Emily L. Hague, Rachael R. Sinclair, Joanna L. Kershaw, Davina Derous, Ross M. Culloch, Carol E. Sparling, Nicholas Baker-Horne, Marija Sciberras, Teresa F. Fernandes, Lauren H. McWhinnie
Introduction
Marine mammals have long been affected by human activities.
Aims
To understand the state of knowledge regarding anthropogenic threats, we systematically mapped peer-reviewed and grey literature on this topic for 19 marine mammal species found in the North Atlantic.
Methods
Searches in 2022 and 2024 resulted in 3390 relevant documents for review. Relevant records were extracted from each document (n = 6964 records), and threats were grouped into 13 major classes (e.g., climate change, fisheries, acoustic disturbance).
Results & Discussion
Of the 19 species, bottlenose dolphins had the most records (n = 1365), and of the threat classes, fisheries had the most records (n = 2124), with 59% being associated with mortality. Mapping the study locations highlighted how records were unevenly distributed across each IUCN-defined species range. Furthermore, species of conservation concern (i.e., globally assessed by IUCN as ‘Endangered’) often received comparatively little study effort. We highlight the species and threats that have to date received limited attention and discuss the potential reasons for disparities in research effort.
Conclusion
Increased efforts to understand and appropriately mitigate threats are critical, given the continued co-existence of marine mammals and human threats in the ‘Anthropocene’.
{"title":"Marine Mammals in the Anthropocene: Developing a Systematic Evidence Base of Threats to Nineteen Species","authors":"Emily L. Hague, Rachael R. Sinclair, Joanna L. Kershaw, Davina Derous, Ross M. Culloch, Carol E. Sparling, Nicholas Baker-Horne, Marija Sciberras, Teresa F. Fernandes, Lauren H. McWhinnie","doi":"10.1111/mam.70024","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/mam.70024","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Introduction</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Marine mammals have long been affected by human activities.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To understand the state of knowledge regarding anthropogenic threats, we systematically mapped peer-reviewed and grey literature on this topic for 19 marine mammal species found in the North Atlantic.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Searches in 2022 and 2024 resulted in 3390 relevant documents for review. Relevant records were extracted from each document (<i>n</i> = 6964 records), and threats were grouped into 13 major classes (e.g., climate change, fisheries, acoustic disturbance).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results & Discussion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Of the 19 species, bottlenose dolphins had the most records (<i>n</i> = 1365), and of the threat classes, fisheries had the most records (<i>n</i> = 2124), with 59% being associated with mortality. Mapping the study locations highlighted how records were unevenly distributed across each IUCN-defined species range. Furthermore, species of conservation concern (i.e., globally assessed by IUCN as ‘Endangered’) often received comparatively little study effort. We highlight the species and threats that have to date received limited attention and discuss the potential reasons for disparities in research effort.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Increased efforts to understand and appropriately mitigate threats are critical, given the continued co-existence of marine mammals and human threats in the ‘Anthropocene’.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":49893,"journal":{"name":"Mammal Review","volume":"56 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/mam.70024","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146049406","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Yang Geng, Hao Zeng, Hanli Yin, Jing Lu, Jiang Feng, Peter John Taylor, Yingying Liu, Tinglei Jiang
Introduction
Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) has transformed bat research by enabling non-invasive, large-scale and long-term assessment of bat ecology and conservation status. Yet despite its rapid expansion, substantial methodological heterogeneity, pronounced geographic biases and fragmented taxonomic coverage continue to limit global synthesis and constrain the broader ecological and conservation value of PAM.
Aims
This review aims to: (1) map global geographic patterns and collaboration networks in PAM-based bat research; (2) characterise temporal trends and major developmental phases; and (3) evaluate methodological practices across detector technologies, survey designs, monitoring cycles and data-processing workflows. These objectives collectively provide a basis for identifying knowledge gaps, improving methodological coherence and guiding future monitoring and conservation efforts.
Methods
We systematically reviewed 935 peer-reviewed studies from 1992 to 2023, compiling associated bibliometric, methodological and thematic metadata. Keyword co-occurrence, thematic clustering, device-use profiles, methodological categorisation and temporal trends were analysed using bibliometric tools and descriptive statistics.
Results and Discussion
Our review revealed strong geographic biases, with PAM research heavily concentrated in a few well-studied regions. Research shifted from early detector-focused work to broader conservation applications. Methodologically, fixed surveys, seasonal sampling and manual call processing remained dominant, though automated tools are increasingly adopted. Research themes were heavily skewed towards movement and identification, with ecosystem-health and disturbance topics markedly underrepresented.
Synthesis and Recommendations
PAM research is advancing rapidly but remains geographically uneven and methodologically fragmented. Strengthening standardised yet flexible protocols and expanding capacity in under-represented regions will be essential to fully realise its value for global bat conservation.
{"title":"Three Decades of Research on Passive Acoustic Monitoring in Bats: Systematic Review and Perspectives","authors":"Yang Geng, Hao Zeng, Hanli Yin, Jing Lu, Jiang Feng, Peter John Taylor, Yingying Liu, Tinglei Jiang","doi":"10.1111/mam.70022","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/mam.70022","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Introduction</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) has transformed bat research by enabling non-invasive, large-scale and long-term assessment of bat ecology and conservation status. Yet despite its rapid expansion, substantial methodological heterogeneity, pronounced geographic biases and fragmented taxonomic coverage continue to limit global synthesis and constrain the broader ecological and conservation value of PAM.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This review aims to: (1) map global geographic patterns and collaboration networks in PAM-based bat research; (2) characterise temporal trends and major developmental phases; and (3) evaluate methodological practices across detector technologies, survey designs, monitoring cycles and data-processing workflows. These objectives collectively provide a basis for identifying knowledge gaps, improving methodological coherence and guiding future monitoring and conservation efforts.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We systematically reviewed 935 peer-reviewed studies from 1992 to 2023, compiling associated bibliometric, methodological and thematic metadata. Keyword co-occurrence, thematic clustering, device-use profiles, methodological categorisation and temporal trends were analysed using bibliometric tools and descriptive statistics.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results and Discussion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Our review revealed strong geographic biases, with PAM research heavily concentrated in a few well-studied regions. Research shifted from early detector-focused work to broader conservation applications. Methodologically, fixed surveys, seasonal sampling and manual call processing remained dominant, though automated tools are increasingly adopted. Research themes were heavily skewed towards movement and identification, with ecosystem-health and disturbance topics markedly underrepresented.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Synthesis and Recommendations</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>PAM research is advancing rapidly but remains geographically uneven and methodologically fragmented. Strengthening standardised yet flexible protocols and expanding capacity in under-represented regions will be essential to fully realise its value for global bat conservation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":49893,"journal":{"name":"Mammal Review","volume":"56 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145969807","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Luca Francesco Russo, Gabriele Girardi, Vincenzo Penteriani, Anna Loy, Luca Santini
Introduction
Human–wildlife conflicts are rising due to encroachment of human activities into natural areas. While research has often focused on large mammals, negative interactions with small carnivores remain less documented. Among these, otters (Lutrinae), apex predators of freshwater and marine habitats, cause frequent competing interactions with human activities like angling and fish-farming.
Aims
We aimed to identify which otter species are most commonly involved in human–wildlife conflicts, characterise the types of conflict and explore their geographical and temporal patterns.
Methods
We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature following PRISMA guidelines. From 81 eligible studies reporting empirical cases of otter–human conflicts, we extracted data on species, conflict type and location. A Generalised Mixed-Effects Model was applied to assess temporal trends and the role of human population growth, while accounting for variation in research effort.
Results
Conflicts were documented for all otter species except the Congo clawless otter (Aonyx congicus). The Eurasian (Lutra lutra) and smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) dominated conflict-related records. Fisheries-related issues, such as damage to nets and depredation of fish, were the most frequently reported (n = 76), whereas direct attacks on humans were newly documented but rare (n = 16). Overall, conflicts increased over time and were positively associated with human population size across otter distributions.
Conclusions
Human–otter conflicts are a growing conservation concern. Effective mitigation measures include deterrents, protective fencing, adjustments in fishing practices, financial compensation and interventions addressing human attitudes. Solutions should be tailored to the conflict source and cultural context to foster coexistence and support long-term otter conservation.
{"title":"Shared Waters, Divided Interests: A Systematic Review of Human–Otter Conflicts Worldwide","authors":"Luca Francesco Russo, Gabriele Girardi, Vincenzo Penteriani, Anna Loy, Luca Santini","doi":"10.1111/mam.70021","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/mam.70021","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Introduction</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Human–wildlife conflicts are rising due to encroachment of human activities into natural areas. While research has often focused on large mammals, negative interactions with small carnivores remain less documented. Among these, otters (Lutrinae), apex predators of freshwater and marine habitats, cause frequent competing interactions with human activities like angling and fish-farming.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We aimed to identify which otter species are most commonly involved in human–wildlife conflicts, characterise the types of conflict and explore their geographical and temporal patterns.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature following PRISMA guidelines. From 81 eligible studies reporting empirical cases of otter–human conflicts, we extracted data on species, conflict type and location. A Generalised Mixed-Effects Model was applied to assess temporal trends and the role of human population growth, while accounting for variation in research effort.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Conflicts were documented for all otter species except the Congo clawless otter (<i>Aonyx congicus</i>). The Eurasian (<i>Lutra lutra</i>) and smooth-coated otter (<i>Lutrogale perspicillata</i>) dominated conflict-related records. Fisheries-related issues, such as damage to nets and depredation of fish, were the most frequently reported (<i>n</i> = 76), whereas direct attacks on humans were newly documented but rare (<i>n</i> = 16). Overall, conflicts increased over time and were positively associated with human population size across otter distributions.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Human–otter conflicts are a growing conservation concern. Effective mitigation measures include deterrents, protective fencing, adjustments in fishing practices, financial compensation and interventions addressing human attitudes. Solutions should be tailored to the conflict source and cultural context to foster coexistence and support long-term otter conservation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":49893,"journal":{"name":"Mammal Review","volume":"56 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145963952","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Caitlin R. Nicholls, Mauricio Cantor, Luciana Möller, Guido J. Parra
Introduction
Social structure plays a crucial role in shaping the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases within animal populations, yet its influence remains understudied in marine mammals.
Aims
This review investigates links between marine mammal sociality and disease vulnerability, focusing on social network metrics and their influence on disease transmission. The study aimed to (1) identify patterns in disease transmission, (2) map gaps in current knowledge to inform strategic directions for future investigation and (3) discuss implications for conservation and disease management.
Methods
Through systematic database searching, 14 studies were identified that investigated social network metrics and their influence on disease transmission in marine mammal social networks.
Results
Results show that stronger associations and greater social connectivity increase disease prevalence, although this relationship varied across species. Central individuals acted as ‘super-spreaders’, facilitating disease spread to conspecifics and vaccination efforts targeting these individuals are a recurrent proposed mitigation strategy. At the population level, network fragmentation reduced disease burden, while highly connected subgroups facilitated pathogen transmission. Research is concentrated on few key species, revealing significant gaps in taxonomic and geographic representation. Additionally, studies were geographically biased toward North America and Australia, with limited collaboration across research clusters, highlighting the need for broader representation and interdisciplinary partnerships.
Conclusion
These findings underscore the need for interdisciplinary approaches integrating epidemiological modelling, social network analysis and conservation strategies to better predict and mitigate disease risks in marine mammal populations. Future research should expand species coverage and incorporate ecological and environmental variables to develop targeted disease management frameworks.
{"title":"Sociality of Marine Mammals and Their Vulnerability to the Spread of Infectious Diseases: A Systematic Review","authors":"Caitlin R. Nicholls, Mauricio Cantor, Luciana Möller, Guido J. Parra","doi":"10.1111/mam.70020","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/mam.70020","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Introduction</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Social structure plays a crucial role in shaping the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases within animal populations, yet its influence remains understudied in marine mammals.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This review investigates links between marine mammal sociality and disease vulnerability, focusing on social network metrics and their influence on disease transmission. The study aimed to (1) identify patterns in disease transmission, (2) map gaps in current knowledge to inform strategic directions for future investigation and (3) discuss implications for conservation and disease management.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Through systematic database searching, 14 studies were identified that investigated social network metrics and their influence on disease transmission in marine mammal social networks.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Results show that stronger associations and greater social connectivity increase disease prevalence, although this relationship varied across species. Central individuals acted as ‘super-spreaders’, facilitating disease spread to conspecifics and vaccination efforts targeting these individuals are a recurrent proposed mitigation strategy. At the population level, network fragmentation reduced disease burden, while highly connected subgroups facilitated pathogen transmission. Research is concentrated on few key species, revealing significant gaps in taxonomic and geographic representation. Additionally, studies were geographically biased toward North America and Australia, with limited collaboration across research clusters, highlighting the need for broader representation and interdisciplinary partnerships.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>These findings underscore the need for interdisciplinary approaches integrating epidemiological modelling, social network analysis and conservation strategies to better predict and mitigate disease risks in marine mammal populations. Future research should expand species coverage and incorporate ecological and environmental variables to develop targeted disease management frameworks.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":49893,"journal":{"name":"Mammal Review","volume":"56 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145891446","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The control of the invasive red fox (Vulpes vulpes) at Booderee National Park (BNP) is one of Australia's longest running predator management programs. A prevailing narrative is that a large and sustained reduction of fox abundance at BNP has triggered complex ecological cascades.
Aim
To critically assess the strength of the evidence base underpinning the prevailing narrative of a large and sustained reduction in fox abundance at BNP.
Methods
We collated and reviewed the existing data on fox abundance at BNP.
Results
An overlooked methodological change has inflated the perceived ongoing suppression of fox abundance at BNP. Data indicating a reduction in fox abundance are constrained to the first half of the program (i.e., 1999–2011) and remain uncertain in terms of fox population size and/or impact.
Discussion
Evidence of sustained fox abundance reduction at BNP is not as robust as previously thought. We discuss the implications of this new perspective on research and management efforts at BNP. In doing so, we are not suggesting that fox control has been ineffective at BNP, we are highlighting the need to bolster our understanding of fox population size and impact, and the effectiveness of control operations with robust data.
Conclusion
Data biases can influence the perceived effectiveness of long-term management programs, and hence our capacity for adaptive management. We emphasise the importance of consistency in the design and practice of data collection, and the value of periodic review of long-term conservation management efforts.
{"title":"The Devil in the Detail: A Review of a Long-Running Australian Predator Management Program","authors":"Hugh F. Davies, Paul D. Meek","doi":"10.1111/mam.70019","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/mam.70019","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Introduction</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The control of the invasive red fox (<i>Vulpes vulpes</i>) at Booderee National Park (BNP) is one of Australia's longest running predator management programs. A prevailing narrative is that a large and sustained reduction of fox abundance at BNP has triggered complex ecological cascades.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aim</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To critically assess the strength of the evidence base underpinning the prevailing narrative of a large and sustained reduction in fox abundance at BNP.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We collated and reviewed the existing data on fox abundance at BNP.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>An overlooked methodological change has inflated the perceived ongoing suppression of fox abundance at BNP. Data indicating a reduction in fox abundance are constrained to the first half of the program (i.e., 1999–2011) and remain uncertain in terms of fox population size and/or impact.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Discussion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Evidence of sustained fox abundance reduction at BNP is not as robust as previously thought. We discuss the implications of this new perspective on research and management efforts at BNP. In doing so, we are not suggesting that fox control has been ineffective at BNP, we are highlighting the need to bolster our understanding of fox population size and impact, and the effectiveness of control operations with robust data.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Data biases can influence the perceived effectiveness of long-term management programs, and hence our capacity for adaptive management. We emphasise the importance of consistency in the design and practice of data collection, and the value of periodic review of long-term conservation management efforts.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":49893,"journal":{"name":"Mammal Review","volume":"56 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-12-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/mam.70019","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145891544","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sara Bronwen Hunter, Katie Allan, Max Anderson, Kieran O'Malley, Patrick Wright, Fiona Mathews
Background
Woodland creation is a key target in many countries in order to achieve carbon sequestration targets and provide other benefits, such as improved provision of ecosystem. However, we currently lack an understanding of how ambitious woodland creation targets will affect wildlife conservation at a large spatial scale.
Aims
We aimed to predict how current and target woodland creation will affect British mammal populations.
Materials & Methods
We simulated the conversion of suitable areas to woodland and, based on knowledge of their ranges and population density, assessed how this would affect habitat availability and population size for 27 species (excluding bats) from 2023 to 2050. These simulations used assumed ratios of coniferous and broadleaf woodland creation derived from recent tree planting statistics.
Results & Discussion
If woodland creation targets for England, Scotland and Wales (2609, 4800 and 1800 km2 respectively) were to be achieved, we predict that mammal species included in this study would have a median change in population size across the UK of 7.3% (range = −8.7% to 31.4%) between 2023 and 2050. Rodents and ungulates had the most species with predicted population gains, whilst lagomorphs all exhibited population declines. The predicted magnitude of habitat loss or gain was higher for policy targets compared to the continuation of current planting rates. Nonetheless, under current planting rates, some woodland-dependent species, such as the Pine Marten, were predicted to gain up to 15% of suitable habitat area within their current range.
Conclusion
These results highlight the opportunities presented by woodland creation to improve the conservation status of British mammals. That said, gains were not universal, and for grassland-dependent species, expansion of woodland could reduce habitat availability and increase fragmentation within already restricted ranges. Our analyses provide a starting point from which to direct field-based studies into local responses of mammals to woodland creation.
{"title":"Investigating the Potential Consequences of Woodland Creation for British Mammal Populations","authors":"Sara Bronwen Hunter, Katie Allan, Max Anderson, Kieran O'Malley, Patrick Wright, Fiona Mathews","doi":"10.1111/mam.70017","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/mam.70017","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Woodland creation is a key target in many countries in order to achieve carbon sequestration targets and provide other benefits, such as improved provision of ecosystem. However, we currently lack an understanding of how ambitious woodland creation targets will affect wildlife conservation at a large spatial scale.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We aimed to predict how current and target woodland creation will affect British mammal populations.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials & Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We simulated the conversion of suitable areas to woodland and, based on knowledge of their ranges and population density, assessed how this would affect habitat availability and population size for 27 species (excluding bats) from 2023 to 2050. These simulations used assumed ratios of coniferous and broadleaf woodland creation derived from recent tree planting statistics.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results & Discussion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>If woodland creation targets for England, Scotland and Wales (2609, 4800 and 1800 km<sup>2</sup> respectively) were to be achieved, we predict that mammal species included in this study would have a median change in population size across the UK of 7.3% (range = −8.7% to 31.4%) between 2023 and 2050. Rodents and ungulates had the most species with predicted population gains, whilst lagomorphs all exhibited population declines. The predicted magnitude of habitat loss or gain was higher for policy targets compared to the continuation of current planting rates. Nonetheless, under current planting rates, some woodland-dependent species, such as the Pine Marten, were predicted to gain up to 15% of suitable habitat area within their current range.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>These results highlight the opportunities presented by woodland creation to improve the conservation status of British mammals. That said, gains were not universal, and for grassland-dependent species, expansion of woodland could reduce habitat availability and increase fragmentation within already restricted ranges. Our analyses provide a starting point from which to direct field-based studies into local responses of mammals to woodland creation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":49893,"journal":{"name":"Mammal Review","volume":"56 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/mam.70017","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145887202","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Long-term studies of mammals, including long-term monitoring programs, are relatively rare in ecology but vitally important because they provide critical insights that are difficult or impossible to obtain with short-term work.
In the first part of this article, I outline a small subset of important findings for mammal conservation from a series of long-term, large-scale studies of terrestrial biodiversity (including mammals) throughout south-eastern Australia. I then present lessons that have emerged from my experience managing long-term studies of mammals.
Key findings from the long-term work include: quantification of cumulative effects of landscape change on mammal biota, demonstrating links between time-varying habitat covariates and spatiotemporal patterns in mammal species occurrence; separating drivers of systematic changes in populations of mammals from background fluctuations like those associated with weather, and documenting relationships between patterns of mammal occurrence and key ecological processes.
Lessons from the long-term work are: (a) Think deeply about the key questions being asked. (b) Be careful with new technology and the potential to breach the integrity of long-term datasets. (c) Analyse data frequently. (d) Plan well ahead to maintain continuity of funding. (e) Be nimble so as to respond to events (such as wildfires). (f) Communicate the findings of the work widely to a range of key audiences. (g) Appoint and retain good professional field staff.
{"title":"Lessons From Long-Term Research and Monitoring Programs on Mammals","authors":"David Lindenmayer","doi":"10.1111/mam.70016","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/mam.70016","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <p>\u0000 \u0000 </p><ol>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <li>Long-term studies of mammals, including long-term monitoring programs, are relatively rare in ecology but vitally important because they provide critical insights that are difficult or impossible to obtain with short-term work.</li>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <li>In the first part of this article, I outline a small subset of important findings for mammal conservation from a series of long-term, large-scale studies of terrestrial biodiversity (including mammals) throughout south-eastern Australia. I then present lessons that have emerged from my experience managing long-term studies of mammals.</li>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <li>Key findings from the long-term work include: quantification of cumulative effects of landscape change on mammal biota, demonstrating links between time-varying habitat covariates and spatiotemporal patterns in mammal species occurrence; separating drivers of systematic changes in populations of mammals from background fluctuations like those associated with weather, and documenting relationships between patterns of mammal occurrence and key ecological processes.</li>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <li>Lessons from the long-term work are: (a) Think deeply about the key questions being asked. (b) Be careful with new technology and the potential to breach the integrity of long-term datasets. (c) Analyse data frequently. (d) Plan well ahead to maintain continuity of funding. (e) Be nimble so as to respond to events (such as wildfires). (f) Communicate the findings of the work widely to a range of key audiences. (g) Appoint and retain good professional field staff.</li>\u0000 </ol>\u0000 \u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":49893,"journal":{"name":"Mammal Review","volume":"56 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145891538","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ana Morales-González, Héctor Ruiz-Villar, Mario Quevedo, Alberto Fernández-Gil, Maria Paniw, Eloy Revilla
Background
Understanding mortality is crucial to predict the dynamics of animal populations, especially for long-lived species subjected to widespread human pressure. This is the case for the grey wolf (Canis lupus), yet local studies provide an incomplete view of the patterns and determinants of this process.
Aims and Methods
We conducted a systematic review of the existing literature on grey wolf mortality across the species' distribution range (i.e., most of the Northern Hemisphere) to identify global patterns and potential differences across continents. Studies were analysed based on the type of information provided, including mortality rates, proportion of dead individuals by cause, and natural and human-related determinants of mortality.
Results and Discussion
We found high global minimum annual mortality rates in wolves (0.31 ± 0.18), compared to those reported under low human persecution (< 0.2). Most deaths were linked to human activities, primarily deliberate (legal and illegal) killing (60% ± 25%). Europe reported a higher percentage of human-related deaths (86% ± 14%) than North America (66% ± 24%). This is likely due to higher anthropogenic pressures in Europe and differences in carcass detection methods between continents (opportunistic recovery in Europe vs. tracking of collared wolves in North America). However, the lack of data from areas with low human influence (e.g., the Arctic and deserts) limits our understanding of the natural dynamics of mortality in the species. We found that many individual, social and environmental variables determine mortality values, and our global perspective allowed us to disentangle long-standing debates in large carnivore ecology, including support for the hypothesis that human-caused and natural mortality are additive.
Conclusion
Our review provides the baseline framework and a standardised global dataset to guide future research and policy-making on large carnivore conservation, emphasising the increased risk of mortality for wolves living alongside humans, an issue that may be particularly overlooked as populations expand.
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John M. Nettles, Caroline M. Abramowitz, Wesley W. Boone, Stephen N. Harris, Chloe E. Horton, Meghan P. Keating, Dana L. Nelson, Samantha N. Smith, Katelyn N. Steen, Erin K. Buchholtz, David S. Jachowski
Introduction
American black bears (Ursus americanus) have been documented to have top-down effects, both consumptive (through predation) and nonconsumptive (through fear effects). However, their behavioural and dietary adaptability has led to uncertainty about the conditions under which these may occur.
Objectives
We aimed to (1) investigate when, where, and how often black bears influence lower trophic levels, and (2) critically assess the experimental design of such studies to determine trends and biases.
Methods
We conducted a systematic literature search and used linear mixed-effects models to assess the relationships among prey age class, the presence of other large carnivores, and the percentage of ungulate mortality due to black bears. We also summarised the measured effects of black bears on other carnivores and the results of any experimental studies.
Results
We found a strong negative relationship between puma presence and the percentage of ungulate mortality due to black bears, but only in areas with at least one other large carnivore (e.g., wolves). Among 16 studies of black bears' impacts on other carnivores, most documented negative behavioural effects. While only 5% of studies had strong experimental design, bear removal consistently increased juvenile ungulate survival.
Discussion and Synthesis
Our findings highlight black bears' strong top-down effects, resembling or exceeding those of other large carnivores. These effects were greatest when no other large carnivores were present, but as highly effective kleptoparasites, black bears can alter the feeding habits of other large carnivores. Thus, we argue that ‘apex’ is a conditional state, not a species-wide status.
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Beatriz S. G. Alves, Pedro Monterroso, Alice Bacon, Paulo Célio Alves, Nuno Santos
<div> <section> <h3> Background</h3> <p>Human-induced habitat changes can directly influence the prevalence and spread of diseases, as wildlife is increasingly exposed to novel pathogens through interactions with domestic animals. The sub-family Felinae, encompassing 34 species that live across diverse environments, offers insights into the interplay between habitat, behaviour and infectious diseases. Despite efforts over the past five decades to study viral infections in this taxon, knowledge remains fragmented, highlighting the need for a cohesive understanding to inform conservation strategies.</p> </section> <section> <h3> Aims</h3> <p>This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to achieve three specific objectives: (1) to identify knowledge gaps and future research priorities; (2) to evaluate prevalence patterns across the studied viral classes and identify those that are most represented in the meta-analysis for individual variable assessment; and (3) to identify potential sources of variation in published prevalence estimates, considering three types of independent variables (host-related, diagnostic-related and publication-related).</p> </section> <section> <h3> Materials and Methods</h3> <p>Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature review was conducted. Data was extracted for both descriptive and meta-analytical evaluation, with a focus on viral prevalence and variable analysis to identify potential sources of heterogeneity.</p> </section> <section> <h3> Results</h3> <p>Findings reveal a misalignment between research efforts and Felinae species richness, with underrepresentation in high-diversity regions like Asia, South America and Africa. Viral infections of concern include feline coronavirus, feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus, feline panleukopaenia virus, feline leukaemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus and morbilliviruses, particularly canine distemper virus.</p> </section> <section> <h3> Discussion</h3> <p>Species-specific findings, such as the high prevalence of feline leukaemia virus in European wildcats, highlight the need for targeted surveillance and the inclusion of both wild and domestic felids, as well as other sympatric species, in any surveillance plans.</p> </section> <section> <h3> Conclusion</h3> <p>This meta-analysis and its recommendations aim to guide future research and management, promoting a proactive, evidence-based approach to disease surveillance that supports the long-term health and survival of felid species wor
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