In Côte d’Ivoire, the recurring and unregulated use of bushfires, which cause ecological damage, presents a pressing concern for the custodians of protected areas. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of...In Côte d’Ivoire, the recurring and unregulated use of bushfires, which cause ecological damage, presents a pressing concern for the custodians of protected areas. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of the dynamics of burnt areas within the Abokouamékro Wildlife Reserve (AWR) by employing the analysis of spectral indices derived from satellite imagery. The research methodology began with the calculation of mean indices and their corresponding spectral sub-indices, including NDVI, SAVI, NDWI, NDMI, BAI, NBR, TCW, TCG, and TCB, utilizing data from the Sentinel-2A satellite image dated January 17, 2022. Subsequently, a fuzzy classification model was applied to these various indices and sub-indices, guided by the degree of membership α, with the goal of effectively distinguishing between burned and unburned areas. Following the classification, the accuracies of the classified indices and sub-indices were validated using the coordinates of 100 data points collected within the AWR through GPS technology. The results revealed that the overall accuracy of all indices and sub-indices declines as the degree of membership α decreases from 1 to 0. Among the mean spectral indices, NDVI-mean, SAVI-mean, NDMI-mean exhibited the highest overall accuracies, achieving 97%, 95%, and 90%, respectively. These results closely mirrored those obtained by sub-indices using band 8 (NDVI-B8, SAVI-B8, and NDMI-B8), which yield respective overall accuracies of 93%, 92%, and 89%. At a degree of membership α = 1, the estimated burned areas for the most effective indices encompassed 2144.38 hectares for NDVI-mean, 1932.14 hectares for mean SAVI-mean, and 4947.13 hectares for mean NDMI-mean. A prospective approach involving the amalgamation of these three indices could have the potential to yield improved outcomes. This study could be a substantial contribution to the discrimination of bushfires in Côte d’Ivoire.展开更多
The escalating conflict between human and wildlife due to competing demands for limited space and resources has raised concerns worldwide,and understanding the dynamics of this conflict is crucial for devising effecti...The escalating conflict between human and wildlife due to competing demands for limited space and resources has raised concerns worldwide,and understanding the dynamics of this conflict is crucial for devising effective strategies and policies.The present study is an attempt to carry out a bibliometric analysis of the published literature on the topic of human-wildlife conflict(HWC)for the period of January 1991–February 2023.For carrying out the analysis of the data obtained from Web of Science,the‘Bibliometrix'tool,developed through the R programming language,was used.The findings of the study revealed that a total of 1592 documents have been published on the HWC research topic from January 1991 to February 2023 within 338 sources.It is observed that the number of publications has continuously increased since 1991,with an annual growth rate of 5.16%.A total of 4995 authors have contributed to the targeted research field.Of the 388 sources,the journal‘Biological Conservation'is the most relevant and productive,followed by‘Oryx'and‘Human Dimensions of Wildlife'.Based on the country production analysis,authors from 110 countries have contributed to the field,and the USA has the highest frequency of publications on HWC,followed by the UK and Australia.The USA also has the highest multiple country publications and has collaborated with 88 countries,with the highest frequency of collaboration with the UK,followed by India,Australia,and South Africa.The most frequently used keywords include‘human-wildlife conflict',‘conservation',‘conflict',‘human-wildlife',‘wildlife',‘wildlife management',‘livestock',‘management',‘coexistence',and‘carnivore'.The present study identifies the most prolific authors,sources,institutions,and countries,as well as the study hotspots in the subject of HWC,which may assist researchers in finding the best working and publication platforms.Further,it may also help them identify reliable research partners to acquire the best findings and develop more effective strategies and policies to address the issue.展开更多
Objective To improve the understanding of the virome and bacterial microbiome in the wildlife rescue station of Poyang Lake,China.Methods Ten smear samples were collected in March 2019.Metagenomic sequencing was perfo...Objective To improve the understanding of the virome and bacterial microbiome in the wildlife rescue station of Poyang Lake,China.Methods Ten smear samples were collected in March 2019.Metagenomic sequencing was performed to delineate bacterial and viral diversity.Taxonomic analysis was performed using the Kraken2 and Bracken methods.A maximum-likelihood tree was constructed based on the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase(RdRp)region of picornavirus.Results We identified 363 bacterial and 6 viral families.A significant difference in microbial and viral abundance was found between samples S01–S09 and S10.In S01–S09,members of Flavobacteriia and Gammaproteobacteria were the most prevalent,while in S10,the most prevalent bacteria class was Actinomycetia.Among S01–S09,members of Myoviridae and Herelleviridae were the most prevalent,while the dominant virus family of S10 was Picornaviridae.The full genome of the pigeon mesivirus-like virus(NC-BM-233)was recovered from S10 and contained an open reading frame of 8,124 nt.It showed the best hit to the pigeon mesivirus 2 polyprotein,with 84.10%amino acid identity.Phylogenetic analysis showed that RdRp clustered into Megrivirus B.Conclusion This study provides an initial assessment of the bacteria and viruses in the cage-smeared samples,broadens our knowledge of viral and bacterial diversity,and is a way to discover potential pathogens in wild birds .展开更多
The purpose of this study is to improve environmental sustainability by identifying the most sustainable/least fragile of the three major wildlife conservation access models—open, government, and private—under varyi...The purpose of this study is to improve environmental sustainability by identifying the most sustainable/least fragile of the three major wildlife conservation access models—open, government, and private—under varying environmental and socioeconomic conditions. The private access model is the most sustainable of the three major conservation models because it provides the best information and incentives to balance the needs of humans and wildlife, maintain general wildlife habitat, and adapt quickly to changing environmental and/or socioeconomic conditions. Government-controlled access, however, can be employed as a model of last resort if the private access model shows signs of failing to protect specific species from local extirpation or extinction, which it is most likely to do for migratory species, species with close commercial substitutes, and species with no direct commercial value. Government regulators may also be needed to enforce property rights arrangements like catch shares and to monitor resources that remain open access in case socioeconomic or environmental conditions change sufficiently to trigger the tragedy of the commons. Most treatments of wildlife regulation default to various iterations of the government access model and fail even to consider the costs and benefits of private and open access models. The analysis here instead shows the conditions in which each conservation access model is most appropriate: open when a resource is in high supply and low demand, private most of the time, and government when the others fail to slow resource depopulation/depletion.展开更多
Globally, mountains encompass spectacular landscapes and a great diversity of species. However, Savannah’s mountains in Sudan have been affected by the loss of diversity due to human activities and climate changes. T...Globally, mountains encompass spectacular landscapes and a great diversity of species. However, Savannah’s mountains in Sudan have been affected by the loss of diversity due to human activities and climate changes. Therefore, this study aims to assess changes in wildlife diversity in Jebel-Eldair Nation Park (JENP) based on only reports from patrolling activities, especially in the absence of regular wildlife monitoring programs. Reports of monthly wildlife observations during patrolling trips were used for the summer season in 2010 and 2018. Findings showed a moderate to high decline in the most important wildlife species (i.e. lion, wild dog, and crest porcupine). Six others are documented as rare species in reserve, including the civet, spotted hyena, striped hyena, jackal, seraval, and Siberian bird. Contrary and despite the diversity reduction, some species witnessed increases in their observation frequency, such as lesser kudu, caracal, monitor, and lunar bird. Moreover, human settlements, agricultural activities, and other anthropogenic factors were found to be the main drivers of biodiversity reduction in JENP. The study recommends adopting this method to detect changes in wildlife communities, especially in a situation of deficiency and lack of funding to conduct regular monitoring programs.展开更多
Law enforcement remains to be the main strategy used to combat poaching and account for high budget share in protected area management. Studies on efficiency of wildlife law enforcement in the protected areas are limi...Law enforcement remains to be the main strategy used to combat poaching and account for high budget share in protected area management. Studies on efficiency of wildlife law enforcement in the protected areas are limited. This study analyzed economic efficiency of wildlife law enforcement in terms of resource used and output generated using three different protected areas (PAs) of Serengeti ecosystem namely Serengeti National Park (SENAPA), Ikorongo/Grumeti Game Reserves (IGGR) and Ikona Wildlife Management Area (IWMA). Three years (2010-2012) monthly data on wildlife law enforcement inputs and outputs were collected from respective PAs authorities and supplemented with key informant interviews and secondary data. Questionnaire surveys were conducted to wildlife law enforcement staff. Shadow prices for non-marketed inputs were estimated, and market prices for marketed inputs. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was used to estimate economic efficiency using Variable Return to Scale (VRS) and Constant Return to Scale (CCR) assumptions. Results revealed that wildlife law enforcement in all PAs was economically inefficient, with less inefficiency observed in IWMA. The less inefficiency in IWMA is likely attributed to existing sense of ownership and responsibility created through community-based conservation which resulted in to decrease in law enforcement costs. A slacks evaluation revealed a potential to reduce fuel consumption, number of patrol vehicles, ration and prosecution efforts at different magnitudes between studied protected areas. There is equal potential to recruit more rangers while maintaining the resting time. These finding forms the bases for monitoring and evaluation with respect to resource usage to enhance efficiency. It is further recommended to enhance community participation in conservation in SENAPA and IGGR to lower law enforcement costs. Collaboration between protected area, police and judiciary is fundamental to enhance enforcement efficiency. Despite old dataset, these findings are relevant since neither conservation policy nor institution framework has changed substantially in the last decade.展开更多
Ecotourism is one of the major drivers of economic growth and rural development in many countries involved in wildlife resource management.The objective was to assess the contribution of ecotourism to economic growth ...Ecotourism is one of the major drivers of economic growth and rural development in many countries involved in wildlife resource management.The objective was to assess the contribution of ecotourism to economic growth and rural development offered to people living in communities around Matusadonha National Park.A total of 140 participants were interviewed and questionnaires were administered to the same number of people.Data were analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods.Results show that the majority of participants(57%)were females.Safari operations were the major(54.7%)ecotourism activity in Matusadonha National Park.Above half(58.8%)of participants indicated that ecotourism contributed toward economic growth in communities around Matusadonha National Park.Most people(343)were employed on a part-time basis from 2000 to 2022.Participants indicated that the standard of living in most communities increased by more than 50%.Above 50%of participants were satisfied with the contribution of ecotourism towards rural development.It can be concluded that ecotourism has the potential to improve economic growth and rural development if close monitoring and accountability of funds are monitored closely.Local people should be included in the accountability of funds and management of wildlife resources to improve economic benefits to local people.展开更多
The COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus at an animal market in Wuhan, China. Many wildlife species have been suggested as possible intermediate sources for the transmi...The COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus at an animal market in Wuhan, China. Many wildlife species have been suggested as possible intermediate sources for the transmission <span style="font-family:Verdana;">of COVID-19 virus from bats to humans. The quick transmission of</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> COVID-19 outbreak has imposed quarantine measures across the world, and as a result, most of the world’s towns and cities fell silent under lockdowns. The current study comes to investigate the ways by which the COVID-19 outbreak affects wildlife globally. Hundreds of internet sites and scientific reports have been reviewed to satisfy the needs of the study. Stories of seeing wild animals roaming the quiet, deserted streets and cities during the COVID-19 outbreak have been posted in the media and social media. The strong link between wildlife markets and COVID-19 resulted in international calls asking countries to shut down wildlife markets forever. Poorer and vulnerable people around the world overexploit natural resources including wildlife. Roadkills became minimal because of the lockdown measures. The reduction in noise pollution level is expected to improve wildlife health and ecology including breeding success. The shortage of food items provided to zoo and park animals constituted a real threat to animals and the institution harboring them. The increase in fish biomass comes as a result of the sharp decline in fishing activities. The isolation of antibodies from certain wildlife species is promising in saving humankind against COVID-19. The infection of wild and pet animals with COVID-19 virus from humans and the interspecific transmission of the infection are disastrous to animal ecology. Finally, closures may enhance people to connect more and more with nature in order to acknowledge wildlife in their surrounding environments. In conclusion, the study asks the world’s different parties to conserve wildlife in a sustainable fashion and to regulate exotic animal trade in wet markets in order to lower the incidence of zoonoses.</span>展开更多
Brazil has become one of the top producers and exporters of food, fibre, and bionergy in the world.The expansion of livestock and soybean production in the Amazon basin appears to be independent of the sugarcane expan...Brazil has become one of the top producers and exporters of food, fibre, and bionergy in the world.The expansion of livestock and soybean production in the Amazon basin appears to be independent of the sugarcane expansion in southeastern Brazil whereas the impact of sugarcane expansion over areas of soybean plantation in previous Cerrado biome is still unknown. However, the expansion of sugarcane production in the state of S?o Paulohas been shown to cause an increase in the local abundance of rodents and result in the emergence of infectious diseases such as hantaviruses and leptospirosis in humans. In addition, with an increase in the use of agrochemicals there will be an increase in euthrophication of watercourses and soil pollution. Considering that S?o Paulo has a population of approximately 40 million people, these local impacts are relevant. Environmental law should be improved and enforced in Brazil to ensure that sugarcane production is not only economically profitable but also environmentally responsible.展开更多
Wildlife conservation must be integrated with energy and resource efficient agriculture for the human population to survive. Modern high input energy and resource inefficient agriculture does not address these problem...Wildlife conservation must be integrated with energy and resource efficient agriculture for the human population to survive. Modern high input energy and resource inefficient agriculture does not address these problems. An efficient food producing system which marries wildlife conservation with resource and energy efficient human food production is needed. This is Ecological Agriculture, modelled on how natural ecosystems work. It is defined as: The establishment and maintenance of a diversified, self-sustaining low input farming system managed to maximize net production without causing large or long term changes to the environment. It must be economically viable, and ethically and aesthetically acceptable [1]. Forty years of research on 4 experimental farms have assessed the practicality of this approach (results previously published). The 5th experimental farm in the mountains of the Pre Alps has completed its 10 years. The results are discussed in relation to the tenets of Ecological Agriculture. The techniques previously developed have allowed the results to fulfil the majority of the demands of efficient ecological agriculture and to produce food for 20 families from the farm’s resources despite the difficult climate, topography and soils. It is shown how energy and resource inefficient the omnivorous animals (poultry and pigs) are, compared to herbivores. The species diversity has increased and the whole farm is a nature reserve. Aesthetic and ethical problems have been addressed with an emphasis on a life of quality for farm animals.展开更多
The islands and associated back channels on the Ohio River, USA, are believed to provide critical habitat features for several wildlife species. However, few studies have quantitatively evaluated habitat quality in th...The islands and associated back channels on the Ohio River, USA, are believed to provide critical habitat features for several wildlife species. However, few studies have quantitatively evaluated habitat quality in these areas. Our main objective was to evaluate the habitat quality of back and main channel areas for several species using habitat suitability index (HSI) models. To test the effectiveness of these models, we attempted to relate HSI scores and the variables measured for each model with measures of relative abundance for the model species. The mean belted kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon) HSI was greater on the main than back channel. However, the model failed to predict kingfisher abundance. The mean reproduction component of the great blue heron (Ardea herodias) HSI, total common muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) HSI, winter cover component of the snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) HSI, and brood-rearing component of the wood duck (Aix sponsa) HSI were all greater on the back than main channel, and were positively related with the relative abundance of each species. We found that island back channels provide characteristics not found elsewhere on the Ohio River and warrant conservation as important riparian wildlife habitat. The effectiveness of using HSI models to predict species abundance on the river was mixed. Modifications to several of the models are needed to improve their use on the Ohio River and, likely, other large rivers.展开更多
Besides its ecological services to China and even Asia,the Qingzang Plateau(QP)hosts a rich variety of wildlife species.During the last century,wildlife population decreased quickly on the QP,driven by human intervent...Besides its ecological services to China and even Asia,the Qingzang Plateau(QP)hosts a rich variety of wildlife species.During the last century,wildlife population decreased quickly on the QP,driven by human interventions.Recently,wildlife has witnessed rapid recovery mainly propelled by a series of wildlife conservation policies.However,some cautions merit attentions to sustain wildlife restoration and conservation on the QP.This paper casted an overview of environmental and social-economic changes on the QP affecting wildlife subsistence.Re-sults show that QP has been warming,which can benefit wildlife recovery by easing extreme low temperature stresses.The fast growing social economy across the QP lays a solid economic foundation for investing on wildlife protection.Measures such as establishing conservation areas,constructing wildlife pathway corridors,and en-couraging herdsman moving out from wildlife rich regions,have boosted wildlife recovery.However,wildlife recovery is constrained by the limited carrying capacity of the ecosystem,left by domestic livestock.Additionally,fences intended to delineate conservation areas or to separate each type of grassland use,have brought about profound side effects on wildlife through fragmentation of their habitats.It is recommended to set up the fence in a more ecological way,which can be achieved by bypassing the wildlife frequent pathway and using mate-rials devoid of steel barb.Only considering both opportunities and problems simultaneously,can the wildlife protection on the QP be sustained.展开更多
The authors discussed the administrative system of export quota and its method of calculation in the international wildlife trade. Three methods for determining wildlife export quota in China was put forvvard, based o...The authors discussed the administrative system of export quota and its method of calculation in the international wildlife trade. Three methods for determining wildlife export quota in China was put forvvard, based on the trend and status, domestic use, and historical export of wildlife resources. They include the single factor method, the double factor method, and the multiple faCtor method. In addition, the approaches and measures to establish and carry out the administrative system of wildlife export quota in China were discussed in this paper.展开更多
Forest management practices, particularly timber harvesting activities, affect the habitats of a large numberof wildlde species found in southwestem ponderosa pine forests of the United States. Timber harvesting activ...Forest management practices, particularly timber harvesting activities, affect the habitats of a large numberof wildlde species found in southwestem ponderosa pine forests of the United States. Timber harvesting activities and othervegetative treatments offen change the relative abundances of food and cover. Wildlife habitats for some wildlife Species arebenefited, while the habitats for other wildlife species are detrimentally impacted. The guidelines presented in this papershould be helpful to foresters, wildlffe managers, and other interested in maintaining or increasing wildlife habitat qualitiesin the foreSt ecosystems inveStigated. While the wildlde species considered are indigenous to the southwestem ponderosapine fotests, many of the wildlde management principles implied in the guidelines are likely to have applications in otherecosystems throughout the world.展开更多
We analyzed the generation and dissemination of relevant information on wildlife utilization based on the African bush elephant(Loxodonta africana Blumenbach.),the tiger(Panthera tigris L.)and the totoaba,a species of...We analyzed the generation and dissemination of relevant information on wildlife utilization based on the African bush elephant(Loxodonta africana Blumenbach.),the tiger(Panthera tigris L.)and the totoaba,a species of marine fish,(Totoaba macdonaldi Gilbert)as examples,whose populations are more threatened by the illegal wildlife trade.We compared the illegal trade in wildlife with related information in order to find possible associations,searched for relevant information on major international websites to summarize similarities in information production and dissemination,and used a"Zhiwei"dissemination analysis platform to analyze the dissemination of information circulated at Microblog.The results show that the most infuential information related to the trade in wildlife is mainly generated from news media websites and new selfmedia platforms,usually from non-governmental organizations concerned with wildlife protection.The main factors that affect the depth and breadth of disseminating relevant information on wildlife utilization include the participation of relatively infuential opinion leaders,the verification ratio of forwarding users,the number of followers,and affective identification.Misleading information can stimulate and promote poaching and smuggling,regardless of their real market demand or their products.Therefore,all links in the course of information dissemination should be carefully examined in order to purify the information environment and reduce adverse effects of misleading information on wildlife protection.展开更多
Nowadays, management and regulation of natural resources like agriculture, fisheries, forestry and wildlife is one of the popular topics in research. The evolution of humankind is largely dependent on the quality of t...Nowadays, management and regulation of natural resources like agriculture, fisheries, forestry and wildlife is one of the popular topics in research. The evolution of humankind is largely dependent on the quality of the environment and the resources it provides;but numerous human-induced factors, and climate change may drastically alter the conditions of human sustainability. This paper deals with effect of numerous human-induced activities on the depletion of forestry resources and wildlife population with habitat complexity. A nonlinear mathematical model is proposed and analyzed. In modeling process, we assume that the growth rate of wildlife population wholly depends on forestry biomass. It is depleted by human-induced activities. Local stability analysis of the mathematical model along with the persistence of the system is checked by using theory of nonlinear ordinary differential equations and Butler-McGhee lemma. Analytical results obtained are justified numerically through numerical simulation. Important parameters are investigated and variation of variables with change in these parameters is determined.展开更多
To avoid wildlife-human conflict several solutions are used, like electrical fences, the most expensive solution. Nowadays, technology enables alternative and cheaper approaches for conservation projects. A technologi...To avoid wildlife-human conflict several solutions are used, like electrical fences, the most expensive solution. Nowadays, technology enables alternative and cheaper approaches for conservation projects. A technological device was developed to detect elephants, moving on their habitat, and predict and react by avoiding confrontation with man. The devices were tested in field experiments, and proved to be efficient in capturing floor vibration, and air-sound signals. Collected data also enabled the estimation of the vibration-source by calculus (using triangulation), revealing the importance of the methodology for real-time location and tracking of high mass animals (e.g. elephants). Building up a mesh of devices, separated 25 m from each other, is estimated as possible to monitor and identify different animals (by discriminating patterns) in an area, like a virtual fencing system. Though the devices may be effective for animal behaviour research, or even animal communication analysis, or other Biology field, other applications outside Biology are possible for them, like monitoring of: rock-falling, micro seismic railway, infrastructures, and people movements.展开更多
There is concern regarding the loss of ecosystem goods and services as a result of land use changes such as the expansion and intensification of agricultural activities. Assessments of these interactions require innov...There is concern regarding the loss of ecosystem goods and services as a result of land use changes such as the expansion and intensification of agricultural activities. Assessments of these interactions require innovative analyses that combine qualitative and quantitative economic analyses. The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment framework was applied to a peri-urban region in British Columbia, Canada to assess the effects of the integration of agricultural programs and the maintenance of waterfowl habitat located on the Pacific Flyway. The Delta Farmland & Wildlife Trust, a non-governmental organization, has implemented several activities to enhance ecosystem goods and services by cooperative programs among the agricultural community and wildlife interests. The successful collaborative framework has resulted in enhanced soil quality, increased biodiversity, and the maintenance of valuable agriculture and waterfowl habitat.展开更多
The paper deals with the taxonomy and diversity within the genus Ficus occurring in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary based on extensive field and herbarium studies. The genus comprises 11 species in the study area cont...The paper deals with the taxonomy and diversity within the genus Ficus occurring in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary based on extensive field and herbarium studies. The genus comprises 11 species in the study area contrary to the earlier report of 8 species. Out of which, one species each belongs to herbs (F. assamica) and straggling shrubs (F. hetero- phylla) and the remaining species to shrub to big free standing trees (F. benghalensis, F. hispida, F. palmata subsp. virgata, F. racemosa, F. religiosa, F. retusa var. nitida, F. rumphii, F. semicordata and F. squamosa). F. microcarpa and F. carica have been excluded as they do not occur in the sanctuary but reported in the previous work due to mis- identification. F. repens has been segregated from F. heterophylla and reinstated as a distinct species with a correct name F. assamica. F. retusa var. nitida forms a new record for the sanctuary. In overall gross morphology, F. hispida, F. palmata subsp. virgata, F. assamica and F. heterophylla exhibit maximum diversity especially in their leaves, pe- duncles and figs. Among all species F. hispida has been found more common especially in low land and moist areas in mixed forest whereas F. retusa var. nitida has been seen with only two plants. All species have been critically examined and provided with correct nomenclature, vernacular name, description, phenology, ecology, uses and reference to voucher specimens. A dichotomous bracketed key to the species along with line drawings has also been included for identification.展开更多
This study assessed the contribution of former poachers to wildlife conservation in Volcanoes National Park, the main causes of poaching activities in Volcanoes National Park. The results indicated that the main cause...This study assessed the contribution of former poachers to wildlife conservation in Volcanoes National Park, the main causes of poaching activities in Volcanoes National Park. The results indicated that the main causes of poaching and other illegal activities are associated with poverty, ignorance and culture and commercial purposes. The results further illustrated that poaching cases decreased in the Volcanoes National Park where, from 2018, the snares removed from the park reduced from above 1000 to 600 snares. In the same year, only 3 poachers from Kinigi and Shingiro Sectors were arrested. The findings illustrated that introducing of revenue sharing scheme where, 10% of the park’s revenues are shared to the local communities living adjacent to the park, and constructing a buffalo wall stone around the Volcanoes National Park are of the important measures which contributed to solve completely the problems of poaching and human-wildlife conflicts in the volcanic area. However, some respondents reported that the construction of buffalo wall did not prevent animal from escaping the park, they have proposed the construction of strong fence such as electrically fenced wall.展开更多
文摘In Côte d’Ivoire, the recurring and unregulated use of bushfires, which cause ecological damage, presents a pressing concern for the custodians of protected areas. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of the dynamics of burnt areas within the Abokouamékro Wildlife Reserve (AWR) by employing the analysis of spectral indices derived from satellite imagery. The research methodology began with the calculation of mean indices and their corresponding spectral sub-indices, including NDVI, SAVI, NDWI, NDMI, BAI, NBR, TCW, TCG, and TCB, utilizing data from the Sentinel-2A satellite image dated January 17, 2022. Subsequently, a fuzzy classification model was applied to these various indices and sub-indices, guided by the degree of membership α, with the goal of effectively distinguishing between burned and unburned areas. Following the classification, the accuracies of the classified indices and sub-indices were validated using the coordinates of 100 data points collected within the AWR through GPS technology. The results revealed that the overall accuracy of all indices and sub-indices declines as the degree of membership α decreases from 1 to 0. Among the mean spectral indices, NDVI-mean, SAVI-mean, NDMI-mean exhibited the highest overall accuracies, achieving 97%, 95%, and 90%, respectively. These results closely mirrored those obtained by sub-indices using band 8 (NDVI-B8, SAVI-B8, and NDMI-B8), which yield respective overall accuracies of 93%, 92%, and 89%. At a degree of membership α = 1, the estimated burned areas for the most effective indices encompassed 2144.38 hectares for NDVI-mean, 1932.14 hectares for mean SAVI-mean, and 4947.13 hectares for mean NDMI-mean. A prospective approach involving the amalgamation of these three indices could have the potential to yield improved outcomes. This study could be a substantial contribution to the discrimination of bushfires in Côte d’Ivoire.
文摘The escalating conflict between human and wildlife due to competing demands for limited space and resources has raised concerns worldwide,and understanding the dynamics of this conflict is crucial for devising effective strategies and policies.The present study is an attempt to carry out a bibliometric analysis of the published literature on the topic of human-wildlife conflict(HWC)for the period of January 1991–February 2023.For carrying out the analysis of the data obtained from Web of Science,the‘Bibliometrix'tool,developed through the R programming language,was used.The findings of the study revealed that a total of 1592 documents have been published on the HWC research topic from January 1991 to February 2023 within 338 sources.It is observed that the number of publications has continuously increased since 1991,with an annual growth rate of 5.16%.A total of 4995 authors have contributed to the targeted research field.Of the 388 sources,the journal‘Biological Conservation'is the most relevant and productive,followed by‘Oryx'and‘Human Dimensions of Wildlife'.Based on the country production analysis,authors from 110 countries have contributed to the field,and the USA has the highest frequency of publications on HWC,followed by the UK and Australia.The USA also has the highest multiple country publications and has collaborated with 88 countries,with the highest frequency of collaboration with the UK,followed by India,Australia,and South Africa.The most frequently used keywords include‘human-wildlife conflict',‘conservation',‘conflict',‘human-wildlife',‘wildlife',‘wildlife management',‘livestock',‘management',‘coexistence',and‘carnivore'.The present study identifies the most prolific authors,sources,institutions,and countries,as well as the study hotspots in the subject of HWC,which may assist researchers in finding the best working and publication platforms.Further,it may also help them identify reliable research partners to acquire the best findings and develop more effective strategies and policies to address the issue.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China[81961128002].
文摘Objective To improve the understanding of the virome and bacterial microbiome in the wildlife rescue station of Poyang Lake,China.Methods Ten smear samples were collected in March 2019.Metagenomic sequencing was performed to delineate bacterial and viral diversity.Taxonomic analysis was performed using the Kraken2 and Bracken methods.A maximum-likelihood tree was constructed based on the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase(RdRp)region of picornavirus.Results We identified 363 bacterial and 6 viral families.A significant difference in microbial and viral abundance was found between samples S01–S09 and S10.In S01–S09,members of Flavobacteriia and Gammaproteobacteria were the most prevalent,while in S10,the most prevalent bacteria class was Actinomycetia.Among S01–S09,members of Myoviridae and Herelleviridae were the most prevalent,while the dominant virus family of S10 was Picornaviridae.The full genome of the pigeon mesivirus-like virus(NC-BM-233)was recovered from S10 and contained an open reading frame of 8,124 nt.It showed the best hit to the pigeon mesivirus 2 polyprotein,with 84.10%amino acid identity.Phylogenetic analysis showed that RdRp clustered into Megrivirus B.Conclusion This study provides an initial assessment of the bacteria and viruses in the cage-smeared samples,broadens our knowledge of viral and bacterial diversity,and is a way to discover potential pathogens in wild birds .
文摘The purpose of this study is to improve environmental sustainability by identifying the most sustainable/least fragile of the three major wildlife conservation access models—open, government, and private—under varying environmental and socioeconomic conditions. The private access model is the most sustainable of the three major conservation models because it provides the best information and incentives to balance the needs of humans and wildlife, maintain general wildlife habitat, and adapt quickly to changing environmental and/or socioeconomic conditions. Government-controlled access, however, can be employed as a model of last resort if the private access model shows signs of failing to protect specific species from local extirpation or extinction, which it is most likely to do for migratory species, species with close commercial substitutes, and species with no direct commercial value. Government regulators may also be needed to enforce property rights arrangements like catch shares and to monitor resources that remain open access in case socioeconomic or environmental conditions change sufficiently to trigger the tragedy of the commons. Most treatments of wildlife regulation default to various iterations of the government access model and fail even to consider the costs and benefits of private and open access models. The analysis here instead shows the conditions in which each conservation access model is most appropriate: open when a resource is in high supply and low demand, private most of the time, and government when the others fail to slow resource depopulation/depletion.
文摘Globally, mountains encompass spectacular landscapes and a great diversity of species. However, Savannah’s mountains in Sudan have been affected by the loss of diversity due to human activities and climate changes. Therefore, this study aims to assess changes in wildlife diversity in Jebel-Eldair Nation Park (JENP) based on only reports from patrolling activities, especially in the absence of regular wildlife monitoring programs. Reports of monthly wildlife observations during patrolling trips were used for the summer season in 2010 and 2018. Findings showed a moderate to high decline in the most important wildlife species (i.e. lion, wild dog, and crest porcupine). Six others are documented as rare species in reserve, including the civet, spotted hyena, striped hyena, jackal, seraval, and Siberian bird. Contrary and despite the diversity reduction, some species witnessed increases in their observation frequency, such as lesser kudu, caracal, monitor, and lunar bird. Moreover, human settlements, agricultural activities, and other anthropogenic factors were found to be the main drivers of biodiversity reduction in JENP. The study recommends adopting this method to detect changes in wildlife communities, especially in a situation of deficiency and lack of funding to conduct regular monitoring programs.
文摘Law enforcement remains to be the main strategy used to combat poaching and account for high budget share in protected area management. Studies on efficiency of wildlife law enforcement in the protected areas are limited. This study analyzed economic efficiency of wildlife law enforcement in terms of resource used and output generated using three different protected areas (PAs) of Serengeti ecosystem namely Serengeti National Park (SENAPA), Ikorongo/Grumeti Game Reserves (IGGR) and Ikona Wildlife Management Area (IWMA). Three years (2010-2012) monthly data on wildlife law enforcement inputs and outputs were collected from respective PAs authorities and supplemented with key informant interviews and secondary data. Questionnaire surveys were conducted to wildlife law enforcement staff. Shadow prices for non-marketed inputs were estimated, and market prices for marketed inputs. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was used to estimate economic efficiency using Variable Return to Scale (VRS) and Constant Return to Scale (CCR) assumptions. Results revealed that wildlife law enforcement in all PAs was economically inefficient, with less inefficiency observed in IWMA. The less inefficiency in IWMA is likely attributed to existing sense of ownership and responsibility created through community-based conservation which resulted in to decrease in law enforcement costs. A slacks evaluation revealed a potential to reduce fuel consumption, number of patrol vehicles, ration and prosecution efforts at different magnitudes between studied protected areas. There is equal potential to recruit more rangers while maintaining the resting time. These finding forms the bases for monitoring and evaluation with respect to resource usage to enhance efficiency. It is further recommended to enhance community participation in conservation in SENAPA and IGGR to lower law enforcement costs. Collaboration between protected area, police and judiciary is fundamental to enhance enforcement efficiency. Despite old dataset, these findings are relevant since neither conservation policy nor institution framework has changed substantially in the last decade.
文摘Ecotourism is one of the major drivers of economic growth and rural development in many countries involved in wildlife resource management.The objective was to assess the contribution of ecotourism to economic growth and rural development offered to people living in communities around Matusadonha National Park.A total of 140 participants were interviewed and questionnaires were administered to the same number of people.Data were analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods.Results show that the majority of participants(57%)were females.Safari operations were the major(54.7%)ecotourism activity in Matusadonha National Park.Above half(58.8%)of participants indicated that ecotourism contributed toward economic growth in communities around Matusadonha National Park.Most people(343)were employed on a part-time basis from 2000 to 2022.Participants indicated that the standard of living in most communities increased by more than 50%.Above 50%of participants were satisfied with the contribution of ecotourism towards rural development.It can be concluded that ecotourism has the potential to improve economic growth and rural development if close monitoring and accountability of funds are monitored closely.Local people should be included in the accountability of funds and management of wildlife resources to improve economic benefits to local people.
文摘The COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus at an animal market in Wuhan, China. Many wildlife species have been suggested as possible intermediate sources for the transmission <span style="font-family:Verdana;">of COVID-19 virus from bats to humans. The quick transmission of</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> COVID-19 outbreak has imposed quarantine measures across the world, and as a result, most of the world’s towns and cities fell silent under lockdowns. The current study comes to investigate the ways by which the COVID-19 outbreak affects wildlife globally. Hundreds of internet sites and scientific reports have been reviewed to satisfy the needs of the study. Stories of seeing wild animals roaming the quiet, deserted streets and cities during the COVID-19 outbreak have been posted in the media and social media. The strong link between wildlife markets and COVID-19 resulted in international calls asking countries to shut down wildlife markets forever. Poorer and vulnerable people around the world overexploit natural resources including wildlife. Roadkills became minimal because of the lockdown measures. The reduction in noise pollution level is expected to improve wildlife health and ecology including breeding success. The shortage of food items provided to zoo and park animals constituted a real threat to animals and the institution harboring them. The increase in fish biomass comes as a result of the sharp decline in fishing activities. The isolation of antibodies from certain wildlife species is promising in saving humankind against COVID-19. The infection of wild and pet animals with COVID-19 virus from humans and the interspecific transmission of the infection are disastrous to animal ecology. Finally, closures may enhance people to connect more and more with nature in order to acknowledge wildlife in their surrounding environments. In conclusion, the study asks the world’s different parties to conserve wildlife in a sustainable fashion and to regulate exotic animal trade in wet markets in order to lower the incidence of zoonoses.</span>
基金financed by FAPESP-Biota Program(Proc.No.2006/60954-4)CNPq(Proc.No.557872/2008-1).
文摘Brazil has become one of the top producers and exporters of food, fibre, and bionergy in the world.The expansion of livestock and soybean production in the Amazon basin appears to be independent of the sugarcane expansion in southeastern Brazil whereas the impact of sugarcane expansion over areas of soybean plantation in previous Cerrado biome is still unknown. However, the expansion of sugarcane production in the state of S?o Paulohas been shown to cause an increase in the local abundance of rodents and result in the emergence of infectious diseases such as hantaviruses and leptospirosis in humans. In addition, with an increase in the use of agrochemicals there will be an increase in euthrophication of watercourses and soil pollution. Considering that S?o Paulo has a population of approximately 40 million people, these local impacts are relevant. Environmental law should be improved and enforced in Brazil to ensure that sugarcane production is not only economically profitable but also environmentally responsible.
文摘Wildlife conservation must be integrated with energy and resource efficient agriculture for the human population to survive. Modern high input energy and resource inefficient agriculture does not address these problems. An efficient food producing system which marries wildlife conservation with resource and energy efficient human food production is needed. This is Ecological Agriculture, modelled on how natural ecosystems work. It is defined as: The establishment and maintenance of a diversified, self-sustaining low input farming system managed to maximize net production without causing large or long term changes to the environment. It must be economically viable, and ethically and aesthetically acceptable [1]. Forty years of research on 4 experimental farms have assessed the practicality of this approach (results previously published). The 5th experimental farm in the mountains of the Pre Alps has completed its 10 years. The results are discussed in relation to the tenets of Ecological Agriculture. The techniques previously developed have allowed the results to fulfil the majority of the demands of efficient ecological agriculture and to produce food for 20 families from the farm’s resources despite the difficult climate, topography and soils. It is shown how energy and resource inefficient the omnivorous animals (poultry and pigs) are, compared to herbivores. The species diversity has increased and the whole farm is a nature reserve. Aesthetic and ethical problems have been addressed with an emphasis on a life of quality for farm animals.
文摘The islands and associated back channels on the Ohio River, USA, are believed to provide critical habitat features for several wildlife species. However, few studies have quantitatively evaluated habitat quality in these areas. Our main objective was to evaluate the habitat quality of back and main channel areas for several species using habitat suitability index (HSI) models. To test the effectiveness of these models, we attempted to relate HSI scores and the variables measured for each model with measures of relative abundance for the model species. The mean belted kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon) HSI was greater on the main than back channel. However, the model failed to predict kingfisher abundance. The mean reproduction component of the great blue heron (Ardea herodias) HSI, total common muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) HSI, winter cover component of the snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) HSI, and brood-rearing component of the wood duck (Aix sponsa) HSI were all greater on the back than main channel, and were positively related with the relative abundance of each species. We found that island back channels provide characteristics not found elsewhere on the Ohio River and warrant conservation as important riparian wildlife habitat. The effectiveness of using HSI models to predict species abundance on the river was mixed. Modifications to several of the models are needed to improve their use on the Ohio River and, likely, other large rivers.
基金supported by the National Key Research&Development Program(Grant No.2019YFA0607302)CNSF(Grant No.41725003).
文摘Besides its ecological services to China and even Asia,the Qingzang Plateau(QP)hosts a rich variety of wildlife species.During the last century,wildlife population decreased quickly on the QP,driven by human interventions.Recently,wildlife has witnessed rapid recovery mainly propelled by a series of wildlife conservation policies.However,some cautions merit attentions to sustain wildlife restoration and conservation on the QP.This paper casted an overview of environmental and social-economic changes on the QP affecting wildlife subsistence.Re-sults show that QP has been warming,which can benefit wildlife recovery by easing extreme low temperature stresses.The fast growing social economy across the QP lays a solid economic foundation for investing on wildlife protection.Measures such as establishing conservation areas,constructing wildlife pathway corridors,and en-couraging herdsman moving out from wildlife rich regions,have boosted wildlife recovery.However,wildlife recovery is constrained by the limited carrying capacity of the ecosystem,left by domestic livestock.Additionally,fences intended to delineate conservation areas or to separate each type of grassland use,have brought about profound side effects on wildlife through fragmentation of their habitats.It is recommended to set up the fence in a more ecological way,which can be achieved by bypassing the wildlife frequent pathway and using mate-rials devoid of steel barb.Only considering both opportunities and problems simultaneously,can the wildlife protection on the QP be sustained.
文摘The authors discussed the administrative system of export quota and its method of calculation in the international wildlife trade. Three methods for determining wildlife export quota in China was put forvvard, based on the trend and status, domestic use, and historical export of wildlife resources. They include the single factor method, the double factor method, and the multiple faCtor method. In addition, the approaches and measures to establish and carry out the administrative system of wildlife export quota in China were discussed in this paper.
文摘Forest management practices, particularly timber harvesting activities, affect the habitats of a large numberof wildlde species found in southwestem ponderosa pine forests of the United States. Timber harvesting activities and othervegetative treatments offen change the relative abundances of food and cover. Wildlife habitats for some wildlife Species arebenefited, while the habitats for other wildlife species are detrimentally impacted. The guidelines presented in this papershould be helpful to foresters, wildlffe managers, and other interested in maintaining or increasing wildlife habitat qualitiesin the foreSt ecosystems inveStigated. While the wildlde species considered are indigenous to the southwestem ponderosapine fotests, many of the wildlde management principles implied in the guidelines are likely to have applications in otherecosystems throughout the world.
基金supported by“Research on the Infuence and Countermeasures of International NGOs in the Field of Forestry,Grassland and Wildlife of the International Cooperation Division”of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration“Research and Development of Wildlife Smuggling Situation and Case Information Integrated Management System”funded by the Endangered Species Import and Export Management Office of the People’s Republic of China“the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities”(2572019DA02)。
文摘We analyzed the generation and dissemination of relevant information on wildlife utilization based on the African bush elephant(Loxodonta africana Blumenbach.),the tiger(Panthera tigris L.)and the totoaba,a species of marine fish,(Totoaba macdonaldi Gilbert)as examples,whose populations are more threatened by the illegal wildlife trade.We compared the illegal trade in wildlife with related information in order to find possible associations,searched for relevant information on major international websites to summarize similarities in information production and dissemination,and used a"Zhiwei"dissemination analysis platform to analyze the dissemination of information circulated at Microblog.The results show that the most infuential information related to the trade in wildlife is mainly generated from news media websites and new selfmedia platforms,usually from non-governmental organizations concerned with wildlife protection.The main factors that affect the depth and breadth of disseminating relevant information on wildlife utilization include the participation of relatively infuential opinion leaders,the verification ratio of forwarding users,the number of followers,and affective identification.Misleading information can stimulate and promote poaching and smuggling,regardless of their real market demand or their products.Therefore,all links in the course of information dissemination should be carefully examined in order to purify the information environment and reduce adverse effects of misleading information on wildlife protection.
文摘Nowadays, management and regulation of natural resources like agriculture, fisheries, forestry and wildlife is one of the popular topics in research. The evolution of humankind is largely dependent on the quality of the environment and the resources it provides;but numerous human-induced factors, and climate change may drastically alter the conditions of human sustainability. This paper deals with effect of numerous human-induced activities on the depletion of forestry resources and wildlife population with habitat complexity. A nonlinear mathematical model is proposed and analyzed. In modeling process, we assume that the growth rate of wildlife population wholly depends on forestry biomass. It is depleted by human-induced activities. Local stability analysis of the mathematical model along with the persistence of the system is checked by using theory of nonlinear ordinary differential equations and Butler-McGhee lemma. Analytical results obtained are justified numerically through numerical simulation. Important parameters are investigated and variation of variables with change in these parameters is determined.
文摘To avoid wildlife-human conflict several solutions are used, like electrical fences, the most expensive solution. Nowadays, technology enables alternative and cheaper approaches for conservation projects. A technological device was developed to detect elephants, moving on their habitat, and predict and react by avoiding confrontation with man. The devices were tested in field experiments, and proved to be efficient in capturing floor vibration, and air-sound signals. Collected data also enabled the estimation of the vibration-source by calculus (using triangulation), revealing the importance of the methodology for real-time location and tracking of high mass animals (e.g. elephants). Building up a mesh of devices, separated 25 m from each other, is estimated as possible to monitor and identify different animals (by discriminating patterns) in an area, like a virtual fencing system. Though the devices may be effective for animal behaviour research, or even animal communication analysis, or other Biology field, other applications outside Biology are possible for them, like monitoring of: rock-falling, micro seismic railway, infrastructures, and people movements.
文摘There is concern regarding the loss of ecosystem goods and services as a result of land use changes such as the expansion and intensification of agricultural activities. Assessments of these interactions require innovative analyses that combine qualitative and quantitative economic analyses. The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment framework was applied to a peri-urban region in British Columbia, Canada to assess the effects of the integration of agricultural programs and the maintenance of waterfowl habitat located on the Pacific Flyway. The Delta Farmland & Wildlife Trust, a non-governmental organization, has implemented several activities to enhance ecosystem goods and services by cooperative programs among the agricultural community and wildlife interests. The successful collaborative framework has resulted in enhanced soil quality, increased biodiversity, and the maintenance of valuable agriculture and waterfowl habitat.
文摘The paper deals with the taxonomy and diversity within the genus Ficus occurring in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary based on extensive field and herbarium studies. The genus comprises 11 species in the study area contrary to the earlier report of 8 species. Out of which, one species each belongs to herbs (F. assamica) and straggling shrubs (F. hetero- phylla) and the remaining species to shrub to big free standing trees (F. benghalensis, F. hispida, F. palmata subsp. virgata, F. racemosa, F. religiosa, F. retusa var. nitida, F. rumphii, F. semicordata and F. squamosa). F. microcarpa and F. carica have been excluded as they do not occur in the sanctuary but reported in the previous work due to mis- identification. F. repens has been segregated from F. heterophylla and reinstated as a distinct species with a correct name F. assamica. F. retusa var. nitida forms a new record for the sanctuary. In overall gross morphology, F. hispida, F. palmata subsp. virgata, F. assamica and F. heterophylla exhibit maximum diversity especially in their leaves, pe- duncles and figs. Among all species F. hispida has been found more common especially in low land and moist areas in mixed forest whereas F. retusa var. nitida has been seen with only two plants. All species have been critically examined and provided with correct nomenclature, vernacular name, description, phenology, ecology, uses and reference to voucher specimens. A dichotomous bracketed key to the species along with line drawings has also been included for identification.
文摘This study assessed the contribution of former poachers to wildlife conservation in Volcanoes National Park, the main causes of poaching activities in Volcanoes National Park. The results indicated that the main causes of poaching and other illegal activities are associated with poverty, ignorance and culture and commercial purposes. The results further illustrated that poaching cases decreased in the Volcanoes National Park where, from 2018, the snares removed from the park reduced from above 1000 to 600 snares. In the same year, only 3 poachers from Kinigi and Shingiro Sectors were arrested. The findings illustrated that introducing of revenue sharing scheme where, 10% of the park’s revenues are shared to the local communities living adjacent to the park, and constructing a buffalo wall stone around the Volcanoes National Park are of the important measures which contributed to solve completely the problems of poaching and human-wildlife conflicts in the volcanic area. However, some respondents reported that the construction of buffalo wall did not prevent animal from escaping the park, they have proposed the construction of strong fence such as electrically fenced wall.
