Search Results (87)

Valley fever (coccidioidomycosis) is an infection posing a significant human health risk, resulting from the soil-dwelling fungi Coccidioides. Although incidence and mortality from coccidioidomycosis are underreported in the United States, and this underreporting may impact public health policy in numerous jurisdictions, its incidence is rising. Underreporting may stem from diagnostic and testing difficulties, insufficient environmental sampling for pathogen detection to determine endemicity, and a shortage of data on Coccidioides dispersion. As climate change creates increasingly arid locations in the US favorable for Coccidioides proliferation, determining its total endemicity becomes more difficult. This literature review examining published research from 2000 to 2025 revealed a paucity of publications examining the endemicity of Coccidioides and research gaps in detection methods, including limited studies on the reliability of sampling for geographical and temporal variations, challenges in assessing various sample materials, poorly defined storage conditions, and the lack of precise, less restrictive, cost-effective laboratory procedures. Addressing these challenges requires interdisciplinary collaboration among Coccidioides researchers, wildlife experts, atmospheric and climate scientists, and policymakers. If these obstacles are solved, standardized approaches for identifying Coccidioides, classified by climate zones and ecoregions, could be developed, saving financial resources, labor, and time for future researchers studying the environmental drivers of coccidioidomycosis. Full article

Wildlife strikes in aviation are among the most reported safety incidents. As such, strikes have become the fundamental unit of understanding of the risk posed by wildlife. However, the management of wildlife risks to aviation has shifted to a hazard management philosophy. This literature review examines the argument that current wildlife strike reporting requirements are inadequate for modern wildlife hazard management techniques. This review utilised bibliometric analysis software to identify relevant academic research sourced from the Web of Science, as well as industry materials, to compile a final catalogue (n = 542). Further filtering revealed a limited set of relevant papers (n = 42) and even fewer papers that addressed the above question. Analysis of these papers and the wider catalogue noted limitations in current reporting requirements as they relate to hazard and risk management concepts. This analysis was supplemented with a review of international standards and relevant national requirements, concluding that while academics and industry have adopted systematic safety and hazard management techniques, and international guidance material has kept pace, international standards, the foundation for many national reporting systems, remain decades behind. This paper proposes the use of robust consensus-building methodologies, such as the Delphi technique, in the industry as a means of streamlining and supporting international standards development. Full article

Wildlife–vehicle collisions (WVCs) pose a growing threat to road safety and wildlife conservation. This research explores the relationship between the moon phases and the occurrence of nighttime WVCs in Serbia from 2015 to 2023. A total of 2767 nighttime incidents were analyzed to assess whether the full moon is associated with an increased collision frequency. The results revealed a statistically significant rise in the average annual number of WVCs during full moon nights compared to other nights, indicating that increased lunar illumination may affect animal movement and impact collision rates. However, no statistically significant differences were observed when comparing the frequency of WVCs across all four lunar phases. Spatial analysis identified the South Bačka and Podunavlje districts as the most at-risk regions for WVCs during full moon periods. As the first study of its kind in Serbia, this research provides new insights into the spatial and temporal patterns of WVCs. The findings can assist in developing focused mitigation strategies, such as improved signage, speed control strategies, and awareness campaigns, especially in regions with increased risk during full moon nights. Full article

The expansion of human activities can degrade natural habitats, thereby increasing threats to wildlife conservation. The wild populations of many species have declined due to the modification of natural habitats by humans. The Arabian wolf (Canis lupus arabs) is a subspecies of the gray wolf that is of conservation concern across its distribution range. The Arabian wolf is understudied in certain habitats (e.g., mountainous areas), which limits understanding of its overall ecology. Given its vulnerable conservation status, this study aimed to collect relevant data and information on incidents and potential threats facing this predator in the rugged mountainous habitats of western Tabuk province, Saudi Arabia, and how the effects of these threats can be minimized. In these mountain habitats Arabian wolves encounter various severe threats that challenge relevant conservation efforts. Observations of such threats—some of which result in wolf mortality—represent serious challenges to the survival of wild Arabian wolves. Conflicts with humans and livestock represent considerable threats that must be appropriately managed. Additionally, the potential association between Arabian wolves and free-ranging dogs requires further investigation. Various conservation scenarios and mitigation approaches can be applied to help reduce negative impacts on Arabian wolf populations and maximize their likelihood of survival. Overall, ensuring the persistence of such a unique desert-adapted apex predator in this ecosystem must become a conservation priority. Full article

Understanding how marine debris accumulates within coastal ecosystems is a crucial aspect of predicting its long-term environmental and biological consequences. The release and subsequent dispersion of 50 billion microplastic pellets from the fire and subsequent sinking of the container ship X-Press Pearl along the western coast of Sri Lanka in 2021 provides an important case study. Here, we present a three-dimensional assessment of pellet accumulation (number density) along affected beaches and compare this with other common microplastic particles one year following the incident. Surveys confirmed that pellets were still widely present in the surface sediments of ocean beaches, with some locations returning average densities of 588 pellets m² (very high according to the global Pellet Pollution Index [PPI]). Profiling deeper into beach sediments showed pellets were present to depths of 30 cm; however, most were restricted to the top 10 cm. Our observations of persistent pellet contamination of beaches along Sri Lanka’s west coast emphasize the need for continued monitoring of these types of events to assess the magnitude and persistence of risks to the environment, wildlife, and human well-being. Full article

Wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs) threaten biodiversity, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico, where road expansion increases habitat fragmentation. This research analyzes WVC patterns in southeastern Mexico, estimating collision rates across road types and assessing environmental factors influencing roadkill frequency. Field monitoring in 2016 and 2023 recorded vertebrate roadkills along roads in Campeche, Chiapas, and Tabasco. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Generalized Additive Models (GAM) evaluated landscape influences on WVC occurrences. A total of 354 roadkill incidents involving 73 species of vertebrates were recorded, with mammals accounting for the highest mortality rate. Hotspots were identified along Federal Highway 259 and State Highways Balancán, Frontera-Jonuta, and Salto de Agua. Road type showed no significant effect. Land cover influenced WVCs, with cultivated forests, grasslands, and savannas showing the highest incidences. PCA identified temperature and elevation as key environmental drivers, while GAM suggested elevation had a weak but notable effect. These findings highlight the risks of road expansion in biodiversity-rich areas, where habitat fragmentation and increasing traffic intensify WVCs. Without targeted mitigation strategies, such as wildlife corridors, underpasses, and road signs, expanding infrastructure could further threaten wildlife populations by increasing roadkill rates and fragmenting habitats, particularly in ecologically sensitive landscapes like wetlands, forests, and coastal areas. Full article

A series of incidents involving damage to vehicle speed sensor cables occurred in an urban area in Japan. At the request of the police, DNA analysis was conducted to identify the animal species responsible. Swab samples collected from the damaged sections of the cables were subjected to PCR testing using mtDNA fragments. Sequencing analysis with universal primers (SCPH02500, SCPL02981) detected DNA from the Japanese marten (Martes melampus). A comprehensive examination that included morphological analysis of the cable damage and consideration of the ecological characteristics of the Japanese martens suggested that the damage was likely caused by this species. DNA analysis using mtDNA markers is a valuable tool for species identification in wildlife forensic veterinary investigations and serves as important scientific evidence in criminal cases involving animals. The findings from this case may contribute to future investigations in forensic veterinary science and ecological research and may also inform measures to prevent human–wildlife conflicts involving animals. Full article

Lead is among the most toxic heavy metals, posing significant risks to all living organisms. It is a pervasive and persistent contaminant in the environment. Ingested lead in birds and wildlife induces a range of sublethal effects that disrupt physiological functions and behavior, ultimately resulting in mortality at higher doses or with prolonged exposure. To investigate the relation of lead to accidents and injuries in wild birds, we analyzed lead concentration in 43 wild birds that were admitted as patients to the Wildlife Rehabilitation and Breeding Center (WRBC). The findings reveal a significant dependency between the detected levels of lead in the birds’ bone samples and the reported etiology of their injuries, with variances in the age groups of the patients received at the WRBC in Bulgaria. Full article

Vehicle collisions with wild animals are a significant cause of wild animal mortality. This impacts their population and spatiotemporal distribution within the ecosystem. Data on the impact of road kills on wild animals, particularly in the south-central part of Uganda, are not present. This study aimed to investigate the number of species involved in road kills in South-Central Uganda and their spatial and temporal distribution within South-Central Uganda. Three transects, each 40 km in length, were surveyed. In both wet and dry seasons, surveys were conducted monthly in the morning and afternoon from November 2019 through April 2024. The findings showed that 161 wildlife–vehicle accidents were detected within a four-and-a-half-year period, with 178 animal species involved. These incidents belonged to 12 mammals, five reptiles, two amphibians, and 32 avian families. Our study adds to a better understanding of the impact of roads on wildlife in Africa and is an essential starting point regarding conservation efforts to mitigate these effects. It provides a first summary of species that are frequently found as roadkill in this area of south-central Uganda. This acts as a reference point for future studies. Full article

The conservation of biodiversity and the balance between ecological and societal needs are critical but often contested global issues. Wildlife-vehicle collision (WVC) on vital infrastructure, especially linear infrastructure, remains a persistent challenge from policy to practice and poses a serious life-threatening implication to humans and other non-human lives. Addressing this issue effectively requires solutions that provide win-win outcomes from both ecological and societal perspectives. This study critically analyzes a decade of roadkill incidents along Nepal’s longest East-West national highway, which passes through a biologically diverse national park in the western Terai Arc Landscape Area (TAL). Findings are drawn from field-based primary data collection of the period 2012–2022, secondary literature review, key informant interviews, and spatial analysis. The study reveals significant variations in roadkill incidence across areas and years. Despite Bardia National Park being larger and having a higher wildlife density, Banke National Park recorded higher roadkill rates. This is attributed to insufficient mitigation measures and law enforcement, more straight highway segments, and the absence of buffer zones between the core park and adjacent forest areas—only a road separates them. Wild boars (Sus scrofa) and spotted deer (Axis axis), the primary prey of Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris tigris), were the most frequently road-killed species. This may contribute to human-tiger conflicts, as observed in the study areas. Seasonal trends showed that reptiles were at higher risk during the wet season and mammals during winter. Hotspots were often located near checkpoints and water bodies, highlighting the need for targeted mitigation efforts such as wildlife crossings and provisioning wildlife requirements such as water, grassland, and shelter away from the regular traffic roads. Roadkill frequency was also influenced by forest cover and time of day, with more incidents occurring at dawn and dusk when most of the herbivores become more active in search of food, shelter, water, and their herds. The findings underscore the importance of road characteristics, animal behavior, and landscape features in roadkill occurrences. Effective mitigation strategies include wildlife crossings, speed limits, warning signs, and public education campaigns. Further research is needed to understand the factors in driving variations between parks and to assess the effectiveness of mitigation measures. Full article

As the incidence of tick-borne disease expands globally, comprehensive understanding of pathogen reservoir hosts is crucial to protect humans and wildlife. While many components are understood, there are gaps in our knowledge regarding the role of alternative, non-mammalian hosts such as birds. Within the United States, birds have been identified as reservoirs for Borrelia and Rickettsia; however, local studies rarely examine the potential of birds as reservoirs and transporters of Ehrlichia-infected ticks, unlike studies in Europe and South America. To address this research gap, we extracted and sequenced important microorganisms within 90 larval and nymphal ticks which were removed from passerine and near-passerine birds in the Great Plains region of the United States between May and October 2023. We found that 11% of birds hosted ticks infected with one or more Rickettsia or Ehrlichia species. Additionally, we collected a larval Haemaphysalis leporispalustris infected with Ehrlichia chaffeensis from a Northern Cardinal, the first North American songbird implicated in the Ehrlichia transmission cycle. Our research intertwines multiple bird and tick species in the North American pathogen system, highlighting the need for continued research focusing on birds as tick hosts and pathogen reservoirs in understudied parts of the United States. Full article

The global spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threatens to plummet society back to the pre-antibiotic era through a resurgence of common everyday infections’ morbidity. Thus, studies investigating antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in urban, agricultural, and clinical settings, as well as in extreme environments, have become increasingly relevant in the One Health perspective. Since the Antarctic and Arctic regions are considered amongst the few remaining pristine environments on Earth, the characterization of their native resistome appears to be of the utmost importance to understand whether and how it is evolving as a result of anthropogenic activities and climate change. In the present review, we report on the phenotypic (e.g., disk diffusion test) and genotypic (e.g., PCR, metagenomics) approaches used to study AMR in the aquatic environment of polar regions, as water represents one of AMR main dissemination routes in nature. Their advantages and limits are described, and the emerging trends resulting from the analysis of ARB and ARGs diffusion in polar waters discussed. The resistome detected in these extreme environments appears to be mostly comparable to those from more anthropized areas, with the predominance of tetracycline, β-lactam, and sulfonamide resistance (and related ARGs). Indeed, AMR is, in all cases, more consistently highlighted in sites impacted by human and wildlife activities with respect to more pristine ones. Surprisingly, aminoglycoside and fluroquinolone determinants seem to have an even higher incidence in the Antarctic and Arctic aquatic environment compared to that from other areas of the world, corroborating the need for a more thorough AMR surveillance in these regions. Full article

In sub-Saharan Africa, protected areas are located in close proximity to communities, leading to frequent negative encounters between humans and wildlife. This is coupled with increased pressure from communities seeking park resources to support their livelihoods. To address this, land use plans have been designed around protected areas. For example, in Kenya, wildlife conservancies have been created out of private and community lands. The aim of these conservancies is to contribute to improved livelihoods, reduce human–wildlife conflicts, and increase support for conservation. However, limited research exists on how the conservancies have achieved their aims among local communities. This study focuses on the Maasai Mara region in Kenya and examines how livelihoods and human–wildlife conflicts influence support for conservation among conservancy members. Data were gathered from 411 households adjacent to the reserve through a survey conducted in June and July 2024. The findings indicate a high incidence of human–wildlife conflict and improved security in health and education only. Despite this, there is high satisfaction with the conservancy model and strong support for conservation. Although these findings highlight the significance of conservancies in mitigating human–wildlife conflict, enhancing livelihoods, and garnering conservation support, more attention is needed for food and financial security. Full article

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a common arbovirus infection in Croatia. The aim of the study was to analyse 17 years of data on TBE seroprevalence and acute TBE cases in correlation with winter temperature, precipitation and wildlife abundance to identify possible patterns that may be predictive indicators of TBE incidence. Clinical diagnosis of TBE was confirmed by determining IgM and IgG anti-TBE antibodies. Of the 19,094 analysed patients, 4.2% had acute TBE, significantly more often in older age (p < 0.001) and male gender (p < 0.001). Overall seroprevalence of TBE among the tested population was 5.8% and varied annually from 2.8% to 10.7%. The mean acute TBE incidence rate was 1.1/100,000 population with significant regional differences: 1.7/100,000 in the continental vs. 0.2/100,000 and 0.5/100,000 in the Mediterranean and Alpine regions, respectively. A particularly high incidence of 3.1/100,000 was recorded in northern Croatia. TBE displayed a seasonal pattern, peaking in June and July. Moderate negative correlations were observed between TBE acute cases and winter temperatures from December to February (r = −0.461; p = 0.062), relative rodent abundance (r = −0.414; p = 0.098) and yearly precipitation from one year before (r = −0.401; p = 0.123). The analysis showed that more acute TBE cases are recorded after a warmer winter and a negative correlation between the abundance of forest Apodemus sp. and the number of TBE cases in the same year. Full article

An oil spill at sea represents a catastrophic environmental event resulting from the release of oil into marine ecosystems. These incidents pose substantial risks to marine biodiversity, wildlife habitats, and coastal populations, often engendering enduring and widespread repercussions. Cleaning up oil spills is costly due to logistical challenges. The accurate measurement of spill characteristics like the volume, thickness, and area of the spill is crucial before deploying cleanup crews to optimize resource allocation and reduce expenses. The main objective of this research is to use computer vision to detect oil spills and estimate its thickness, helping in decision-making processes to clean up the spill area. The system architecture proposed in this study integrates a drone equipped with a camera module to inspect sea areas and capture images. These images are processed using a deployed computer vision segmentation model to detect oil spills and estimate oil thickness. Predicted results help in decision making via a dedicated application by applying predefined criteria to determine the thickness of the spill, which further help in taking actions for the removal of oil spills. The computer vision model developed in this research could detect and estimate oil thickness with an mAP of 91%. The proposed system in this study uses instance segmentation to detect and segment oil spills in drone footage. This computer vision-based approach accurately identifies and outlines oil spill areas, aiding in the selection of efficient cleanup strategies. Real-time monitoring and assessment capabilities enable quick decision making and effective response measures. Full article