For more than 30 years Holohil Systems Ltd. has supported endangered species research and educational work for a variety of agencies and researchers. We wish to extend our support to other species that have not previously been included. To this end, we wish to extend our support to research projects that have of high value for their species, a sound research design, and a positive conservation intention.
In addition to the equipment support, Holohil is providing winners with a forum to promote their inspiring and impressive project through this page on our website.
Congratulations to the following Holohil Grant Program recipients:
2024 – 4th Quarter Winner:
“Spatio-temporal Habitat Usage of a Vulnerable Bat Hipposideros Durgadasi, in Kolar, Karnataka state, India”
Shashikant Devnikar
The Khajuria’s Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros durgadasi) is a Vulnerable species currently known from only two locations across India: Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, and Kolar, Karnataka. In Kolar, it occurs alongside 3 other sympatrically occurring species of the genus Hipposideros including the Critically Endangered Kolar Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros hypophyllus) and Hipposideros fulvus. All these species roost together in a single subterranean cave located on a granite hillock, which has been significantly impacted by granite mining activities. The surrounding area is predominantly agricultural land (Paddy & Millet), interspersed with mango and eucalyptus plantations, tamarind grooves, rocky outcrops, scrub forests, water bodies, and built-up areas like settlements and roads. While the cave roost is under protection by the Karnataka State Forest Department, the foraging habitat is not.
This project will use Holohil transmitters to track the movements of Hipposideros durgadasi, collecting vital data on their flight paths, habitat preferences, and foraging behavior, all under-studied aspects of their ecology. The data will be crucial for informing conservation strategies to protect and restore the species’ habitats. Since much of the surrounding area is agricultural land and privately owned, engaging local communities is vital to protect the habitat and a key focus of the project. We will work closely with communities and perform outreach activities to raise awareness about the importance of these bats and the need for habitat preservation, promoting a collaborative approach to ensure the protection of this species and its habitat. By safeguarding the habitat used by Hipposideros durgadasi, we hope to ensure the protection of all the other sympatrically occurring species too.
2024 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Identifying the habitat requirements of hatchling turtles”
Christina Hunter
Nearly half of Australia’s freshwater turtle species are threatened, and juvenile turtles are becoming increasingly rare. The
Murray-Darling Basin (MDB), one of Australia’s most significant river systems, has seen steep population declines in its
three resident turtle species. One of these species, and the focal species of my study (Emydura macquarii), is now listed
as critically endangered in Victoria, Australia, in part due to intense nest destruction by introduced foxes (Vulpes vulpes).
The absence of juvenile E. macquarii in populations places these turtles at a heightened risk of rapid extinction, as there
are no younger individuals to replace aging adults after they die.
Although hatchlings are safe from foxes once they reach the water, the threats pertaining to their underwater lives are
virtually unknown. It is possible that predatory fish have an equally severe impact as foxes, as suggested by the intense
fish predation on Mary River turtle (Elusor macrurus) hatchlings that inhibited juvenile recruitment despite a 15-year nest
protection program. To avoid these fish predators, young turtles likely rely on aquatic vegetation as refuge habitat. The
MDB has been severely degraded through the extensive use of water for irrigation, urban consumption, and industrial
purposes, resulting in a wide-spread loss of native vegetation. Research is needed to understand how this loss of habitat
may be further contributing to lost juvenile to recruitment, and to inform management on how best to protect turtles at this
vulnerable life stage.
The objective of my study is to identify the habitat requirements that turtles need to survive. Specifically, I aim to test
whether hatchling turtles select vegetated habitats post emergence from the nest, and how this selection influences their
short-term survival.
Turtle nests will be located through two community conservation programs, which involve interested members of the public
in searching for turtle nests, whilst simultaneously educating them on how to protect turtle nests using a simple mesh
cover. Once hatched, 2 hatchlings from 3-6 nests from 4 neighboring wetlands will be fitted with a radio transmitter. One
completed season of radio-tracking confirmed that hatchlings from two sites consistently emerge earlier than those from
the other two, reducing crossover of tracking periods.
Hatchlings will be tracked every day for the duration of the transmitter battery life (4 weeks) and their coordinates logged.
At those coordinates, a 1m x 1m quadrat will be placed, within which numerous habitat variables will be recorded. This
process will be repeated for a paired, random quadrat. Turtles’ daily and total movements will be mapped, and habitat
variables between turtle and random quadrats will be statistically compared to test for habitat selection. This study will
showcase the utility of radio tracking to uncover vital insights into hatchling turtle ecology, paving the way for further
research on the causes of lost recruitment in many freshwater turtle species
2024 – 2nd Quarter Winner:
“Nocturnal activity of sympatric bats Rhinolophus rouxii and Rousettus leschenaultii in Western Ghats region of Gaddige Matha, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, India”
Shraddha Kumari K
Rhinolophus rouxii and Rousettus leschenaultii are roosting together in an abandoned temple, Gaddige Matha, located in the Western Ghats. Rhinolophus rouxii is an insectivore, while Rousettus leschenaultii is a frugivore, with populations of approximately 150 and 10, respectively. The roost is close to a road and human settlement, though it is not frequently disturbed by people directly. Understanding the species-specific habitat requirements is crucial for bat conservation. Mostly distributed in Ghats of India, Rhinolophus rouxii it was once reported that they face threats from fruit bats. On the other hand, in the current location, the population of Rhinolophus rouxii is higher than that of the frugivorous Rousettus leschenaultii, which is classified as Near Threatened (NT). Despite sharing a roost, these two species have significantly different diets, making it essential to understand their temporal and spatial niches. Hence it is important to understand their temporal and spatial niche.
They are also known to roost in caves and temples where tourists visit regularly. To bring effective conservation plans for these it is important to know their fundamental ecological requirements for survival. There is very little research on these species; a few studies from Sri Lanka have mentioned the microclimate conditions of roosting sites and roost sharing with other bats. However, there is a significant gap in understanding niche partitioning among bats, especially between distinct but sympatric species. This project aims to fill that gap by closely studying these two bat species in their natural habitat and examining their fundamental requirement for their survival.
This project aims to assess the nocturnal activity of these sympatric bats, especially focusing on their emergence time, nocturnal activity duration, feeding bouts, home range, and foraging habitat required for each species in relation to environmental factors and sunset. By achieving these objectives, the project aims to gather crucial data that can inform and improve conservation efforts for these species.
Holohil transmitters will be used to track Rhinolophus rouxii and Rousettus leschenaultii. Bats will be captured using harp traps and hoop nets, tagged with transmitters using specific glue and tracked by receiver antennas following established protocols. Four adults of each species will be tracked with the support of local people and forest officials, as I have already established communication with them.
Holohil transmitters will reveal night activity patterns of these sympatric bats for the first time. The results will provide a clear picture of temporal niche partitioning between these two species. Nocturnal activities, including emergence time, feeding bouts, night roosts, foraging habitats, and home ranges will be discovered. The project will also provide insights into the reasons behind their population dynamics. In the long term, this project will offer fundamental knowledge crucial for developing conservation plans. This data informs policies for mitigating conflicts in areas where bats roost near human settlements and can serve as a model for similar studies on other bat species, contributing to global bat conservation efforts and enhancing biodiversity conservation strategies.
2024 – 1st Quarter Winner:
“Home Range and Habitat Use of Kinosternid and Geomydid Turtles in Caribbean Costa Rica”
Jordan Donini
In June 2023 applicants Donini and Cameron planned and lead an immersive study abroad research class for undergraduate students with the organization “Turtle Love” lead by applicant Bruno in Caribbean, Costa Rica. While “Turtle Love” regularly monitors Sea Turtle activity, the goal of our research class was to initiate preliminary assessments on diversity and demography of freshwater turtle species in the region. In two weeks’ time we trapped, marked, and measured over 100 individual turtles of five species. Two species of note were Kinosternon leucostomum which were the most abundant species (n=78) individuals) and Rhinoclemmys annulata (n=3). K.leucostomum are understudied in the Caribbean, especially in terms of habitat use and movements, while R.annulata have limited life history or spatial ecology knowledge in general outside of a few short-term studies.
We seek to ascertain new information on the behavior, movements, and general life history of these species over at least one calendar year. In addition to studying these two species we will also use local knowledge to search for a cryptic and hard to find species with limited knowledge from ecological and conservation perspective, Kinosternon angustipons. If found, we will monitor these along with the previously mentioned two species for a calendar year using radiotelemetry in order to provide assessments of habitat use and movement behaviors that will enable a broader look at the life history and ecology of these species, thus providing information that may be critical for future conservation efforts.
Our monitoring efforts will be initiated by both our students and local on the ground “Turtle Love” staff biologists but will also allow for the integration of community members and local students to participate in research for conservation efforts. In addition to general telemetry monitoring we will continue trapping and marking individuals to assess population status and demography, with the intent to develop a long-term assessment study in the region.
Turtles will be trapped using partially submerged baited crayfish traps (PROMAR) or opportunistically via hand capture. Turtles will be marked on the external marginal scutes, sexed, and measured before being affixed with a radiotransmitter to the anterior or posterior carapace region (depending on species/sex). We seek to tag 15-20 turtles total (5-10 of each species). Turtles that at tracked will be located 2-3 times weekly over a calendar year plus in order to assess habitat selection, use, and general movement patterns. This information will allow for more efficient/concentrated trapping efforts, and a plethora of life history knowledge that may help inform conservation action. The hope is this study will be the springboard for 5-10 years of additional study in this region, allowing for high quality data and direct research experience for students and community members from abroad and locally.
2023 – 4th Quarter Winner:
“The White-throated treerunner: revealing the ecology of an old relict and endemic bird from the southernmost temperate forest of America”
Fernando Novoa Galaz
The temperate forest biome in South America (35° to 55° S), is a designated Global Biodiversity Hotspot due to its remarkable species endemism (40% of bird species) and the presence of various human disturbances. These forests boast one of the highest proportions of cavity-nesting birds, constituting 57% of the bird community, including 25 secondary cavity-nesting species and four excavator species. Bird excavators play a vital ecological role by providing cavities to a broad range of vertebrate and invertebrate species. Within these temperate forests, the White-throated treerunner (Pygarrhichas albogularis) stands out as a tree cavity excavator. Despite its current Least Concern status, this species confronts habitat threats due to deforestation and forest fragmentation. The White-throated treerunner is recognized as a forest specialist and a key habitat facilitator, providing nesting sites for various bird and mammal species in southern South America. It is considered a “living fossil” as it is the only living species of the genus Pygarrhichas, mainly found in Chile and Argentina. Unfortunately, ecological data is scarce, with only one study focusing on its foraging habits. To better understand its vulnerability to human disturbances, further ecological research is imperative. Anthropogenic disturbances responses differ among species and populations, particularly between the northern and southern hemispheres. South American temperate forests contend with notable human pressures in lower latitudes, while higher latitudes predominantly undergo climate-induced environmental shifts, characterized by some of the planet’s swiftest warming rates. The southernmost ecosystems in South America serve as “sentinel systems,” offering early insights into more widespread changes. Hence, this region is well-suited for examining climate-demography relationships and their effects on treerunner populations at varying latitudes.
We intend to conduct a study on this species in the southern forests of Chile using radio telemetry. We will mark individuals of this species with radio tags and monitor their movements in two localities in the south of Chile: The Andean temperate forests of La Araucanía Region (39°16’S, 71°48’W) and the Subantarctic temperate forests in the Navarino Island (54°57’S, 67°39’W). This will allow us to quantify their density, preferred habitats, and seasonal dynamics, helping us estimate breeding home ranges. This research is of significant importance due to the limited available information on this species. Furthermore, it will provide critical insights into the forest characteristics that must be preserved to ensure suitable habitats for this species and other coexisting cavity-nesting species in the southern temperate forests. A decline in excavator species could potentially trigger a cascading effect on the abundance of cavity-nesting species and alter the structure of the nest-web community.
2023 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Echo Parakeet Release Project”
Denis Li
The Echo Parakeet (Alexandrinus eques) was once a critically endangered species in Mauritius, land of the extinct Dodo. After intensive conservation efforts, the species was saved from the brink of extinction, its population increased to an estimated 700 individuals and its status downlisted to vulnerable. However, several challenges remain: The species does not seem to disperse far naturally and due to lack of good quality forest, is still reliant on supplementary feeding provided at a few locations as well as artificial nest boxes. This has led to increasing population densities in the 2 main sub-populations as well as increased exposure to the Beak and Feather Disease Virus (BFDV), causing the Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD). The number of Echo Parakeets in the wild has increased but in return, the general health of the population has been reduced, evidenced by increasing juvenile mortality.
The next step in the recovery of the species is therefore to establish new sub-populations where the birds can expand under less stress. Release trials have been done at Ebony Forest at it provides an ideal site for the translocation of juveniles; the forest is being restored, nest boxes are provided, predators are controlled, and it can potentially act as a corridor between the 2 existing sub-populations. While the rescue and hand-rearing parts have been largely successful, a few months after their release the juveniles came less frequently to the feeders and became hard to find and locate.
For the coming breeding season, 10 of the Echo Parakeet chicks that will be translocated to Ebony Forest will be fitted with radio-transmitters (model SB-2C) before their release. Once free, the birds will be tracked which will enable us to confirm the mid-term survival of the individuals, and further our knowledge on their use of habitat. Some sightings during searches suggest that the birds could be using vegetable patches in the nearby village of Chamarel to feed, and the use of the transmitters would help to determine if it is the case. This study will therefore deepen our knowledge of the species, help inform management practices, determine if human-wildlife conflict mitigation measures need to be taken and help improve translocation success.
2023 – 2nd Quarter Winner:
“Impacts of Urban Living on Insectivorous Bats”
Robin Rowland
As development in Australia increases at a rapid pace, many species are being forced to adapt to urban living and coexist with humans, with unknown consequences. Insectivorous bats are commonly reported residents of Australian roofs, culverts and pool umbrellas, but little is currently known about the impacts these types of roosts and environments have on the resident colonies. This PhD project seeks to gain a better understanding of the physiological impact of urban living on two species of insectivorous bats by examining measures of stress and fitness across an urbanization gradient. We will examine Large Footed Myotis and Eastern Broadnosed Bats, two species commonly seen at local wildlife hospitals and known to roost in both trees and man-made structures. Roosts will be identified using various methods, including public and wildlife rescuer reports, to encourage citizen science participation and foster collaboration between wildlife rescue groups and academics in bat research.
To gain a more holistic understanding of the impacts of urbanization, multiple markers for stress and fitness, including thermal physiology, faecal cortisol levels, body condition and reproductive timing will be compared in individuals living in anthropogenic and natural roosts across an urban gradient. To date, minimal research exists examining stress in insectivorous bats, and no projects have compared stress in tree-roosting versus man-made structure roosting bats. Since two-thirds of Australian insectivorous bat species roost primarily in trees, this project is highly relevant to forest conservation and roost management policies in Australia. As we continue to understand the links between stress in bats and zoonotic diseases, gaining a better understanding of how urban living potentially impacts stress and fitness measures may have important implications for urban planning and human public health management. While Australian species are understudied compared to European and American bat species, any insights on factors influencing stress have global implications for bat conservation.
Bats will be trapped at foraging sites across an urban gradient and Holohil LB-2XT transmitters attached to adult female individuals over at least two spring and autumn seasons. They will be tracked back to their maternity/day roosts to gather data on roost characteristics as well as thermal physiology. Once roosts are located, data loggers and antenna will be placed near the roost to record the pulse intervals/skin temperatures, and any other individuals at the roosts will be briefly trapped to gather biometric data and faecal samples for cortisol analyses. As existing surveys or public reports rarely include tree roosts or roosts in abandoned structures, transmitters are a vital aspect of this project, since they will enable comparisons of a range of roost types. The skin temperature data gathered from these transmitters will also provide valuable information on roost characteristics, as microclimates in roosts are thought to be a key factor in microbat reproductive success. Identifying which roost factors are associated with reduced stress and increased fitness measures may help inform future conservation and management decisions.
2023 – 1st Quarter Winner:
“Pilot augmentation of Elongated Tortoises (Indotestudo elongata) in a protected area in Cambodia”
Christel Griffioen
Elongated Tortoises, Indotestudo elongata, occur throughout South and Southeast Asia but populations have precipitously declined, and the species is now highly threatened due to a combination of habitat loss, subsistence hunting, and over-harvesting for commercial trafficking. Over-exploited tortoise populations are slow to recover owing to a suite of unique life history characteristics (e.g., high adult survivorship, low juvenile survivorship, low reproductive output, etc.) and species recovery depends on a combination of effective protection of remaining wild populations, and translocation of captive-bred tortoises to restore depressed or extirpated populations.
The Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) maintains an assurance colony founded with Elongated Tortoises obtained through wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts. The objective of this project is to translocate captive-bred and head-started tortoises from the assurance colony at ACCB into a secure protected area where the species is present, albeit rare from past over-exploitation. Tortoises will be prepared for release through disease screening and pre-release acclimation, and a subset of tortoises will be fitted with Holohil RI-2B transmitters to monitor post-release dispersal and survival among the translocated tortoises. This study will inform conservationists whether translocation is a viable tool for Elongated Tortoise conservation in Cambodia and also in other range states.
2022 – 4th Quarter Winners:
“Spatio-temporal behavior of Endangered (Latidens salimalii) in southern Western Ghats of India”
Sreehari Raman
Latidens salimalii is an endangered cave dwelling fruit bat which is endemic to montane evergreen and adjoining coffee/cardamom plantations of southern Western Ghats, India. The species is currently known only from four locations in southern W.Ghats. Recent studies shows that there is a significant decline in the population due to climate change, hunting pressure, roost disturbance and habitat loss. Moreover in the last few decades, natural habitats of WG have been severely modified and fragmented. IUCN has recommended to undertake surveys on key roosting sites to study the ecology, population, and public awareness.
I have been studying bats of W.Ghats region since 2012, and I contributed to the general ecology of the lesser known bat species in Ghats. In 2021, myself and my team located the largest roosting colony of L. salimalii in Mankulam Reserved Forest (close to the type locality). The largest cave roost lodge around 600-800 individuals, which is now considered as a source population. However, the region currently lies outside the protected area networks and the roost is vulnerable due to various anthropogenic pressure. We also run models to identify suitable habitats in Ghats and prioritised areas for bat conservation in South India. For any conservation action, it’s crucial to understand their roosting sites, population size, habitat usage, movement pattern, spatial ecology and genetic makeup. Advanced telemetry studies can provide a better understanding on the spatio-temporal behavior. For this, we are proposing the study with the following objectives. 1. To undertake cave exploration in adjoining reserved forests of Mankulam forest, and to estimate the population of endangered L. salimalii 2. To study the spatial ecology and movements of L. salimalii using advanced telemetry devices 3. To understand the behavioral characteristics inside cave roosts 4. To initiate the community based conservation programs and mitigate key threats in its distributional ranges. Further, it will contribute to the ongoing community based conservation initiative of bats at local, national and international level.
In this project, we will be using Holohil transmitter (Model PD-2) to track eight fruit bats in Mankulam region of southern W.Ghats following standard protocol. Monitoring will be carried out both in rainy and non-rainy seasons to understand their movement patterns.
“West African green mamba (Dendroaspis viridis) movement patterns in Guinea: Informing community efforts to reduce human-snake conflict”
Eric Gren
West African green mambas (Dendroaspis viridis) have typically not been considered a species of serious public health concern because they are largely arboreal and were thought to only rarely come down out of trees. However, encounters with the species on the ground are occurring with surprising frequency in the region around Asclepius Snakebite Foundation’s healthcare clinic in Kindia, Guinea. Indeed, D. viridis bites are among the more common snakebites treated at the clinic and they account for 70% of the clinic’s fatalities. We recognize that the most effective way to reduce snakebite mortality and morbidity is to prevent snake interactions in the first place.
To better understand the species’ behavior in the region and to inform strategies for helping locals minimize their risk of potential snake encounters, we will use Holohil transmitters to monitor habitat use, daily movement patterns, and home range size. Community engagement is vital to the success of such public health and conservation efforts, so Kindian ASF staff and colleagues will take the lead in on-going radio-tracking efforts, interpretation and application of findings, and subsequent community education efforts.
2022 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Movement Ecology of an Endangered Endemic Iguana (Ctenosaura bakeri)”
Court Harding
The Utila spiny-tailed iguana (Ctenosaura bakeri), affectionally referred to as the “Swamper” by locals, is endemic to Utila, Honduras, a small Caribbean island. This medium-sized iguana is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, and the approximate range for this species is only 6.5 km2 and falling. The Utila spiny-tailed iguana is the only mangrove-specialist iguana in the world. This iguana is currently under threat due to habitat destruction, pollution, poaching for human consumption, and invasive species. While the iguanas occupy and live in the mangrove forests of Utila, they need to nest on sandy beaches. Beachfront habitat has primarily been lost to housing development. The beaches are also littered with non-biodegradable materials which degrades nesting habitat. Female iguanas, especially gravid females, continue to be poached as a delicacy. Raccoons were introduced to Utila just 7 years ago, and they predate on juvenile iguanas, iguana eggs, and their prey items, such as blue crabs. There is one terrestrial protected area on Utila, Turtle Harbour Wildlife Refuge, but this refuge only contains about 1.2 km2 of iguana habitat. The population is continuing to decline due to these ongoing threats.
The IUCN SSC Iguana Specialist Group developed a Conservation Action Plan for this species in 2020. This study ties into Goal 2 of the Conservation Action Plan to monitor iguana populations over the long-term. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the home range size, movement patterns, and reproductive migration of the Utila-spiny tailed iguana. It is vital to protect nesting sites for this endangered species, and this project allows us to track females to nesting sites. Observations will be made by a graduate student studying with the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, staff at a research station on Utila, and a Honduran biology student.
We intend to use Holohil PD-2 transmitters to follow both male and female Utila spiny-tailed iguanas for up to two months. This will allow us to observe behavior, discover nests, document mortality, and observe other natural history behavior. The results of this study will help managers on Utila and be utilized in outreach materials.
2022 – 2nd Quarter Winner:
“Tracking lemurs: Gaining insight into the impacts of cyclones on lemur habitat and health in southeastern Madagascar”
Elise Paietta & Camille DeSisto
Deforestation and climate change are decimating tropical forests in Madagascar — a hotspot for both biodiversity (90% of species endemic to Madagascar), and extinction. Deforestation throughout Madagascar is rampant, with 44% forest loss in just 61 years (1953-2014; Vieilledent et al. 2018). Moreover, increasing frequency of category 5 cyclones, which were not present prior to 1994 (Fitchett, 2018), exacerbates the loss of critical habitat. In February 2022, Cyclone Batsirai, followed just 2 weeks later by Cyclone Emnati, caused extensive damage in southeastern Madagascar to both human communities and lemur habitat. Almost all lemur species are highly vulnerable to extreme weather events such as cyclones (Zhang et al., 2019), which can dramatically reduce lemur food sources (Lewis & Bannar-Martin, 2012; Birkinshaw & Randrianjanahary, 2007) and negatively impact population health and behavior (Lewis & Axel, 2019; LaFleur & Gould, 2009).
This project will study how cyclones and human impacts on the forest alter range use of critically endangered lemurs in the Manombo Special Reserve and Classified Forest in southeastern Madagascar. Specifically, we will track lemur movement to (1) generate much-needed spatial data to map current lemur forest use, (2) assess lemur social group movements in response to cyclones and logging, and (3) characterize lemur resource use in damaged versus intact forest. This project will be part of a larger, long-term collaboration recently established between Duke, Harvard, MIT, Zoo New England, and Health in Harmony to study the impacts of forest quality on human and animal health in the Manombo Special Reserve. From our initial work in March 2022, logging and “slash and burn” within the reserve is highly active, but both target species (Varecia variegata and Microcebus sp.) were found and captured/sampled. Anecdotally, Varecia appeared to require high-quality forest (recently decreased dramatically) and thus serve as an “indicator” species for forest quality, but spatial data are critically needed for conservation management.
This study’s overarching goal is to understand how cyclones impact the human-lemur interface, with consequences for forest ecology and human/wildlife health.
2022 – 1st Quarter Winner:
“Assessing roosting and foraging activity of bats in a managed forest in the Adirondacks, NY”
Julia Rizzo
Myotis bats are crucial to forest health in the northeastern US, but their populations are severely threatened by White-nose Syndrome and habitat loss. Northern long-eared bats (Myotis septentrionalis) and Indiana bats (Myotis sodalis) are federally threatened and endangered. Despite White-nose Syndrome being first discovered in New York and drastic population declines, studies on summer roosting and foraging behavior of these species are limited in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York.
Myotis bats may be sensitive to forest management due to their need for suitable roost trees and foraging areas. An experimental forest management site was created in SUNY-ESF’s Huntington Wildlife Forest that removed forest understory while retaining large trees that could serve as day roosts or maternity roost trees.
In this project, we will use Holohil transmitters to track 10 Myotis bats to roost trees in Huntington Wildlife Forest and observe whether they use roost trees retained in the experimental cut. We will record roost tree characteristics and do roost emergence counts as feasible. This data will be combined with acoustic data comparing the experimental cut to a more traditional shelterwood cut. This study will inform forest managers and wildlife managers on the habitat use of imperiled Myotis species in managed forests.
2021 – 4th Quarter Winner:
“Northern Ground-hornbill Monitoring Project”
Lucy Kemp
A significant figure in landscapes and cultures, Northern Ground-hornbills (hereafter NGH) are charismatic top order predators declining across Africa. They are classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, and according to BirdLife International, there is insufficient data to provide an estimate on the wild population. Though its congener, the Southern Ground-hornbill (SGH), has been the subject of study and rehabilitative efforts for 45 years, the NGH has no published studies on its biology or life-cycle. They are affected by similar threats such as habitat loss (charcoal extraction, burning, deforestation), poisoning (primary and secondary), and unmonitored trade (bushmeat/ aviculture/ medicinal) as the SGH, which has been estimated to be the fastest declining avian species in South Africa. The IUCN SSC Hornbill Specialist Group has thus listed this species as a main priority for conservation of African hornbills in 2021, but no effective conservation strategies/plans can be implemented until more is learnt about their basic life history and ecological requirements.
This research aims to provide the first assessment of the NGH across its range, with initial in-depth monitoring in Mole National Park and neighbouring communities in northern Ghana. The research involves data collection on feeding habits, nestsite characterization, social dynamics, abundance, and distribution. Observations of individual NGHs in the park will be made through the use of tail-mounted VHF transmitters. This targeted local research will help clarify NGH biology, enabling the assessment of applying established SGH conservation tools for the NGH, and developing the species’ first conservation action plan.
Twelve individuals will be caught and fitted with Holohil transmitters, a proven safe tracking method for SGH, and all relevant ethics and permits will be obtained. Tracking groups will allow for behavioral observations, group demographics, nest discovery, and camera trap installation at nests, ultimately providing a basis for citizen science development.
2021 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Thermal ecology of the forest dwelling southern angle headed dragon, Lophosaurus spinipes”
Bradley Traynor
In Australia, it is predicted that the intensity and duration of summer heatwaves will continue to increase from climate change posing physiological challenges for many animals (Buckley and Huey 2016; Böhm et al. 2019). Lizards and other ectotherms have received renewed interest in their ability to adapt to a changing climate in recent decades (Dillon et al. 2010; Huey et al. 2012; Sinclair et al. 2016) due to their sensitivity to environmental temperatures. The degree to which lizards are vulnerable to thermal variability depends on their ability to decouple their body temperatures from ambient temperatures through behavioural thermoregulation (Pough et al. 1998). Therefore, thermoconformers (those that do not actively thermoregulate) are more at risk of heatwaves and climate change than active thermoregulators.
This project aims to determine the thermoregulatory capacity of a range-restricted, rainforest endemic reptile, the southern angle-headed dragon (Lophosaurus spinipes) to assess the risk of a warming climate on their distribution. We will compare the thermal traits of high and low elevation populations to determine whether the species shows consistent thermal traits across an elevational gradient, between sexes, and any effects of gravidity. This project will incorporate both laboratory and field components, including calculating preferred body-temperatures in the laboratory via a thermal gradient, assessing active field temperatures via temperature-sensitive radio telemetry, and assessing thermal availability in the field by deploying a series of thermal models and temperature loggers.
This study will look at the effects of climate warming in eastern Australian rainforests. Results will likely be transferrable to similar rainforest species world-wide, and extend to other organisms with similar habitat restrictions. Information on the ability of these species to compensate for temperatures above their current maximum preferences will be useful in formulating plans to save theseand other rainforest endemics.
This project will incorporate laboratory and field components, including calculating preferred body-temperatures in the laboratory in a thermal gradient (Figueroa-Huitrón et al. 2019), assessing active field temperatures via Holohil temperature-sensitive radio telemetry (Bakken 1992), and assessing thermal availability in the field by deploying a series of thermal models and temperature loggers. The cryptic nature of this species means we require Holohil temperature-sensitive radio transmitters and custom-made temperature loggers to assist in collecting temperature data. The use of Holohil telemetry and data loggers will facilitate assessing temperature regimes in situ. Body temperatures will be compared to environmental temperatures gained using thermal models (iButtons) placed throughout the environment to map the thermal opportunities within the rainforest (Davidson et al. 2003; Van Marken Lichtenbelt et al. 2006)
2021 – 2nd Quarter Winners:
“Anthropic threats and ecological assessment of the micro-endemic and Critically Endangered Phantom Treefrog (Ptychohyla dendrophasma) in Guatemala”
Carlos A. Gaitan
Massive forest loss across most of the Neotropics during the last decades has diminished the populations of dozens of vertebrate species in mostly isolated subpopulations, and amphibians are one of the groups most in need of urgent conservation actions. The north-western region of Guatemala is not exception, and has been pressured by the advance of changes in land use and alarming rates of deforestation, the main anthropic threats to the conservation of biological diversity and the ecosystem services that it provides to people. This project will carry out the first ecological assessment of the micro-endemic and critically endangered Phantom treefrog Ptychohyla dendrophasma, in the landscape of the Brava Lagoon, Nentón Municipality, Huehuetenango Department, Guatemala. This will lead to evaluate the conservation-context, and will identify the ecological requirements for the occurrence and detection probabilities of this unique and never-studied frog species with least distributional known range in the world.
This work seeks to integrate the detection probability of this elusive species employing conventional line-transect surveys, and the ecological modelling of the population status from robust statistical population estimators, and the extension through conservation actions using participatory workshops with local indigenous Communities neighbouring the Brava Lagoon. To estimate robustly and effectively the occurrence rate of this species, it is necessary to establish the home-range that this species uses, which is non-existing information to date. To achieve this, a “closed-population assumption” is needed to be accomplished, and when population models are generated, it is assumed that all sampling stations or sites (transects) will maintain the same defectibility and space-time independency during a given sampling period, or season, so the P. dendrophasma home-range must be estimated by carrying out several pre-sampling surveys to capture and mark individuals from the Brava Lagoon population.
For this reason, the main objective of this project is to capture, mark, and track Phantom treefrog individuals (at least 10) with Holohil LB-2X transmitters during 2-3 weeks, to establish conservation proposals based on precise information on the natural history, behavior, and known home-range of the only extant population of this endangered “phantom wonder”. Marking individuals will let Carlos to establish the “action-area” (proportion of the occupied area used when foraging and moving) of the Phantom treefrog from precise ecological information, that will let generate effective biological monitoring and conservation strategies.
After this, Carlos will carry out a single-season Royle-Nichols Occupancy Model study for P. dendrophasma, and this will lead to identify the most suitable sites within the Brava Lagoon landscape for the study and focus conservation actions for the Phantom treefrog. Results will be published in peer-reviewed articles and the conservation strategies will be socialized with the public (local Community leaders, educators and local tourist-guides) surrounding the Brava Lagoon, as this site is a relevant tourist attraction that is quite frequented every year, and that threaten the conservation of this endangered Guatemalan frog.
“Spatial Ecology and Home Range Study of Rare, Critically Endangered Large Rock Rat Cremnomys elvira from Eastern Ghats of India.”
R. Brawin Kumar
This project is proposed to study and conserve the lesser known Large Rock- rat (Cremnomys elvira) a rodent which is a Critically Endangered (CR) species restricted to a small area in Kurumbapatti in Eastern Ghats of Salem District, Tamil Nadu, India. It is known only from the type locality and nowhere else in the World. Its habitat is threatened by conversion of forests into agricultural lands, plantations and fuel wood collections. IUCN red list recommended that there is a need to undertake surveys to locate viable populations of this species, and to identify appropriate areas for conservation. In 2013, I have been studying this rat. In 2020, Brawin Kumar and team re-discovered this rare rodent from the type locality after 75 years with photographs. In the year of 2020, we successfully trapped 5 individuals of C.elvira rats from the type locality. We also documented the first ever photograph of this endemic small mammal. They are very elusive and known from only a single rock type (Charnokites) in the type locality. It is very important to understand the species population, ecology, genetic aspects and admixture. For better conservation of this rare endemic rodent species, it is important to know about the distribution, movement pattern, and spatial ecology of this species using modern radio telemetry. This will help in the identification of priority conservation zones in the study area. The main objectives of the project are: I). To conduct field works in four adjoining reserved forests of Kurumbapatti, Salem, Tamil Nadu to estimate the population of rare Cremnomys elvira. II). By using the modern transmitters to estimate the spatial ecology and movements III). To study and document the behavioral characteristics inside the nest hole. IV). To initiate the community based conservation and mitigate threats in the type locality. Further, it will contribute to the ongoing larger conservation initiative of the rodents at a local, national scale. Involving the local forest department officials and communities in the project implementation will help the long-term conservation of the Elvira rat and its habitat.
Permissions and ethical clearance will be got from the concern authorities. A total of 5 numbers PD-2C transmitters will be tagged in the live Cremnomys elvira rats and we will carry out a year long data collection. The data of the movements, home range, emergence and winter/summer range will be analyzed. The behavioral characteristics inside the nest hole are recorded with the help of advanced field camera traps. At present we are studying the population estimation by capture mark recapture at the type locality. Home range will be assessed by using, radio telemetry. The primary tagging occasions will be conducted in the two seasons annually, once in spring and the other in late summer. Involving local community peoples, stakeholders, local conservation NGO’s and forest officials in the project for sound conservation of the target species and its environment. Also we plan to conduct teachers for conservation-a one day training program for village teachers. Based on the results of this project we will obtain new data on the movement pattern, spatial ecology and population estimation of this species will be useful in conservation. Home range and movement’s data would be an ideal source of information to identify appropriate areas of conservation. Further, it will contribute to the on-going larger conservation initiative of the rodents at a local, national scale. Education materials at the local language will be prepared and distributed with a wide variety of stakeholders. An capacity building program for forest officials and local NGOs will be carried out to reach out the target species importance. Further, a variety of local newspaper articles will be prepared and published
2021 – 1st Quarter Winner:
“Translocation of Fijian Crested Iguanas from Malolo Island to Qalito Island, Fiji”
Marica Vakacola
The Critically Endangered Fijian Crested Iguana is a small (200-250g), totally arboreal iguana species restricted to just a few small islands in western Fiji. In 2010 this species was rediscovered on the Island of Malolo in the Mamanuca Island group, and we now know that today there are three small, isolated populations comprising a total of around 150 individuals on Malolo. Malolo Island has been inhabited for over 2700 years, its native vegetation is highly degraded and exotic cats, the main iguana predator, are common. An insurance population of Mololo Island Crested Iguanas is desperately needed. Less than 1 kilometer away is the smaller island of Qalito, which is 57 hectares in size, and home to the 7 hectare Castaway Resort. The rest of the island is native Fijian dry forest; however Fijian Crested Iguanas have not been recorded here in living memory, despite intensive searches. The IUCN Species Recovery Plan for this species recommends Qalito Island as one of only three Islands in Fiji suitable for the re-introduction of Crested Iguanas, but only after cats are eradicated.
In early 2019 Castaway resort and the traditional Fijian landowners of the island began a cat eradication project on Qalito Island, and removed all 54 cats. Now that all cats are gone, our project is to translocate 18 Crested Iguanas from Malolo Island to Qalito Island in 2021, followed by a further 18 in 2023. High survival rates in the first year of translocation are essential before we undertake the second translocation in 2023. This will be the first translocation of the Critically Endangered Crested Iguana to take place in Fiji, and will be a model for future translocations of this iconic and beautiful lizard. The superbly camouflaged Crested Iguana is virtually impossible to see in the leafy canopy of the forest. Transmitters are
the only way to relocate individuals, once released onto Qalito Island.
Research on other translocated iguana species has shown that most mortality occurs in the first 60 days after translocation. We intend to use Holohil BD-2 glue-on transmitters to follow 6 male and 6 female translocated iguanas for at least 90 days, to ascertain movement, survival and body weight changes. Transmitters will be glued on to the tail base of 12 Malolo Island iguanas before they are released into the forest on Qalito Island, and Mamanuca Environment Society staff, volunteers and the Environmental Officer at Castaway Resort will record location and visually check on all translocated iguanas twice a week (using binoculars), and recapture each iguana every 3-4 weeks for weighing.
The results of this project will be a model for all future planned Fijian Iguana re-introductions to other islands in Fiji
2020 – 4th Quarter Winner:
“Pilot reintroduction of captive bred Asian Giant Tortoises in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh”
Shahriar Caesar Rahman
Evolutionary distinctiveness, coupled with its Critically Endangered designation, makes this genus a high conservation priority. According to our extensive interview and visual survey information, which utilized the traditional ecological knowledge of the Mro tribe, we consider the current populations of Asian giant tortoise (Manouria emys phayrei) in Bangladesh to be approaching functional extinction. The few remaining wild individuals of M. emys in Bangladesh reside in southeastern part of the country in the Chittagong Hill Tract (CHT). Though this AZA SSP species has been bred successfully in many Western countries, as well as other range countries such as India and Myanmar, no release of captive bred individuals into native habitat has been attempted. Additionally, no dietary information exists for juvenile M. emys in a natural setting.
We propose to reinforce the functionally extinct populations of the CHT with a ceremonious soft-release of 10 captive bred, two-year old individuals into our Indigenous Community Conservation Areas. A successful release of this nature will gain the favor and support of critical stakeholders both local and in the national government, and pave the way for effective long-term population recovery for M. emys in Bangladesh. The knowledge gained from this study will guide future reintroduction effort in Bangladesh and in other range countries. This project has operated synergistically with multiple distinct components since 2013 and will be conducted in collaboration with the Mro tribe and government agencies. The overall goal is to create conditions within the CHT that are suitable for the long-term population recovery of M. emys.
To motivate the local communities towards conservation we provide free primary level education for 10 tribal villages through our Schools for Conservation initiatives. The communities have agreed to protect the tortoises from poachers once they are released in their community forest.
Ten, 2 year old captive bred tortoises (carapace length: 15-20 cm; mass: 500-600 g) will be released in a soft pen in a 200 hectares community managed forest. All animals will be health screened prior to introduction to prevent spread of pathogens. The release will take place in the pre monsoon of 2021. To improve side fidelity, the tortoise will be kept in a 100 m x 100 m soft release pen for 12 months. The soft release pen will be constructed by bamboo following published protocols for reintroduction. Holohil RI-2B (6 g) transmitters will be affixed to the tortoises using standard protocol. Tracking will be conducted by our parabiologists four times a week for at least 24 months. Data on their diet and behavior will be collected. The transmitters will be replaced periodically.
2020 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of the Cameroon Goliath Frog (Conraua goliath) in Mount Nlonako, Littoral Cameroon”
Louis Nkembi
This project seeks to study the ecology, behavior and conservation of the Goliath frog, and its role in ecosystem functioning in the Mount Nlonako ecosystem. The study is very vital in the understanding of the behavioural attributes of the Goliath Frog in the Nlonako Mountains which will contribute in enriching the ecological knowledge and their present conservation status across the Nlonako-Muanenguba-Bakossi Mountains-Mt Kupe conservation complex. The project will gather information on the ecology and biology of the goliath frog and to establish an effective monitoring scheme for conservation of this species.
Based on IUCN estimates, the Goliath frog is an endangered species with already about 50% decline in its population size in the last three generations. The ERuDeF University Institute launched the initial surveys to study this species in 2015 and this led to proposing this site as an amphibian sanctuary in 2019. This project will lead to the eventual creation of a sanctuary for the conservation of the goliath frogs in parts of the Nlonako mountains. ERuDeF is a Cameroonian non-profit organization created in 1999 and the leading national conservation organization in Cameroon. In 2012, ERuDeF founded the ERuDeF Institute of Applied Biodiversity Sciences.
2020 – 2nd Quarter Winner:
“Saving the little-known Roach’s mouse-tailed dormouse”
Nedko Nedyalkov
The Roach’s dormouse (Myomimus roachi) is one of the least-studied and rarest rodents in the Western Palearctic (Kryštufek, 2008). It is one of five dormice species occurring in Europe which are arboreal and characterized by their ability to hibernate. Roach’s dormouse is only found in the western part of Turkey and southeastern Bulgaria, and its presence has recently been confirmed for NE Greece (Nikos et al., 2019). Despite intense search over the past years, only few individuals have been discovered in owl pellets in Bulgaria. In the summer of 2017, the first mouse-tailed dormouse was live-captured in Bulgaria after 40 years (Nedyalkov et al., 2018). It was caught in the Sakar Mountains, in a semi-open grassland area with shrubs, scattered old oak and pear trees. Very little is known about its biology and ecology.
To fill this gap, we started a project in 2019 in this area. The main objectives are 1) to gather detailed information about the biology and ecology of this species, and 2) to establish an effective monitoring scheme for conservation purposes. For this species’ protection and conservation measures, we need to know its habitat preference, time of activity, home range, diet, reproductive biology etc. Thus, we have established two permanent plots with 60 regularly checked nest-boxes. Alongside, we live-trap them (Longworth and DeuFa traps) to collect additional data of their seasonal activity and population structure. The last year was quite successful, as we were able to capture and re-capture about 30 mouse-tailed dormice and collect initial, but important data for this species’ ecology.
In our project thus far, we use nest boxes and live traps. During their active season (May-September), we check nest boxes twice per month and live-trap for 6 days every month. All captured dormice are microchipped and releаsеd. We plan to establish a permanent monitoring program for this species to collect reliable data of its population size and dynamics, seasonal and daily activity (including torpor bouts), reproduction, diet, parasites, habitat use and preference, as well as home range. Despite monitoring nest boxes and live trapping, some crucial aspects of its ”private life” – important for conservation plans and actions – remain hidden from us and may only be gained by radio tracking: How does this species explore its habitat, how large is its home range, where does this species hibernate? In order to fill these essential gaps, we plan to track 10 dormice (5 male and 5 female) with radio-collars. We already have experience in radio-tracking other small mammals. Results will be published in peer-reviewed articles and will also be communicated to the public. In addition, preserving the unique habitat of this threatened species in the Sakar Mountains will support the conservation of other endangered species, such as several species of birds of prey. In this project, Dutch and German collaborators participate, including doctoral students.
For more information, please visit: https://discovermammals.org/projects/nest-boxes-for-mouse-tailed-dormouse/
2020 – 1st Quarter Winner:
“Comparative Ecology of Semi-urban and Wild Populations of Kinosternon chimalhuaca”
José Garrido
Globally, turtles are considered among the most endangered four-legged vertebrates. Furthermore, mud turtles living in arid regions are at a particularly high extinction risk in this century due to climate change and urbanization. Since 1980, the population of the city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico has increased from 65,000 to over half a million, with 4 million annual tourists. This rapid urbanization has resulted in enormous biodiversity losses throughout the region with effects radiating into protected areas like the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve, typically recognized for high endemism and species richness. This is a devastating loss for the region, as the surrounding neotropical dry forest biome is Earth’s most endangered tropical ecosystem. Nonetheless, new species and populations of turtles are continually being discovered locally, demonstrating a great need for further ecological research.
Mud turtles living near human development often seek refuge from dehydration in the dry season by utilizing man-made water sources such as cow troughs and irrigation ditches. These water sources are critical where urban habitat may offer some of the last remaining refugia; however, the effect this environment has on mud turtle populations is largely misunderstood. Comparing population data from diverse habitats and partnering with local communities are both essential if we are to develop effective strategies for understanding and reversing wild turtle declines.
Our team will partner with a local community to launch the first ecological study of the Jalisco mud turtle (Kinosternon chimalhuaca), a rare and poorly studied species from western Mexico. In 2019, our team captured 17 turtles in the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve, a pristine neotropical dry forest. In a nearby town, a similar sampling effort of a 1km semi-urban ditch yielded 226 individuals, estimating a population between 600-1000 individuals. Between these populations, large variations in size, age, and sex ratios were detected. The main goal of our research will be to make a thorough comparison of semi-urban and wild populations, focusing on three ecological characteristics: population structure (size, age, sex ratios), diet, and movement patterns. Turtles from both habitats will be marked and measured before eight adults in each habitat will be outfitted with Holohil’s PD-2 radio-transmitter and a low-cost GPS data logger to monitor daily movement patterns and breeding sites localities. Together, these findings will be compiled as a master’s thesis through Central Washington University and the first ecological analyses of the Jalisco mud turtle.
Interested local students will be mentored on wildlife research and conservation techniques associated with the project, and they will present results to their school and community. By involving the community in the research and conservation of the Jalisco Mud turtle, long-term conservation goals will have a greater chance of success and sustainability. This study will unveil critical ecological data and foster inclusion by using low-cost biotechnology, open-access publication, and by empowering community conservation of K. chimalhuaca within this community.
2019 – 4th Quarter Winner:
“Movement Ecology of the Chaco Tortoise at the Southern Extreme of the Species’ Range in Patagonia”
Erika Kubisch
The Chaco tortoise, Cheloniosis chilensis, reaches it southern range limit in the Patagonia region of Argentina. The species is affected by habitat degradation due to expansion of human settlements and agricultural expansion (crops and ranching), which leads to direct competition for forage between tortoises and domestic sheep and goats and trampling by cattle of tortoise nests and nesting areas. The species is also involved in wildlife trafficking currently as the most commonly illegally traded native reptile in Argentina (Prado et al. 2012). For these reasons, this species was included in the Appendix II of CITES and is considered as Vulnerable at the international (IUCN) and national levels (Res.1055/13).
We have been studying the southernmost C. chilensis population since 2016 to better understand the species’ natural history, habitat needs, and best conservation measures. During multiple field trips, we have observed different threats including fire, predation by dogs and wild boars, and trampling by cattle. Where cattle occur we have not found any juveniles. Tracking tortoises with radio-telemetry transmitters during the activity season will greatly expand our knowledge of this population of Chaco tortoises and how to conserve it in the face of ongoing changes to their habitat.
We will capture and radio-track adult tortoises of both sexes in order to study home-range differences. Each month, within the species’ activity season (September-March), we will take blood samples in order to analyze the hormonal levels and understand the reproductive cycle. Once tagged with Holohil radiotransmitters, females will be monitored intensively during the nesting season. Repeated weight measurement and abdominal palpation for eggs will indicate whether nesting has occurred and greatly increase the chance of finding nests (no nest has ever been found by scientists). In each nest found environmental variables will be recorded. We will also place anti-predator exclosures over nests that we will monitor periodically to determine emergence dates and hatching success. In addition, we will carry out a raising-awareness campaign focused on preventing the tortoises illegal pet trade and the importance of protecting them. The results will be used together with regional wildlife management authorities in order to develop an action plan to conserve this emblematic species at the southernmost extreme of the species range.
2019 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Conservation and management of Saffron-cowled Blackbird in Argentina”
Florencia Pucheta
The Saffron-cowled Blackbird (Xanthopsar flavus) is endemic to South America’s grasslands of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil. Agricultural expansion as well as illegal trafficking of birds in the pet trade has resulted in small and isolated populations. These populations are unprotected and regular breeding sites are being lost each year due to land conversion. The species is currently classified by IUCN as Vulnerable globally. In Argentina the species is considered Critically Endangered because the population has declined from 1,500 to an actual estimation of 600 individuals in the past decade.
Under the need to act upon this alarming decline we started this project in 2015, with the purpose to protect the species by raising its reproductive success within its distribution in Argentina with the help of local communities. We integrated a united and motivated interdisciplinary group with scientists, field technicians, local communities, landowners and stakeholders to work towards this goal working together between different national and local governments, the national council of science and technology (CONICET) and NGOs (Aves Argentinas).
We have been actively protecting breeding colonies from predation, brood parasitism and agricultural practices that threatens the species through the “Colony Guardians” technique. Field technicians with the help of volunteers become custodians of the Saffron-cowled Blackbird’s by applying physical barriers to each nest and follow the process until eggs hatch and chicks fledge. Furthermore, we work on developing the research to understand the state of the remaining populations, their movements and habitat use and the impact of land use on their reproductive success. This process follows an adaptive management technique where each site, nest and colony is re assessed to assure the best conservation outcome.
In these three years of work we have achieved the breeding success of protected nests be the double of the unprotected nests in a natural situation (69% protected fledging success compared to 36% for the controls). Our next challenges are to continue working on the protection of the reproductive colonies, as well as to identify the species spatial movements and use of habitat during the breeding season. The Holohil transmitters will help us achieve these goals and deepen the knowledge on the species biology necessary to establish the conservation priorities and strategies to minimize the threats to the Saffron-cowled Blackbird’s habitat in Argentina.
2019 – 2nd Quarter Winner:
“Western Box Turtles (Terrapene ornata) in New Mexico: obtaining baseline data to assess population status”
Christiane Wiese
Over 60% of the world’s turtle species are either extinct or on a trajectory to be extinct soon, placing “turtles” as a group among the most threatened vertebrate animals on earth. The recent decline of the Eastern box turtle (Terrapene Carolina) has been well-documented, but much less is known about its cousin west of the Mississippi, the Western box turtle (Terrapene ornata).
The desert box turtle (Terrapene ornata luteola) is a subspecies of Western box turtle that occurs mainly in southeastern Arizona, New Mexico, and West Texas in the US and (northern) Sonora and Chihuahua provinces in Mexico. Systematic studies to assess population status or current range of the desert box turtle in New Mexico are still lacking, but anecdotal evidence suggests that populations are in (steep) decline. Furthermore, the turtle’s popularity as a pet, combined with the voracity of the Asian turtle market and the fact that New Mexico is one of only very few states where commercial box turtle harvest is still legal, instill concern that New Mexico’s box turtle populations will soon experience even more rapid declines unless legal protections are put in place. It is therefore essential to gain a better understanding of the status of the population, its range, genetics, habitat preferences and use, and general ecology.
Our long-term goal is to survey at least three sites distributed in historic box turtle range in New Mexico to begin to obtain baseline data on current range and population status of New Mexico box turtles. We intend for this project to turn into a long-term monitoring effort to assess the health and status of New Mexico’s desert box turtles, to aid in evaluating the listing status of the Western box turtle, and to provide baseline data for conservation efforts. In the short-term, we plan to start by surveying box turtle populations in a protected and largely untouched landscape on private land in southern New Mexico during their most active season (following the monsoons in July and August 2019), document their locations, examine individual turtles for signs of disease and parasites, obtain morphometric data (weight, shell dimensions, sex), and obtain samples for genetic analyses and overall health status. Two or more additional sites within historic box turtle range will be similarly surveyed in subsequent years. We will outfit at least 15 turtles with Holohil RI-2B transmitters so we can follow them over the long-term and study their movements and home ranges, behaviors, disease transmission, survivorship, and predation pressures.
This project is a highly collaborative effort that will involve biologists, high school and university instructors and students, volunteers, herpetologists, and veterinarians. Through involving local students in long-term monitoring efforts and learning more about the wild nature of a species that is also a popular pet, we hope to inspire future generations to learn more about their local wildlife and become stakeholders in its protection in the wild.
2019 – 1st Quarter Winner:
““A Safe Harbor for ʻAkekeʻe – Operation Translocation”
Lisa Crampton
Hawaiʻi is the endangered species capital of the world, yet conservation here is woefully underfunded. Over 71 forest bird species have become extinct across the islands. In Kauaʻi, just eight native forest bird species remain, including ʻAkekeʻe, a critically endangered passerine endemic to Kauaʻi. The current population numbers only 945 individuals, located in the remote high elevation Alakaʻi Plateau in the heart of Kaua’i.
The biggest threat to ‘Akeke’e is introduced avian malaria. Global warming allows disease-carrying mosquitos to survive at higher elevations, the final refuge for forest birds. This threat cannot yet be addressed at a landscape level in Kauaʻi, given its low elevation; thus they are exposed most of the year to this disease. Translocation to the higher elevations of Maui or Hawaii islands (where mosquitos and malaria cannot exist) is therefore critical to protect the species.
For a successful translocation, KFBRP needs to better understand ʻAkekeʻe ecology. The only way to do this is through radio-telemetry, as ‘Akeke’e are extremely difficult to locate, follow and observe in the high canopy of our sites, which have challenging terrain. Telemetry provides fine detail about biological requirements such as nesting and feeding sites, behavior, habitat use, landscape-level movements, and will allow us to assess food availability and possible diet overlap with Maui and Hawaii birds present at potential translocation sites. This project forms part of a larger telemetry study on Kauaʻi’s endangered forest bird species that uses eight telemetry towers with data loggers to track birds 24/7 across the Plateau’s many ridges and valleys that are impossible for humans to scale on foot as quickly as birds fly.
In May and June 2019, we will target mistnet ‘Akeke’e using playback, because ‘Akeke’e are rare and difficult to capture. We will attach radiotransmitters to ~10 ‘Akeke’e and use telemetry data to document habitat use, movements, and dispersal. Telemetry data will be correlated with LiDAR and other habitat and environmental data, greatly increasing the knowledge needed to successfully plan a translocation to help save this imperiled species.
2018 – 4th Quarter Winner:
“Ecology, behavior and conservation of Libyan Striped Weasel (Ictonyx libycus) in Tunisia”
Firas Hayder and Emmanuel Do Linh San
Africa is home to over 80 species of small carnivores (<20 kg). Considering that most of them have not been studied thoroughly – or not studied at all – there is clearly a huge gap in our knowledge of African small carnivores in particular, and their roles in ecosystem functioning in general. Hence, the launching of the first scientific study on the ecology, behavior and conservation of Libyan Striped Weasel in Africa will certainly contribute toward filling a part of this gap, as well as enrich our general knowledge on African biodiversity.
A PhD project started in April 2018 and the 1st study year consists in a country-wide assessment of the distribution, abundance and threats to this species in Tunisia, using questionnaire surveys, spot-lighting, live-trapping and field sign surveys.
The present study (2nd study year) will provide insight into the spatio-temporal ecology of a weasel population living in a semi-natural habitat, with the aim to later (see below) infer whether the species is affected by human activities. Some of the specific questions we would like to address are as follows:
• Will males have larger home ranges than females and will their home ranges overlap with those of neighboring females, as observed in other small carnivore species?
• Will male daily ranges be larger than those of females, and will movement distances be longer during the reproductive season?
• Is the Libyan Striped Weasel less active during extremely cold and hot weather conditions?
• Are there any intersexual and seasonal variations in both activity and time budgets?
This study will be followed up by dietary analyses (3rd year of PhD) and another radio-tracking/diet study in a natural, desert environment (Jebil Park) with the aim to understand how this species succeeds in living in such extreme conditions (2-year postdoc), hence providing a complete picture of the ecology and behavior of this species in Tunisia.
Using results from the ongoing country-wide survey and the planned radio-tracking and diet studies, we will develop a community conservation awareness program to highlight the species’ ecological role. This will involve oral presentations and/or distribution of flyers in several schools throughout the country, discussions with farmers, as well as interventions in radio-programs. We will also contact the Ministry of Agriculture and Hydraulic Resources and national nature protection associations to discuss solutions to current threats.
2018 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Conservation of the Endemic Chelonians of Sulawesi: Sulawesi Forest Turtle (Leucocephalon yuwonoi) and Forsten’s Tortoise (Indotestudo forstenii)”
Christine Light
Although rich in herpetofauna diversity, the Indonesian Island of Sulawesi is home to only two endemic chelonians, the Critically Endangered Sulawesi Forest Turtle (Leucocephalon yuwonoi) and the Endangered Forsten’s Tortoise (Indotestudo forstenii; IUCN Red List; CITES Appendix II). As there has been no previous research or conservation efforts focused on these species, their population status is based primarily on anecdotal information. Combined with severe habitat destruction and current and historic collection for the pet and bushmeat trades, these species could soon be facing extinction. Furthermore, neither species is listed as protected within Indonesia, thus adding to the urgency of this initiative.
We are conducting population surveys to determine species’ distribution to work toward ensuring their long-term survivability as we will then have a better grasp of the conservation initiatives that need to be employed (i.e. uplisted IUCN status and CITES listings, stricter import/export laws, increased local protection, identification of parcels of land for expansion and/or creation of protected areas). Survey results will initiate long-term monitoring programs, to study daily activities and determine the ecological needs of the species. This program will advance our knowledge of the ex situ requirements leading to an increase in captive breeding efforts. Concurrently, we will develop an in situ captive breeding program, initially focusing on Indotestudo forstenii, with our partner university. This program will provide a platform for education and outreach and allow for the opportunity to track and study a population of released turtles as an on-campus research and training project.
During initial population surveys conducted in early 2018, we identified and processed a population of Leucocephalon yuwonoi and Holohil transmitters will be affixed to a subset of these animals. Monitoring will be conducted by students from our partner universities and residents from within study sites who will all be thoroughly trained in field techniques. Radio-tracking will provide valuable information on home-range, habitat preferences, foraging, reproductive and nesting behaviors for a better understanding of the requirements for captive breeding while also assisting in identifying suitable habitat for their future survival in the wild. Combined, data and information will create a better overall assessment of this severely understudied species, their conservation needs, and necessary husbandry requirements for the successful development of much-needed assurance colonies for future reintroduction programs.
We are also establishing education and outreach programs to provide local communities with the information and resources they need to become actively engaged in the project. We aim to evoke their sense of personal responsibility toward ensuring the long-term conservation of these species and their habitats and how they can all coexist.
April 2019 Update:
We identified and processed a total of 65 Leucocephalon yuwonoi (33 adults; 32 juveniles/yearlings), along with 8 recaptures from the population surveys conducted in March 2018. We affixed Holohil R1-2B transmitters to 10 males and 10 females, split up into two tracking groups, one group in one stream with 9 turtles and the second group split into two streams with 11 turtles (7 turtles in one and 4 turtles in the other (the two streams are about a 15 min walk from each other and the tracking ends up looping around back to the start creating a “tracking circuit”). The first turtle with a transmitter was released on 17 February and the last three turtles with transmitters were released on 28 February, with radiotracking commencing on 18 February and were tracked daily through 5 April. Tracking rate of individuals was approximately 2-3 times per week. Preliminary analysis of the data suggests that the majority of the turtles are active during the evening, however some still stay in refuges. Active turtles had their location, activity, weather and a description of the area recorded. For turtles in refuges, location, weather and habitat description were recorded, and were followed up with the next morning for habitat assessments. One interesting note is that during a morning survey one tagged turtle was located up a very steep hill, estimated to be about 50 meters from the creek. He was checked on a couple days later and was slowly making his way back down that hill back toward the creek. Further analysis of the data will provide us a better understanding of turtle behavior throughout the day, which is relatively unknown as most turtles are observed during the evening hours.
2018 – 2nd Quarter Winner:
“Wild dogs in the west: understanding space use and population dynamics as tools to protect wild dogs along the western boundary of the Kruger National Park”
David Marneweck
The Greater Kruger National Park (KNP) ecosystem harbors the only viable contiguous population of Endangered wild dogs (~250 individuals in 22 packs), and is extremely important to regional wild dog conservation through its connectivity with Mozambique and southern Zimbabwe. Wild dog packs and dispersal groups frequently use unprotected areas outside the western boundary of the KNP. Here very little is known about individual patterns of survival and reproduction, population-level patterns of dynamics, and home range size and use. Moreover, persecution rate are high and known threats to wild dogs in this area include snaring, disease, road deaths and direct persecution. Further, we are beginning to receive concerning reports from farmers regarding wild dogs on their properties and their desire to remove them. As such, the wild dogs in this area are under immense pressure and only with new data on population dynamics and space use can we hope to protect them, using proactive conflict mitigation strategies.
Our project will fit transmitters onto one adult male and one adult female from each of the four packs outside the western boundary of KNP. Once fitted, each pack will be located weekly for the project period of one year to determine population dynamics and home range use, and the factors affecting this. We will also disseminate information obtained (locations, threat awareness) to the community through an existing community education project, farmers days and school presentations.
2018 – 1st Quarter Winner:
“The Ridge Turtle Project: Summer Study”
Elizabeth Hall-Dukin
Southern Conservation Trust, a community land trust founded in 1993, preserves greenspace, safeguards rivers, shelters wildlife, provides environmental education, and ensures that everyone has access to nature throughout Georgia. SCT will partner with biologist Dennis Chase (formerly with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) and Dr. Diane Day, Senior Lecturer in Biology at Clayton State University, for a summer program focused on the study of the population demographics of Eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) at The Ridge Nature Area in Fayetteville, Georgia. In the last several years, more than 850 turtles have been identified making this research one of the largest box turtle investigative projects in the Georgia.
The summer program will offer university students the opportunity to educate the public about the environment and the importance of stewardship. Participants will learn to integrate math, science, reading, computer literacy, and scientific field techniques to understand the long term implications of conservation. Students practice field techniques, radio telemetry and how to determine home ranges and the importance of population monitoring.
Hands on learning is a key aspect of the summer study, Locating, marking, and tracking the box turtles serves as the foundation from which all of the other activities evolve. Students weigh, measure, and identify the gender of the turtles. They record information about landscape features and identify plants that live in the habitat where the turtles are found.
Project leaders and interns will also have the opportunity to introduce their turtle study to the community through the Southern Conservation Trust’s Summer Camp WILD (children ages 6-12, including local Title I schools), and with planned community lectures and demonstrations held throughout the summer/early fall. These lecture/demonstrations will be rooted in project based scientific activities highlighting the importance of conservation and the building and preservation of communities.
2018 – 1st Quarter Runner Up Winner:
“Ecological and ethnological basis for pangolin management in Cote d’Ivoire Pangolins ”
Brou Guy-Mathieu Assovi
I am pursuing a PhD in Conservation Biology and Wildlife Management at the University of Felix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire) with the aim of becoming West Africa’s preeminent champion for pangolins! In Cote d’Ivoire, I will study pangolin resource selection and the drivers of local community use of pangolins in and around Tai National Park (the largest forested national park in West Africa) and the Tanoe-Ehy Swamp Forest – Cote d’Ivoire’s only community conservation area. My work is especially focused on the black-bellied pangolin (Phataginus tetradactyla), the least studied pangolin in Africa; however, all three pangolins need research for management action, and so I will inevitably provide important data on white-bellied and giant pangolins as well.
By filling critical knowledge gaps about pangolin ecology and ethnozoology, and building capacity in local pangolin conservationists (I am the first Ivorian to ever study pangolins), my work is laying the foundation for all future pangolin management. Ultimately, I hope that my work will form the basis for a national pangolin management plan and will be a platform for raising awareness about the need to protect pangolins in Cote d’Ivoire and throughout West Africa.
2017 – 4th Quarter Winner:
“Engaging Philippine Crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) Citizen Science Research
and Monitoring for Ecotourism to Encourage Coexistence (EEC) in Siargao Island, Philippines”
Rainier Manalo
The Philippine crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis), is the rarest crocodile species in the world. It is listed as Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and Appendix I of the Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES). This relatively small and docile Philippine endemic freshwater crocodile was once distributed in major islands of the Philippine Archipelago. Recent wild populations are greatly reduced with remaining wild populations in northern Luzon and some parts of Mindanao having an inferred population 92-137 mature individual. Decline in the natural remaining habitat have pressed the boundaries of unearthing new suitable habitat with protection for restocking programs.
In March 2013, we at the Crocodylus Porosus Philippines Inc. (CPPI) have initiated the release of 36 juvenile captive bred Philippine Crocodile in Paghungawan Marsh, Siargao Island Protected Landscapes and Seascapes that marked as another milestone in the history of Philippine Crocodile conservation. Twenty-nine juveniles were also released in July 2017. These initiatives have contributed to the development of community-based ecotourism with high public awareness impact. It also gained more interest in citizen science without any sign of conflict with the communities.
In this coming project, we will use HOLOHIL RI 2B transmitters to determine the home range, daily movements, foraging behavior, and potential territory of the captive bred juvenile Philippine crocodile to be release for conservation introduction. Understanding these variables will enhance citizen science in locating individual crocodiles for community-based sustainable ecotourism. Thereby, increases the sightings probability to be offered for tourist appreciation and effectively deliver species conservation public awareness. This primarily aims to generate knowledge on the crocodile carrying capacity of the marsh and its home range towards more improved model of sustainable community-based eco-tourism as tool in encouraging coexistence.
October 2018 Update:
Our data showed interesting behaviors of Philippine Crocodiles in the marsh, including observations of individuals in small and shallow caves situated in steep slopes. Furthermore, as citizen scientists continue to track crocodiles, there was an increase of crocodile sightings during the day which in turn help the community to increase their income from “crocodile watching”, one of the sustainable eco-tourism being offered in the area.
We are continuously grateful of your support in crocodile research and conservation. Without it, these unexpected behaviors of Philippine Crocodiles would have not been documented.
2017 – 4th Quarter Runner Up Winner:
“Tracking Monarch Butterflies Through the Iowa Landscape Utilizing an Automated Radio Telemetry System”
Kelsey Fisher
Habitat loss is a key factor in monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) population decline. Monarch habitat restoration efforts are focused on increasing milkweed (Asclepias sp.) for oviposition and larval development and other native prairie plants for adult forage. To implement habitat restoration in locations that are biologically relevant for monarch butterflies, we must first understand how monarchs are currently navigating and utilizing the landscape on a large scale. Radio telemetry techniques are being employed with monarch butterflies to track flight patterns, perception distance, and step-length.
Initially, hand-held radio telemetry methods were adapted for simultaneous bearing collection and subsequent triangulation to estimate flight paths. Thirteen radio-tagged field-collected monarchs were tracked individually for up to 87 minutes. In 2017, an automated radio telemetry system, adapted from Kays et al. (2011), was implemented to reduce error and increase the frequency of data collection. To test the system and obtain initial monarch behavior insights, radio-tagged monarchs were released known distances from a single ‘patch’ of potted milkweed and nectar plants placed in a 16 ha sod farm. Monarchs took flight steps ranging from one to 1,100 meters, and often avoided the potted resources. Monarchs inhabiting corn/soybean landscapes surrounding the sod field provided an opportunity to empirically assess perceptual range. Monarchs downwind of potted nectar plants exhibited directed flights to these resources from distances of 50 to > 75m. Future telemetry studies will take advantage of more complex habitat scenarios to determine perception distance, as well as flight distances and behavior at habitat edges.
2017 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Ecology of the Karoo dwarf tortoise, Homopus Boulengeri”
Victor Loehr
The Karoo dwarf tortoise is a diminutive species restricted to semi-arid, rocky patches in the Karoo, South Africa, and is one of the world’s most underrepresented tortoise study species. Called the “thunderstorm tortoise”, its activity is limited to scarce rainy conditions within its small distribution range. Recent reports concluded that the species may be in decline, as >800 hours of searching known habitat found just 3 tortoises. However, this apparent scarcity may simply result from a lack of data to understand its diurnal and seasonal activity pattern. For example, we located 8 individuals in a small study area in February 2017.
This project will investigate the activity, behaviour and general biology (e.g., home ranges, diet, growth and reproduction) of the Karoo dwarf tortoise using Holohil transmitters for data collection. The data that we will collect will help us accurately assess the status of the taxon and assist managers to conserve it. In addition, the results of the study have significant scientific value, as what is known about semi-arid rock-living tortoises is based on the speckled dwarf tortoise (Chersobius signatus) while the Karoo dwarf tortoise inhabits a summer rainfall region, which is quite different.
In 2018, efforts will concentrate on finding as many tortoises as possible during the rainfall season and on collecting morphometric, reproductive and dietary data. Ten males and 10 females will be equipped with radio transmitters, be recaptured in 2019, and the larger-bodied females will be recaptured again in 2020. The focus of the 2019 study season is on activity, behaviour and home ranges: telemetered tortoises will be tracked every 1-7 days (depending on activity) to record their coordinates and behaviour. In addition, each one will be tracked early one morning, and subsequently observed throughout one full day, enabling detailed activity budgets to be calculated.
All fieldwork will be conducted by volunteers (young zoo keepers, university students and private people interested in conservation), in collaboration with the University of the Western Cape (South Africa). Outreach to local communities will be achieved through interactive presentations about the project at a local level, highlighting the uniqueness of this species and its habitat and the results of the work.
The long-term impact of the study is: (1) Solid data in the public domain regarding Karoo dwarf tortoises in their natural habitat, forming a reliable basis to assess the status of the species; (2) a basis for managers to formulate measures to conserve the species and its habitat, including sympatric species; (3) advanced insight in the effect of climate on tortoise ecology; (4) increased (local) awareness of the conservation of the Karoo dwarf tortoise and tortoises in general.
June 2018 Update:
The first sampling was conducted in the 2018 rainfall season, from 14 February until 22 March 2018. Despite the long-term drought in western South Africa, a single 47-mm rainfall event at the study site provided excellent conditions for plant growth and tortoise activity. Seven volunteers worked in shifts, for a total of 563 person-hours, to search for C. boulengeri individuals at the study site and its direct surroundings. A total of 50 individuals was found and marked, providing a solid basis for the study of population composition and dynamics, and growth rates. On average, it took 7.6 person-hours and inspection of 150−200 rock crevices to find a single C. boulengeri.
We equipped nine males and 16 females with Holohil transmitters. Transmittered tortoises were tracked up to 20 times during the sampling period, to record their location, activity, food items and body temperature. Simultaneously, two students spent a total of 209 hours observing continuous individual behaviours for the calculation of individual time budgets, which was originally planned for the second sampling period in 2019.
On 20 February 2018, we radiographed eight females to determine if they were gravid. The growing number of transmittered tortoises enabled us to radiograph 18 females on 8 March.
Our preliminary results suggest that the summer behaviour of C. boulengeri is not linked to rainfall. Many individuals were active when there was no rain, but activity was limited to a few hours at the end of the day. It proved virtually impossible to opportunistically locate active C. boulengeri due to their cryptic colouration and behaviour. None of the females was gravid.
For more information, please visit: Dwarf Tortoise Conservation
2017 – 2nd Quarter Winner:
“Spatial ecology of the Rossman’s Garter Snake in Nayarit, western Mexico”
Victor Hugo Luja Molina
The Rossman’s Gartersnake (Thamnophis rossmani) is one of the most endangered reptiles in Mexico. It is a species that has been recorded few times, whose distribution is restricted to an area less than 10 km2 in Matatipac Valley, Tepic, Nayarit, western Mexico.
In his description, Roger Conant (2000: 5) mentioned, “available evidence indicates that Thamnophis rossmani may be in grave danger, if not already extinct.” In recent years we have searched for specimens and found more snakes dead (run over) than alive. That is why we will start this work with the objective of knowing its distribution and, thanks to Holohil Systems, we will be able to know the spatial ecology of the species in order to take concrete conservation actions.
2017 – 2nd Quarter Runner Up Winner:
“Conservation of blind mole rats in the carpathian Basin”
Gabor Csorba
Blind mole rats (Spalacinae) are enigmatic animals due to their special lifestyle: they are completely blind and almost never come up to the surface. Degradation, transformation of the formerly vast grasslands to intensive monocultures and development areas extirpated these rodents from more than 90% of their original distribution area in the Carpathian Basin. As a result, blind mole rats became endangered and gained the highest-level legal protection in Hungary. Researchers of the Hungarian Natural History Museum (HNHM) started the investigation of their systematics, distribution and conservation biology in 2005.
Molecular genetic studies of the Carpathian Basin populations resulted in the elevation of the formerly recognised chromosomal forms of the Lesser blind mole rat species complex Nannospalax (superspecies leucodon) to species rank. They represent the only endemic mammal species of the EU’s Pannonian Biogeographical Region, but they face severe conservation problems. It was revealed that Nannospalax syrmiensis already went extinct and the other three species are assessed as endangered or critically endangered. Despite of legal protection, nearly all remaining population fragments are threatened, i.e. because of the building of the Hungarian-Serbian border fence or a solar power plant exactly “over the head” of the blind mole rats.
As a pilot study, in close cooperation with the nature protection authorities, two years ago we started the first-ever translocation program of a fossorial rodent. To establish a new population in a state-owned protected area we live-trap specimens and the possibility to equip them with radio telemetry devices would provide an unparalleled possibility to get exact data about their lifecycle, movements, home ranges, etc, – information so far not existing at all, but vitally necessary to effectively protect them. This autumn, we would like to follow five individuals in the newly established population.
Outcomes will be the more detailed understanding of the life of blind mole rats, which result in more effective protection of these rare mammals.
December 2020 Update:
Active conservation measures have begun in 2013 to save these endemic rodents including the first-ever translocation program of a fossorial rodent. The first trial was surprisingly successful, as all the translocated animals survived the procedure, and a new population of blind mole rats was established in a protected area in Hungary.
In our second translocation event, we used five Holohil transmitters to monitor the movements of the translocated animals. We planned to get extra information about the translocated animals in the early days after their release when they are the most vulnerable in the new habitat. We have found that young individuals are hard to tag with collared radio transmitters, thus we finally marked only fully grown adults. Animals were followed for about a month from early October to mid-November. We have found that females were more active than males in the early days and also built their new tunnel-systems faster. Activity of the individuals begun about one hour after sunrise and lasted about one hour after sunset; surprisingly, they showed no activity at night. We could follow their movements when they were building their tunnel-system or were collecting food. Periods of one-hour-long activity were typically interrupted by slightly longer resting times.
The gathered knowledge and the experiences of the second relocation project significantly improved our translocation methodology which facilitate the survival of these unique rodents in Central Europe.
2017 – 1st Quarter Winner:
“Reintroduction of Amazona vinacea at the Araucarias National Park, Brazil’”
Vanessa Tavares Kanaan
The Psittacidae family has some of the most threatened species. Two of the main reasons for the rapid and ongoing population decline are habitat destruction and illegal nest poaching. The vinaceous-breasted Amazon (Amazona vinacea) is one of the most endangered amazon species of the Atlantic Forest, a biodiversity hotspot. A. vinacea historically occurred in Brazil from southern Bahia to Rio Grande do Sul, parts of Paraguay and Argentina. It has become rare throughout its extensive range and its minimal population is 3,920 individuals. It is listed on the IUCN Red List (IUCN, 2016) as Endangered with “a very high risk of becoming extinct in the wild in the immediate future”. In Brazil, it is considered Vulnerable.
Because of its threat status, research and interventions are urgently necessary to prevent global extinction. In 2010 we developed and implemented a program to effectively reintroduce A. vinacea in the Araucárias National Park, Brazil, where it was locally extinct. Since then, a total of 83 birds victims of illegal wildlife, rescued or captive born, have been rehabilitated, released and monitored as part of our pioneer bird reintroduction effort in a Brazilian National Park approved by the federal governmental agency Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). Up to date free pairs have been identified, and at least 9 wild born offspring have been observed. In order to improve the chances of success, yearly releases are needed.
In 2017, thanks to Holohil, a new group of amazons will be released and monitored in order to help the establishment a viable local population. Captive birds welfare will be improved while providing them a chance to play their ecological roles with direct benefit for the conservation of this endangered species and its habitat.
Also, Instituto Espaço Silvestre will continue generating scientific knowledge while educating and engaging people in conservation issues and promoting socioeconomic development. In addition to the local impact, this study will contribute to achieving the goals of four Brazilian National Action Plans for the Conservation of Endangered Species and international initiatives as well. We are continuously looking for partners in order to provide needed inputs into the local population. With continuing support from Holohil, it is possible to reverse A. vinacea local extinction and reduce its causes.
2017 – 1st Quarter Runner Up Winner:
“Using Radio Transmitters to Track the Release of the Endangered Limosa Harlequin frog (Atelopus limosus)”
Blake Klocke
Amphibians around the globe are in peril of extinction due to the amphibian chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis). In Panama, many species experienced catastrophic population declines and vanished from known localities as the chytrid fungus passed through the country. Founding populations of amphibians likely to become extinct were collected for captive breeding, forming the Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project.
Among the most susceptible species of amphibians are frogs belonging to the genus Atelopus. All of which have experienced dramatic populations declines, and one species has not been seen for more than 20 years. We have been successful in breeding and rearing the young of five Atelopus species.
This summer we will use radio transmitters from Holohil to track the release of captive bred Limosa Harlequin frogs (Atelopus limosus) from the Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project. This will the first experimental release of Atelopus limosus. We will use these transmitters to better understand how captive bred frogs cope with being introduced back into the environment, how far they travel and what habitat they will select, natural history and behavior, and see if they can evade chytrid infection. Data gathered from this summer will be important for strategic development of future reintroductions, so we can meet our goal of preventing extinctions of endangered amphibians in Panama.
For more information, please visit: Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project
2016 – 4th Quarter Winner:
“Conservation management of a threatened New Zealand ‘gravel hopper’”
Tara Murray
The Robust grasshopper (Brachaspis robustus), is a nationally threatened grasshopper endemic to the high plateau area known as the Mackenzie Basin in the South Island of New Zealand. They are better described as a ‘gravel-hoppers’ given they only occur in stony braided river habitats. Introduced mammalian predators (hedgehogs, cats, mustelids) and habitat modification appear to be driving population decline but little is really understood about the grasshopper life history characteristics, ecological requirements, population dynamics or recovery techniques.
In 2015 Dr Tara Murray from the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, began a collaborative project with the Department of Conservation and Environment Canterbury to facilitate science driven conservation management for the grasshopper. 186 grasshoppers were translocated into a predator reduced area and monitored for over a year. At the same time mark-recapture and transect monitoring methods have been trailed at wild sites to try and determine how to accurately monitor population trends of this extremely cryptic species.
In 2017 we will use HOLOHIL LB-2X transmitters to track the movements of 10 adult female hoppers during the day and night. Only females will be tracked as males are significantly smaller. Tracking will be conducted to determine daily movements, foraging behaviour, and to locate night refuges and oviposition sites. This will assist us in understanding the ecological requirements of the grasshoppers, their exposure to different predators and habitat requirements needed to facilitate successful in-situ management or translocation. Locating oviposition sites will allow us to ascertain crucial life history traits. We hope some of the lessons learned from this project will be transferrable to other threatened grasshoppers and encourage more insect conservation programs.
For more information, please visit: Tara Murray – University of Canterbury
2016 – 3rd Quarter Winner:
“Vietnamese farmers investigating the secret life of wild pygmy loris living on their doorstep”
Marina Kenyon
The Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre, working within Cat Tien National Park South Vietnam has rescued and rehabilitated the small nocturnal pygmy loris (Nycticebus pygmaeus) from the illegal wildlife trade in Vietnam for eight years. During this time over 40 individuals have been radio-collared and returned to the wild. Post- release monitoring data has helped move forward this field of reintroduction biology with protocols developed for successful release and survival of individuals.
However increasingly individuals are being caught in the buffer zone surrounding the National Park, with densities suggested of wild loris higher outside of protected areas than within. These populations are crucial with a landscape conservation view if we are going to save this endangered primate from extinction.
When we receive individuals from plantations they are often in poor condition, with fire damage from plantation management and skin problems, but they are present with high frequencies of sightings.
In this project we will work with local farmers and find out why they the pygmy loris go into the plantations, how much time they spend in the plantations and what do they do? Do they raid crops, damaging fruit like the squirrel or instead function as bio-engineers, helping pollination and pest control, munching away on the insects that normally harm the crops.
Working together with the farmers to track the pygmy loris in this mixed plantation area we hope together to find the answer to these questions. This will provide a valuable key to evolving a proud culture of living alongside pygmy loris, protecting them as valuable attributes to the ecosystem instead of pests.
Over the next months we will survey the buffer zone assessing the different habitats.
For more information, please visit: Endangered Asian Species Trust
2016 – 3rd Quarter Runner Up Winner:
“Identifying areas of conflict between humans and Thailand’s most venomous terrestrial snakes: ecology and threats”
Tyler Knierim
Update (23-Nov-2016) from Tyler: “Here is my newly tracked female Banded Krait (Bungarus fasciatus). She is the 1st female to join the study on Krait ecology within the human dominated habitats of rural Northeast Thailand. All of the three radio-tracked Banded Kraits have been captured during night surveys around an agricultural retention pond complex at the outskirts of a local village near the Sakaerat Environmental Research Station. I am very excited to add this new member who will hopefully shed some light into the species breeding activities”
As part of Sakaerat Conservation and Snake Education Team (SCSET) I am performing my master’s degree research at Suranaree University of Technology as an advisee of Dr. Colin Strine. I am using radio telemetry to assess the spatial ecology, habitat use, and activity periods of banded kraits in the human dominated agricultural areas of the Transitional Zone in Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve. We have radio tracked 4 kraits during the last year as preliminary research for my master’s degree.
Kraits are highly venomous snakes belonging to the infamous family Elapidae, shared by other well-known snakes such as cobras, mambas, and taipans. Two krait species can be found within the Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve, the Banded Krait (Bungarus fasciatus) and the Malayan Krait (Bungarus candidus). Kraits live throughout southeast Asia and are responsible for human mortalities resulting from snake bites in largely rural areas. However, I suspect the majority of snake bites often occur when people attempt to move, kill or otherwise initiate contact with snakes.
My research attempts to identify areas with potential for conflict between kraits and the human inhabitants of the vastly agricultural portions of the Biosphere Reserve’s human-dominated outskirts. As the project progresses we intend to employ drift fence traps along agricultural canal systems to increase telemetered sample sizes of both species. Surveys and camera traps will also be used to determine habitat occupancy and the level of human activity within krait home ranges.
With a better understanding of how kraits live near humans, coupled with dissemination through community outreach, we can reduce the number of snake bites. By reducing snake bites, improved perceptions may soon fallow. I would like to thank Holohil for assisting our research and conservation goals here in Thailand.
For more information, please visit: Sakaerat Conservation and Snake Ecology Team