kunkle, William J. McShea
Abstract: Hila Shamon, Andy J. Boyce, Kyran Kunkle, William J. McShea
Many studies have investigated single-species resource/habitat selection; however, there are still gaps in our understanding of multi-species systems and resource/habitat partitioning. We used an array of camera traps to investigate sympatric-ungulate responses to seasonal phenological gradients. We found unique species-specific utilisation patterns, emphasising that generalisations are difficult when managing multiple-species resources. Photograph by Smithsonian Institution.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-03-31
DOI: 10.1071/WR20185
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- Grizzly bear response to translocation into a novel environment
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Authors: Gordon B. Stenhouse, Terrence A. Larsen, Cameron J. R. McClelland, Abbey E. Wilson, Karen Graham, Dan Wismer, Paul Frame, Isobel Phoebus
Abstract: Gordon B. Stenhouse, Terrence A. Larsen, Cameron J. R. McClelland, Abbey E. Wilson, Karen Graham, Dan Wismer, Paul Frame, Isobel Phoebus
To mitigate conservation conflict, large carnivores are often translocated into novel environments, and are not typically monitored afterwards. We investigated the impacts of translocation by comparing translocated and resident grizzly bears, and found differences in exploration behaviour, habitat use, and response to human-caused mortality risk. Managers and the public should recognise that translocated bears require both time and space to adapt to their new environment. Photograph by Mark Bradley.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-03-30
DOI: 10.1071/WR21060
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- Varying degrees of spatio-temporal partitioning among large carnivores in
a fenced reserve, South Africa-
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Authors: Emma E. M. Evers, Mariëtte E. Pretorius, Jan A. Venter, Terry-Lee Honiball, Mark Keith, Nokubonga Mgqatsa, Michael J. Somers
Abstract: Emma E. M. Evers, Mariëtte E. Pretorius, Jan A. Venter, Terry-Lee Honiball, Mark Keith, Nokubonga Mgqatsa, Michael J. Somers
The spatio-temporal partitioning of large African carnivores (lions, spotted hyaenas and leopards) influences interspecific competition and coexistence within small, enclosed reserves. We deployed 110 camera traps (unbaited and baited) across Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa and found temporal and spatial exclusion between lions and spotted hyaenas. However, no evidence was found of spatio-temporal partitioning between lions and leopards, and spotted hyaenas and leopards. Photograph by Emma E. M. Evers.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-03-30
DOI: 10.1071/WR21045
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- Thermal imaging outshines spotlighting for detecting cryptic, nocturnal
mammals in tropical rainforests-
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Authors: Avril H. Underwood, Mia A. Derhè, Susan Jacups
Abstract: Avril H. Underwood, Mia A. Derhè, Susan Jacups
Thermal imaging technology shows promise for improving detection rates of cryptic rainforest mammals. We found significantly more individuals of six species of nocturnal, arboreal mammals in the Australian Wet Tropics using a thermal imaging device than by spotlighting. We recommend thermal imaging be adopted as a main survey methodology for arboreal mammals in rainforest environments. Photograph by Avril Underwood.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-03-28
DOI: 10.1071/WR21130
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- Exploring seasonal variation in the faecal glucocorticoid concentrations
of African elephants (Loxodonta africana) living in a drought-prone,
anthropogenic landscape-
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Authors: Georgia Troup, Robert Heinsohn, Lucy E. King, Katie L. Edwards
Abstract: Georgia Troup, Robert Heinsohn, Lucy E. King, Katie L. Edwards
Climate change is impacting the availability of resources for wildlife, potentially leading to elevated stress levels harmful to their health. Our research shows that African elephants living in Kenya’s Tsavo ecosystem may be physiologically unaffected by reduced habitat quality during typical dry seasons. Privately protected areas provide crucial habitat for wildlife during dry seasons, but elephants should be closely monitored regarding their stress response to increasingly severe drought periods.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-03-25
DOI: 10.1071/WR21003
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- Predicting spatial and seasonal patterns of wildlife–vehicle
collisions in high-risk areas †-
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Authors: Hanh K. D. Nguyen, Matthew W. Fielding, Jessie C. Buettel, Barry W. Brook
Abstract: Hanh K. D. Nguyen, Matthew W. Fielding, Jessie C. Buettel, Barry W. Brook
Roads and traffic often cause injury or death of wildlife through vehicle collisions. We aimed to identify the predictors associated with road-kill risk, finding that forested areas with no roadside fence on curved sections of road posed the highest risk to animals. We illustrated the value of using data-driven approaches to predictive modelling and offer a guide to practical management interventions that can mitigate road-related hazards. Photograph by Barry Brook.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-03-25
DOI: 10.1071/WR21018
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- Wildlife–Human Survey: a rapid appraisal tool to assess mammal
diversity and human–wildlife interactions in rural settings-
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Authors: Camila Alvez Islas, Cristiana Simão Seixas, Luciano Martins Verdade
Abstract: Camila Alvez Islas, Cristiana Simão Seixas, Luciano Martins Verdade
Quick and cost-effective field assessments of ecological and socioeconomic data are needed to aid wildlife conservation. In this study, we present a structured interview protocol, the Wildlife–Human Survey, and investigate its effectiveness in a pilot study in southeast Brazil. We present the pros and cons of using this protocol to gather information on mammal assemblages and human interactions in rural landscapes shared by both. We also highlight its potential for contributing to wildlife research and management. Photograph by Edinaldo Mesalino.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-03-22
DOI: 10.1071/WR20189
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- Citizen science and community action provide insights on a threatened
species: nest box use by the brush-tailed phascogale (Phascogale
tapoatafa)-
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Authors: Jessica A. Lawton, Greg J. Holland, Chris Timewell, Asha Bannon, Elizabeth Mellick, Andrew F. Bennett
Abstract: Jessica A. Lawton, Greg J. Holland, Chris Timewell, Asha Bannon, Elizabeth Mellick, Andrew F. Bennett
Conservation actions and habitat restoration frequently depend on the motivation of community groups, often stimulated by ‘flagship’ species of concern. In south-eastern Australia, the installation of nest boxes to support hollow-dependent wildlife is a common activity of such groups. Analysis of monitoring data collected by a community group on nest box use by a threatened marsupial provides insights into the ecology of this species, and into the strengths and limitations of community-based, citizen science monitoring. Photograph by Jessica Lawton.
Citation: Wildlife Research
PubDate: 2022-03-16
DOI: 10.1071/WR21102
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