Coastal wetlands are important habitats for many bird species. Additionally, these marshes filter sediment from waterways and absorb floodwaters, both of which are major benefits to humans living near the coast. Unfortunately, industrial and residential development threatens coastal wetlands around the world. Rising seas caused by climate warming add yet another stress upon these important ecosystems.
One sea turtle species, the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii) has experienced a massive decline in population since the 1940s and efforts are now underway to preserve critical nesting habitat before extinction occurs.
During World War II, the US military was seeking ways to ensure a backup emergency food supply was available to personnel stationed in Hawaii. One of the potential food sources investigated was the Giant African land snail (Achatina fulica), a large pulmonate (air-breathing) gastropod native to East Africa. Measuring up to 2.8 inches high and nearly 8 inches long, this huge snail is commonly used in diets and medicinal practices around the world. Unfortunately, the popularity of this species has now made it the most invasive snail in the world, causing agricultural and ecological devastation globally.
Although the Mojave Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) outlived the dinosaurs, can live in deserts reaching 140 F, go an entire year without a drink, and must enter dormancy for most of the year to survive, these ancient reptiles are still struggling to overcome new threats of human disturbances and climate change.
Conservation canines are also working to help the most endangered mammal overcome their pandemic plague. Dogs may just be the key to the third resurrection of the Black-footed ferret species and their continued survival.
Around the world, guard dogs protect livestock, property, people, and even elephants. Did you know they are instrumental in protecting penguins? For most of our discussions on how our four-legged friends are aiding in the conservation of imperiled species around the...