Smithsonian Institution’s Post

🌊🦭 Researchers in the Galápagos are making groundbreaking discoveries in marine mammalogy by employing stable isotope analysis to study the feeding patterns of sea lions. Through meticulous examination of whisker samples from sea lion pups, they have uncovered the intricacies of these animals' diets. The findings reveal that sea lions enjoy a varied diet, which evolves over time, shedding light on their adaptive strategies. This research is pivotal for conservation efforts, offering new insights into the species' ability to withstand ecological shifts. Read more about it in our bi-annual Galápagos post! https://lnkd.in/epxYvxsi 🌊🔬 #GalapagosResearch #MarineBiology #ConservationScience

"Despite this meme being funny about the unique animal species found in Australia, it took me back to evolutionary biology (the only history I ever enjoyed in university). Australia's isolated evolution is a fascinating study in adaptive radiation, where geographic isolation, varied habitats, and absence of competition have led to the emergence of some of the world's most peculiar and diverse wildlife. #EvolutionaryBiology #Australia #AdaptiveRadiation"

Ever heard of a numbat? These animals (one shown above) are curious creatures from Western Australia. The only marsupials that are active solely during the day, when they scratch at soil and rotting logs for termites, these squirrel-sized animals are built to hoard body heat. But that same energy-saving trait may put the already endangered animals at risk as the climate warms. A new study shows that the animals might rapidly overheat in the sun, even at relatively reasonable temperatures. A video from a thermal imaging camera (second slide) shows a numbat walking into a warmer area from a cooler area. The surface temperature of some parts of a numbat’s body can increase to 35° Celsius or more, suggesting the animals rapidly heat up in the sun. The finding hints that, as the climate warms, numbats may need to keep their termite foraging forays short to avoid overheating. (& : Christine Cooper) #researchworld #researchworldconference2024 #numbats #animals #biology #climate #australia

#DYK that our native #GrassSnake has recently been shown to display nocturnal activity in mainland Europe? This was achieved through the use of citizen science data, showing the importance of records as significant contributions towards scientific research! Our native #adder species also displays nocturnal activity, have you spotted any of this yourselves from our native #reptile species in the UK? Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/ewFHs-7W

Folks in my LinkedIn network interested in primate socioecology and/or social animal behavioural ecology may want to check out Lee Dugatkin's recent volume, "The Well-Connected Animal: Social Networks and the Wondrous Complexity of Animal Societies" (University of Chicago Press). For those interested primarily in primate socioecological interactions and processes, this book provides a broader perspective on sociality across the Kingdom Animalia. See: https://lnkd.in/eV4U5wCG

Research suggests ancient humans hunted 150 large animal species to extinction over 50,000 years. As Homo sapiens emerged and colonized new areas, megafauna species disappeared, independent of climate change. Over this period, more than 150 of the world’s largest animal species vanished. The study found that modern humans significantly impacted megafauna populations through hunting and habitat changes. Despite earlier climatic fluctuations, these did not cause such extinctions. The findings emphasize the need for human intervention to prevent further extinctions and restore ecological balance. #research #humans #animals #species #extinction #thousands #yearsago #climatechange #colonized #ancienthistory #population #businessdor Research Human Animal Support Services History Search

Did you know that Hawaii is the extinction capital of the world?       This extremely isolated group of islands is home to many species that have struggled to adapt to rapid environmental changes, including false killer whales (FKW). It has been estimated that fewer than 200 individuals remain within this population. A primary study subject of PWF researchers, the main Hawaiian Islands insular population of false killer whales was listed as endangered in 2012. Our 20 years of FKW research, in conjunction with other studies, has found FKW sighting rates near the Main Hawaii Islands have significantly declined over the past two decades.     In 2010, a biological review team identified 20-plus threats negatively impacting Hawai‘i’s false killer whale population. Of the 29 listed, interaction with fisheries, or bycatch, was determined a substantial threat to population health.     PWF's Research data is used to influence public policy and mobilize community members in support of marine mammal conservation. False killer whales are elusive animals, which makes data collection challenging. As such, PWF relies heavily on community scientists and ocean users who are encouraged to alert authorities upon any sighting in Hawaiian waters by calling the FKW Hotline at 888-256-9840.    Learn more about our Research initiatives here https://bit.ly/3TKSziP    #FalseKillerWhales #EndangeredSpecies #MarineResearch #MarineBiology #CetaceanResearch 

Scottish Wildcat Day is celebrated every August 8 in the U.K. The purpose of this day is to bring attention to this critically endangered species in the U.K. It is estimated that there are between 1,000 to 4,000 Scottish Wildcats, of which about 400 cats meet the morphological and genetic criteria of a wildcat. https://st8.fm/4fkm97e

What an excellent look into the molting patterns of birds. This article explores the inconsistencies of molting patterns between birds in northern latitudes and the tropics; as well as the evolutionary process of molting which can aid our understanding of bird lineages.