Search Results (52)

The factors affecting vultures’ space use can be complex, but food availability is often considered the primary determinant. However, when vultures’ food resources become highly predictable, their role in movement ecology has been little studied. Conservation planning for endangered vulture species requires a comprehensive understanding of space use. In this study, we quantified several metrics that may affect the space use of Cinereous Vultures (Aegypius monachus), a central-place forager isolated in the southeastern Balkans, which had access to substantial artificially provided food (33 tons per year) during the study period (2004–2009). Metrics examined for putative influence on ranging behavior included season, age, sex, breeding status, and artificially provided food quantity. Home range and core area sizes were larger during the breeding season and smaller during the non-breeding season. Although age, sex, and breeding status did not affect space use, we found strong evidence that artificially provided food predictability can shape the movement ecology of Cinereous Vultures. Annual home range size, core area, and seasonal overlap of the spatial parameters did not vary greatly over the years, suggesting repeatability in the species’ ranging behavior. Highly predictable artificially provided food can modify the movement ecology of necrophagous species. Yet, providing safe food is essential to preserve this endangered vulture. We suggest that feeding programs be gradually diversified to simulate natural carrion availability by using multiple small feeding sites and supplementing them unpredictably with small amounts of food. Full article

The Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) is a psittacid species native to central and eastern South America that was introduced into many countries by traders, for its popularity as caged pets. After escapes or releases, it has been successful in establishing in new territories, capable of reproducing, dispersing, and exhibiting population growth in introduction sites during recent decades. It is considered a pest due to negative impacts, especially for its damage to agriculture and urban infrastructure. Although its global distribution has been previously described, given its high adaptability and effectiveness in colonizing new environments, many of these distribution maps may be outdated. We used eBird, a free online birding database, to locate sightings of this species globally and compared it with the reported range for the species. Additionally, we overlaid compiled data on species distribution with economic data to explore if there is a correlation between the reported parakeet presence in new cities and wealth. We compiled data from 1900 to 2024 and compared reported differences in the Monk Parakeet presence. Our results indicate that Monk Parakeets have invaded at least 31 countries, being present in capital cities, cities, towns, and rural territories. The number of cities where the species was reported as invasive increased significantly since 1985, by an average of 150% by decade. We found a positive pooled association between country-level Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita and the number of cities with Monk Parakeet records, although this pattern should be interpreted cautiously, given potential biases from observation effort, country size, and temporal co-variation. We present new evidence on Monk Parakeet’s rapid global expansion and deliver an updated map of the Monk Parakeet global distribution, relevant for planning and implementing control measures. Full article

The importance of Education for Sustainability (EfS) in shaping values and fostering responsible sustainable behaviour has been acknowledged from the early years of education. Our research explores Preservice Preschool Teachers’ (PPTs) perceptions of using game-based learning (GBL) activities to teach EfS, and the impact of designing and delivering such activities on their confidence in teaching EfS. The research used qualitative methods. Data were collected from 12 university students, who developed and implemented GBL activities for preschool children on Monachus monachus. Preservice teachers participated in a group interview and filled reflective reports to describe their overall experience. A reflexive thematic analysis was performed using NVivo software. Outcomes indicate that participants appreciate GBL as an effective pedagogical approach in preschool education, given that it is appropriately and pedagogically designed. Participation, emotional engagement and understanding of complex sustainability concepts emerged as benefits from the involvement in GBL activities, both for the children and for the preservice teachers. Other benefits for the research participants concerned the development of their classroom adaptability, collaboration skills, reflection and confidence. Authentic, collaborative experiential approaches in teacher education and actual teaching opportunities can effectively empower preservice teachers’ confidence to teach about sustainability. Full article

Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) sightings along the Lebanese coast were recorded between 2020 and 2025. This study aims to provide insights into the consistency of monk seal presence, their habitat use, and their feeding behaviour in the studied area. The research relied on photographic and video materials gathered from social media reports, as well as contributions from local fishers and divers. A total of 43 sightings were recorded, with photo-identification possible for 34 of these. The study confirmed the presence of at least three distinct individuals, including one adult female frequently utilizing marine caves in Amchit and Rawsheh. Video recordings of feeding behaviour revealed prey species such as grey mullet and octopus, which are also targeted by local fisheries, suggesting potential conflicts between the seals and the fishing sector. This study emphasizes the need for a more systematic, long-term monitoring approach, including the use of infrared cameras, to identify suitable habitats and more accurately assess seal presence. The research further recommends a region-wide effort to understand monk seal movements within the Levantine Basin and to support broader conservation initiatives for the species. Full article

Marine mammals are important ecological bio-indicators of marine ecosystems impacted by a plethora of anthropogenic and environmental threats. Genomics detects genetic variation, adaptation to environmental shifts, and susceptibility to diseases in marine mammal species. In this study, eDNA was utilized for the first time in the Pagasitikos Gulf over three consecutive years (2022–2024) in order to detect marine mammal species. Additionally, visual monitoring and eDNA results were compared to reveal the pros and cons of the two methodologies. The gulf was zoned into five different areas with respect to oceanographic features for sampling. DNA extraction was assessed by using a standard protocol of phenol–chloroform followed by PCR amplification using the 16S rRNA gene. A total of 5,209,613 highly filtered sequence reads were attributed to 108 species. Among these, Monachus monachus, Tursiops truncatus, and Ziphius cavirostris species were detected. This novel detection of Z. cavirostris in the relatively shallow waters of the Gulf of Pagasitikos raised the question of whether it was a random event or a new ecological trend. Z. cavirostris and M. monachus appeared to share the same marine areas within the gulf. In the era of the climate crisis, eDNA provides essential information on marine mammals’ ecological status, yields novel detections, and predicts behavioral changes essential to deep-diving species. Full article

The interactions between marine predators such as the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) and fish farms have raised concerns regarding the potential environmental impacts of the industry on surrounding marine ecosystems. This study investigated the potential role of fish farm workers in monitoring marine biodiversity around aquaculture sites, comparing their potential involvement with that of other maritime workers. Interviews were conducted with maritime workers, including fish farm workers, in order to understand their perceptions of monk seal interactions with fish farms. The author also carried out direct data collection at fish farms to validate these perceptions. The results show a strong alignment between the workers’ perceptions and the data collected by the author on key parameters such as the presence, frequency, and seasonality of monk seals on fish farms. Furthermore, 75% of the 16 fish farm workers interviewed expressed no animosity toward monk seals. This underscores fish farm workers potential for involvement in monitoring initiatives and their understanding of monk seal interactions on fish farms. Given their constant presence at sea and proximity to key interaction zones, maritime workers are well-positioned to monitor environmental pressures and provide valuable data. With appropriate training, these workers could become valuable participants in targeted citizen science efforts, enhancing the public image of the aquaculture industry and advancing research on marine life in the vicinity of aquaculture installations. Full article

The flock formation of bird species is a crucial behavioral process that enables them to colonize urban areas. However, the factors influencing the structure and composition of ground-feeding bird flocks have not yet been analyzed. This study aimed to relate flock characteristics, including size, number, species richness, and composition, to local and landscape factors in the urban parks of Buenos Aires City, Argentina. Surveys of flocks were conducted in 16 parks during the breeding season, covering both mono-specific and mixed-species flocks. Flock numbers were positively correlated with tree, lawn, and bare ground cover but negatively associated with raptor presence in the parks. Flock species richness declined with increased noise and pedestrian traffic but rose in parks where raptors were present. The composition of species in flocks was linked to tree cover, noise, and the presence of raptors. While the Rock Dove (Columba livia) and the Rufous-bellied Thrush (Turdus rufiventris) were more abundant in parks with greater tree cover, the Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata) and the Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) showed increased abundance in more open parks. Zenaida auriculata and Columba livia experienced a decline in abundance in parks where raptors were present. Our findings indicate that resource availability and predation risk are crucial factors shaping flock formation in urban parks. Full article

Urban parks are refuges for a diversity of birds in cities. Therefore, understanding the relationship between park structure and different bird species is essential to achieve nature-friendly park planning and management. However, the selection of foraging substrates by ground-feeding species has been very little explored. The aim of this study was to analyze the use and selection of foraging substrates by birds in urban parks in Buenos Aires City, Argentina. Between December 2020 and February 2021, 16 urban parks were visited. During each visit, focal observations of individuals feeding on different microhabitats were made. For ground-foraging species, the use of each substrate was then compared with its availability by means of contingency tests. A total of 38 species and 7823 foraging attempts were registered. The species with the most records were the Rufous-bellied Thrush (Turdus rufiventris), the Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata), and the Rufous Hornero (Furnarius rufus). Most of the species foraged on ground substrates. Several species, such as the Thrush and the Picazuro Pigeon (Patagioenas picazuro), selected lawn and bare ground. The Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) and the Cattle Tyrant (Machetornis rixosa) selected lawn, while the Eared Dove and the Picui Ground Dove (Columbina picui) selected bare ground. Some species such as the Picui Ground Dove and the Green-barred Woodpecker (Colaptes melanochloros) did not use impermeable surfaces. The results obtained revealed that not only is green cover necessary for birds in urban parks, but also other surfaces such as bare ground can favor native bird species. Full article

From August 2021 to December 2023, one adult male Mediterranean monk seal was repeatedly registered, through a systematic monitoring camera system, frequenting a marine cave in southern Kefalonia Island, central Ionian Sea, Greece. The presence of the same adult seal in a series of caves and overhangs in a bay in northwestern Zakynthos, southern Ionian Sea, in September 2023 and May 2024 was verified through opportunistic surveys and citizen science. The two locations are ca. 15 km apart and each is located in a different marine NATURA 2000 site. Appropriate conservation measures need to take into consideration the fact that seals do move between Kefalonia and Zakynthos (and possibly also other Ionian islands) and that the entire area has to be considered as a single “conservation unit” rather than elaborating protection measures on a small scale around a couple of resting and pupping caves alone. A full network of marine caves under strict protection surrounded by a buffer zone, taking into account at least the species’ home range, is needed in order to substantially cover the monk seal’s critical terrestrial habitats throughout the Ionian Sea. Full article

Protected areas are crucial for the conservation of West Africa’s increasingly imperiled wildlife, but are under unprecedented pressure associated with exponential human population growth in the region. Using birds as biodiversity indicators, we investigated the conservation status of Togo’s Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, which was managed by a private foundation from 1990 to 2015, and since 2015 has been managed by the state. Between 2022 and 2024, we conducted 90 days of bird surveys in the park and documented a total of 240 bird species. Our findings include 34 species new to the park, including the first record of Emin’s Shrike (Lanius gubernator) in Togo, the first sightings of the Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata) since 1990, and first observations of the Abyssinian Ground-Hornbill (Bucorvus abyssinicus) since 2019. Many such species survive in Togo only in Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, but its exceptional biodiversity has come under increasing assault from illegal activities, including poaching, logging, road construction, charcoal production, cattle grazing, and land clearance to establish agricultural plantations. We were unable to document 91 bird species previously reported for the park during our surveys, suggesting a possible ~31% decline in avian species richness in the park compared to historical records. Apparent extirpations of globally-threatened raptors such as the Critically Endangered White-backed Vulture (Gyps africanus) and Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus), and declines of the Endangered Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus) and Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) further indicate that current conservation strategies are failing to adequately protect wildlife in the park. Togo’s two other historical national parks have already been almost entirely destroyed by human activities, and unless urgent conservation action is taken, there is a high risk that Fazao-Malfakassa National Park will share the same fate. We urgently recommend improving support for law enforcement capacity and park staff, conducting community conservation outreach, and ongoing monitoring of wildlife in the park to assess its conservation success. Full article

The threat of plastic pollution has escalated to unprecedented levels, with particular concern surrounding microplastics (MPs) and artificial fibers or particles (AFs) due to their wide distribution across ecosystems and their bioavailability to wildlife. Although research on the impact of plastic on wild birds is rapidly growing, knowledge of terrestrial species remains limited, especially regarding raptors, which have been significantly understudied. Here, we investigated the prevalence of MPs and AFs in regurgitated pellets from six protected terrestrial raptor species, namely the Cinereous Vulture (Aegypius monachus), the Bonelli’s Eagle (Aquila fasciata), the Little Owl (Athene noctua), the Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni), the Red Kite (Milvus milvus), and the Barn Owl (Tyto alba), collected between 2022 and 2023. Our analysis revealed that 68% of the pellets contained MPs (47 out of 69), and 81% contained AFs (56 out of 69). Additionally, two macroplastics were found inside the pellets: a cable tie in a Red Kite and a bird identification ring in a Cinereous Vulture. The concentrations (mean ± standard error of the mean) were 2.39 ± 0.39 MPs/pellet and 5.16 ± 0.72 AFs/pellet. The concentration of MPs and AFs varied significantly among some of the studied species; however, no significant differences were observed among urban, rural, and protected areas. This could indicate that contamination levels are mainly related to the type of species. Fibers emerged as the predominant contaminant shape, with six different polymers identified, among which PET, PE, and acrylics were the most prevalent. These findings highlight that plastic pollution has reached protected terrestrial raptors and that the impact of plastic on their life cycles needs to be assessed. Full article

Parrots are popular with pet consumers and are one of the most traded groups of live birds around the world. China has been considered as an important country in bird trades, but we know little about China’s import and export of parrots. Using the latest data available from the CITES Trade Database, we analyzed China’s import and export of CITES-listed live parrots from 1981–2022 to better understand the patterns and dynamics of these trades. China imported 155,339 parrots of 173 species and exported 608,987 parrots of 42 species during the study period with an annual average of about 18,500 individuals, accounting for c. 5% of the global average number. The most imported parrots to China were Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) and Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus), while the most exported ones were Fisher’s Lovebirds (Agapornis fischeri), Rosy-faced Lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis), and Yellow-collared Lovebird (Agapornis personatus). Since the early 21st century, China’s imports of parrots gradually increased, but exports decreased more pronouncedly, making China’s international parrot trade volume declining in the past 20 years. China’s international parrot trade routes also changed over time, with the destination of parrot exports shifting from Europe to Africa and the Arabian region, while more parrots being gradually imported from countries in South America and Africa. The vast majority of parrots exported from China were captive-bred non-native species like Fisher’s Lovebirds, while a substantial proportion of imported parrots were wild-sourced and the proportion has been increasing in the last decade. The fact that China exported much more parrots than imported suggests existence of large-scale parrot farming and domestic parrot trade in China. Attention needs to be paid to monitoring China’s import of increasing proportion of wild-sourced parrots from South America countries and its potential impacts on their wild populations. Close monitoring of and more studies on domestic and illegal parrot trade are essential to fully understand the role China plays in the international trade of parrots. Full article

The monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) and the Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto) are two of the most prevalent invasive species globally due to their high dispersal ability. Since these birds were first recorded (1999 for the monk parakeet and 2013 for Eurasian collared dove) in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA), both species have spread rapidly throughout the area. However, the impacts of global climate changes on the distribution patterns of these species remain poorly studied across the MCMA. Therefore, based on an ecological niche modeling approach, we assessed the expansion and potential invasion of both species in this megalopolis using current and future climate projections (year 2050). Our results estimated that the current suitable areas are 5564 km² for the monk parakeet and 5489 km² for the Eurasian collared dove, covering ~70% of the study area, suggesting a rapidly invading species, as expected. We observed a slight decrease (up to 24%) in both species in future climate scenarios, but our models estimated that the sizes of the suitable areas would remain stable. We found that the range expansion of these species in the megalopolis may be largely attributed to their propensity for jump dispersion and short-time niche expansion ability. Our findings allow for a better understanding of the factors contributing to the range expansion of the monk parakeet and the Eurasian collared dove in Mexico and can better inform the monitoring guidelines for and assessments of these invasive species. Full article

Synanthropic birds might play an important role as reservoirs of many zoonotic endoparasites; however, little information is available on many parasites and their prevalence. Here, we use an approach based on targeted metagenomic detection through the use of DNA metabarcoding of faecal samples to screen for circulating parasites in alien parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus and Psittacula krameri) and urban landfill-feeding storks (Ciconia ciconia) and gulls (Larus fuscus). We focus especially on potentially zoonotic parasites, with the aim of better understanding the zoonotic risk that these birds’ faeces may pose. We detected a total of 23 genera of eukaryotic parasites: six fungi, three protists, five nematodes, two cestodes and seven trematodes. Among them, six stood out for their relevance to human health: Cryptococcus spp., Aspergillus spp. and Candida spp. (fungi); Cryptosporidium spp. (a protist); and Ascaris spp. and Halicephalobus spp. (nematodes). In parakeets, we detected Cryptococcus spp. and Ascaris spp., the latter being detected in 10–20% of the samples. In the White Stork and the Lesser Black-backed Gull, we found a high prevalence of Aspergillus spp. (in 15% and 50% of the samples, respectively) and Candida spp. (in 63% and 82% of the samples, respectively), and the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. in 10% of the samples. We detected Halicephalobus spp. in one gull sample (2%). Our results show that synanthropic birds may act as vectors and reservoirs of zoonotic parasites and their faeces could pose a risk to human health associated with the zoonotic parasites present in them. This should be taken into account when developing management plans for urban populations of these bird species. Full article

The global trade of non-native pet birds has increased in recent decades, and this has accelerated the introduction of invasive birds in the wild. This study employed ensemble species distribution modelling (eSDM) to assess potential habitat suitability and environmental predictor variables influencing the potential distribution of non-native pet bird species reported lost and sighted in South Africa. We used data and information on lost and found pet birds from previous studies to establish and describe scenarios of how pet birds may transition from captivity to the wild. Our study revealed that models fitted and performed well in predicting the suitability for African grey (Psittacus erithacus), Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus), Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus), Green-cheeked conure (Pyrrhura molinae), Monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus), and Rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri), with the mean weighted AUC and TSS values greater than 0.765. The predicted habitat suitability differed among species, with the suitability threshold indicating that between 61% and 87% of areas were predicted as suitable. Species with greater suitability included the African grey, Cockatiel, and Rose-ringed parakeet, which demonstrated significant overlap between their habitat suitability and reported lost cases. Human footprint, bioclimatic variables, and vegetation indices largely influenced predictive habitat suitability. The pathway scenario showed the key mechanisms driving the transition of pet birds from captivity to the wild, including the role of pet owners, animal rescues, adoption practices, and environmental suitability. Our study found that urban landscapes, which are heavily populated, are at high risk of potential invasion by pet birds. Thus, implementing a thorough surveillance survey is crucial for monitoring and evaluating the establishment potential of pet species not yet reported in the wild. Full article