Sharifah Fadhilah Alshahab is a journalist based in Singapore, Singapore.

Meet the ecologist spreading her wings in New Zealand to save seabirds

04 Dec 2023  |  www.euronews.com  |  English  |  Ecology

New Zealand, known for its biodiversity, faces declining seabird populations with up to 90% at risk of extinction. Ecologist Maira Fessardi, alongside her mentor Todd Landers, is working under the Auckland Council Seabird Monitoring programme to study thriving species like the grey-faced petrels. Their research involves non-invasive methods such as feather analysis to gather data for wildlife management. Maira, originally from Brazil, finds personal and professional fulfillment in her work, despite its challenges. Both Maira and Todd emphasize the importance of perseverance in conservation efforts and aim to inspire others to engage in environmental activism.

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Ecology Conservation Wildlife

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Freelance writer specialising in marine science, marine technology, policy, environment, conservation, and sustainability, I can help with your research, outreach, and communication needs.

Businesses, NGOs, government entities, research institutes, stakeholder groups, and others hire me to help ...

How nutritious is fecal matter? It partly depends on genetics

01 Oct 2023  |  Canadian Science Publishing  |  English  |  Ecology

Fish play a crucial ecological role by excreting nutrients that stimulate plant growth. A study by researchers Stéphanie Guernon, Matthew Yates, Dylan Fraser, and Alison Derry, published in the Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, reveals that genetic differences within brook trout populations in Newfoundland influence the nutrient levels in their fecal matter. The study found that trout from shallower streams excrete more nitrogen per gram than those from deeper streams, likely due to genetic factors. Additionally, the shallow-stream populations contribute more nitrogen to their ecosystems due to their higher population density.

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Ecology Genetics Aquatic Sciences

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Vicenç Batalla is a journalist based in Lyon, France.

Avinyó among nature

05 Oct 2023  |  www.elpuntavui.cat  |  Catalan  |  Ecology

The 77th edition of the Avignon Festival, directed by Portuguese artist Tiago Rodrigues, features a new 'theatre of the landscape' concept, with performances set in natural environments. Highlights include a performance by El Conde de Torrefiel, which uses technology to convey ecological messages, and a theatrical adaptation by Julie Deliquet. The festival emphasizes ecological themes and includes a diverse range of artists and performances, reflecting a shift towards more environmentally conscious art. The festival will continue to tour Europe, adapting to different environments.

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Ecology Theatre Festival

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Romain Beal is a journalist based in Le Mans, France.

In Lorient, cycling is 'a feeling of freedom' for Hélène

01 Oct 2023  |  www.letelegramme.fr  |  French  |  Ecology

Hélène Démézet embraces cycling in Lorient as part of her ecological lifestyle, finding it a logical extension of her long-standing habits like walking and vegetarianism. She enjoys the freedom and physical activity it provides, despite occasional challenges with infrastructure and safety. Her enthusiasm has influenced her daughter and colleagues to take up cycling as well.

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Ecology Cycling Lifestyle

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Gabrielle Canon is a journalist based in Oakland, CA who provides content in many formats, including print, video, broadcast, and photography. She is also available for on-air interviews and can speak on a variety of topics including prison reform, criminal justice, policies to combat homelessness, ...

Coral Are Going to Die: Maui Wildfires Take Toxic Toll on Marine Ecology

01 Oct 2023  |  www.rsn.org  |  English  |  Marine Ecology

Maui's catastrophic wildfires pose a significant threat to the coral reefs and marine ecosystems around Lahaina. Experts warn that toxic contaminants and ash from the fires could severely damage the reefs, which are already weakened by other environmental threats. The invasive grasses that fueled the fires are likely to regrow, creating conditions for future wildfires. Efforts to monitor water quality and limit further contamination are crucial as cleanup and recovery continue. The situation underscores the need for effective management of invasive species and fire-prone landscapes to prevent future ecological disasters.

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Marine Ecology Wildfires Environmental Impact

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Emmy Award winner and freelance photographer, producer and occasional camera operator working and collaborating in various documentary projects as well as productions with the world’s leading media companies.

I am a storyteller focusing on under-reported issues and current events, while also ...

Ecological barriers mediate spatiotemporal shifts of bird communities at a continental scale

06 Jun 2023  |  PNAS  |  English  |  Ecology

Ecological barriers such as coastlines and elevation significantly influence the spatiotemporal shifts of bird communities across Europe, with communities generally moving towards areas of least resistance. The study, using data from European breeding bird atlases, highlights that these barriers affect both the distance and direction of community shifts, with coastlines being the most influential. The findings suggest that bird communities are not able to fully track their climatic niches due to these barriers, leading to potential biodiversity losses. The research underscores the importance of considering ecological barriers in climate change studies to improve predictions of biodiversity shifts and inform conservation strategies.

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Ecology Climate Change Biodiversity

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Sally Davies is a journalist, editor, content creator and copywriter based in Barcelona, Spain.

The mysterious history of the snake-infested WA island

25 Sept 2024  |  Particle  |  English  |  Ecology

Carnac Island, located off the coast of Fremantle, Australia, is home to a unique population of tiger snakes, believed to have been introduced by snake showman Lindsay Harold Hane in the 1930s. The island's snakes are larger and more placid than their mainland counterparts, possibly due to isolation or selective breeding. Theories about their origin include introduction by Hane or a long-standing natural population. Research is ongoing to determine their exact lineage. Despite their mysterious origins, the snakes thrive on the island, adapting to local prey and conditions.

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Ecology Wildlife History

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Carlos Espinosa Calderón is a journalist based in Quito, Ecuador. I currently work for Agence France Presse as a stringer video journalist covering breaking news and preparing special reports. In the same way, I work for NUR Photo Agency developing stock video for editorial use. Interested in ...

Adaptive Seedling Strategies in Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests: A Comparative Study of Six Tree Species

17 Oct 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Plant Ecology

The study investigates seed germination strategies and seedling establishment in six tree species typical of seasonally dry tropical forests. It identifies two main strategies: slow germination with high root/shoot ratios for drought tolerance, and rapid germination with lower ratios for competitive advantage. The research highlights significant interspecific and intraspecific variations in seed traits, influencing biomass allocation and growth rates. These findings provide insights into adaptive strategies for conservation and restoration efforts in these ecosystems, particularly under changing climate conditions.

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Plant Ecology Seed Germination Tropical Forests

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Matthew Green is a journalist based in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Long transients and dendritic network structure affect spatial predator–prey dynamics in experimental microcosms

01 Oct 2023  |  besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com  |  English  |  Ecology

The study investigates how regular and dendritic spatial structures influence the long-term persistence and spatial dynamics of a predator-prey protist metacommunity through microcosm experiments. It demonstrates that predator persistence is supported in realistic spatial networks through recovery from long transient periods of low occupancy. The research highlights that transient dynamics and occupancy patterns differ among network types, with higher predator occupancy in more connected local communities. The findings underscore the importance of spatial dynamics in promoting persistence in food webs and suggest that maintaining connectivity and variability in connectivity is crucial for species persistence across different trophic levels.

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Ecology Predator-Prey Dynamics Spatial Networks

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Lee Henry writes freelance features for the Sunday Times, Belfast Telegraph, Northern Woman magazine and more. He also writes a monthly column for Northern Woman. He is based in Londonderry, United Kingdom. He specialises in features, culture reviews and video/audio production. Lee learned the ...

Defensive Symbiont Genotype Distributions Are Linked to Parasitoid Attack Networks

01 Oct 2023  |  Wiley Online Library  |  English  |  Insect Ecology

The study investigates the distribution of defensive symbiont strains, specifically Hamiltonella, within aphid communities and their correlation with parasitoid attack networks. Analysis of 1257 aphid samples revealed that aphid species sharing the same parasitoid species tend to harbor the same Hamiltonella strains, suggesting parasitoids play a significant role in the spread and maintenance of these symbionts. The study found no correlation between Hamiltonella strain diversity and plant diversity, indicating limited influence of plants on symbiont distribution. The research highlights the importance of parasitoid interactions in shaping symbiont dynamics and suggests that parasitoids may act as vectors for horizontal transmission of symbionts among aphid species.

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Insect Ecology Symbiosis Parasitoid Interactions

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Abhaya Raj Joshi is a journalist based in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Dholes latest wild canids likely making comeback in Nepal, study shows

01 Feb 2024  |  Mongabay Environmental News  |  English  |  Ecology

Dholes, or Indian wild dogs, are making a comeback in Nepal, reclaiming their historical range despite old and new threats. A study led by Yadav Ghimirey from Friends of Nature Nepal indicates that dholes have recolonized areas like the Annapurna Conservation Area and Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale forests. The study involved camera trap surveys, literature reviews, and interviews with herders and conservation practitioners. Factors such as reduced persecution, urbanization, and the return of prey like wild boars may have facilitated this recolonization. However, challenges remain, including habitat fragmentation, competition with tigers and leopards, and diseases from feral dogs. Conservationists emphasize the need for more focused studies and monitoring to ensure the dholes' continued recovery.

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Ecology Wildlife Conservation Biodiversity

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Buse Keskin is a Culture & Arts editor based in İstanbul, Türkiye.
Her unwavering passion for culture and arts actually contributes to her great enjoyment of her work. She holds a  Bachelor's degree in American Culture and Literature and a Master's degree in International Relations departments.
...

Mat Collishaw's 'Arrhythmia' in Istanbul mirrors nature's heartbeat in chaos

05 Oct 2023  |  Daily Sabah  |  English  |  Ecology

Mat Collishaw's exhibition 'Arrhythmia' at Borusan Contemporary in Istanbul explores the chaotic and irregular aspects of nature through various art installations. The exhibition, curated by Alice Sharp, emphasizes the limitations of rationality in understanding nature and advocates for a sensory-based approach. Key installations include 'Even to the End,' 'Heterosis,' 'Pandora,' and 'Sounding Sirens,' each highlighting different aspects of nature's struggle and humanity's impact on the environment. The exhibition aims to provoke reflection on the relationship between humans and nature, making ecological challenges highly visible and tangible.

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Ecology Art Exhibition Nature

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Edwin Lombard is a journalist based in Cape Town, South Africa.

More elephants headed for Knysna after rare sighting

01 Oct 2023  |  www.africanelephantjournal.com  |  English  |  Ecology

More elephants may be introduced to the Knysna forest following the rare sighting of a wild female elephant. South African National Parks (SANParks) conducted sociological and ecological assessments, which support the introduction of more elephants to the area. The sociological survey showed strong support for re-introduction due to ecological, cultural, and historical values, while ecological studies confirmed the presence of only one female elephant and her well-being. The studies recommend a cautious, expert-informed management approach to minimize disturbance and human-wildlife conflict.

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Ecology Wildlife Conservation

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I am a writer, filmmaker and content producer with over 20 years of international journalism experience, much of it in Africa. I have worked for many media major organizations in Europe and the United States, in particular National Geographic. I have also reported extensively on football (soccer) ...

All Hail the Alligator Gar, a Giant and Primordial River Monster

01 Oct 2023  |  Texas Monthly  |  English  |  Ecology

The alligator gar, once considered a 'trash fish' in East Texas, has gained recognition as a prized trophy fish, attracting anglers from around the world. Kirk Kirkland, a prominent fishing guide, has played a significant role in popularizing alligator gar fishing, contributing to the species' conservation. The Trinity River has become a key destination for this sport, with regulations ensuring the health of the gar population. Researchers like Zeb Hogan and Dennis Scarnecchia have highlighted the ecological importance of alligator gars, leading to a shift in perception and better management practices. The species, which has existed for millions of years, faces threats from overfishing and habitat loss, but efforts in Texas have shown promising results in preserving this ancient fish.

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Ecology Wildlife Conservation Fishing

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Arian Lumezi is a journalist based in Prishtina, Kosovo. He has reported on various issues related to politics, rule of law and people facing challenges in their everyday lives.

Arian has a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism and a Master's in International Journalism from ...

Understanding Degrowth: A Path to Sustainable Living?

01 Jul 2023  |  Kosovo 2.0  |  English  |  Political Ecology

The article discusses the concept of 'degrowth' as a solution to the environmental and social issues exacerbated by traditional economic growth. Predrag Momčilović, a scholar and Executive Director of the Center for Green Politics in Serbia, advocates for degrowth, which challenges the ideology of constant economic and material growth. He argues that GDP growth is an inadequate measure of success as it overlooks aspects like human relations and voluntary work. Degrowth emphasizes the need to reduce consumption in certain sectors, such as fossil fuels, while promoting growth in education and culture. The article explores how degrowth is not synonymous with poverty but rather a shift towards sustainable and equitable resource use. It also touches on the challenges of implementing degrowth in capitalist societies and the need for a global redistribution of wealth, especially between the Global North and South.

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Political Ecology Climate Change Environmental Sustainability Social Justice Degrowth Economic Growth Food Production

Carlos Matias is a journalist based in Madrid, Spain.

Food supplementation increases reproductive performance of ospreys in the lower Chesapeake Bay

01 Oct 2023  |  Frontiers  |  English  |  Ecology

The study investigates the impact of food supplementation on the reproductive performance of ospreys in the lower Chesapeake Bay. It highlights the decline in world fisheries landings and the shift towards ecosystem-based fisheries management. The research focuses on the Atlantic menhaden, a key forage species, and its role in the diet of ospreys. The study found that food supplementation significantly increased osprey productivity, suggesting that menhaden availability is crucial for maintaining stable osprey populations. The findings emphasize the need for localized management of menhaden populations to support osprey breeding success.

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Ecology Wildlife Conservation Fisheries Management

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Jack McGovan is a freelance journalist based in Berlin, covering climate, health and politics.

The English Volunteer Group Changing How We Study Animals at Night

01 Oct 2023  |  The Revelator  |  English  |  Technology in Ecology

In 2016, Ben Dolan and Paul Hopwood of the West Midlands Ringing Group began using thermal imaging to locate birds more effectively, leading to significant advancements in nocturnal wildlife research. Their work has highlighted the importance of considering nocturnal animals in ecological surveys, a field historically overlooked. The group's efforts have inspired other researchers and volunteers, such as Wesley Payne and Priscillia Miard, to adopt thermal imaging, revealing new insights into animal behavior. Despite its benefits, the technology faces challenges like high costs and data limitations. The Ringing Group aims to bridge the gap between volunteer and professional ecologists, emphasizing the critical role of collaboration in conservation.

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Technology in Ecology Conservation Wildlife Research

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Jason Mitchell is a journalist based in Bogotá, Colombia.

A Sustainable Future: Prof. Simon Levin, Princeton University, on Ecological Early Warning Systems

15 Jan 2024  |  www.man.com  |  English  |  Ecology

Jason Mitchell interviews Professor Simon Levin about the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to addressing biodiversity loss, the integration of ecological and economic systems, and the development of a common language for economic reasoning to unite different disciplines in understanding nature. They discuss the interconnectedness of ecological and climate systems, the importance of early warning systems for ecological tipping points, and the challenges of political polarization in achieving collective solutions for environmental problems. The conversation also touches on the role of markets and investors in addressing nature-related risks and the complexities of valuing biodiversity.

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Ecology Biodiversity Loss Economics Environmental Policy

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Kirsten Ripper is a journalist based in Lyon, France.
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Why are there so many poppies this summer 2023?

05 Jun 2023  |  de.euronews.com  |  German  |  Ecology

The article explores the noticeable increase in poppy blooms across Europe, particularly in Germany, during the summer of 2023. Experts from various universities, including Dr. Gregor Schmitz and Professor Mark van Kleunen, discuss potential reasons for this phenomenon. While some attribute the increase to the use of poppy seeds in wildflower seed mixes used for greening construction sites, others dismiss the idea that climate change is a direct cause. Instead, they suggest that favorable weather conditions, such as a wet spring, have contributed to the proliferation of poppies. The article highlights the temporary nature of this increase, noting that poppy populations may decline as grasses cover the soil.

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Ecology Poppy Bloom Climate Change

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Malaka Rodrigo is a journalist based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Lauren is a freelance multi-media journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Lauren's work includes a recently produced audio documentary on trauma support for volunteer firefighters and has appeared on CTV, CBC, the Ottawa Citizen, Times & Transcript, Ottawa Magazine, and CFRA Radio.

Lauren ...

To the delight of eager U.K. ecologists, London welcomes its first baby beaver in centuries

10 Oct 2023  |  www.cbc.ca  |  English  |  Ecology

London has welcomed its first baby beaver in centuries, a significant milestone for local ecologists and conservationists. The beaver kit, born in the Forty Hall Estate in North London, marks a successful step in the beaver reintroduction program led by Capel Manor College. Beavers, once hunted to near-extinction in Britain, are being reintroduced for their ecological benefits, including flood management and biodiversity enhancement. Despite some concerns from farmers about potential negative impacts, advocates like Rewilding Britain emphasize the overall positive effects of beavers on the environment. The U.K. government, however, has not prioritized species reintroduction, creating a point of contention among ecologists and campaigners.

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Ecology Wildlife Conservation Biodiversity

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Will Tizard is a travel and business journalist and documentarian based in Prague, Czech Republic. He covers the film sector in Central and Eastern Europe for Variety and writes about the arts and culture for Time Out, National Geographic guides and Louis Vuitton.
With more than 20 years' ...

Political Murals Make A Splash In Belgrade

13 Dec 2023  |  www.rferl.org  |  English  |  Ecology

Street mural artist Jana Danilovic uses her art to raise awareness about important social issues in Belgrade, including ecology, marginalized groups, and gender-based violence. Her colorful murals aim to bring these topics to the forefront of community discussions.

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Ecology Street Art Activism Gender-Based Violence Marginalized Groups

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Elen Turner is a journalist based in Kathmandu, Central Development Region, Nepal.

I specialise in travel writing and literary/cultural stories.

GO NZ: Farewell Spit, New Zealand's next Unesco World Heritage Site

01 Oct 2023  |  NZ Herald  |  English  |  Ecology

Farewell Spit, a 25km sandspit in New Zealand, is a critical bird sanctuary and ecological site, managed by the Department of Conservation. It features diverse habitats and is home to over 90 bird species, including significant migratory wading birds. The area is tightly controlled, with public access restricted to the first 4km, and is on Unesco's tentative list for World Heritage Site status. Visitors can explore the area through guided tours by Farewell Spit Tours, which offer opportunities to see seals, various bird species, and the historic lighthouse.

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Ecology Travel Bird Sanctuaries

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