Tag

Bird Populations

All articles tagged with #bird populations

environment2 years ago•5 min saved

"Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: Nurturing Food and Biodiversity"

A long-term study conducted by Stanford researchers in Costa Rica has found that smaller farms with diverse crop types, interspersed with patches of forest, support forest-dependent bird populations and contribute to biodiversity conservation. The study revealed that while bird populations declined in forests and intensive agriculture, they increased on diversified farms, including some species of conservation concern. The findings highlight the importance of maintaining tree cover in farming areas to provide essential habitats for wildlife and promote food security through pollination and pest control services. The research supports the idea that working landscapes, such as diversified farms, can play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and its benefits alongside protected areas.

via Stanford University News|

#biodiversity #bird-populations #costa-rica

environment2 years ago•2 min saved

The Devastating Impact of Early Springs on Bird Populations

Rising global temperatures due to climate change are causing spring to arrive earlier, which is negatively impacting bird populations. A study by UCLA found that songbirds are struggling to adjust to the changing seasons, resulting in fewer young being raised. The earlier arrival of spring makes it harder for birds to determine the appropriate time to breed, leading to decreased breeding productivity. As the planet continues to heat up, these challenges are expected to worsen. Researchers warn that if spring arrives 25 days earlier by the end of the century, bird populations could experience a catastrophic decrease of around 12%. Urgent intervention is needed to mitigate the impacts of climate change on bird populations.

via KTLA Los Angeles|

#bird-populations #breeding-productivity #climate-change

wildlife2 years ago•2 min saved

Black eyes in Gannets reveal avian flu survival

The irises of northern gannets turn black if they survive avian flu, according to a study that provides evidence that some wild birds are shaking off the deadly virus. Scientists investigated the timings of avian flu outbreaks at colonies across their North Atlantic range, with a detailed study of the impact of the virus on the Bass Rock, Scotland, home of the largest gannet colony in the world. The discovery that gannets that had survived avian flu infection no longer had the usual iris coloration could prove a useful non-invasive diagnostic tool.

via The Guardian|

#avian-flu #bird-populations #diagnostic-tool

health2 years ago•3 min saved

Deadly Avian Flu Strain Spreading Rapidly Across Species, Urgent Response Needed

The current strain of avian flu is different from previous outbreaks and is killing birds in unprecedented numbers, according to a study by the University of Maryland. The highly pathogenic virus is wiping out everything, including wild birds, and could become endemic, affecting food security and the economy. The study calls for coordination between national and regional leaders to manage the spread of the disease. The avian flu has killed over 140 million birds in the US, the UK, and the EU, and has also been found in some mammals, including bears and wild dogs. The disease has increased the price of poultry and poultry products by 60% in the US in 2022.

via The Guardian|

#avian-flu #bird-populations #endemic

wildlife2 years ago•0 min saved

Deadly Avian Flu Outbreak Claims Multiple Animal Lives in Colorado

Four mountain lions, a black bear, two red foxes, two bobcats, and five striped skunks in Colorado have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, which has been affecting bird populations across the US. Mammals typically contract the disease by eating infected bird carcasses. While crossover to humans is rare, officials have warned the public about handling potentially infected birds.

via Out There Colorado|

#avian-flu #bird-populations #colorado