WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 24 February-2 March 2025
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 9
Acevedo Cendales, L. D., N. E. Matta and V. E. Pereira Bengoa (2024). "[Editorial] Recomendación 1: Importancia del nexo biodiversidad y salud para los planes y estrategias nacionales de biodiversidad: Priorización de la prevención primaria en salud / [Editorial] Recommendation 1: Importance of the biodiversity and health nexus for national biodiversity plans and strategies: Prioritization of primary health prevention." Acta Biológica Colombiana 29(3), 6-10. https://doi.org/10.15446/abc.v29n3.117008
Abstract: El concepto “Una salud” (One Health), resume una idea conocida desde hace más de un siglo: la salud humana, animal y de los ecosistemas están interconectadas y son interdependientes (Organización Mundial de Sanidad Animal [OMSA], 2024). Las especies silvestres albergan una amplia diversidad de agentes patógenos, a los que el ser humano puede ser susceptible. Sin embargo, es fundamental considerar que los patógenos humanos representan solo una pequeña fracción de la diversidad de parásitos del mundo (Balloux and van Dorp, 2017). Es importante abordar urgentemente los impulsores de la pérdida de diversidad biológica a fin de reducir los riesgos para la salud, como lo sugiere el Marco Mundial de Biodiversidad de Kunming-Montreal (Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice, 2024). Las actividades humanas han cruzado barreras naturales de manera insostenible, invadiendo áreas silvestres o extrayendo especímenes para consumo, comercio (mascotas), o como productos derivados o manufacturados, situaciones que facilitan riesgo de contacto inseguro entre animales y seres humanos. La caza para diferentes propósitos suele estar asociada con actividades de tala, durante las cuales se corre el riesgo de contacto directo con los animales y con artrópodos vectores de patógenos (Eve et al., 2000). De manera similar la minería, facilita eventos indirectos y nuevas infecciones (Ellwanger et al., 2020). Estas intervenciones en los hábitats alteran la dinámica e interacciones naturales de las especies silvestres y su entorno, aumentando el contacto directo con el ser humano e incrementando la probabilidad de transmisión de enfermedades zoonóticas. / The concept of “One Health” summarizes an idea that has been known for more than a century: human, animal and ecosystem health are interconnected and interdependent (World Organization for Animal Health [OIE], 2024). Wild species harbor a wide diversity of pathogens, to which humans may be susceptible. However, it is critical to consider that human pathogens represent only a small fraction of the world's parasite diversity (Balloux and van Dorp, 2017). It is important to urgently address the drivers of biodiversity loss in order to reduce health risks, as suggested by the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice, 2024). Human activities have crossed natural barriers in an unsustainable manner, invading wild areas or extracting specimens for consumption, trade (pets), or as derived or manufactured products, situations that facilitate the risk of unsafe contact between animals and humans. Hunting for different purposes is often associated with logging activities, during which there is a risk of direct contact with animals and arthropod vectors of pathogens (Eve et al., 2000). Similarly, mining facilitates indirect events and new infections (Ellwanger et al., 2020). These habitat interventions alter the dynamics and natural interactions of wild species and their environment, increasing direct contact with humans and increasing the likelihood of zoonotic disease transmission.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 9
Chiaverini, L., D. W. Macdonald, A. J. Hearn, ..., P. P. Kyaw, M. S. Luskin, A. Rasphone et al. (In Press). "Identifying gaps in the conservation of small wild cats of Southeast Asia." Biodiversity and Conservation. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-025-03029-6
Abstract: Southeast Asia hosts more felid species than any other region and, although smaller (< 30 kg) felids have important ecological roles, regional conservation has mainly focused on a few charismatic big cats. Information on the ecology and conservation status of small felids is often lacking or geographically limited. We used empirically derived scale-optimized models for seven species in three regions of Southeast Asia (mainland, Borneo and Sumatra) to evaluate the effectiveness of the existing protected areas network in preserving suitable habitats, and to map suitable areas lacking protection. Finally, we assessed whether small felids are good proxies of broader regional terrestrial biodiversity. On the mainland, the largest and most suitable habitats occurred in the Northern Forest Complex of Myanmar and in the region between Eastern Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam. In these areas we also highlighted the most important protected areas. In Borneo, the most suitable habitats occurred in the central highlands and in the protected areas of Sabah. In Sumatra, the strongholds of habitat suitability were the Barisan Mountains, in the western extent of the island, and were highly concentrated within existing protected areas. We also found that the aggregated habitat suitability for small felids was correlated more strongly to terrestrial vertebrate biodiversity than was any single felid species individually, suggesting that areas that are suitable for multiple felid species have an association with high overall biodiversity. Overall, our assessment of the distribution of small felids in Southeast Asia highlights the fundamental importance of protected areas for biodiversity conservation, given that most species were highly associated with protected areas and regions with large extents of forest. Our results are a clarion call to expand the extent, and improve the conservation management, of protected areas in the remaining core habitat areas for multiple species in Southeast Asia, and to work to enhance and protect connectivity between them to ensure long-term demographic and genetic exchange among the region’s remaining wildlife populations.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 9
Devarajan, K., M. Fidino, Z. J. Farris, ..., R. Garcia-Anleu, ..., D. Miquelle, ..., A. Reebin et al. (2025). "When the wild things are: Defining mammalian diel activity and plasticity." Science Advances 11(9), eado3843. https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ado3843
Abstract: Circadian rhythms are a mechanism by which species adapt to environmental variability and fundamental to understanding species behavior. However, we lack data and a standardized framework to accurately assess and compare temporal activity for species during rapid ecological change. Through a global network representing 38 countries, we leveraged 8.9 million mammalian observations to create a library of 14,587 standardized diel activity estimates for 445 species. We found that less than half the species? estimates were in agreement with diel classifications from the reference literature and that species commonly used more than one diel classification. Species diel activity was highly plastic when exposed to anthropogenic change. Furthermore, body size and distributional extent were strongly associated with whether a species is diurnal or nocturnal. Our findings provide essential knowledge of species behavior in an era of rapid global change and suggest the need for a new, quantitative framework that defines diel activity logically and consistently while capturing species plasticity. Many species of mammals worldwide are highly plastic in their timing of diel activity, which has unknown fitness consequences.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 9
Hadi, A. N., U. Mardhiah, S. S. Suryometaram, S. Hussein, ..., O. R. Puspita, Tarmizi, E. E. Rumapea, E. Ramadiyanta, Giyanto, J. Supriatna, M. J. Imansyah, D. N. Adhiasto, W. Marthy, J. Susyafrianto and N. Andayani (2025). "Evaluating the efficacy of an integrated law enforcement approach to safeguarding Sumatran tigers and their prey." Journal of Environmental Management 378, e124759. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.124759
Abstract: Protected areas face immense pressure for their resources and the space that they occupy. To protect them and their wildlife, management approaches such as ranger patrols and measures to counter wildlife trafficking across the broader landscape have been implemented, despite integration of both approaches remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate such implementation in one of Asia's most significant protected area landscapes. This was done by analysing 1) an adaptive ranger patrolling strategy to reduce tiger (Panthera tigris) and ungulate prey poaching rates; 2) a government-civil society partnership to reduce tiger trafficking in adjoining rural and urban areas; and 3) tiger and prey population trends in response to these interventions. From 2015 to 2019, five ranger teams conducted 457 anti-poaching foot patrols, covering 10,963 km and removing 780 snares commonly encountered in accessible lowland. Over the years, snare occupancy did not change but detection was found to increase. From 2010 to 2019, law enforcement responded to 26 tiger trafficking cases with earlier cases mainly prosecuted using administrative sanctions. After 2013, most received penal sanctions with significant increases in fines levied. Camera trapping from 2010 to 2020 revealed a likely stable tiger population with high turnover of individual tigers. Only one male captured on all three sampling occasions and one adult female captured on two occasions. From 2010 to 2020, three tiger prey species (muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak), serow (Capricornis sumatraensis), and pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina)) remained widespread during the study, whereas wild boar (Sus scrofa) and sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) remain localised. Despite effective snare removals and arrests, the threat of poaching persists, suggesting that patrolling in at-risk areas needs to be coupled with new, persuasive, and more targeted approaches, while ensuring sustainable funding for these interventions.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 9
López-Casas, S., L. Ávila-Vargas, N. Jiménez and J. González-Obando (2024). "[Editorial] Recomendación 4: Priorizar la salud de los ecosistemas acuáticos para garantizar la salud humana y de la biodiversidad / [Editorial] Recommendation 4: Prioritize the health of aquatic ecosystems to ensure human and biodiversity health." Acta Biológica Colombiana 29(3), 22-25. https://doi.org/10.15446/abc.v29n3.117023
Abstract: El enfoque de Una Salud es un modelo holístico que integra la salud humana, animal y ambiental. Desde su inclusión en 2004, se ha reconocido que problemas como la contaminación, el cambio climático y la deforestación no solo afectan a las personas, sino también a los animales, reflejando un deterioro ambiental (Zinsstag et al., 2015). Hoy en día, enfermedades zoonóticas, resistencia antimicrobiana y daños ambientales urgen la implementación de este enfoque multidisciplinario, que fomenta la colaboración entre salud humana, animal y ambiental (Hermesh et al., 2019). Esta interconexión es especialmente relevante para los ecosistemas acuáticos continentales (ríos, lagos, acuíferos y humedales) que ocupan menos del 2 % de la superficie terrestre y contienen menos del 0,01 % del agua, pero albergan el 12 % de las especies conocidas y un tercio de los vertebrados. Estos ecosistemas brindan servicios esenciales para la naturaleza y la sociedad. Sin embargo, los humedales están desapareciendo tres veces más rápido que los bosques, y las poblaciones de vertebrados acuáticos han disminuido más del doble que las terrestres o marinas. En los últimos 50 años, se ha perdido el 83 % de sus especies y el 30 % de los ecosistemas, lo que pone en riesgo el suministro de agua, alimentos y bienestar económico. / The One Health approach is a holistic model that integrates human, animal and environmental health. Since its inclusion in 2004, it has been recognized that problems such as pollution, climate change and deforestation not only affect people, but also animals, reflecting environmental deterioration (Zinsstag et al., 2015). Today, zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance and environmental damage urge the implementation of this multidisciplinary approach, which fosters collaboration between human, animal and environmental health (Hermesh et al., 2019). This interconnectedness is particularly relevant for inland aquatic ecosystems (rivers, lakes, aquifers, and wetlands) that occupy less than 2% of the earth's surface and contain less than 0.01% of the water, but are home to 12% of known species and one-third of vertebrates. These ecosystems provide essential services to nature and society. However, wetlands are disappearing three times faster than forests, and aquatic vertebrate populations have declined more than twice as fast as terrestrial or marine vertebrate populations. In the last 50 years, 83% of their species and 30% of ecosystems have been lost, jeopardizing water supply, food and economic well-being.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 9
Maleko, P., K. Sinhaseni, J. Khamaye, ..., M. Robards and J. C. Slaght (2025). "Threats to shorebirds, particularly spotted greenshank Tringa guttifer, along the Inner Gulf of Thailand." Wader Study 131(3), 180-189. https://doi.org/10.18194/WS.00354
Abstract: In order to support rare species, we need to understand the threats to them. To identify the threats faced by non-breeding Spotted (Nordmann's) Greenshank Tringa guttifer we visited coastal sites throughout the Gulf of Thailand. The Inner Gulf of Thailand supports approximately 20–30% of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway global population of 1,500–2,000 Spotted Greenshanks. Identifying the specific threats they face in this area is therefore critical to develop measures to prevent further decline. We assessed the conservation situation at four ‘hotspots’ for Spotted Greenshank, areas supporting >1% of the global population. We identified three major threats: habitat loss, disturbance, and illegal netting. Each of these threats require place-based management interventions if long-term conservation of Spotted Greenshank, and other EAAF waterbirds, is to be accomplished.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 7 of 9
Maron, M., A. von Hase, F. Quétier et al. (In Press). "Biodiversity offsets, their effectiveness and their role in a nature positive future." Nature Reviews Biodiversity. https://doi.org/10.1038/s44358-025-00023-2
Abstract: Biodiversity offsetting is a mechanism for addressing the impacts of development projects on biodiversity, but the practice remains controversial and its effectiveness generally poor. In the context of the Global Biodiversity Framework and the emergence of new approaches for mitigating damage, we need to learn from the past. In this Review, we explore biodiversity offsetting, its effectiveness and its future prospects, especially in relation to ‘nature positive’ goals. Offsets often fall short of their stated goal: to achieve at least no net loss of affected biodiversity. However, such failures are prominent because offsets have more explicit quantitative objectives than most other conservation approaches, whose effectiveness is also variable. These clear objectives provide the potential for the transparency that alternative approaches to addressing negative human impacts on biodiversity lack. Unfortunately, promising alternatives are scarce, so offsetting and offset-like mechanisms remain a necessary component of strategies to halt and reverse nature loss. However, improving their performance is essential. No quick and easy solution exists; instead, upholding best practice principles and rigorous implementation — including in the face of challenges from opposing narratives and interest groups — remains key.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 8 of 9
Mo, L., T. W. Crowther, D. S. Maynard, ..., B. Swanepoel et al. (2024). "The global distribution and drivers of wood density and their impact on forest carbon stocks." Nature Ecology & Evolution 8(12), 2195-2212. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02564-9
Abstract: The density of wood is a key indicator of the carbon investment strategies of trees, impacting productivity and carbon storage. Despite its importance, the global variation in wood density and its environmental controls remain poorly understood, preventing accurate predictions of global forest carbon stocks. Here we analyse information from 1.1 million forest inventory plots alongside wood density data from 10,703 tree species to create a spatially explicit understanding of the global wood density distribution and its drivers. Our findings reveal a pronounced latitudinal gradient, with wood in tropical forests being up to 30% denser than that in boreal forests. In both angiosperms and gymnosperms, hydrothermal conditions represented by annual mean temperature and soil moisture emerged as the primary factors influencing the variation in wood density globally. This indicates similar environmental filters and evolutionary adaptations among distinct plant groups, underscoring the essential role of abiotic factors in determining wood density in forest ecosystems. Additionally, our study highlights the prominent role of disturbance, such as human modification and fire risk, in influencing wood density at more local scales. Factoring in the spatial variation of wood density notably changes the estimates of forest carbon stocks, leading to differences of up to 21% within biomes. Therefore, our research contributes to a deeper understanding of terrestrial biomass distribution and how environmental changes and disturbances impact forest ecosystems.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 9 of 9
Webster, K. L., M. Strack, N. Balliston, ..., L. Harris, ..., A. Kirkwood et al. (2025). "Data and knowledge needs for improving science and policy for peatlands in Canada in a changing world: Insights from Global Peatlands Initiative Workshop, June 2023." FACETS 10, 1-19. https://doi.org/10.1139/facets-2024-0142
Abstract: Knowledge and data on the current function, future threats, and benefits of peatlands in Canada are required to support evidence-based decision-making to ensure they continue to provide critical ecosystem services. This is particularly relevant for Canada, given the large expanse of relatively intact peatland area. There is a need, not only to standardize protocols, but also to prioritize types of information and knowledge that can best meet conservation and management goals. This was the challenge posed to the participants of the Global Peatlands Initiative workshop in June 2023 in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. Participants were composed of researchers using primarily Western science approaches that use peatland data for carbon accounting, policy or sustainable land use, reclamation/restoration, conservation, wildlife, and water resources applications. For seven peatland data categories (hydrometeorological and environmental sensing; peat coring and depth; greenhouse gas monitoring; biodiversity; vegetation, woody debris, and litter; Traditional Knowledge; water quality), three priority measurements were identified and recommendations for their collection were discussed. The key recommendations from the workshop were to (1) create standardized, yet flexible protocols; (2) coordinate field data collection where possible; (3) weave more Traditional Knowledge into understanding of peatlands; (4) create an atlas of existing peatland information; (5) scope opportunities to create a network of peatland “super sites”.
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 10-23 February 2025 [2 weeks]
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 14
Austin, K. G., P. R. Elsen, E. N. H. Coronado, A. DeGemmis, A. V. Gallego-Sala, L. Harris, H. E. Kretser, ... and D. Zarin (2025). "Mismatch between global importance of peatlands and the extent of their protection." Conservation Letters 18(1), e13080. https://doi.org/10.1111/conl.13080
Abstract: Global peatlands store more carbon than all the world's forests biomass on just 3% of the planet's land surface. Failure to address mounting threats to peatland ecosystems will jeopardize critical climate targets and exacerbate biodiversity loss. Our analysis reveals that 17% of peatlands are protected globally—substantially less than many other high-value ecosystems. Just 11% percent of boreal and 27% of temperate and tropical peatlands are protected, while Indigenous peoples' lands encompass at least another one-quarter of peatlands globally. Peatlands in protected areas and Indigenous peoples' lands generally face lower human pressure than outside those areas. Yet, almost half of temperate and tropical peatlands in protected areas still experience medium to high human pressure. Country submissions of Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement and National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans under the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework could help catalyze actions and secure funding for peatland conservation, including support for the Indigenous stewardship that is critical to protect many of the world's highest priority peatland areas.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 14
Carrera, M. and L. Baquero (2025). "A historical checklist of the orchid flora (Orchidaceae) of Quito, Ecuador." Check List 21(1), 222-241. https://doi.org/10.15560/21.1.222
Abstract: We compile a species inventory of orchid species collected at Quito, Ecuador, between 1790 and 2018 and compare it with the orchid species observed in the field between 2018 and 2021. Historical herbarium records include 52 orchid species in Quito. During our field campaigns, we found 29 of these previously collected species in herbaria and an additional 11 species which we newly report from Quito, bringing the total number of orchid species in Quito to 63 species. However, we were unable to find 23 species during our field campaigns. Our study shows that even in one of the largest Ecuadorian cities, several orchid species are still present, and among them, species not previously reported. Urgent conservation actions are needed in urban areas to preserve urban diversity and native ecosystems in Quito.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 14
de la Torre, J. A., K. Duchez and J. Radachowsky (2025). "Characterization and extent of illegal trade in jaguars and other felid species via social media in Mexico." Animal Conservation. https://doi.org/10.1111/acv.70001
Abstract: The widespread use of online platforms and social media has undoubtedly facilitated the expansion of the illegal wildlife trade into global markets. Given the increase of evidence of jaguar (Panthera onca) trade through online platforms in Mexico, our objective was to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of online trade of jaguar and other wild felid parts. Our study focused on researching four main aspects related to the online trade of wild felids. First, we evaluated the scale of the online trade of jaguars and other wild felid species in Mexico. Second, we explored the locations where this activity is taking place and potential routes used for trade. Third, we analyzed the use given to the felid's parts. Finally, we estimated the potential number of animals traded through online platforms. We found 713 posts that included elements of wild felids trade in Mexico, with 60 locations and 157 users. Nine species were identified, including five native species to Mexico and four non-native species. Our findings strongly assert that the trade of jaguars and other wild felid species parts through online platforms poses an imminent threat to these species. Data collected indicate that the online trade of these species has evolved into a widespread activity that is not solely opportunistic or locally focused. This suggests the existence of a more complex network in which online platforms facilitate communication between traders in Mexico and potential buyers in other countries. Online illegal trade of wild felids in Mexico was estimated to have involved at least ~$2,000,000 USD over the last 10 years. It is crucial to encourage local authorities to implement online platform monitoring and develop intervention strategies to prevent this activity from reaching unsustainable levels that could significantly impact the wild populations of these species.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 14
Girkin, N. T., H. V. Cooper, A. S. Johnston, M. Ledger, G. R. M. Niamba et al. (In Press). "The temperature dependence of greenhouse gas production from central African savannah soils." Geoderma Regional, e00934. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geodrs.2025.e00934
Abstract: Savannahs cover 20 % of the global land surface, but there have been few studies of greenhouse gas (GHG) dynamics from savannah soils. Here, we assess potential turnover of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from surface (0–10 cm) and subsurface (20–30 cm) soils from two contrasting tropical savannah sites in the Republic of Congo, Central Africa, under dry (40 % water-filled-pore-space, WFPS) and wet (70 % WFPS) conditions. Under baseline conditions (25 °C), we found soils were sources of CO2 and N2O, but a sink for CH4. Assessment the temperature response of GHG fluxes between 20 and 35 °C revealed variable temperature dependences. That is, CO2 fluxes showed a strong temperature response, whereas the temperature response of N2O fluxes was only significant in dry conditions and no significant temperature response of CH4 fluxes was observed. The temperature quotient (Q10) of soil respiration increased from 1.58 ± 0.004 to 1.92 ± 0.006 at sites with lower soil organic carbon contents. The relative increase in N2O with CO2 fluxes across temperatures was significantly influenced by moisture conditions at both sites. No temperature or soil moisture response was observed for CH4 fluxes, collectively implying divergent GHG responses to changing climatic conditions. Using Rock-Eval pyrolysis we assessed the organic chemistry of all soil types, which indicated contrasting degrees of stability of carbon sources between sites and with depth which, alongside significant differences in a range of other soil parameters (including organic matter content, total carbon, total nitrogen, electrical conductivity, and pH), which may account for site-specific differences in baseline GHG emissions. Taken together our results are amongst the first measures of GHG temperature sensitivity of tropical savannah soils and demonstrate that soil CO2 emissions are more sensitive to warming and changes in moisture than the emissions of other GHGs, although relatively low compared to responses reported for soils from other tropical ecosystems. This implies that GHG fluxes form savannah soils in the region may be at least partially resilient to climate-induced soil warming compared to other ecosystems.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 14
Holler, S., K. R. Hall, B. Rayfield, G. Zapata-Ríos, D. Kübler, O. Conrad, O. Schmitz, C. Bonannella, T. Hengl, J. Böhner, S. Günter and M. Lippe (2025). "Ubi es, room to roam? Extension of the LPB-RAP model capabilities for potential habitat analysis." Ecological Modelling 501, e111005. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2024.111005
Abstract: The Anthropocene presents challenges for preserving and restoring ecosystems in human-altered landscapes. Policy development and landscape planning must consider long-term developments to maintain and restore functional ecosystems, ideally by using wildlife umbrella species as proxies. Forest and Landscape Restoration (FLR) aims to support both environmental and human well-being. However, the impact of FLR on wildlife umbrella species and their movement potential should be assessed in its potential magnitude for effective conservation. For this purpose, we introduce the LPB-RAP model expanded for potential habitat analysis in smallholder-dominated forest landscapes. It focuses on ecosystem fragmentation and landscape connectivity using Circuit Theory-based methods. LPB-RAP, based on a Monte Carlo framework, enables comprehensive habitat analysis for different SSP-RCP and policy scenarios with a broad analysis spectrum for anthropo- and biosphere aspects. It simulates dichotomous landscapes with and without potential FLR for consideration in long-term planning horizons. As an implementation example serves Ecuador's Esmeraldas province, using the Jaguar (Panthera onca) as a target umbrella species within an SSP2-RCP4.5 narrative. The simulation period covers 2018 to 2100 in annual and hectare resolution. The years 2024 and 2070 were chosen as probing dates for the extended habitat analysis. Results indicate that an agroforestry-based FLR scenario to increase forest cover while benefiting forest ecosystems and people would only marginally improve the movement potential for female Jaguars due to their avoidance of human-disturbed areas. Additional measures, including habitat corridors, are needed to enhance movement potential amidst increasing habitat fragmentation and loss, including stakeholders of all scales.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 14
Htike, M. H., T. K. Fuller, H. Naing, S. Htun and C. R. Griffin (2024). "Exploring ecological and human influences on sun bear distribution in Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary, northern Myanmar." Raffles Bulletin of Zoology 72, 424-437. https://doi.org/10.26107/RBZ-2024-0031
Abstract: Sun bears (Helarctos malayanus) occur in various habitat types, ranging from dense natural forests to degraded forests and agricultural lands, such as oil palm plantations. Yet, the species population is declining due to habitat loss, hunting, and other threats, and the species is classified as threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In Myanmar, where the species’ distribution is not well known, we conducted dry-season surveys using 120 camera-trap stations in a portion of the Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary (HWS) in northern Myanmar between 2016 and 2019 to identify the factors influencing sun bear distribution. From a total of 15,315 trap nights, we obtained 47 independent photo events of sun bears (0.31 captures/100 trap nights) at 9–16% of the stations. We analysed 12 factors that could potentially influence sun bear occupancy and detection probability. Sun bear occupancy increased as distance from patrol stations increased, but it was not affected by distance to roads. Sun bear detection probability increased when the probabilities of tigers (Panthera tigris), poachers, and field team presence were higher, but it was not affected by trespasser presence. Overall, our study did a poor job in identifying the ecological factors affecting sun bear occupancy in HWS. Instead, it highlighted several anthropogenic variables whose influences on sun bear distribution were counterintuitive. Further, many of our results contrasted with reports from other sun bear studies. Sun bears and other wildlife may be experiencing extremely low levels of human harassment and harvest in our study area. Thus, they may not be as sensitive to anthropogenic factors as reported elsewhere.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 7 of 14
Kau, M., B. V. Weckworth, S. Li, ..., G. B. Schaller et al. (2025). "Umbrella, keystone, or flagship? An integrated framework for identifying effective surrogate species." Biological Conservation 303, e111025. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2025.111025
Abstract: The global biodiversity crisis demands targeted conservation strategies that maximize impact despite limited resources. Surrogate species approaches, particularly using umbrella, keystone, and flagship species, offer practical targets for conservation planning that may indirectly benefit ecosystems. However, selecting target species is often hindered by conceptual ambiguities and inconsistent methodologies. To address these challenges, we present an integrative framework that systematically identifies effective surrogate species through Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) combined with big data. Our framework quantifies each species' conservation potential using three indices: an Umbrella index, a Keystone index, and a Flagship index. The Umbrella index assesses habitat overlap using Area of Habitat (AOH) data, the Keystone index is calculated through a network analysis of predator-prey relationships, and the Flagship index analyzes public interest via Google Trends and Baidu Index. These indices are integrated into a composite Effectiveness index using the Multi-Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT) model, with sensitivity analysis to evaluate the robustness of species rankings. We applied this framework to Three-River-Source National Park in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Our results identified the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) as the most effective surrogate species among mammals, ranking first in both the Flagship and Keystone indices, and tenth in the Umbrella index, leading to its top position in the composite Effectiveness index. This data-driven, transparent approach enhances objectivity in surrogate species selection, promising more strategic and impactful biodiversity conservation efforts worldwide.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 8 of 14
Long, B., I. Exploitasia, R. Mahmud, ..., S. M. Brook et al. (2025). "Conservation of the Javan rhinoceros: Lessons from Indonesia and Vietnam.” In M. Melletti, B. Talukdar and D. Balfour, Eds., Rhinos of the World: Ecology, Conservation and Management, 333-349. Cham: Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-67169-2_13
Abstract: The Javan rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus) was historically found across a large proportion of Asia from Java to northeast India. By the 1990s, it was restricted to only two locations: Ujung Kulon National Park in Indonesia and what is now Cat Tien National Park in Vietnam. These two populations took vastly different trajectories over the last 30 years, with the Indonesia population growing and the Vietnam population becoming extirpated. The conservation actions taken for both populations and the species’ conservation needs are presented.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 9 of 14
Mejía-Falla, P. A., A. F. Navia, D. Cardeñosa and J. Tavera (2025). "New species of the genus Hypanus (Dasyatidae) from the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean." Ichthyology & Herpetology 113(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.1643/i2024010
Abstract: A new species of stingray belonging to the genus Hypanus is described in this study based on data collected in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP) region of Colombia. This new species stands out within the genus by its unique spade-shaped disc with a width-to-length ratio ranging from 1.0 to 1.1, whereas its obtuse snout extends 29–30% of the disc width (DW). This species also stands out due to its large size (125 cm DW). Notably, it has three distinctive rows of enlarged denticles on its mid-scapular area, with the central row extending back to the caudal sting. Additionally, it possesses a long tail that measures 2.2–2.5 times the DW, tapering smoothly. Molecular data also revealed significant differences between this new species and its congeners using COI. The phylogenetic analysis recovered Hypanus rubioi, new species, as the sister species to the western Atlantic Longnose Stingray H. guttatus, with an uncorrected genetic distance of 2.27 to 2.94%. The preliminary ecological niche modeling further indicates that this newly described species is likely associated with coastal regions in the ETP, ranging from central Mexico to northern Peru, with backlight and salinity as the most influential variables. These findings contribute to our understanding of the biodiversity within the genus Hypanus and the ecological distribution of this novel species in the ETP. / Se describe una nueva raya del género Hypanus del Pacífico oriental tropical (POT) a partir de material colectado en el Pacífico de Colombia. La nueva especie es única dentro del género por ser de gran tamaño (125 cm de ancho de disco [AD]) con un disco romboidal en forma de pala, su anchura 1,0 a 1,1 veces su longitud, un hocico obtuso, rostro prolongado de punta extendida, 29–30% en AD, tres filas de dentículos agrandados en la parte media de la escapula, la hilera central se extiende hacia atrás hasta el aguijón caudal, cola larga, 2,2–2,5 veces el AD, estrechándose suavemente. Se diferencia de todos sus congéneres también por diferencias moleculares del gen COI. El análisis filogenético encontró que Hypanus rubioi sp. nov. es la especie hermana de la raya laya látigo hocicona del Atlántico occidental H. guttatus, con una distancia genética no corregida de (2,27 a 2,94%). El modelado preliminar del nicho ecológico indica además que esta especie recién descrita está probablemente asociada a regiones costeras del POT, que abarcan desde el centro de México hasta el norte de Perú y donde la luz de fondo y la salinidad fueron las variables con mayor influencia en el resultado. Estos resultados contribuyen a nuestra comprensión de la biodiversidad dentro del género Hypanus y la distribución ecológica de esta nueva especie en el POT.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 10 of 14
Padang, K., Nuruliawati, Z. Afifah, M. I. Andriansyah, A. A. D. Putri, N. Hafizoh, I. Hermawati, A. I. Muktamarianti, S. Yulianti, N. W. Handayani and S. Mardiah (In Press). "Online illegal wildlife trade in Indonesia: Strengthening the regulatory framework and law enforcement." Oryx. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0030605323001667
Abstract: E-commerce applications have significantly changed how people transact with each other. This includes digital advances that drive illegal wildlife trade. In Indonesia, the Conservation Act of 1990 was enacted before the internet revolution and does not, therefore, adequately cover online illegal wildlife trade. In this study we identified wildlife traded illegally through advertisements published by five large national e-commerce companies and one social media platform operating in Indonesia, using 39 keywords. We also analysed data on wildlife cybercrime court case outcomes, associated criminal networks and their modus operandi. Over 12 months, we found 996 advertisements for wildlife and wildlife products, including of 45 nationally protected species, from 421 accounts. Amongst the six platforms monitored, Facebook Marketplace had the highest illegal wildlife trade traffic. We found that those prosecuted for online illegal wildlife trade were given low sentences. Our analysis of wildlife legislation, focus group discussions and expert interviews showed that the Government of Indonesia Trade Law (2014) and Law on Electronic Information and Transactions (2008) cannot be used to prosecute online illegal wildlife trade cases because these laws do not acknowledge regulations for protected species. Our study emphasizes the urgency of revising the Conservation Act and changing the definition of trade to include advertisements of protected species. We recommend development of screening tools for advertisements and accounts on e-commerce platforms, review of community/user guidelines to prohibit trade of protected species, and strengthening the approach of combining multi-context laws with stakeholder cooperation to prosecute online illegal wildlife trade cases.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 11 of 14
Petters, J. and F. Bauer (2024). "Territorial behavior in female spiny lava lizard, Tropidurus spinulosus (Cope, 1862) in Cerro Arco, district of Tobatí (Dept. of Cordillera, Paraguay)." Boletín de la Asociación Herpetológica Española 35(2), 31-37. https://www.herpetologica.org/BAHE/35_2/BAHE_35-2[H_3533].pdf
Abstract: Este estudio reporta una observación fortuita del comportamiento territorial y encuentros agonísticos entre dos hembras de Tropidurus spinulosus en Cerro Arco, Paraguay. La observación, que duró aproximadamente 90 minutos, reveló una compleja exhibición de comunicación visual, que incluía balanceo de la cabeza, flexiones y distensión de la región gular. Las hembras se involucraron en secuencias repetidas de patrones motores y visuales, incluyendo mordeduras y persecuciones, con una hembra finalmente dominando a la otra y desplazándola del área. Los comportamientos observados son consistentes con los reportados en otras especies de Tropidurus y resaltan la importancia de la defensa territorial en las hembras. Este estudio contribuye al conocimiento limitado sobre los patrones de comportamiento de T. spinulosus, particularmente en lo que respecta a las interacciones hembra-hembra, y subraya la necesidad de más investigación sobre la ecología del comportamiento de esta especie. Los hallazgos de este estudio pueden informar los esfuerzos de conservación y resaltar la importancia de evaluaciones rápidas de la biodiversidad para comprender mejor los patrones de comportamiento normales y anormales en las especies silvestres.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 12 of 14
Romero-Muñoz, A., B. Bleyhl, A. Benítez-López, ..., L. Villalba et al. (2025). "Hunting and habitat destruction drive widespread functional declines of top predators in a global deforestation hotspot." Diversity and Distributions 31(2), e70003. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.70003
Abstract: Aim: We investigated the effects of habitat destruction and hunting on the functional decline of top predators, specifically jaguar and puma, in the Gran Chaco. Location: The 1.1 million km2 South American Gran Chaco. Methods: We used spatially explicit, individual-based models for jaguars and pumas, incorporating detailed information on habitat suitability and hunting pressure. We parameterized our models with literature data and calibrated them through a Delphi expert-elicitation process. We simulated population trajectories under a hypothetical, threat-free, baseline versus different threat scenarios. Results: Under combined threats of hunting and habitat loss, jaguar and puma populations declined by 88% and 80%, respectively, compared to range contractions of 48% and 35%, respectively. Both species remained regionally viable, particularly due to large protected areas, which acted as population sources but were surrounded by strong sinks. We observed a widespread weakening of the top carnivore guild function, with at least one species extirpated across 67% of the Chaco and strong declines (> 80%; considered here as functional loss) for both species concurrently across 61% of their area of historical co-occurrence. Hunting was a much stronger driver of population declines (88% and 77% for jaguars and pumas, respectively) compared to habitat destruction (26% and 22%). Main Conclusions: Large predators play key functional roles in ecosystems. Our findings reveal that these functions can be lost over vast areas due to the combined effects of habitat destruction and hunting, with functional loss extending far beyond the areas of species' extirpation. Very large protected areas, like Kaa-Iya in Bolivia, are crucial for maintaining viable populations of top predators, highlighting the pressing need for increased protection and connectivity in the Chaco to prevent further trophic downgrading. More generally, our research underscores the value of spatially detailed, mechanistic models for disentangling the complex dynamics of multiple threats on ecological functioning at broad scales.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 13 of 14
Wilhelm, C. S., A. Desvars-Larrive and C. Walzer (2025). "Mixed-method analysis of published national one health strategic plans." iScience 28(2), e111803. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2025.111803
Abstract: In this article, we used a mixed analytical framework to assess existing National One Health Strategic Plans (NOHSPs) and evaluate their alignment with recognized One Health principles. Eight NOHSPs were examined following a qualitative content analysis and key One Health characteristics were identified. Quantitative text analysis was performed to assess unigrams and bigrams frequencies across the NOHSPs. Network analysis was conducted to explore the conceptual relationships surrounding the term "health" in each document. Results revealed varying levels of alignment with contemporary One Health principles. Notably, while all plans recognized the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration and environmental health, specific actions were inconsistently anticipated. Additionally, disparities in addressing issues such as climate change, anthropogenic drivers, and non-communicable diseases were evident. Overall, the study offers insights into the strengths and gaps in existing NOHSPs. Moreover, it provides a flexible analytical framework to guide stakeholders in developing and evaluating future One Health initiatives.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 14 of 14
Woods, M. B., W. D. Halliday, S. Balshine and F. Juanes (2025). "Boat noise reduces vocalization rate and alters vocal characteristics in wild plainfin midshipman fish." Marine Pollution Bulletin 212, e117563. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117563
Abstract: Anthropogenic noise pollution has been accelerating at an alarming rate, greatly altering aquatic soundscapes. Animals use various mechanisms to avoid acoustic masking in noisy environments, including altering calling rates or the frequency (pitch) of their vocalizations or increasing the amplitude (loudness) of their vocalizations (i.e., exhibiting the Lombard effect), but few studies have examined this vocal plasticity in fishes. We tested the effects of in situ motorboat noise on the agonistic and mating vocalizations of nesting plainfin midshipman fish (Porichthys notatus), and found that midshipman fish reduce and alter their vocalizations in the presence of boat noise. During boat noise, fish produced four times fewer agonistic vocalizations compared to ambient control periods. The fish also increased the frequency of mating hums and the amplitude of grunts and growls during boat noise. This study is the first to experimentally demonstrate the Lombard effect in fishes using real motorboat noise.
Grey Literature Citations
Grey Literature Citation 1 of 6
Marka Cololo Copacabana Antaquilla (2024). Sumanu. Plan de Vida de las Markas Agua Blanca, Cololo, Copacabana, Antaquilla y Puyo Puyo de Nación Pukina. Resumen Ejecutivo. La Paz, Bolivia: Marka Cololo Copacabana Antaquilla and Wildlife Conservation Society, Bolivia. https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5150500000.aspx
Grey Literature Citation 2 of 6
Kennedy, T. J., O. Dufourneaud, M. P. Castillo et al. (2024). Ocean Decade Manual for Non-Governmental Organizations. The Ocean Decade Series no. 54. Paris: UNESCO. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000392198
Grey Literature Citation 3 of 6
Wallace, R. B., A. Reinaga, J. Groenendijk, ..., G. Ayala, ..., G. Zapata-Ríos et al. (2025). Assessing an Aquatic Icon: A Range Wide Priority Setting Exercise for the Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis). La Paz, Bolivia: Wildlife Conservation Society. https://doi.org/10.19121/2024.Report.51079
Abstract: This book represents the result of a Range-Wide Priority Setting (RWPS) Exercise applied to assess the distribution and conservation status of the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) across its range. For this exercise, an in-person workshop was held in 2018 in Puerto Maldonado, Peru, bringing together a group of specialists to organize all available information on the species, currently dispersed across different sources, and translate it into a conservation strategy. One of the outcomes of this exercise is the definition of Giant Otter Priority Conservation Units (GOPCUs), considering threats, distribution, relative abundance, and other potentially important factors. Thus, the GOPCUs represent specific sites for long-term conservation investment in giant otters, as well as studies and population monitoring on behavior, reproduction, and distribution. This giant otter RWPS book is organized into 17 chapters: an introduction chapter, then a chapter covering general knowledge about the species, followed by a chapter which presents the methodology applied. The next twelve chapters summarize information about giant otters and report on the exercise conducted for each of the countries of current and historical species occurrence, and the final two chapters address, respectively, the results, and the discussion, as well as recommendations related to the RWPS exercise. We hope that this RWPS document will guide the actions and strategies for giant otter conservation more efficiently and effectively among all key stakeholders involved.
Grey Literature Citation 4 of 6
Wallace, R. B., A. Reinaga, J. Groenendijk, ..., G. Ayala, ..., G. Zapata-Ríos et al. (2025). Avaliando um Ícone Aquático: Um Exercício de Definição de Prioridades ao Longo da Distribuição da Ariranha (Pteronura brasiliensis): Wildlife Conservation Society. https://doi.org/10.19121/2024.Report.51128
Abstract: Este livro representa o resultado de um exercício de Definição de Prioridades ao Longo da Distribuição aplicado para avaliar a distribuição e estado de conservação da ariranha (Pteronura brasiliensis) em toda sua distribuição. Para esse exercício, uma oficina presencial foi realizada em 2018 em Puerto Maldonado, Peru, reunindo um grupo de especialistas para organizar toda a informação disponível sobre a espécie, atualmente dispersa em diversas fontes, e traduzir essa informação em uma estratégia de conservação. Um dos resultados deste exercício é a definição de Unidades de Conservação Prioritárias para a Ariranha (UCPA) considerando ameaças, distribuição, abundância relativa e outros fatores potencialmente importantes. Assim, as UCPAs representam sítios específicos para investimento em conservação de ariranhas a longo prazo, bem como estudos e monitoramento de população sobre comportamento, reprodução e distribuição. Este livro de Definição de Prioridades da Ariranha está organizado em 17 capítulos: um capítulo introdutório é seguido por um capítulo revisando o conhecimento geral sobre a espécie e um terceiro que apresenta a metodologia aplicada. Os próximos 12 capítulos resumem a informação sobre ariranhas e reportam sobre o exercício conduzido para cada um dos países de ocorrência atual ou histórica; os dois capítulos finais apresentam, respectivamente, os resultados e a discussão, assim como recomendações relativas ao exercício de Definição de Prioridades. Esperamos que esse documento oriente as ações e estratégias para a conservação de ariranhas mais eficiente e efetivamente entre todos os atores envolvidos.
Grey Literature Citation 5 of 6
Wallace, R. B., A. Reinaga, J. Groenendijk, ..., G. Ayala, ..., G. Zapata-Ríos et al. (2025). Evaluación de un Icono Acuático: Un Ejercicio de Establecimiento de Prioridades para la Nutria Gigante (Pteronura brasiliensis): W. C. Society. https://doi.org/10.19121/2024.Report.51125
Abstract: Este libro representa el resultado de un Ejercicio de Establecimiento de Prioridades en el Área de Distribución (RWPS, por sus siglas en inglés), para evaluar la distribución y el estado de conservación de la nutria gigante (Pteronura brasiliensis) en toda su área de distribución. Para este ejercicio, se realizó un taller presencial, en 2018, en Puerto Maldonado, Perú, que reunió a un grupo de especialistas para organizar toda la información disponible sobre la especie, que hasta el momento se encontraba dispersa en diferentes fuentes, y transformarla en una estrategia de conservación. Uno de los resultados de este ejercicio ha sido la definición de Unidades Prioritarias de Conservación de la Nutria Gigante (UPCNG), considerando las amenazas, su distribución, abundancia relativa y otros factores potencialmente importantes. Así, las UPCNG representan sitios específicos para realizar inversiones de conservación a largo plazo en nutrias gigantes, así como estudios y el monitoreo poblacional sobre comportamiento, reproducción y distribución. El libro está organizado en 17 capítulos: un capítulo de introducción, le sigue otro de conocimientos generales sobre la especie, seguido de otro en el que se presenta la metodología aplicada. Los doce capítulos siguientes resumen la información sobre la nutria gigante e informan sobre el ejercicio realizado para cada uno de los países de presencia actual e histórica de la especie. Los dos últimos capítulos abordan, respectivamente, los resultados y la discusión, así como las recomendaciones relacionadas con el ejercicio de RWPS. Esperamos que este documento guíe las acciones y estrategias de conservación de la nutria gigante, de manera más eficiente y efectiva, entre todos los actores clave involucrados.
Grey Literature Citation 6 of 6
Wildlife Conservation Society, Bolivia, Consejo Indígena del Pueblo Tacana (CIPTA), Consejo Regional Tsimane’ Mosetene (CRTM), Marka Cololo Copacabana Antaquilla – Nación Pukina (MCCA-NP), Central Indígena del Pueblo Leco de Apolo (CIPLA), Organización del Pueblo Indígena Mosetén (OPIM), Pueblo Indígena San José de Uchupiamonas (PI-SJU), Capitanía del Pueblo Indígena Araona (CAPIA), Comunidades Indígenas Tacanas del Río Madre de Dios (CITRMD), Pueblo Indígena Leco y Comunidades Originarias de Larecaja (PILCOL), and Comunidad Ese Ejja Eyiyoquibo (CEEE) (2024). Memoria: Encuentro de Jóvenes Indígenas del Paisaje Madidi. La Paz, Bolivia: Wildlife Conservation Society, Bolivia. https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5150200000.aspx
Abstract: El 11, 12 y 13 de julio de 2024, se desarrolló, en la localidad de Huajchilla, el Encuentro de Jóvenes Indígenas del Paisaje Madidi, que tuvo como objetivo establecer una red de liderazgo, comunicación y difusión de los jóvenes de pueblos indígenas del paisaje Madidi, a partir de la evaluación de los resultados de los proyectos: “Bosques para Nuestro Futuro” y “Contando Nuestra Propia Historia”. El primero financiado por The National Geographic Society y el segundo por el Fondo de WCS para Socios Locales (LCPF), en coordinación con la Central de Pueblos Indígenas de La Paz (CPILAP).
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 3-9 February 2025
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 6
Ayebare, S., N. A. Gilbert, A. J. Plumptre, S. Nampindo and E. F. Zipkin (2025). "Improving population analysis using indirect count data: A case study of chimpanzees and elephants." Ecosphere 16(2), e70150. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecs2.70150
Abstract: Estimating spatiotemporal patterns of population density is a primary objective of wildlife monitoring programs. However, estimating density is challenging for species that are elusive and/or occur in habitats with limited visibility. In such situations, indirect measures (e.g., nests, dung) can serve as proxies for counts of individuals. Scientists have developed approaches to estimate population density using these “indirect count” data, although current methods do not adequately account for variation in sign production and spatial patterns of animal density. In this study, we describe a modified hierarchical distance sampling model that maximizes the information content of indirect count data using Bayesian inference. We apply our model to assess the status of chimpanzee and elephant populations using counts of nests and dung, respectively, which were collected along transects in 2007 and 2021 in western Uganda. Compared with conventional methods, our modeling framework produced more precise estimates of covariate effects on expected animal density by accounting for both long-term and recent variations in animal abundance and enabled the estimation of the number of days that animal signs remained visible. We estimated a 0.98 probability that chimpanzee density in the region had declined by at least 10% and a 0.99 probability that elephant density had increased by 50% from 2007 to 2021. We recommend applying our modified hierarchical distance sampling model in the analysis of indirect count data to account for spatial variation in animal density, assess population change between survey periods, estimate the decay rate of animal signs, and obtain more precise density estimates than achievable with traditional methods.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 6
Diamant, S., C. Bosio, J. Rambahiniarison, ..., R. Bennett et al. (In Press). "Occurrence of mobulid rays in Northwest Madagascar." Environmental Biology of Fishes. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10641-025-01674-y
Abstract: The waters around Nosy Be in northwest Madagascar are well-known for the occurrence of large planktivores, such as whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) and Omura’s whales (Balaenoptera omurai). Between 2016 and 2022, sighting data on mobulid rays were opportunistically collected during tourism activities. Additional sources, including citizen science submissions, tourism operator reports, and social media records, were used to compile sightings of three mobulid ray species. A total of 255 encounters were documented, with Mobula mobular (n = 165) being the most common, followed by M. birostris (n = 60) and M. kuhlii (n = 30). Notably, the absence of confirmed M. alfredi records since 2015 suggests a potential local decline. This study highlights Nosy Be as a habitat for mobulid rays and emphasises the necessity for further species monitoring, ongoing identification of potential threats, and management initiatives aiming at reducing mortality from gillnet fishing.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 6
Gorné, L. D., J. Aguirre-Gutiérrez, F. C. Souza, ..., E. Vilanova et al. (Early View). "Use and misuse of trait imputation in ecology: The problem of using out-of-context imputed values." Ecography, e07520. https://doi.org/10.1111/ecog.07520
Abstract: Despite the progress in the measurement and accessibility of plant trait information, acquiring sufficiently complete data from enough species to answer broad-scale questions in plant functional ecology and biogeography remains challenging. A common way to overcome this challenge is by imputation, or ‘gap-filling' of trait values. This has proven appropriate when focusing on the overall patterns emerging from the database being imputed. However, some applications force the imputation procedure out of its original scope, using imputed values independently from the imputation context, and specific trait values for a given species are used as input for computing new variables. We tested the performance of three widely used imputation methods (Bayesian hierarchical probabilistic matrix factorization, multiple imputation by chained equations with predictive mean matching, and Rphylopars) on a database of tropical tree and shrub traits. By applying a leave-one-out procedure, we assessed the accuracy and precision of the imputed values and found that out-of-context use of imputed values may bias the estimation of different variables. We also found that low redundancy (i.e. low predictability of a new value on the basis of existing values) in the dataset, not uncommon for empirical datasets, is likely the main cause of low accuracy and precision in the imputed values. We therefore suggest the use of a leave-one-out procedure to test the quality of the imputed values before any out-of-context application of the imputed values, and make practical recommendations to avoid the misuse of imputation procedures. Furthermore, we recommend not publishing gap-filled datasets, publishing instead only the empirical data, together with the imputation method applied and the corresponding script to reproduce the imputation. This will help avoid the spread of imputed data, whose accuracy, precision, and source are difficult to assess and track, into the public domain.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 6
Keatts, L., A. Ondzie, M. Perrin, M. Cournarie and S. H. Olson (2024). "A wildlife mortality monitoring network that promotes human and wildlife health". One Health Case Studies: Practical Applications of the Transdisciplinary Approach. S. Cork and J. Lindenmayer. Wallingford, England: CABI. 58-67. https://doi.org/10.1079/9781800629523.0000
Abstract: Known for its considerable human mortality rate, Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) requires swift outbreak detection. It is similarly deadly for great apes. During an outbreak of Ebola in the Republic of Congo in 2005, the human mortality rate was over 80% and an estimated 5000 great apes died. In partnership with the government, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) worked with hunters, forest communities, and rangers to set up an early warning system for EVD by monitoring wildlife health. The system monitors and samples wildlife carcasses through a network of thousands of hunters covering more than 30,000 sq. km in northern Congo, where 60% of the world’s gorillas live, and promotes best practices in risk reduction for communities reliant on bushmeat for protein. Setting up the system involved three stages – establishing a wildlife mortality reporting network by building trust with communities, encouraging hunters to report observations and engaging necessary stakeholders; building capacity for rapid and safe carcass sampling in response to reports; and developing rapid diagnostics and reporting of results back to communities in conjunction with reinforcing awareness of health risks of eating carcasses. Staff were trained across the remote region in safe sampling techniques, and capacity developed for ebolavirus testing in-country, reducing time-to-results from weeks to minutes thanks to carcass-side testing with a Biomeme portable unit. This network monitors and protects the health of both wildlife and humans, particularly vital in a region with limited resources and accessibility to healthcare and where communities are reliant on bushmeat for protein.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 6
López-Casas, S., C. Rogeliz, V. Atencio-Garcia, C. Moreno-Arias, D. Arenas, K. Rivera-Coley and L. F. Jimenez-Segura (In Press). "Spawning grounds model for neotropical potamodromous fishes: Conservation and management implications." Frontiers in Environmental Science 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fenvs.2025.1425804
Abstract: Freshwater fish migrations are an important natural process. All South American main river basins have potamodromous fish that migrate upstream to spawn. These species withstand fisheries, therefore are socially, economically, and ecologically important. Hydropower is the most important source of low-carbon energy in South America, where, in turn, the most diverse and endemic riverine fish fauna inhabits. Nevertheless, hydropower development does not consider spawning areas nor cumulative impacts in fish migratory routes at a macro-basin scale in their Environmental Impact Assessments. To show the potential use of early planning tools at macro-basin scale to ensure that freshwater ecosystems remain functional in supporting fish migrations, a distribution model of potential spawning areas of migratory fish species was built, using the Magdalena basin in Colombia as a case study. Methods: Potential spawning areas for 15 migratory fish species were estimated using ichthyoplankton sampling records, embryonic and larval time development, water velocity and average flow times estimations. Spawning distribution grounds, analyzed for species diversity and richness, were overlaid with the national hydropower projects portfolio to estimate the potential loss of reproduction areas due to hydropower dam development. Our basin-wide model calculated spawning areas for all of the species identified in the ichthyoplankton samples, using available data on larval and embryonic development times. Our model estimated the potential impacts of projected hydropower development in the basin and revealed spawning grounds encompassing 11,370 km of rivers, spanning Strahler orders three to eight, which represented 11.2% of the entire river network. These areas overlapped with 80 hydropower projects (56.7% of the total), with a projected 45.0% loss in reproduction areas for potamodromous species. Conclusions: Management measures to promote freshwater fish species conservation must avoid river fragmentation and critical habitat loss, whilst promoting habitat connectivity. Our model provides a solution for data-limited basins to analyze fragmentation impacts from hydropower dam development. It supports science-based decision-making for choosing dams configurations that minimize impacts (connectivity and reproductive habitat loss), whilst ensuring that rivers continue to support migratory fish for better conservation and food security outcomes.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 6
Shajahan, N., W. D. Halliday, D. R. Barclay, ... and S. J. Insley (2025). "Wind-driven ambient noise characteristics in the Western Canadian arctic." JASA Express Letters 5(2), e026001. https://doi.org/10.1121/10.0035591
Abstract: An analysis of ambient noise data collected from seven locations in the western Canadian Arctic at varying depths (30–350 m) during ice-free seasons over a period of five years (2018–2022) has been conducted. The measured noise level correlates well with wind speed after the removal of contaminated (sources other than wind) noise data. The characteristics of wind noise are predicted by fitting a multi-parameter empirical model to data. Results from the model are compared with existing empirical wind noise models and validated using data collected from one of the measurement locations.
Grey Literature Citations
Grey Literature Citation 1 of 2
Arias, P., A. Balcazar, A. F. Carvalho, M. da Silva, ..., D. Morales, Y. Murillo, Y. Olivera, D. Paiva, M. Penagos, V. Rocha, A. S. Rojas, C. Ribadeneira, P. Torres and R. Vento (2024). Análisis Regional Sobre Regulaciones Nacionales, Capacidades Institucionales y Mecanismos de Coordinación Relacionado al Control del Comercio Ilegal de Fauna Silvestre en Aeropuertos de Colombia, Ecuador, Perú, Brasil y Bolivia. Quito, Ecuador: Programa Contra el Tráfico de Vida Silvestre and Wildlife Conservation Society, Andes-Amazonía-Orinoquía. https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5149700000.aspx
Grey Literature Citation 2 of 2
Jaramillo Botero, A. M. (2024). Guía de Aves Reserva Natural Riomanso. Cali, Colombia: Reserva Natural Riomanso, Wildlife Conservation Society, Colombia, and Más Biomas SAS. https://doi.org/10.19121/2024.Report.51492
Abstract: La Guía de aves de la Reserva Natural Riomanso es el resultado de un esfuerzo de conservación liderado por la sociedad civil, que evidencia los logros alcanzados al proteger este territorio. La cartilla documenta la diversidad de avifauna de la reserva y resalta los beneficios de su gestión bajo los criterios de Otras Medidas Efectivas de Conservación Basadas en Áreas (OMEC). Este material no solo es una herramienta para la educación y divulgación, sino también un testimonio del papel clave de las iniciativas privadas y comunitarias en la conservación de la biodiversidad en Colombia.
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 27 January-2 February 2025
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 11
Alders, R., T. C. Mettenleiter,…, C. Walzer et al. (Lancet-PPATS Commission on Prevention of Viral Spillover)(2024). "Draft of WHO Pandemic Agreement plays down primary prevention." The Lancet 403(10426), 525-526. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(24)00066-7
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 11
Ardiantiono, N. J. Deere, D. J. I. Seaman, U. Mamat Rahmat, E. Ramadiyanta, M. I. Lubis, ..., D. Melvern, Tarmizi et al. (2025). "Improved cost-effectiveness of species monitoring programs through data integration." Current Biology 35(2), 391-397. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2024.11.051
Abstract: Conservation initiatives strive for reliable and cost-effective species monitoring.1,2,3 However, resource constraints mean management decisions are overly reliant on data derived from single methodologies, resulting in taxonomic or geographic biases.4 We introduce a data integration framework to optimize species monitoring in terms of spatial representation, the reliability of biodiversity metrics, and the cost of implementation, focusing on tigers and their principal prey (sambar deer and wild pigs). We combined information from unstructured ranger patrols, systematic sign transects, and camera traps in Sumatra?s largest remaining tropical forest and used integrated community occupancy models to analyze this multifaceted dataset in a unified way. Data integration improved the precision of species occupancy estimates by 14%?42%, enhanced the accuracy of species inferences, expanded the spatial scope of inference to the landscape level, and cut operational costs up to 51-fold. Our framework demonstrates the underappreciated value of integrating unstructured observations with monitoring data derived from traditional wildlife surveys.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 11
Beltrán-Saavedra, L. F., D. A. Arteaga-Voigt and G. E. Poquechoque-Buezo (2025). "First morphological and genetic report of the hard tick, Amblyomma tigrinum (Acari: Ixodidae) in the Andean cat, Leopardus jacobita / Primer registro morfológico y genético de la garrapata dura, Amblyomma tigrinum (Acari: Ixodidae) en el gato andino, Leopardus jacobita." Therya Notes 6(1), 17-21. https://doi.org/10.12933/therya_notes-25-192
Abstract: The Andean cat (Leopardus jacobita Cornalia 1865) is one of the rarest feline species in the world and one of the most threatened in America, where no ixodofauna are known to parasitize these small cats. Here describe the morphological and genetic findings of hard tick specimens in an Andean cat. Four hard tick specimens (2 females and 2 males) were collected from an Andean cat in the locality of Patacamaya, Department of La Paz, Bolivia. DNA was extracted using 1 or 2 of the tick legs, causing minimal damage to the specimens. Morphological and genetic characteristics corresponded to Amblyomma trigrinum, with an identity percentage of 99.43 %. This research is the first morphological and genetic report of adult hard ticks of the species A. tigrinum parasitizing an Andean cat, extending the distribution of this tick to the Bolivian biogeographic region of high mountains and the Altiplano in the La Paz department, and emphasizes the circulation of this zoonotic parasite in the country. / El gato andino (Leopardus jacobita Cornalia 1865) es una de las especies felinas más raras del mundo y de las más amenazadas de América, además de no conocerse la ixodofauna que parasita a estos pequeños felinos. Aquí se describen morfológica y genéticamente ejemplares de garrapatas duras en un gato andino. Se recolectaron 4 especímenes de garrapatas duras (2 hembras y 2 machos) de 1 gato andino de la localidad de Patacamaya en el departamento de La Paz, Bolivia. Los ejemplares fueron identificados por sus características morfológicas y genéticas. El ADN se extrajo utilizando 1 o 2 patas de las garrapatas con un daño mínimo a los ejemplares. Las características morfológicas y genéticas correspondieron a Amblyomma trigrinum, con un porcentaje de identidad del 99.43 %. Esta investigación constituye el primer reporte morfológico y genético de garrapatas duras en estado adulto de la especie A. tigrinum parasitando a un gato andino, ampliando la distribución de esta garrapata a la región biogeográfica boliviana de alta montaña y altiplano en el departamento de La Paz, y enfatiza la circulación de este parásito zoonótico en el país.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 11
Desvars-Larrive, A., W. Ruppitsch, S. Lepuschitz, M. P. Szostak, J. Spergser, A. T. Feßler, S. Schwarz, S. Monecke, R. Ehricht, C. Walzer and I. Loncaric (2024). "Résistance aux antibiotiques en milieu urbain: Le rat surmulot comme sentinelle? / Antibiotic resistance in the urban environment: The brown rat as sentinel?" Bulletin de l'Académie Vétérinaire de France 177, e71094. https://doi.org/10.3406/bavf.2024.71094
Abstract: Le rôle des rats bruns urbains en tant que porteurs de bactéries résistantes aux antimicrobiens a été peu étudié. Notre étude visait à évaluer la prévalence de la résistance aux antimicrobiens chez les rats urbains sur deux sites densément peuplés de Vienne en Autriche. De 2016 à 2017, nous avons échantillonné l'intestin et le nasopharynx de 62 rats bruns. La culture et la caractérisation des isolats ont été réalisées à l'aide d'une combinaison de techniques microbiologiques et génétiques. Nous avons mis en évidence, chez 9/62 rats, huit souches d'Escherichia coli multirésistantes ainsi que deux souches d'Enterobacter xiangfangensis ST114 (complexe Enterobacter cloacae) productrices de New Delhi métallo-β-lactamase, présentant une résistance étendue aux antibiotiques. De plus, 44 staphylocoques résistants à la méticilline, appartenant à sept espèces, ont été identifiés chez 37 rats. Notre étude démontre le rôle potentiel des rats urbains comme réservoir de bactéries multirésistantes et l'importance des mesures de contrôle des rongeurs en ville. / Despite their ubiquitous presence, the role of urban brown rats as carriers of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria has received limited attention. Our study aimed to estimate the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among urban rats at two densely populated locations in Vienna, Austria. During 2016-2017, we captured and sampled the intestine and nasopharynx of 62 brown rats. Culture and subsequent characterisation of the isolates and their antimicrobial profiles were conducted using a combination of microbiological and genetic techniques. Overall, in 9/62 rats, we evidenced the presence of eight multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli strains and two extensively drug-resistant New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing Enterobacter xiangfangensis ST114 (Enterobacter cloacae complex) strains. Furthermore, 44 methicillin-resistant staphylococci were identified in 37 rats, representing seven distinct staphylococcal species. Our study underscores the potential of urban brown rats as reservoir of multidrug-resistant bacteria and the importance of effective rodent control measures to ensure public health in urban settings.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 11
International Tree Mortality Network (including E. Vilanova) (Early View). "Towards a global understanding of tree mortality." New Phytologist. https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.20407
Abstract: Summary Rates of tree mortality are increasing globally, with implications for forests and climate. Yet, how and why these trends vary globally remain unknown. Developing a comprehensive assessment of global tree mortality will require systematically integrating data from ground-based long-term forest monitoring with large-scale remote sensing. We surveyed the metadata from 466?865 forest monitoring plots across 89 countries and five continents using questionnaires and discuss the potential to use these to estimate tree mortality trends globally. Our survey shows that the area monitored has increased steadily since 1960, but we also identify many regions with limited ground-based information on tree mortality. The integration of existing ground-based forest inventories with remote sensing and modelling can potentially fill those gaps, but this requires development of technical solutions and agreements that enable seamless flows of information from the field to global assessments of tree mortality. A truly global monitoring effort should promote fair and equitable collaborations, transferring funding to and empowering scientists from less wealthy regions. Increasing interest in forests as a natural climate solution, the advancement of new technologies and world-wide connectivity means that now a global monitoring system of tree mortality is not just urgently needed but also possible.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 11
Njana, M. A. (2025). "Ecological significance of protected areas in the tropical mountains of Eastern Africa." Ecological Indicators 170, e113010. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.113010
Abstract: Protected areas (PAs) are a tool and strategy for achieving multiple forest management objectives. This study employed ecological indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of PAs in tropical mountains of Eastern Africa. The study also assessed the performance of existing height-diameter allometries and developed new height-diameter allometries. The study was conducted in the Eastern Arc Mountains (EAMs) located in East Africa. Fifty percent of all recorded tree species were exclusively concentrated in the PAs category I. Tree dimensions and species diversity were also outstandingly higher in the PA category I than in the PA category IV and other land uses. The species-specific structure of the tree population in the PA category I was an inverse J-shape, which implies a large number of trees in smaller diameter classes and tree frequencies decrease as diameter classes increase. However, this was not the case for the PA category IV and other land uses. Furthermore, carbon storage varied statistically significantly between PA categories and between PAs and other land uses where PA category I had disproportionally higher carbon storage. The study also highlights that carbon pools are either affected positively or negatively by ecological and physical factors. The newly developed height-diameter allometries out-performed the existing allometries hence improving the prediction of tree height and biomass in the EAMs. The bottom line of this study is that the PAs in tropical mountains in Eastern Africa and beyond are critical in the conservation of tree species and have net positive effects on forest structure, carbon storage and other ecosystem services. However, at a minimum effectiveness of PAs is dependent on optimal supply of management resources, conservation action planning and successful execution of conservation action plans. The study also provides policy and management recommendations.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 7 of 11
Platt, S. G., S. Boutxakittilah, R. N. van Zalinge and L. McCaskill (2024). "Progress towards restoring a viable population of the critically endangered Siamese crocodile to the Xe Champhone Wetlands in Lao PDR (2023-2024)." Crocodile Specialist Group Newsletter 43(4), 18-24. https://www.iucncsg.org/pages/Publications.html
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 8 of 11
Rainwater, T. R., R. Singh, S. L. Bock, P. M. Wilkinson, S. G. Platt, B. Song and C. M. Bodinof Jachowski (In Press). "Nest attendance by American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) in coastal South Carolina." Herpetologica. https://doi.org/10.1655/Herpetologica-D-23-00037
Abstract: Among the Crocodylia, maternal females of most species are known to attend their nests during the egg incubation period. However, the ecological and environmental factors driving nest attendance in these reptiles remain poorly understood. In 2019, we conducted a study in coastal South Carolina, USA, to examine temporal patterns of nest attendance by American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis), investigate the site and environmental factors influencing nest attendance, and characterize behaviors exhibited by attending females. We used automated game cameras to monitor American Alligator nests throughout the incubation period and collected a suite of physical and environmental measurements at nest sites and associated habitat. Female attendance was modeled using generalized linear mixed-effects models with a binomial error distribution. Overall, nest attendance occurred for only a brief portion (1%) of the nesting period. The primary factors influencing nest attendance were day since oviposition, time of day, rainfall, and distance of nests to nearest water, with most attendance occurring during the first week postoviposition, at the end of incubation preceding hatchling emergence, at nighttime, shortly following rain events, and when nests were closer to water. Salinity of nearest water exhibited a weak effect, with the probability of nest attendance slightly decreasing as salinity increased. Maternal females exhibited four primary behaviors associated with nest attendance: crawling on the nest (16.2%), guarding the nest from a distance (62.2%), defending the nest (2.5%), and opening the nest and transporting young to water (19.0%), although temporal and behavioral patterns of nest attendance varied among individual females. At 8 (80%) of 10 nests predated by Raccoons (Procyon lotor), the maternal female returned and attempted to repair the nest. Nest defense by female American Alligators was low relative to the number of nest visits by egg and hatchling predators and other mammals. Collectively, our study reveals both environmental and nest site–level factors influence female nest attendance and, more broadly, demonstrates the importance of spatial and temporal scales of observation in studies of crocodilian maternal care.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 9 of 11
Septiadi, L., I. H. Basyir, F. W. Pratama, R. Priyono, Z. A. Bayu, Marwanto, F. Surahmat and R. A. Surya (2025). "Range extension and first morphological data of the elusive Brooks’ Nose-horned Lizard, Harpesaurus brooksi (Parker, 1924), from the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra." Herpetology Notes 18(1), 71-91. https://www.biotaxa.org/hn/article/view/85207
Abstract: Sumatra, an island with a rich yet incompletely documented herpetofauna, continues to yield new discoveries, emphasising the significant potential for uncovering poorly known species. Here we report on the discovery of elusive and poorly known Brooks’ Nose-horned Lizards (Harpesaurus brooksi) and a range extension from the southwest–southern part of Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatera landscape. We utilised data from various surveys over the past decades, social media posts, websites, and field surveys that showed lizards were mainly found on the northern part of Bengkulu near Kerinci Seblat National Park and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. Based on confirmed photographic evidence, we report 10 sightings of H. brooksi in 2007, 2014, 2023 and 2024, including the discovery of a both male and female individuals and shape variation of rostral appendages that had never been previously reported in detail. These findings extend the distributional range and yield morphological and ecological information of Brooks’ Nose-horned Lizard, highlighting the diversity that has been overlooked in this region.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 10 of 11
Unwin, S., B. Ssebide and C. Walzer (2024). "Managing ape health: Informing interventions". In A. Lanjouw, H. Rainer and A. White, Eds., State of the Apes: Disease, Health and Ape Conservation. Volume 5, 108-141. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press and Arcus Foundation. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009071727.005
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 11 of 11
White, K. S., B. Cadsand, S. D. Côté, ... and J. Berger (2025). "Mountain sentinels in a changing world: Review and conservation implications of weather and climate effects on mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus)." Global Ecology and Conservation 57, e03364. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e03364
Abstract: Climate change is occurring at an accelerated rate in high-elevation alpine and mountain ecosystems. Cold-adapted, mountain species are at risk due to forecasted change and knowledge is needed to respond to current and future conservation challenges. Mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus) are an iconic species of North American mountain cultures and landscapes, and due to specialized adaptations for life in cold, mountainous environments they are particularly sensitive to changes in weather and climate. As sentinels of change in alpine ecosystems, the study of mountain goats offers insight into the ecological effects and conservation challenges associated with climate change in these sensitive and biodiverse environments. Here, we synthesize existing knowledge about how climate change is expected to influence environmental conditions experienced by mountain goats and associated mechanistic changes to behavior, nutritional ecology, demography, health, and interspecific interactions. In many instances, climate change effects are likely to be negative and additive to existing threats (such as human disturbance, hunting, disease, predation) though benefits are expected in some cases. Changes in climate and mountain environments will necessitate re-examination and modification of population monitoring, management, and conservation strategies. Specifically, spatiotemporal (and other) aspects of monitoring and management may need to be adjusted to accommodate emerging and novel conservation challenges. Yet, key data and knowledge gaps remain and should be addressed to advance conservation and decision-making capabilities. For mountain goats and similarly climate-sensitive alpine herbivores, effective conservation will ultimately benefit from collaborations among diverse networks guided by well-planned, strategic visions focused on common ground – namely the resiliency and persistence of culturally and ecologically significant mountain species and the alpine environment they inhabit.
Grey Literature Citations
Bertelsen, M., C. Walzer and M. Clauss (2024). The most dangerous creature in the zoo is the veterinarian. American Association of Zoo Veterinarians and European Association of Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians 2024 Joint Conference, Toronto, Canada.
Grey Literature Citation 2 of 6
Gruetzmacher, K., C. Pettan-Brewer, E. R. Patel, M. Kinnaird, A. Greenwood, B. Meuse, C. Walzer and M. Nail (2024). A multidimensional approach to reduce health risks in wildlife trade. 8th World One Health Congress, Cape Town, South Africa.
Grey Literature Citation 3 of 6
Stephen, C., S. Knauf, C. Crodáin and C. Walzer (2024). A framework to implement evidence-based interventions to reduce health risks in the wildlife trade. European Wildlife Disease Association 2024 Conference. Stralsund, Germany: European Wildlife Disease Association.
Grey Literature Citation 4 of 6
Walzer, C. (2024). From surveillance to action: Unleashing the power of wildlife health for conservation. 15th European Wildlife Disease Conference: Challenges and Opportunities for the Surveillance and Management of Wildlife. Stralsund, Germany: European Wildlife Disease Association. https://ewda.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/EWDA-Network-Meeting-2024-Abstract-Booklet-FINAL.pdf
Grey Literature Citation 5 of 6
Walzer, C., C. Gray and S. H. Olson (2024). Bridging gaps in pandemic prevention: The vital role of philanthropy in global health resilience. 8th World One Health Congress, Cape Town, South Africa.
Grey Literature Citation 6 of 6
Wilhelm, C., A. Desvars-Larrive and C. Walzer (2024). Mixed-method analysis of published national One Health strategic plans. European Wildlife Disease Association 2024 Conference. Stralsund, Germany: European Wildlife Disease Association.
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 20-26 January 2025
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 7
Carroll, K. A., A. M. Pidgeon, P. Elsen, L. Farwell and V. C. Radeloff (2025). "Biodiversity metric selection and their applications for spatial conservation planning." Diversity and Distributions 31(1), e13952. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.13952
Abstract: Aim: On-the-ground conservation efforts require managers to balance various and sometimes conflicting conservation goals. For instance, areas important for conserving threatened and endangered species may have little spatial agreement with high functional redundancy. Using prioritisation tools can further complicate conservation prioritisations if conflicting diversity metrics identify different high-priority areas. We compared five community-level diversity metrics for birds across the conterminous US to identify how much agreement existed between each before and after using a prioritisation framework. Location: Contiguous US. Methods: We examined spatial agreement among metrics before (a priori) and after (a posteriori) prioritisation using integer linear programming. We compared a posteriori outputs for 10% and 30% conservation goals. We also assessed data layer correlation and agreement (i.e., overlap) a priori and a posteriori. Results: As expected, the a priori diversity metrics were poorly to moderately correlated (median = 0.31, range = 0.11–0.71), but all a posteriori solutions had areas of agreement. Accordingly, our a posteriori metrics identified different areas as high priority for conservation, none aligning well with the current protected areas (mean = 13%–15% agreement). However, the a posteriori approach allowed us to include a continuity constraint (identify adjacent important pixels) and easily find areas of high-priority agreement. Main Conclusions: Metric agreement depended on a priori or a posteriori evaluation, highlighting managers' challenges when deciding where and how to enact conservation. Given these challenges, a posteriori solutions best support multiple-objective, complex and large planning conservation problems. Importantly, all of our a posteriori maps agreed in areas, suggesting aggregates of several metrics could instill certainty in decision-making if prioritisation solutions were obtained at different times. Overall, our results underscore the critical importance of generating maps and metrics useful for on-the-ground management, carefully selecting biodiversity metrics that best reflect conservation goals and employing prioritisation software for generating conservation solutions.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 7
Cooksey, K., J. Funkhouser, C. Sanz, J. Marie Massamba, T. Fabrice Ebombi, P. Teberd, G. Abea, G. Mbebouti, K. Judson, S. Brogan et al. (2025). "The extent of western lowland gorilla social relationships within and between groups." PLoS ONE 20(1), e0316598. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0316598
Abstract: The nature of western lowland gorilla social relationships within and between groups is largely understudied, partly due to the challenges of monitoring associations between individuals who live in neighboring groups. In this study, we examined the social relationships of four western lowland gorilla groups in the Ndoki landscape of northern Republic of Congo. To do so, we compiled all-occurrence social interaction and silverback nearest neighbor social networks from data collected during daily group follows conducted over several years. We observed a total of 5,923 dyadic all-occurrence social interactions (1,350 ± 489 per group, 138 intergroup interactions) and 54,989 dyadic silverback nearest neighbor associations (13,747 ± 3,963 observations per group, 105 nearest neighbor observations of intergroup partners during group scans). For all groups, we found that males were more social than females, younger individuals were more social than older gorillas, and slightly greater rates of social behaviors were observed during periods of higher fruit availability. While there was a considerable amount of interindividual variation in social behavior, the network of social interactions demonstrated a large extent of social relationships within and between groups. Additionally, we performed simulated network removals to assess the impact on social dynamics. Across all groups and the total population, the removal of blackback and immature individuals markedly decreased the number of intra- and intergroup relationships (>60% decrease). The documented extent of western lowland gorilla social relationships has direct implications for the conservation of species with multi-level social dynamics. Gaining clarity on the ways in which western lowland gorilla groups naturally occur in the wild, not only provides a greater understanding for their conservation, but also offers insights for managing their social dynamics within captive environments.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 7
Jarquín-Díaz, V. H., A. Dayaram, E. S. Soilemetzidou, ..., B. Buuveibaatar, P. Kaczensky, C. Walzer et al. (2025). "Unraveling the distinctive gut microbiome of khulans (Equus hemionus hemionus) in comparison to their drinking water and closely related equids." Scientific Reports 15(1), e2767. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-87216-z
Abstract: The microbial composition of host-associated microbiomes is influenced by co-evolutionary interactions, host genetics, domestication, and the environment. This study investigates the contribution of environmental microbiota from freshwater bodies to the gastrointestinal microbiomes of wild khulans (Equus hemionus hemionus, n = 21) and compares them with those of captive khulans (n = 12) and other equids—Przewalski’s horse (n = 82) and domestic horse (n = 26). Using PacBio technology and the LotuS pipeline for 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we analyze microbial diversity and conduct differential abundance, alpha, and beta diversity analyses. Results indicate limited microbial sharing between wild khulans and their waterhole environments, suggesting minimal environmental influence on their gut microbiomes and low levels of water contamination by khulans. Wild khulans exhibit greater microbial diversity and richness compared to captive ones, likely due to adaptations to the harsh nutritional conditions of the Gobi desert. Conversely, captive khulans show reduced microbial diversity, potentially affected by dietary changes during captivity. These findings highlight the significant impact of environment and lifestyle on the gut microbiomes of equids.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 7
Mayer, G. B., R. H. A. d. Freitas, P. Charvet, ..., M. C. Palacio, ... and J. M. Cuevas (In Press). "Environmental and spatial modeling of the critically endangered sand tiger shark, Carcharias taurus, in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean." Environmental Biology of Fishes. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10641-025-01670-2
Abstract: The sand tiger shark (Carcharias taurus) is a critically endangered species, whose spatial ecology in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean remains poorly understood. This study is the first regional attempt to elucidate the habitat conditions linked to the distribution and occurrence of this migratory coastal shark, using the largest regional dataset for the Southwest Atlantic. An ensemble of species distribution models was applied to assess various environmental predictors of habitat suitability for C. taurus. Our occurrence data was obtained throughout the species’ distribution range along Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. These data were compiled mainly from artisanal and recreational fishing records, and are linked to research, reporting efforts and projects. Results indicated that bathymetry, bottom temperature, primary productivity, and salinity were important environmental factors linked to the species occurrence and suitable habitats. These factors were mainly associated with coastal and estuarine habitats. Areas with high suitability for C. taurus were identified in Northern Argentina, the entirety of the La Plata River estuarine mouth and extended shelf, between Uruguay and Southern Brazil, and Southeast Brazil, indicating these subregions as priority areas for the species’ conservation. Ensemble forecasting projections showed a habitat suitability retraction in colder months for southern latitudes. Our study also gathered novel insights on the species' biology and occurrence from unpublished data.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 7
Saggese, M. D., S. L. Deem, H. Ferreyra, ... and M. M. Uhart (2025). "Health assessment of three species of free-living raptors inhabiting a pampas agroecosystem in Central Argentina." Journal of Raptor Research 59(1), 1-18. https://doi.org/10.3356/jrr2425
Abstract: The Pampas Grasslands ecoregion of central Argentina has been dramatically transformed since the arrival of agriculture in the late 18th century. Currently, <10% of this ecosystem remains in its native state and <1% is protected. At least 14 species of Accipitriformes, four Falconiformes, and four Strigiformes are found in the Pampas agroecosystems. We investigated the health status of three raptor species inhabiting the Pampas agroecosystems of Melincué, Santa Fe province, central Argentina: 13 Roadside Hawks (Rupornis magnirostris), 17 Chimango Caracaras (Milvago chimango), and 21 Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia). Our goal was to assess the physical condition and the prevalence of exposure to parasites and common avian pathogens of free-living raptors. All birds were caught with bal-chatri traps and were in good body condition except two Burrowing Owls. All three species exhibited a low prevalence of exposure for Salmonella Pullorum/Gallinarum, Mycoplasma gallisepticum, Mycoplasma synoviae, Bacillus anthracis, and Chlamydia spp. Prevalence of chewing lice (Mallophaga) was 28.6% for Burrowing Owls and 5.9% for Chimango Caracara. Hemoparasites (Haemoproteus spp.) were found only in Chimango Caracaras, with a prevalence of 21.4%. Based on physical findings, low prevalence of exposure to common avian pathogens, and hematology and biochemistry results within normal limits based on published literature, raptors in our study appeared to be in overall good health condition in 2000–2001. Although not exempt from being exposed to some pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, our results support the hypothesis that, in Pampas agroecosystems, these raptor species have a relatively low exposure to common avian pathogens and this could contribute to their success in these modified habitats. Given this dataset is now more than two decades old, we recommend follow-up studies to re-evaluate the health status of these and other raptor species currently inhabiting the Pampas agroecosystems of central Argentina. / La ecorregión de los pastizales pampeanos del centro de Argentina ha sido transformada drásticamente desde la llegada de la agricultura a fines del siglo XVIII. Actualmente, menos del 10% de este ecosistema permanece en su estado nativo y menos del 1% está protegido. Al menos 14 especies de Accipitriformes, cuatro especies de Falconiformes y cuatro especies de Estrigiformes se encuentran actualmente en los agroecosistemas pampeanos. Investigamos el estado de salud de tres especies de rapaces que habitan en los agroecosistemas pampeanos de Melincué, provincia de Santa Fe, centro de Argentina: 13 Rupornis magnirostris, 17 Milvago chimango y 21 Athene cunicularia. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar la condición física y la prevalencia de exposición a parásitos y patógenos aviares comunes de rapaces de vida libre. Todas las aves fueron capturadas con trampas bal-chatri y estaban en buena condición física, excepto por dos Athene cunicularia. Las tres especies exhibieron una baja prevalencia de exposición a Salmonella Pullorum/Gallinarum, Mycoplasma gallisepticum, Mycoplasma synoviae, Bacillus anthracis y Chlamydia spp. La prevalencia de piojos masticadores (Mallophaga) fue del 28,6% para Athene cunicularia y del 5,9% para Milvago chimango. Solo se encontró hemoparásitos (Haemoproteus spp.) en Milvago chimango, con una prevalencia del 21,4%. Sobre la base de los hallazgos físicos, la baja prevalencia de exposición a patógenos aviares comunes y los resultados de hematología y bioquímica dentro de los límites normales, basados en la literatura publicada, las aves rapaces de nuestro estudio parecían estar en buenas condiciones de salud en 2000–2001. Aunque no estuvieron exentas de estar expuestos a algunos microorganismos patógenos y no patógenos, nuestros resultados apoyan la hipótesis de que en los agroecosistemas pampeanos estas especies de rapaces tienen una exposición relativamente baja a patógenos aviares comunes. Eso podría contribuir a su éxito en estos hábitats modificados. Dado que este conjunto de datos tiene más de dos décadas de antigüedad, recomendamos realizar estudios de seguimiento para reevaluar el estado de salud de estas y otras especies de aves rapaces que actualmente habitan en los agroecosistemas pampeanos del centro de Argentina.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 7
Turcios-Casco, M. A., E. Scott, B. Vásquez, ... and B. P. Padilla (In Press). "Renewed hope: Indigenous knowledge and practices protect a vulnerable salamander in southern Muskitia, Honduras." Biodiversity. https://doi.org/10.1080/14888386.2025.2451054
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 7 of 7
von Holdt, B. M., D. T. Blumstein, J. Berger and C. Carroll (In Press). "Species recovery as a half empty process: The case against ignoring social ecology for gray wolf recovery." BioScience, biae134. https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biae134
Abstract: The criteria used to assess recovery under the US Endangered Species Act (ESA) often fall short when considering social, group-living species. To illustrate this, we use recent insights on sociality in gray wolves to highlight how such definitional failures in implementing the ESA limit the efficacy of recovery efforts for species with complex societal arrays. The loss of conspecifics in social species has an enhanced impact on demographic viability that is not captured by estimates of population abundance. The reproductive skew in social species reduces effective population size and exacerbates threats to genetic health of populations. For group-living species such as wolves, it is critical that regulations consider sociality in recovery guidelines. Biological processes that include social behavior and group structure need to be more fully considered for the ESA to effectively reflect biological reality. Until regulations and policy include language that incorporates these considerations, the species we try to protect will lose.
Grey Literature Citations
Grey Literature Citation 1 of 5
Goessens, A., Y. Murillo, S. Fumey, N. Doak, A. Madope, J. Guernier, C. Plowman, J. Weatherly-Singh, M. Wieland, S. Raj, P. Wallace and S. Roberton (2024). Implementing EU Support to Tackle Wildlife Trafficking: Examples from the Field. Brussels: Wildlife Conservation Society. https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5137300000.aspx
Grey Literature Citation 2 of 5
Gutiérrez-Chacón, C., J. J. Mueses-Cisneros, A. F. Carvalho and V. H. González (2025). Marco Regulatorio para la Meliponicultura en Latinoamérica: Aspectos Clave y Extractos Relevantes. Wildlife Conservation Society. https://doi.org/10.19121/2025.Report.51384
Abstract: La cría de abejas nativas sin aguijón, conocida como meliponicultura, es una práctica antigua en las Américas que ha crecido en popularidad. Tiene varios propósitos, como educación, investigación y la obtención de productos como miel y polen. Existen alrededor de 500 especies de estas abejas en todo el mundo, siendo más comunes en las regiones tropicales. El aumento en la meliponicultura se debe a la conservación de la biodiversidad y la demanda de productos. Sin embargo, también hay preocupaciones sobre riesgos para las abejas y ecosistemas. La regulación de esta actividad depende de las leyes locales, aunque muchos países carecen de normativas específicas. Este documento tiene como objetivos recopilar normativas existentes en Latinoamérica y ofrecer reflexiones sobre regulaciones.
Grey Literature Citation 3 of 5
Lovett, K., C. Hallyburton, J. L. Richard and J. Andrews (2024). Robust Black Spider Monkey (Ateles fusciceps rufiventris) and Mexican Spider Monkey (Ateles geoffroyi vellerosus) AZA Species Survival Plan Signature Programs Population and Breeding and Transfer Plan. Chicago, IL: AZA Population Management Center. https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5139000000.aspx
Grey Literature Citation 4 of 5
van Vliet, N., J. E. Fa, H. Vanthomme, ..., F. Sandrin et al. (2025). Community-based monitoring in the context of sustainable wildlife management and biodiversity conservation in tropical countries. Rome: FAO, CIFOR-ICRAF, CIRAD and Wildlife Conservation Society. https://doi.org/10.4060/cd3214en
Abstract: This document is addressed to communities and their partners, and features eight main key lessons learned that emerge from the implementation of community-based monitoring in the context of wildlife management and biodiversity conservation, across 15 countries in Africa, the Guyana Shield and the Pacific Region in which the Sustainable Wildlife Management Programme is implemented. The examples involve diverse forms of community-based monitoring and include different ecosystems (forests, savannahs, wetlands) and taxonomic groups (birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish). We further provide a more focused description of five case studies, including the multitaxa community-based monitoring process implemented by community wildlife and fisheries committees in the Rupununi (Guyana), the human-wildlife coexistence monitoring programme implemented by communities in Mucheni Community Conservancy (Zimbabwe), the co-managed monitoring system implemented for sustainable hunting around Lastoursville (Gabon), and the citizen science process implemented in communities around the Dja Reserve (Cameroon) to monitor and alert emergence of zoonotic diseases and the community-based monitoring system implemented in Namibia in the context of community-based conservancies (Namibia).
Grey Literature Citation 5 of 5
Villalba, L., F. Bauer, B. Ortiz and Y. Ramos (2024). Identificación de Señales de Ataques de Carnívoros. Asuncion, Paraguay: Wildlife Conservation Society, Paraguay. https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5138700000.aspx
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 13-19 January 2025
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 6
Funkhouser, J. A., H. Boostrom, H. Hellmuth, ..., W. Mayoukou, S. Ndassoba, C. Singono, C. Abedine, C. E. Ayina, ... and C. Sanz (2025). "Chimpanzee activity and behavioral diversity extends across 24 hours in both captive and wild settings." American Journal of Primatology 87(1), e23729. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajp.23729
Abstract: Studying nocturnal behavior is crucial for understanding the full scope of a species' behavioral flexibility so as to inform the conservation of wild populations and the care of captive individuals. However, this aspect of primate behavior is understudied, especially in great apes, which exhibit some of the widest documented behavioral diversity and flexibility. Our investigation is among the first to systematically compare the 24 h activity patterns and behavioral activities of captive chimpanzees (Saint Louis Zoo, USA) with those of wild chimpanzees (three sites across the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park in the Republic of Congo) and a published data set of the nocturnal behavior of all chimpanzee subspecies. Furthermore, we examined the influence of human activity and changes to the group's composition on the activity patterns and nocturnal behaviors of the zoo-living chimpanzees. Our results reveal that the zoo-living chimpanzees exhibit significantly different activity patterns compared to their wild counterparts, with increased nocturnal activity (particularly in the early morning) and more observations of feeding and social behaviors at night. Additionally, the absence of human visitors and a change in the group's composition were found to influence these activity patterns. These findings underscore the importance of integrating more holistic approaches to captive primate care and wild primate conservation. This study also highlights the immense potential of implementing remote monitoring technology, such as video camera traps, across contexts. Such data that extend across contexts benefit not only the captive and wild great apes but also provide opportunities for caregivers, conservation managers, and students who are involved in these collaborative initiatives.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 6
González-Maya, J. F., C. H. Cáceres-Martínez, A. Acevedo Rincón and I. Mauricio Vela-Vargas (2025). "A true highlander hermit: Human density and distance to natural cover negatively affect habitat selection by Andean bear." Journal for Nature Conservation 84, e126833. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2025.126833
Abstract: Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus) is the largest mammal species of the Tropical Andes, although in Colombia, information about habitat selection of the species is scarce. Here we present the first systematic effort for understanding Andean bear landscape selection in Tamá Massif between Venezuela and Colombia. Our study aimed to understand how Andean bears select certain habitat types and the influence of human and landscape variables over use probabilities in a mixed natural-intervened matrix. Between June 2012 and May 2015, we surveyed the Colombian side of the Tamá Massif, around Tamá National Natural Park (TNNP), using repeated line transects inside and outside of the TNNP. Distance to towns and roads, human density, distance to natural covers, distance to protected areas, distance to rivers, and elevation, explained site selection. Both elevation and human density were the most important variables, affecting positively (higher elevations) and negatively (higher human density) bear presence, respectively. Our results highlight that Paramo habitats are selected over other types of ecosystems for the species. Our resource selection approach provides clues on how bears use space and serves as the basis for long-term monitoring to understand what cues drive Andean bears to select habitats, bringing new tools for the management of the species in Colombia and Venezuela.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 6
Heilpern, S. A., A. S. Flecker, S. López-Casas, P. B. McIntyre, L. Moya et al. (2025). "Accessible, low-mercury, and nutritious fishes provide win-wins for conservation and public health." One Earth 8(1), e101174. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oneear.2024.12.010
Abstract: Fisheries nourish billions globally, but overfishing and mercury contamination threaten aquatic biodiversity and public health. These benefits and risks of fish consumption are often siloed in consumer advisories, which tend to emphasize the risks of mercury exposure and could lead to adverse public health consequences in fisheries-dependent geographies where other nutritionally adequate foods are inaccessible. Here, we use nutrient and mercury content, price, and abundance information for 59 fishery species from the Amazon River and find that many nutrient-rich species also have low mercury content, are common, and have ecological traits conferring resilience to overexploitation. These species include many small and low-trophic-positioned species, including a diversity of characins that are common in markets across the region but not generally highly valued by consumers. Ultimately, considering these benefits and risks of fish consumption together offers promise for aligning biodiversity conservation goals within wild food systems.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 6
Stacy, E. M., M. D. Robards, T. S. Jung et al. (In Press). "Comparing microsatellites and single nucleotide polymorphisms to evaluate genetic structure and diversity in wolverines (Gulo gulo) across Alaska and western Canada." Journal of Mammalogy, gyae151. https://doi.org/10.1093/jmammal/gyae151
Abstract: The Wolverine (Gulo gulo) is a cold-adapted species of conservation interest because it is sensitive to human development, disturbance, exploitation, and climate warming. Wolverine populations have been studied across much of their distributional range to evaluate patterns of genetic diversity, genetic structure, and gene flow. Little population structure has been detected in northwestern North America with microsatellite loci, but low genomic diversity in wolverines may limit detection of genetic differences in this highly vagile species. Here, we genotyped a relatively large sample of wolverines from across Alaska (US) and adjacent Yukon (Canada) with 12 microsatellite loci (n = 501) and 4,222 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; n = 201) identified using restriction-site associated DNA sequencing. We compared the relative ability of our microsatellite and SNP datasets to evaluate population genetic structure, genetic diversity, differentiation, and isolation by distance (IBD). We predicted that the SNP dataset would detect a higher degree of genetic structure and provide more significant support for IBD. We found evidence for multiple genetic clusters, including genetic distinctiveness of wolverines in southeast Alaska and on the Kenai Peninsula. The SNP dataset detected additional genetic clusters that align largely with ecoregions, and the SNP dataset showed stronger evidence of IBD, while the 2 datasets were generally consistent in estimates of genetic diversity and differentiation among regional groups. Our results highlight the importance of genomic methods to assess gene flow in wolverines. Identifying population genetic structure allows an assessment of the potential impacts of conservation threats and is an important precursor for designing population monitoring programs.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 6
Thomas, A. S., S. Mangubhai, K. C. Radway, M. Fox, S. D. Jupiter, W. Lalavanua et al. (In Press). "Impact of severe tropical Cyclone Winston on fisheries-dependent communities in Fiji." Environmental Development, e101137. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envdev.2025.101137
Abstract: Coastal communities in the south Pacific are vulnerable to cyclones which are projected to increase in intensity due to climate change. We conducted a study 2‒3 months after a Category 5 tropical cyclone passed through Fiji in 2016 to examine socio-economic impacts from the cyclone and the changes to livelihood strategies of fisheries-dependent communities. Key informant interviews were done in 154 Indigenous Fijian (iTaukei) coastal villages across six provinces. Questions focused on changes to participation in and rankings of different fisheries and livelihoods, as well as dietary changes and impacts to fishing gear and infrastructure. We found that the affected villages had not returned to many of their pre-cyclone livelihoods, and many villages had stopped fishing altogether. Instead, in the short-term communities coped through livelihood reprioritisation, and a high reliance on external aid (e.g. food packages). The heterogeneity of livelihood strategies, the diversity of species targeted and lack of specialised gear requirements suggested many fisheries can serve as a buffer to natural hazards and external shocks for vulnerable coastal communities. Gender also had an influence on the experienced effects of Cyclone Winston and coping strategies. Women had fewer changes to their fisheries activities post-cyclone and were less likely to have stopped fishing at the time of the survey, as they harvest from a wider diversity of habitats, glean and use low technology gear such as hand nets, and hooks and lines. Understanding how communities are impacted by intense cyclones through a gender lens can help local people better prepare for and mitigate impacts to their livelihoods, while also providing valuable information to assist authorities with their disaster preparedness, response, and recovery strategies.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 6
Zhu, Y., J. A. Britnell, J. Shi, B. Buuveibaatar and S. Shultz (2025). "Anthropogenic pressures lead to different patterns of niche contraction and protected area cover in three species Procapra gazelles on Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and Mongolia." Diversity and Distributions 31(1), e13949. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.13949
Abstract: Aim: Anthropogenic threats often lead to range contraction towards the margins of a species historic niche, resulting in increased extinction risk. Here, we investigate niche characteristics of current and historic populations to evaluate changes in ‘Area of Niche’ (AON) following range loss from different levels of anthropogenic threats three congeneric Asian gazelle species are facing: Przewalski's (Procapra przewalskii), Tibetan (P. picticaudata) and Mongolian gazelles (P. gutturosa). Location: Tibet, Qinghai and Mongolia. Methods: We collated range maps for historic and contemporary distributions of Przewalski's, Tibetan and Mongolian gazelles and created 3-dimensional hypervolume and convex hull niche models using environmental variables from the Worldclim dataset (v2) together with topographic information from SRTM elevation data from historic and contemporary Area of Habitat maps and evaluated changes over time. We calculated Area of Niche (AON) maps by projecting a scaled Mahalanobis distance from the historic niche centroid of each grid cell onto each species' historic range. Finally, we evaluated how the protected area network overlaps with historic niche characteristics. Results: The endangered Przewalski's gazelle has lost almost all its range and niche, with remaining populations at niche peripheries. In contrast, the near-threatened Tibetan and least-concern Mongolian gazelles have lost less range and niche and contracted towards their historic niche centre. Protected areas for each species were biased towards the ecological margins of their historic ranges, which can result in sub-optimal conservation strategies. Main Conclusions: This study uses niche modelling to evaluate changes in Area of Niche (AON) occupied by a species that has undergone range contraction. We highlight that species most affected by anthropogenic threats are most vulnerable to niche shift and contraction. These species are also vulnerable to a mismatch between the protected area network and species historic niche space. We advocate that conservation strategies should include niche dynamics as an indicator of the species risk.
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 6-12 January 2025
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 8
Balza, U., N. A. Lois, K. J. Harrington, ..., A. Raya-Rey and S. G. Ceballos (Early View). "Glacial history and ecological restrictions shape island-scale genetic structure and demography in the southernmost bird of prey." Journal of Biogeography. https://doi.org/10.1111/jbi.15083
Abstract: Aim: To understand the influence of Andean uplifts and glacial cycles on South American biodiversity, we delve into the population genetics and evolutionary history of a unique subantarctic island raptor specialised in exploiting marine food webs. Location: Islands in Tierra del Fuego and Malvinas/Falklands. Time period: Last glacial period to the present. Taxon: Phalcoboenus australis. Methods: We used RAD sequencing to assess genetic diversity, population structure and to model demographic history through descriptive and hypothesis-based evolutionary methods. Results: We found evidence of two independent lineages: one inhabiting the Fuegian archipelago and the other one occurring in the Islas Malvinas/Falkland Islands, with the latter presenting higher genetic diversity and evidence of finer-scale population structure. The best supported demographic scenario places the divergence time of these lineages during the last glacial period (ca. 50,000 years ago), with the occurrence of gene flow during the first 27,000 years after their divergence. Recent demographic modelling supports the general pattern of increasing genetic variability as landmasses were uncovered following the glacial period (i.e., the Fuegian archipelago) in contrast with a decrease in genetic diversity associated to island fragmentation (i.e., in the Islas Malvinas/Falkland Islands). Main Conclusions: We propose that post-glacial sea level rise and the subsequent isolation across the submerging Patagonian Shelf have driven population fragmentation and recent genetic structure in this species. Our findings advocate for recognising the two identified divergent lineages as distinct conservation units. We highlight the intricate interplay of ecological factors, glacial cycles and population dynamics in shaping the evolutionary trajectory of this unique and threatened raptor species in southern South America.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 8
Ingram, D. J., G. Z. L. Froese, D. Carroll, P. C. Bürkner, F. Maisels, ..., H. G. Ekodeck, C. A. Emogor, ..., G. D. Ngohouani, F. Sandrin, ..., L. Vanegas et al. (In Press). "Regional patterns of wild animal hunting in African tropical forests." Nature Sustainability. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-024-01494-5
Abstract: Wildlife contributes to the diets, livelihoods and socio-cultural activities of people worldwide; however, unsustainable hunting is a major pressure on wildlife. Regional assessments of the factors associated with hunting offtakes are needed to understand the scale and patterns of wildlife exploitation relevant for policy. We synthesized 83 studies across West and Central Africa to identify the factors associated with variation in offtake. Our models suggest that offtake per hunter per day is greater for hunters who sell a greater proportion of their offtake; among non-hunter-gatherers; and in areas that have better forest condition, are closer to protected areas and are less accessible from towns. We present evidence that trade and gun hunting have increased since 1991 and that areas more accessible from towns and with worse forest condition may be depleted of larger-bodied wildlife. Given the complex factors associated with regional hunting patterns, context-specific hunting management is key to achieving a sustainable future.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 8
Knowles, T., N. Stevens, E. E. Amoako, ..., L. Dziba et al. (In Press). "Viability and desirability of financing conservation in Africa through fire management." Nature Sustainability. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-024-01490-9
Abstract: Adopting early dry season fires in African conservation areas has been proposed as ecologically desired and a means of generating sufficient carbon revenues for their management. We interrogate available peer-reviewed information on the ecology and biogeochemistry of fire in Africa to offer an informed perspective on the full implications of the proposal. We conclude that there is insufficient evidence that a shift to early dry season fires will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, that resultant biodiversity and ecosystem service outcomes may not be desired, and that adopting a single burning regime limits the use of fire to achieve a diverse range of goals.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 8
Mast, A., D. Gill, G. N. Ahmadia, E. S. Darling et al. (2025). "Shared governance increases marine protected area effectiveness." PLoS ONE 20(1), e0315896. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0315896
Abstract: Marine protected areas (MPAs) are widely used to conserve and manage coastal resources. Protected areas are governed by a variety of institutional arrangements, yet little is known concerning the relative performance of different governance approaches. This research draws upon a unique dataset that combines details on the reported International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) governance categories of 217 global MPAs and their ecological outcomes to compare the performance of alternative governance arrangements. We find that MPAs with shared governance arrangements, where management authority is shared among multiple government and non-government actors, are 98% more likely to have higher fish biomass than MPAs governed by state agencies (i.e., primarily government) alone (mean effect size and 95% C.I = 0.32 ± 0.31). We also find higher biomass in older MPAs, those in countries with higher gross domestic product (GDP), and those with a higher proportion of no-take area. With targets to protect 30% of our oceans driving new commitments to expand MPA coverage globally, our results suggest that multi-stakeholder participation and collaboration facilitated by shared and decentralized governance arrangements can play an important role in achieving conservation outcomes.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 8
Sadovy de Mitcheson, Y., A. Batibasaga, C. E. R. Hatten and S. Mangubhai (Early View). "From local knowledge and science to policy: Lessons learned from Fiji's valuable grouper fisheries." Journal of Fish Biology. https://doi.org/10.1111/jfb.16041
Abstract: Pacific Island communities are heavily dependent on fisheries for subsistence and livelihoods. Yet, despite their importance, coastal fisheries are poorly managed and commercial pressures increasingly threaten them. Groupers (Epinephelidae) are exceptionally vulnerable to overexploitation due to aspects of their biology while their economic value makes them a prime target for commerce. Fiji has a significant grouper fishery and is a useful case study to assess a data-poor, economically valuable sector to evaluate management measures, options, and needs. Data from multiple sources over three decades were integrated with original research involving fisher interviews, market surveys, stock assessments, and underwater census to assess the status of the country's grouper fishery. Catch rates are declining and trade now includes a high percentage of immature groupers, with aggregating species (mainly Epinephelus polyphekadion, Epinephelus fuscoguttatus, Plectropomus areolatus, Plectropomus leopardus) particularly at risk. Estimated annual grouper landings are increasing and now exceed 1000 mt. There is an urgent need to update Fiji's grouper size limits which are grossly inadequate. To build public support and increase awareness, government and nongovernmental organizations should invest in the national 4FJ Fish Smart campaign. Key management recommendations for groupers are (1) improved spatial and temporal protection of spawning aggregations and (2) increased minimum-size restrictions for capture and sale. Findings apply broadly to valuable and vulnerable coastal fin-fisheries in reef ecosystems across many Pacific Island countries and highlight the importance of using multiple data sources and approaches to understand and manage important data-poor fisheries.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 8
Sayre, R., C. Frye, S. Breyer, P. R. Roehrdanz, P. R. Elsen et al. (2025). "Potential 2050 distributions of World Terrestrial Ecosystems from projections of changes in World Climate Regions and Global Land Cover." Global Ecology and Conservation 57, e03370. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2024.e03370
Abstract: The urgency to address ecosystem loss is paramount, as both land use change and climate change will continue to rapidly alter and degrade natural ecosystems and reduce the many services they provide. To support conservation actions that mitigate impacts from these dual threats, we have developed potential World Terrestrial Ecosystem (WTE) distributions for 2050 following IPCC best practice guidelines. This projection of ecosystem distributions builds on the previously released 2015 WTEs, a snapshot of the distribution and conservation status of 431 terrestrial ecosystem types defined as distinct combinations of 18 global climate regions, 4 global landform classes, and 8 global vegetation/land cover classes. Extending that work herein, we modeled the potential 2050 WTE distributions based on projections of five CMIP6 general circulation models (GCMs) and one global land cover change model, determined for three shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) scenarios. The climate region modeling included projections for 2050 for both mean annual temperature and mean annual aridity. Model agreement for changes to WTEs was generally high, particularly for temperature projections. Widespread changes in ecosystem classes due to shifts in climate settings and/or land cover between 2015 and 2050 were projected, with both the magnitude and specific geography of projected change largely governed by the SSP scenario. For the three SSP scenarios (sustainable development, regional rivalry, and fossil-fueled development), geographic changes in climate setting (temperature, aridity, or both) and/or changes in vegetation/land cover are projected for 29 %, 36 %, and 39 % of Earth’s terrestrial surface, respectively. These changes occur in areas where 31 %, 36 %, and 41 % of the global population lives. Projected changes in ecosystem distributions related to temperature change are approximately an order of magnitude greater than for aridity change. By offering insight into potential ecosystem changes, this new resource is intended to facilitate conservation planning and priority setting aimed at improved conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 7 of 8
Shivakumar, S., V. Athreya, N. Yardi et al. (In Press). "Charting risk pathways of leopard attacks on people: A decision tree approach." Human Dimensions of Wildlife. https://doi.org/10.1080/10871209.2024.2449420
Abstract: The often-under-researched aspect of human-wildlife conflict (HWC) is the socio-cultural factors affecting a community’s experience of HWC. In this study, we examine the risk of leopard attacks in North India where ~ 3 fatal leopard attacks occur on people per year. We used a mixed method approach to weigh the risks of a person experiencing a leopard attack in Himachal Pradesh (HP) across parallel scenarios by (a) calculating the most probable pathway of experiencing a high-impact (death/grievous injury) outcome due to leopard attacks (b) documenting perception of leopard attacks. In HP, 344 people experienced leopard attacks and most attacks (75%) were non-predatory. Few (12%) attacks on adolescents (<15 years) were predatory. We found mentions of intangible impacts in more than half of the interviews. This mixed method analysis, grounded on local voices of experience, could be utilized by researchers and managers to navigate complex scenarios in human-carnivore shared spaces.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 8 of 8
Wang, X., G. Bocksberger, M. Arandjelovic, ..., C. Cipoletta, ..., E. Dilambaka, ..., A. Dunn, ..., I. Imong, ..., F. Mulindahabi, ..., P. Niyigaba, ..., C. Sanz et al. (2024). "Strontium isoscape of sub-Saharan Africa allows tracing origins of victims of the transatlantic slave trade." Nature Communications 15(1), e10891. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-55256-0
Abstract: Strontium isotope (87Sr/86Sr) analysis with reference to strontium isotope landscapes (Sr isoscapes) allows reconstructing mobility and migration in archaeology, ecology, and forensics. However, despite the vast potential of research involving 87Sr/86Sr analysis particularly in Africa, Sr isoscapes remain unavailable for the largest parts of the continent. Here, we measure the 87Sr/86Sr ratios in 778 environmental samples from 24 African countries and combine this data with published data to model a bioavailable Sr isoscape for sub-Saharan Africa using random forest regression. We demonstrate the efficacy of this Sr isoscape, in combination with other lines of evidence, to trace the African roots of individuals from historic slavery contexts, particularly those with highly radiogenic 87Sr/86Sr ratios uncommon in the African Diaspora. Our study provides an extensive African 87Sr/86Sr dataset which includes scientifically marginalized regions of Africa, with significant implications for the archaeology of the transatlantic slave trade, wildlife ecology, conservation, and forensics.
Grey Literature
Grey Literature Citations 1 of 2
da Silva Loayza, M., D. E. Maldonado Velarde, M. Viscarra and C. Flores Turdera (2024). Felinos de Bolivia. Segunda edición. La Paz, Bolivia: Wildlife Conservation Society, Bolivia. https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5125700000.aspx
Grey Literature Citations 2 of 2
Wildlife Conservation Society (2024). Reporte de Noticias Sobre el Comercio Ilegal de Fauna Silvestre en Colombia, Ecuador, Perú, Bolivia y Brasil (Estados Acre y Amazonas). Enero de 2020 a Junio de 2023. Programa Contra el Tráfico de Vida Silvestre (CTVS) and Wildlife Conservation Society, Andes-Amazonía-Orinoquía (AAO). https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5123300000.aspx
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 30 December 2024-5 January 2025
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 2
Lizcano, D. J. (2024). "[Book Review] A Field Guide to the Larger Mammals of South America / Una Guía de Campo de los Mamíferos Grandes de América del Sur." Mammalogy Notes 10(2), e495. https://doi.org/10.47603/mano.v10n2.495
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 2
Tsang, T. P. N., A. A. A. De Santis, G. Armas-Quiñonez, ..., C. Gutiérrez-Chacón et al. (2025). "Land use change consistently reduces α- but not β- and γ-diversity of bees." Global Change Biology 31(1), e70006. https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.70006
Abstract: Land use change threatens global biodiversity and compromises ecosystem functions, including pollination and food production. Reduced taxonomic α-diversity is often reported under land use change, yet the impacts could be different at larger spatial scales (i.e., γ-diversity), either due to reduced β-diversity amplifying diversity loss or increased β-diversity dampening diversity loss. Additionally, studies often focus on taxonomic diversity, while other important biodiversity components, including phylogenetic diversity, can exhibit differential responses. Here, we evaluated how agricultural and urban land use alters the taxonomic and phylogenetic α-, β-, and γ-diversity of an important pollinator taxon—bees. Using a multicontinental dataset of 3117 bee assemblages from 157 studies, we found that taxonomic α-diversity was reduced by 16%–18% in both agricultural and urban habitats relative to natural habitats. Phylogenetic α-diversity was decreased by 11%–12% in agricultural and urban habitats. Compared with natural habitats, taxonomic and phylogenetic β-diversity increased by 11% and 6% in urban habitats, respectively, but exhibited no systematic change in agricultural habitats. We detected a 22% decline in taxonomic γ-diversity and a 17% decline in phylogenetic γ-diversity in agricultural habitats, but γ-diversity of urban habitats was not significantly different from natural habitats. These findings highlight the threat of agricultural expansions to large-scale bee diversity due to systematic γ-diversity decline. In addition, while both urbanization and agriculture lead to consistent declines in α-diversity, their impacts on β- or γ-diversity vary, highlighting the need to study the effects of land use change at multiple scales.
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