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Introduction: Dog Population Management (DPM) systems primarily aim to reduce the free-roaming dog population, improve the health and welfare of humans and dogs, and foster their peaceful coexistence. A key challenge to resource allocation and evidence-based policy making in DPM is the rare evaluation of the associated socio-economic impacts. This scoping review identifies, maps, and summarizes published parameters and methods on the socio-economic aspect of DPM systems. Methods: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, and with a protocol registered on the Open Science Framework, this review explores (i) types of DPM services, (ii) types of parameters (intervention, impact, monetized, or non-monetized), (iii) methodological approaches (such as cost–benefit or cost-effectiveness analysis), and (iv) gaps and challenges in socio-economic DPM assessments. Relevant publications were identified through a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. Results: Our review identified 14 out of more than 7,200 studies indicating the limitation of socio-economic data associated with DPM systems. The studies revealed diverse approaches to DPM, sterilization being the most frequently used service, often combined with vaccination and community awareness. Culling was also used by several studies as a DPM intervention, though considered unethical. The review highlighted a range of intervention, impact, and monetary parameters to evaluate the economics of DPM systems, demonstrating the complexity and varied scope of the services. Varied categorizations of the dog population were observed, making comparative evaluation challenging. Economic methods such as cost–benefit and cost-effectiveness analyses were observed, identifying several associated economic metrics. Studies highlighted gaps mostly related to data availability and accessibility. Conclusion: The limitations of socio-economic data arise from a lack of standardized methodologies across regions and contexts and limited data collection efforts. Prioritizing systematic collection of data on costs, benefits and social impacts allows for a more robust analysis of DPM systems. Developing tools and standardized reporting methods would further facilitate consistent evaluation of impacts, efficient resource allocation and evidence-based policy making to implement the most cost-effective DPM systems. Systematic review registration: DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/NHE3X [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population dynamics and viability are driven by interactions among habitat and species biology. The Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is a declining and Federally Threatened bird species that requires mid-succession habitat of partly open soil surface with mid-height vegetation. This habitat is created and sustained in a dynamic state of vegetation growth and periodic natural (e.g., fire) or managed (e.g., mechanical clearing) disturbances. Florida scrub-jays once occupied open oak scrub habitats across much of peninsular Florida but have been reduced to a few regional metapopulations and scattered isolated remnant populations. Many of these populations are undergoing continuing decline as open scrub is either converted to residential development or transitions into closed pine and oak forests due to fire suppression. Long-term field studies have shown that breeding and survival rates are determined by the quality of the scrub habitat, with the demography influenced by and in turn mediating the social structure. Prior Population Viability Analyses (PVA) that included dependencies of demographic rates on habitat and social structure indicated that the east coast Florida metapopulations were fragmented into remnant protected patches that were too small and isolated to support long-term persistence, even if the remaining habitat area and quality was sustained. Moreover, recent modeling of habitat transitions under various proposed management schemes, in conjunction with implementation of Adaptive Resource Management (ARM), projected that the proportion of optimal habitat will continue to decline. In this study, we integrated these habitat projections within the PVA and found that the Brevard County mainland metapopulation is projected to decline toward extinction unless habitat quality, extent, and connectivity can be improved. Land managers have recently implemented new innovative methods for restoring optimal scrub habitat, identifying potential improvements in habitat connectivity of nearby populations, and translocation methods to increase and reinforce the demographic and genetic integrity of local populations. Our linked habitat-population models project that the combination of such habitat and population management actions can stabilize the metapopulation and achieve long-term viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of threatened species after conservation measures can lead to human–wildlife conflicts. One example of such is the recent population growth of the Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis, a large herbivorous bird. During migration, geese stage in large numbers on agricultural fields in range countries and cause substantial damage to farms. A combination of repelling fields, where geese were chased off by humans, and accommodation fields, which provide refuge sites for foraging geese, has been suggested as an effective management tool to mitigate conflicts. Using high‐resolution satellite tracking data, we investigated habitat selection of 41 barnacle geese staging in Northern Karelia, Finland, during spring 2021. We estimated relative habitat use by these geese and conducted a fine‐scale analysis of their use of different fields by employing Hidden Markov Models and integrated step‐selection analysis. Fields included normal crop (no goose management), project and other (private and Nature 2000 area) accommodation fields and repelling fields. Project accommodation and repelling fields were established on areas known to have a long history of high grazing pressure by barnacle geese. We found that behavioural data of geese can be categorized into three different states (static, slow and fast movement). Static and slow states were used for local field selection, fast state for field selection in the regional area, and all states for field selection after leaving a repelling field. Overall, relative habitat use indicated that geese utilize accommodation fields more than expected by their availability. Integrated step‐selection analyses revealed that geese avoided normal and repelling versus project accommodation fields at the regional scale. At the local scale, they preferred project accommodation fields over all other fields. After leaving a repelling field, geese did not show preference for any accommodation over repelling fields. Synthesis and application. Geese show individual selection for accommodation fields compared to normal or repelling fields across several scales. Our results suggest that the accommodation field concept—consisting of refuge areas and no‐go areas where geese are repelled from—can help to mitigate the human–wildlife conflict using local stakeholders' knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproductive success in captive non-human primates (NHPs) has increased the demand for safe, effective, and reversible population control methods. This review provides an overview of the current literature on hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptives as reproductive control methods in NHPs. Where available, behavioral and welfare implications, as well as drug efficacy, reversibility, and associated adverse effects, are considered. However, a paucity of data exists for NHPs, particularly in regard to non-hormonal contraceptives, emphasizing the need for institutions to share their experiences with reproductive management techniques in the species under their care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation and animal wellbeing are two key goals of the modern zoo and aquarium. In the case of ex situ conservation breeding programs, there is a unique paradox between these concepts; on some occasions, facilities must balance and mitigate arising conflicts between the wellbeing of animals with the goals of the conservation project. Exerting control over the reproductive lives of animals—choosing when and where they breed, whom they breed with, whether breeding is prohibited altogether, and so on—results in an inherent reduction in the animal's agency. Considering the growing recognition that providing choice and control to animals enhances wellbeing, it is essential to examine how populations and their breeding are managed. The present review presents challenges in supporting agency for animals bred ex situ by thoroughly exploring the practical realities of working with these animals. Various challenges and areas of consideration, including current research directions, suggestions for future practices, and opportunities moving forward, are highlighted. The importance of careful population management in maximising wellbeing, including the inherent dichotomy of the necessity to limit some reproductive autonomy to preserve animal wellbeing while meeting the needs of breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The invasive wels catfish is spreading to many European waterbodies and is the subject of controversy concerning its environmental impact. Aims: The objective was to investigate its life-history traits (growth and reproduction) for the first time in southern France. Methods: A culling action was used to assess the key life-history traits, using sections of pectoral spines for age and growth estimations, and gonad macroscopic examination for the reproduction parameters. Key results: The biggest individual was a 227-cm male. The age was accurately estimated from clear translucent marks on spines, with a maximum of 13 years for both sexes. The growth appeared to be extremely rapid and was the highest at old ages recorded from both the native and the invasive distribution range. The length and age at first sexual maturity, 70.1 cm for 4–5-year-old females, and 54.1 cm for 2–3-year-old males, were the lowest recorded in Europe, indicating an early maturity. Conclusions: The life-history parameters (rapid growth, early maturation, high fecundity) showed a very high potential for adaptation and colonisation. Implications: The cost and management required to regulate the species appear not easily feasible, particularly when combined with its high growth rate. The invasive wels catfish is spreading to many European waterbodies. The objective of the study was to investigate its life-history traits (growth and reproduction) for the first time in southern France. Culling was used to assess the key life-history traits, using sections of pectoral spines for age and growth estimations, and gonad macroscopic examination for the reproduction parameters. The life-history parameters (rapid growth, early maturation, high fecundity) showed a very high potential for adaptation and colonisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently in hunting pressure on the gray wolf (Canis lupus lupus L., 1758) population in Russian Karelia increased at an unprecedented rate. This fact also could suggest changes in the genetic structure of the population. The study region is of importance in the biogeographic sense—through this territory, the mammals populations of Scandinavia are connected to the Russian Plain, and further to Siberia. In this study, tissue samples of 35 wolves hunted in Karelia during 2012–2022 and 12 non-invasive specimens of dogs were used for genetic analysis. Four of the wolves (11%) were recognized by to phenotypic characteristics as wolf-dog hybrids or backcrosses. The analysis of autosomal microsatellites confirmed the admixed origin of three and excluded one. The mtDNA haplotype diversity was relatively low and represented by two haplotypes common for wolves in Eurasia and another one widely distributed in domestic dogs. The genetic diversity level of the population revealed by 14 microsatellite loci was high (He = 0.746; Ho = 0.655; A = 8.1). However, the observed heterozygosity proved to be notably lower than expected, and the inbreeding coefficient was also high (Fis = 0.131) and, moreover, higher than previously reported. We assume that the observed genetic processes, namely: interspecific hybridization and increased inbreeding occur against the background of an ongoing raise of wolf hunting in Karelia, which likely to, and became the cause of the observed processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migratory species use different habitats and pathways across their migratory route. Pathway contribution metrics are transient metrics of population growth, derived from population models, and quantify the predicted contribution of an individual, travelling along a specified migratory route, to the total population over a specified length of time. Environmental disturbances or management actions may occur temporally or spatially throughout the process of migration. The impact that a given perturbation may have on pathway contribution metrics is not always obvious owing to the propagation of the perturbation through the migratory cycle. Here, we develop a general modelling framework that incorporates perturbations into a class of matrix migratory population models, and which quantifies the effect that perturbations to the model, in terms of the transition rates of habitats and pathways, have on pathway contribution metrics. We also detail how to calculate the sensitivity of pathway contribution metrics to the perturbations considered. Our framework may be used to provide insights into the impact that environmental disturbances or management actions have on migratory populations. These insights may be used to inform management actions which either buffer against possible deleterious disturbances or increase the population size through targeted interventions. Our theoretical results are illustrated via hypothetical examples and a model inspired by the monarch butterfly; we uncover results that are not clear from the calculation of the pathway contribution metrics alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, research on the welfare impacts of wildlife contraceptives has mostly been focused on the potential harms of contraceptives. However, there are compelling theoretical reasons to expect direct and indirect welfare benefits of wildlife contraceptives. These positive welfare effects would be experienced by more than just the treated individuals, because per capita resource availability will increase with decreasing numbers of individuals sharing a resource. In the present article, we discuss the potential for wildlife contraceptives to alleviate resource competition and their associated negative welfare effects at different scales. These effects are expected to vary across contexts and would presumably be stronger when wildlife contraceptives are used with the explicit purpose of improving wild animal welfare. The potential for considerable welfare gains for wildlife through the targeted use of contraceptives highlights the importance of both species-specific studies on the welfare benefits of wildlife contraceptives and further research on the links between population dynamics and wild animal welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations are increasing worldwide, leading to health, economic and conservation issues. Assessing genetic structure and diversity can aid in the effective monitoring and management of wild boar populations. Processes related to sexual selection and behavioral differences between sexes support the importance of considering sex in measuring genetic diversity. In this study, we investigated the genetic diversity of wild boar in southwestern Spain by comparing multilocus heterozygosity (MLH) in males and females. We collected tissue samples from 142 culled individuals and 146 fetuses during routine hunting activities and used 16 microsatellite markers to quantify MLH. Paternity analyses were conducted to infer the genotypes of reproductive males. Our results indicated that the sampled individuals constituted a unique polygynandrous population without clear genetic structure. We found that males tended to exhibit lower MLH than females, with reproductive males showing significantly lower MLH than females. We discuss the selection and demographic processes that might explain our results. We highlight the importance of sex-balanced culling for population control, as well as the use of sex-balanced samples for monitoring genetic diversities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global refugee crisis presents significant challenges to economic development, especially in developing countries and regions that host large numbers of refugees. This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research conducted on the effects of refugees on economic development over the past three decades. The study utilized the Web of Science (WoS) database to identify and analyze scholarly publications related to the topic of economic impact of refugees. The analysis focused on trends, patterns, and key themes in the literature. The results indicate a growing body of research on the topic, with particular emphasis on the effects of refugees on food aid, market outcomes, labor markets, and macroeconomic performance. The study examines the economic impact of refugees to countries, specifically their effects on labor markets, housing, food prices, and employment sectors. The study employs bibliometric analysis to systematically review and synthesize existing research, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge on the subject. The findings enhance comprehension of the economic consequences of refugee movements and can guide policy and practice in the realm of economic development and refugee integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. The population of introduced fallow deer (Dama dama) is thought to have increased exponentially across much of the island of Tasmania, Australia, since 2000. Historically, deer management decisions have relied on population trend data from vehicular spotlight surveys. Renewed focus on the contemporary management of the species requires development of more robust and precise population estimation methodology. Aims. This study demonstrates two aerial survey methods – conventional counts by trained human observers, and thermal imaging footage recorded during the same flights – to inform future survey practices. Methods. Conventional counts were carried out by three observers, two seated on the left side of the helicopter, and one on the right. A high-resolution thermal camera was fitted to the helicopter and was orientated to meet the assumptions of distance sampling methodologies. Both survey methods were used to generate deer population density estimates. Spatial distribution of deer was also analysed in relation to patches of remnant native vegetation across an agricultural landscape. Mark–recapture distance sampling was used to estimate density from human observer counts and provide a comparison to the distance sampling estimates derived from the thermal camera. Key results. Human observer counts gave a density estimate of 2.7 deer per km2, while thermal camera counts provided an estimate of 2.8 deer per km2. Deer population density estimates calculated via both methods were similar, but variability of the thermal camera estimate (coefficient of variation (CV) of 36%) was unacceptably high. Human observer data was within acceptable bounds of variability (CV, 19%). The estimated population size in central and north-eastern Tasmania for 2019 approximated 53,000 deer. Deer were primarily congregated within 200 metres of the interface between canopy cover and open pasture. Conclusions. The population density estimate provides a baseline for monitoring and managing the Tasmanian deer population. Human observer data was more precise than thermal camera data in this study, but thermal counts could be improved by reducing sources of variability. Implications. Improvements for the collection of thermal imagery are recommended. Future control efforts may be more efficient if they preferentially target habitat edges at this time of year, paired with random or grid-based searches where population density is lower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

House crows (Corvus splendens) are considered an invasive species and are prevalent in parts of Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Existing crow management measures include food limitation, habitat modification, and direct population control. The latter method provides a more immediate solution, particularly in nesting locations where crow attacks occur more frequently. Crow ladder traps are widely adopted to capture crows, but a thorough examination of the environmental conditions that optimize trapping efficacy is lacking. We assessed factors affecting crow trap efficacy in Singapore to better advise future deployment strategies of crow traps. We obtained data from 170 crow trapping operations including the identities of the contractors conducting the trapping operations, operation start date, crow density, intensity of bird feeding, various land use cover proportions, and an index to quantify the spatial‐temporal proximity to previous trapping operations. We used a spatial gamma generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) to determine the factors affecting the daily number of crows captured and a spatial binomial GLM to determine the factors affecting the probability that crows will be captured. The number of bird‐feeding incidents had a negative effect on crow trap efficacy suggesting that crows are probably less inclined to enter traps if proximate anthropogenic food abundance is high. Trapping efficacy increased if traps were placed in high crow‐density areas, likely because more crows could detect the traps. The probability of capture also declined if the traps were placed closer to prior trapping locations or with a shorter time interval from previous trapping operations. Capture rates of crows can be increased by placing traps in high crow density areas, limiting bird‐feeding incidences, and lengthening the spatial and temporal proximities to previous trapping operations. The deployment of ladder traps is a viable means to control the population of house crows and consideration of environmental conditions and trapping history can improve capture rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Remnant populations of endangered species often have complex demographic histories associated with human impact. This can present challenges for conservation as populations modified by human activity may require bespoke management. The Eurasian red squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris (L., 1758), is endangered in the UK. Scotland represents a key stronghold, but Scottish populations have been subjected to intense anthropogenic influence, including widespread extirpations, reintroductions and competition from an invasive species. This study examined the genetic legacy of these events through low coverage whole‐genome resequencing of 106 red squirrels. Previously undetected patterns of population structure and gene flow were uncovered. One offshore island, four mainland Scottish populations, and a key east‐coast migration corridor were observed. An abrupt historical population bottleneck, related to extreme founder effects, has led to a severe and prolonged depression in genome‐wide heterozygosity, which is amongst the lowest reported for any species. Current designated red squirrel conservation stronghold locations do not encompass all existing diversity. These findings highlight the genetic legacies of past anthropogenic influence on long‐term diversity in endangered taxa. Continuing management interventions and regular genetic monitoring are recommended to safeguard and improve future diversity.

IntroductionDog Population Management (DPM) systems primarily aim to reduce the free-roaming dog population, improve the health and welfare of humans and dogs, and foster their peaceful coexistence. A key challenge to resource allocation and evidence-based policy making in DPM is the rare evaluation of the associated socio-economic impacts. This scoping review identifies, maps, and summarizes published parameters and methods on the socio-economic aspect of DPM systems.MethodsFollowing PRISMA-ScR guidelines, and with a protocol registered on the Open Science Framework, this review explores (i) types of DPM services, (ii) types of parameters (intervention, impact, monetized, or non-monetized), (iii) methodological approaches (such as cost–benefit or cost-effectiveness analysis), and (iv) gaps and challenges in socio-economic DPM assessments. Relevant publications were identified through a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science.ResultsOur review identified 14 out of more than 7,200 studies indicating the limitation of socio-economic data associated with DPM systems. The studies revealed diverse approaches to DPM, sterilization being the most frequently used service, often combined with vaccination and community awareness. Culling was also used by several studies as a DPM intervention, though considered unethical. The review highlighted a range of intervention, impact, and monetary parameters to evaluate the economics of DPM systems, demonstrating the complexity and varied scope of the services. Varied categorizations of the dog population were observed, making comparative evaluation challenging. Economic methods such as cost–benefit and cost-effectiveness analyses were observed, identifying several associated economic metrics. Studies highlighted gaps mostly related to data availability and accessibility.ConclusionThe limitations of socio-economic data arise from a lack of standardized methodologies across regions and contexts and limited data collection efforts. Prioritizing systematic collection of data on costs, benefits and social impacts allows for a more robust analysis of DPM systems. Developing tools and standardized reporting methods would further facilitate consistent evaluation of impacts, efficient resource allocation and evidence-based policy making to implement the most cost-effective DPM systems.Systematic review registrationDOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/NHE3X

Population dynamics and viability are driven by interactions among habitat and species biology. The Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is a declining and Federally Threatened bird species that requires mid-succession habitat of partly open soil surface with mid-height vegetation. This habitat is created and sustained in a dynamic state of vegetation growth and periodic natural (e.g., fire) or managed (e.g., mechanical clearing) disturbances. Florida scrub-jays once occupied open oak scrub habitats across much of peninsular Florida but have been reduced to a few regional metapopulations and scattered isolated remnant populations. Many of these populations are undergoing continuing decline as open scrub is either converted to residential development or transitions into closed pine and oak forests due to fire suppression. Long-term field studies have shown that breeding and survival rates are determined by the quality of the scrub habitat, with the demography influenced by and in turn mediating the social structure. Prior Population Viability Analyses (PVA) that included dependencies of demographic rates on habitat and social structure indicated that the east coast Florida metapopulations were fragmented into remnant protected patches that were too small and isolated to support long-term persistence, even if the remaining habitat area and quality was sustained. Moreover, recent modeling of habitat transitions under various proposed management schemes, in conjunction with implementation of Adaptive Resource Management (ARM), projected that the proportion of optimal habitat will continue to decline. In this study, we integrated these habitat projections within the PVA and found that the Brevard County mainland metapopulation is projected to decline toward extinction unless habitat quality, extent, and connectivity can be improved. Land managers have recently implemented new innovative methods for restoring optimal scrub habitat, identifying potential improvements in habitat connectivity of nearby populations, and translocation methods to increase and reinforce the demographic and genetic integrity of local populations. Our linked habitat-population models project that the combination of such habitat and population management actions can stabilize the metapopulation and achieve long-term viability.

Western societies face a major challenge to control their stray dog population due to its uncontrolled propagation and abandonment. Despite the management programmes implemented in many European countries, the reduction of the stray dog population has not been achieved. This is not only related to dogs’ well-being, but also to their coexistence with humans, especially in urban areas. Problem-solving approaches vary in different countries, as there is no common legislation in the European Community dealing with stray dog control. To realise this research study, data from secondary sources, as well as data collected from thirteen European countries were analysed. A comparative overview of policies and measures was examined to show that stray dog population management depends on the policy implicated by each country. In contrast to countries of northern Europe, signifi-cant problems were faced mainly by the countries of southern Europe and the Balkans. The purpose of this paper was to present the legal framework of management for the stray dog population in ac-cordance with what is implemented in different EU countries and to unveil the need for action for a common European Community Directive or Regulation dealing with stray dog control.

In this article, we follow the trails of 20th-century psychologist Henry Herbert Goddard's influential study of the Kallikak family. Goddard's study is treated as a scientific story with two interlocking dimensions: One is the actual story of the Kallikak family, with literary elements such as setting, plot, and characters. The other dimension is the broader eugenic discourse, a powerful scientific narrative that calls for action in relation to society and the population. The purpose of the article is twofold. Firstly, to analyze the forming and articulations of this story and to explore some of the consequences for governing the population that it has made possible. Secondly, to explore some aspects of what a Foucauldian analytics of government can contribute with in relation to Goddard's work and the eugenic discourse from the early 20th century to today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to describe differences between India and the United States in public perceptions of free-roaming dogs and cats, concerns related to free-roaming animals, and preferred strategies for veterinary medical interventions and population management. Between August 2021 and February 2022, 498 individuals completed an online survey including 210 Indian respondents and 288 American respondents. Free-roaming dogs and cats were largely perceived as community animals among Indian respondents, with significantly more respondents indicating they should be allowed to roam freely compared with American respondents. Respondents from both countries were concerned about animal welfare, although Americans were significantly more likely to list animal welfare, public health and wildlife risks as significant concerns related to free-roaming cats and dogs. American respondents were also more likely to support adoption for sociable animals and euthanasia for unsociable animals, whereas Indian respondents were more likely to support spay/neuter, vaccinate and release strategies for both dogs and cats. Our findings speak to the importance of implementing tailored strategies for free-roaming cat and dog management based on local cultures and community perceptions of free-roaming animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although significant progress has been achieved over many decades, sustaining the success of family planning programs in Indonesia requires a deep understanding of the factors that influence community satisfaction among those involved. This study surveyed 503 Family Planning Field Workers (PKBs) across Indonesia's regions to identify the main factors encouraging satisfaction among communities participating in these programs. A structured online questionnaire was distributed to collect data on the sociodemographic factors influencing satisfaction, which were then analyzed using multiple linear regression. The results showed that effective follow-up on community feedback (β = 0.233, p < 0.001), implementing a rights-based approach (β = 0.207, p < 0.001), enabling community participation (β = 0.147, p < 0.001), collaborating with healthcare providers and facilities (β = 0.159, p < 0.001), and monitoring and evaluating programs (β = 0.155, p < 0.001) were significant positive predictors. More notable, the regression model accounted for a considerable 74.7% of the variation in community satisfaction, pointing to how significant the explanatory power of the identified factors was in predicting the level of satisfaction among communities participating in family planning programs. Actions must be developed to enhance reproductive health and manage population growth by focusing on key factors such as responsive communication, rights, integrated services, community involvement, and evaluations, which are what matters most for family planning programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migratory species use different habitats and pathways across their migratory route. Pathway contribution metrics are transient metrics of population growth, derived from population models, and quantify the predicted contribution of an individual, travelling along a specified migratory route, to the total population over a specified length of time. Environmental disturbances or management actions may occur temporally or spatially throughout the process of migration. The impact that a given perturbation may have on pathway contribution metrics is not always obvious owing to the propagation of the perturbation through the migratory cycle. Here, we develop a general modelling framework that incorporates perturbations into a class of matrix migratory population models, and which quantifies the effect that perturbations to the model, in terms of the transition rates of habitats and pathways, have on pathway contribution metrics. We also detail how to calculate the sensitivity of pathway contribution metrics to the perturbations considered. Our framework may be used to provide insights into the impact that environmental disturbances or management actions have on migratory populations. These insights may be used to inform management actions which either buffer against possible deleterious disturbances or increase the population size through targeted interventions. Our theoretical results are illustrated via hypothetical examples and a model inspired by the monarch butterfly; we uncover results that are not clear from the calculation of the pathway contribution metrics alone.

The brown howler monkey (Alouatta guariba) is endemic to the Atlantic Forest of eastern Brazil and northeastern Argentina, threatened by extinction due to habitat loss and fragmentation, and hunting. Its reduced and isolated populations dramatically decreased and suffered local extinctions after recent yellow fever outbreaks, recommending the species risk uplist from Vulnerable to Endangered. In Brazil, the species occurs along eight states in sparse populations, including some large protected areas, and is being uplisted to Endangered. Following the National Action Plan for Conservation of the Atlantic Forest Primates and the Maned-sloth, and applying the Guidelines for Reintroductions and other Conservation Translocations (IUCN/CTSG), the Ex Situ Guidelines (IUCN/CPSG) and the One Plan Approach (IUCN/CPSG), a workshop was held on August 2021 to evaluate the need, requisites and roles of an integrated Population Management Program for A. guariba. Such program was developed in June 2022 defining the objectives of (i) restore in situ populations from ex situ populations, prioritizing populations in higher risk to prevent local extinctions, and (ii) establish an ex situ insurance population. This in situ - ex situ integrated management program was approved by ICMBio in February 2023, with actions recommended for all states along the species distribution. In Argentina, the species is Critically Endangered, with a remaining population of 20-50 individuals. Following the National Plan for Primate Conservation in Argentina, in a process similar to that in Brazil, two workshops were held in 2022/2023 to evaluate and define management actions for the long-term recovery of A. guariba. The priorities indicated were (i) reintroduction in ten potential areas in Misiones - due to a lower risk when compared to reinforcement of remaining populations, and (ii) establishing an ex situ management program in Argentina - still non-existent. The progressive collaboration between the initiatives of both countries is promoting the exchange of experiences and the integration of strategies. Here we summarize the planning and management carried out in Brazil and Argentina, highlighting the need for integrated measures. We debate on the progress and challenges, proposing next steps for developing and implementing a binational population management program for the conservation of the brown howler monkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Monitoring vital rates allows managers to estimate trends in growth rates of ungulate populations, but connecting the influence of nutrition on ungulate demography is challenging. Internal and external factors are likely to influence neonate survival and recruitment. We found that nitrogen available to adult female pronghorn during early lactation had the greatest influence on fawn summer survival (recruitment). Pronghorn management, where fecal sampling is utilized, should be conducted at the subpopulation level and have baseline fecal nitrogen measures taken. Subpopulations with low recruitment can be positively influenced by increasing nitrogen, or protein, available to them during the early lactation period. Monitoring vital rates allows managers to estimate trends in growth rates of ungulate populations. However, connecting the influence of nutrition on ungulate demography is challenging. Noninvasive sampling offers a low-cost, low-effort alternative for measuring nutritional indices, allowing for an increased understanding of the mechanistic relationships between environmental factors, nutrition, and specific population vital rates. We examined the temporal influence of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) fawn recruitment. We collected fresh fecal samples from adult female pronghorn in five subpopulations spanning three sampling periods associated with critical maternal life-history stages (late gestation, early lactation, breeding season) for 2 years to investigate both intra- and interannual influences. Intrinsic factors were fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGMs), nutritional indices (fecal nitrogen (FN) and 2,6-diaminopimelic acid (DAPA)), and dietary composition (protein intake of forbs, graminoids, legumes, other, shrubs), while the extrinsic factor was vegetative greenness (normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI)). We found variations in DAPA, protein intake of forbs, variation in forb protein intake, and protein intake of legumes during late gestation positively influenced fawn recruitment. Fecal nitrogen during early lactation showed the strongest positive influence on the recruitment of any measured parameter. Finally, breeding season NDVI and the variation in DAPA values positively influenced the subsequent year's fawn recruitment. Our longitudinal study enabled us to investigate which parameter was most important to specific periods of fawn development and recruitment. We combined the results across five subpopulations, but interpretation and subsequent management decisions should be made at the subpopulation level such that pronghorn subpopulations with low recruitment can be positively influenced by increasing nitrogen on the landscape available to adult females during the early lactation period. As the use of noninvasive monitoring methods continues to expand, we believe our methodologies and results can be broadly applied to other ungulate monitoring programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of 113 scientific and other publications on the smallest and most abundant deer in Lithuania, the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), is presented, along with an analysis based on compound annual population growth rates of population numbers, hunting bags, and roadkill. This review covers the species' history in the country from the last glaciation onwards, the changes in numbers from 1934 to 2023, hunting bag changes from 1965 to 2022, roadkill numbers from 2002 to 2022, data on roe deer reproduction, habitat selection, genetic diversity, pathogens, and damage to forest stands. It also provides an overview of species management and selection for trophies. Despite the exponential increase in roe deer numbers since 1990 and the dominance of this species in roadkill, even on urban roads, the number and density of animals and the damage they cause to forest stands are relatively low compared to other European countries. Within the observed period, drops in numbers were related to harsh winters in 1969/1970 and 1995/1996. Poaching, especially coinciding with weakened enforcement during the period of political–economic transition in the early 1990s, has also had a negative impact on population numbers, as have recent increases in the number of large predators. Population growth over the recent period does not correlate with hunting mortality, which has remained stable at an average of 16.9% since 2002. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Giraffe (Giraffa spp.) numbers and their habitat have drastically declined throughout Africa over the last century due to various threats linked to anthropogenic impacts including habitat loss and fragmentation, disease, poaching, and climate change. In Kenya, the Nubian giraffe (G. camelopardalis camelopardalis) population decreased significantly up until the late 1980s. As a result of increased conservation efforts, the Nubian giraffe population has rebounded since the early 1990s, however, it remains predominantly extralimital and/or restricted to closed protected areas in central and western Kenya. In this paper, we set out to assess historical and current population numbers and trends of Nubian giraffe in Kenya, and highlight the conservation efforts that are applied to conserve this Critically Endangered taxon. We reviewed published manuscripts and grey literature, wildlife authority records and interviewed landowners with Nubian giraffe populations. We also conducted photographic surveys in three national parks and reserves where anecdotal reports suggested that the largest populations of Nubian giraffe occurred. We found that from a low of 130 individuals remaining in the wild and near extinction in the mid-1970s, the Nubian giraffe population has rebounded to 1,042 in 14 populations in Kenya, which represents an increase of more than 700%. This conservation success story is attributed to targeted management efforts, in particular conservation translocations and the increased monitoring of populations. At the same time, various factors including habitat loss and fragmentation, and infrastructure developments, linked with the increasing human population continue to pose a threat to their survival in the country. We place our findings in the broader context of population ecology and present opportunities for conservation research as well as recommendations that inform the management of this critical population of concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveThis report describes our experience in electronic health record (EHR) note modification and creation of an external dashboard to create a local learning health system that contributes to quality improvement and patient care within our pediatric rheumatology clinic.MethodsWe applied quality improvement methodology to develop a more reliable and accurate system to identify patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and track important measures that aide in improving patient care and performance outcomes. From 2019 to 2021, we iteratively modified our outpatient clinic EHR note to include structured data elements to improve longitudinal monitoring. We then validated data transferred to an electronic dashboard external to the EHR and demonstrated utility for identifying an accurate patient population and tracking quality improvement initiatives.ResultsCreation of the structured data elements improved the identification of patients with JIA with >99% accuracy and without requiring manual review of the chart. Using the dashboard to monitor performance, we improved documentation of critical disease activity measures that resulted in improvement in those scores across the local population of patients with JIA. The structured data elements also enabled us to automate electronic data transfer to a multicenter learning network registry.ConclusionThe structured data element modifications made to our outpatient EHR note populate a local dashboard that allows real time access to critical information for patient care, population management, and improvement in quality metrics. The collection and monitoring of structured data can be scaled to other quality improvement initiatives in our clinic and shared with other centers.

The brown howler monkey (Alouatta guariba) is endemic to the Atlantic Forest of eastern Brazil and northeastern Argentina, threatened by extinction due to habitat loss and fragmentation, and hunting. Its reduced and isolated populations dramatically decreased and suffered local extinctions after recent yellow fever outbreaks, recommending the species risk uplist from Vulnerable to Endangered. In Brazil, the species occurs along eight states in sparse populations, including some large protected areas, and is being uplisted to Endangered. Following the National Action Plan for Conservation of the Atlantic Forest Primates and the Maned-sloth, and applying the Guidelines for Reintroductions and other Conservation Translocations (IUCN/CTSG), the Ex Situ Guidelines (IUCN/CPSG) and the One Plan Approach (IUCN/CPSG), a workshop was held on August 2021 to evaluate the need, requisites and roles of an integrated Population Management Program for A. guariba. Such program was developed in June 2022 defining the objectives of (i) restore in situ populations from ex situ populations, prioritizing populations in higher risk to prevent local extinctions, and (ii) establish an ex situ insurance population. This in situ – ex situ integrated management program was approved by ICMBio in February 2023, with actions recommended for all states along the species distribution. In Argentina, the species is Critically Endangered, with a remaining population of 20-50 individuals. Following the National Plan for Primate Conservation in Argentina, in a process similar to that in Brazil, two workshops were held in 2022/2023 to evaluate and define management actions for the long-term recovery of A. guariba. The priorities indicated were (i) reintroduction in ten potential areas in Misiones – due to a lower risk when compared to reinforcement of remaining populations, and (ii) establishing an ex situ management program in Argentina – still non-existent. The progressive collaboration between the initiatives of both countries is promoting the exchange of experiences and the integration of strategies. Here we summarize the planning and management carried out in Brazil and Argentina, highlighting the need for integrated measures. We debate on the progress and challenges, proposing next steps for developing and implementing a binational population management program for the conservation of the brown howler monkey.

Abstract The architectural field has performed a central mediating function in the process of formation of the Brazilian State through the formulation of mechanisms for control, ordering, and management of territories and populations. In the present article, we address three different scenarios in which architectural professional networks played a significant role: national-developmental projects implemented from the 1930s onwards; housing policies developed during the military dictatorship (1964 to 1985); strategic plans for the production of “global cities” following the redemocratization process (1985-today). From among the kaleidoscope of professional practices and meanings mobilized during these periods, we highlight situations and events that triggered the ideal types of the “creative genius”, the “engaged anti-designer” and the “entrepeneurial manager”. By analyzing the interactions between architects and public administration, we hope to contribute to the understanding of the population management technologies and business mechanisms that supported the neoliberal turn in the forms of government in Brazilian cities.

Simple Summary: Free-roaming and feral cats, along with their impacts on ecosystems and humans, have been debated globally. Cat welfare, overpopulation, and environmental and public health problems have prompted interest in controlling their populations. Several techniques exist to control cat populations, but community engagement may not always be considered. A systematic literature review was conducted to evaluate if community engagement influences the effectiveness of control techniques in managing cat populations, excluding culling. The greatest control occurred with highest community engagement; adoption and education determined the effectiveness. While research on cat control exists, few studies evaluate community engagement and technique effectiveness. This information is particularly relevant in countries that explicitly incorporate certain control techniques into their legislation. Although free-roaming and feral cat control techniques are often applied in human communities, community engagement is not always considered. A systematic literature review following an update of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) methodology was conducted to evaluate whether community engagement influences the effectiveness of control techniques, excluding culling, in managing cat populations. The degree of community engagement was estimated based on the number of roles reported during the application of the control technique, which included adoption, trapping, care, and/or education. Education followed by adoption was the determining factor in the decreasing cat populations over time. The limited evaluations of control technique effectiveness, narrow geographical scope, and our simple measure of engagement emphasize the need for more detailed studies. These studies should evaluate the effectiveness of control techniques, while considering community engagement more comprehensively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring the body condition of feral horses is important for animal welfare considerations and to anticipate population densities that affect the ecosystem. Monthly adult body condition scores (BCS) were estimated in a population of feral horses in an Argentine grassland nature reserve in 2001 and 2002, when the population reached maximum historical density approaching estimated carrying capacity. Monthly mean BCS showed a seasonal pattern. Female BCS was higher throughout 2001 with respect to 2002, while males only showed this pattern between wet seasons. BCS was higher for males than for females throughout the study and also higher during the wet season for both sexes. Mean monthly BCS of males was correlated to precipitation of the previous month, which is known to determine grass productivity in the area. Lower BCS values for females can be explained by the additional energy expenditure associated with pregnancy and lactation. In many cases, continuous monitoring of body condition is not possible and then it is important to identify times of the year when it is a more sensitive indicator of the population’s proximity to carrying capacity. For the area, this would be during the peak of rainfall in autumn or the minimum of rainfall in winter. The estimates corresponding to females would be especially accurate considering their dependence to density and rainfall. The implementation of management measures guided by BCS could avoid reaching population levels close to carrying capacity, reducing the negative impacts on the environment and on the welfare of the horses themselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

WE INVESTIGATED the occupancy of alternative breeding pools for Red-throated Loon Gavia stellata and the reproductive output in relation to a selection of habitat characteristics in a coniferous forest inland area in south-central Sweden, using generalized linear mixed models. Models provided good support for the conclusion that small-sized pools with high coverage of floating vegetation were preferred. The survival of pre-fledged chicks was higher when foraging waters were located closer, and open mires around the breeding pool were more extensive. We propose that these habitat characteristics should be considered in nature conservation planning and management, as well as in environmental impact assessments. We found that with the current data, predicting pool occupancy and chick survival based on the selected habitat characteristics was not sufficiently accurate to replace field surveys and can only be used as a complementary method. We also emphasize the importance of freshwaters, potentially to be used for foraging in the surrounding landscape, which is an oftenoverlooked aspect in management and impact assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Population Health Management (PHM) focusses on keeping the whole population as healthy as possible. As such, it could be a promising approach for longterm health improvement in type 2 diabetes. This scoping review aimed to examine the extent to which and how PHM is used in the care for people with type 2 diabetes. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched between January 2000 and September 2021 for papers on self-reported PHM initiatives for type 2 diabetes. Eligible initiatives were described using the analytical framework for PHM. Results: In total, 25 studies regarding 18 PHM initiatives for type 2 diabetes populations were included. There is considerable variation in whether and how the PHM steps are operationalized in existing PHM initiatives. Population identification, impact evaluation, and quality improvement processes were generally part of the PHM initiatives. Triple Aim assessment and risk stratification actions were scarce or explained in little detail. Moreover, cross-sector integration is key in PHM but scarce in practice. Conclusion: Operationalization of PHM in practice is limited compared to the PHM steps described in the analytical framework. Extended risk stratification and integration efforts would contribute to whole-person care and further health improvements within the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of a research on the transformations in policing practices and population control during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ways in which these changes were experienced by police officers in Córdoba (Argentina), in the case of the Villa María-Villa Nueva urban agglomerate during 2020-2021. Here we will address the conflicts that were relevant in this location during said period, analyzing the transformations that were identified in police practices and their ways of intervening in these conflicts. We analyze the interactions between police and citizens, looking to highlight the transformations of this already heterogeneous relation. Finally, we will inquire into the experiences of the police during the pandemic, with special emphasis on their perception of risk and recognition of their work, as well as on the use of force. On this basis, we consider that the pandemic strengthened the role of the police in population management, further highlighting the performance of a range of tasks unrelated to the prosecution of crime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertility control is often heralded as a humane and effective technique for management of overabundant wildlife, including rodents. The intention is to reduce the use of lethal and inhumane methods, increase farm productivity and food security as well as reduce disease transmission, particularly of zoonoses. We developed a framework to guide researchers and stakeholders planning to assess the effectiveness of a potential contraceptive agent for a particular species. Our guidelines describe the overarching research questions which must be sequentially addressed to ensure adequate data are collected so that a contraceptive can be registered for use in broad‐scale rodent management. The framework indicates that studies should be undertaken iteratively and, at times, in parallel, with initial research being conducted on (1) laboratory‐based captive assessments of contraceptive effects in individuals; (2) simulation of contraceptive delivery using bait markers and/or surgical sterilization of different proportions of a field‐based or enclosure population to determine how population dynamics are affected; (3) development of mathematical models which predict the outcomes of different fertility control scenarios; and (4) implementation of large‐scale, replicated trials to validate contraceptive efficacy under various management‐scale field situations. In some circumstances, fertility control may be most effective when integrated with other methods (e.g. some culling). Assessment of non‐target effects, direct and indirect, and the environmental fate of the contraceptive must also be determined. Developing fertility control for a species is a resource‐intensive commitment but will likely be less costly than the ongoing environmental and economic impacts by rodents and rodenticides in many contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are recognised worldwide not only as man's best friend, but also as a form of anthropogenic edge effect impacting wildlife through predation, competition and disease infection. In the Northern Andes, there is growing evidence of dogs inducing activity shifts or alterations in the habitat use of native mammalian species. However, little information exists on direct attacks of dogs on wildlife, even in the case of species of conservation concern such as the mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque). Here, we used camera traps to report two cases of dogs chasing and attacking mountain tapirs in a protected area of the Central Andes of Colombia. The first event showed a direct physical contact between a living adult mountain tapir and two dogs, but the picture's angle did not lead to observable signs of wounds or other injuries. The second event showed an adult mountain tapir running while being chased by the same two dogs of the first event, denoting a stressful moment for the tapir. This may have negative consequences on the populations of mountain tapirs through decreased reproductive performance and foraging efficiency, increased potential for disease outbreaks and more. Population management and control of domestic dogs inside and around protected areas must be considered a priority in future conservation actions to support a healthy population of mountain tapirs and other imperilled species in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The positive phototaxis showed by adults of some pestiferous chironomid species, annoying to waterfront residents and businesses, was investigated at Lake Trasimeno (Italy) to develop a strategy against their massive swarms. Two experimental devices (ChiroTraps), located at Passignano sul Trasimeno (PA) and at Sant'Arcangelo (SA), were employed in 2019 and 2020. The total biomass attracted by the traps amounted to 6498.78 g at PA and to 8597.05 g at SA. Chironomids biomass constituted 99.66% and 96.59% of the biomass in these sites, respectively. Only a few specimens of other fauna except chironomids were found at PA. In contrast, the values at SA were considerable, being 91- and 35-fold (number of taxa and weight, respectively) higher than in PA. These results demonstrated that exploiting the light attraction behaviour of adult chironomids is an efficient method for managing their pestiferous populations, thereby reducing the necessity of using insecticides. By comparing the biodiversity in the two sites, it was evident that the differences were linked primarily to the environmental conditions. Finally, it is suggested that light trapping systems should be located in urban centres or floated on the lake surface to maximise the efficiency of trapping chironomids and minimising the impact on biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economic and environmental impacts of wildlife are increasing in parallel with renewed public interest in non-lethal methods, such as fertility control, to manage these impacts. The Wildlife Research 2008 Special Issue on Fertility Control for Wildlife (Vol. 35) published following the 6th International Conference on Fertility Control for Wildlife held in 2007 in York, United Kingdom, reported studies on the effects of contraceptives on individual animals and populations, with most papers focusing on ungulates. In the past 15 years, significant progress has been made in developing novel contraceptives for wildlife and in designing methods to deliver these agents. Concurrently, the general debate on wildlife management has widened to include public attitudes and perceptions of novel and traditional methods, animal welfare issues, costs, feasibility, and regulatory and ethical issues. These developments have broadened our understanding of contexts and species for which fertility control could be employed, either as a stand-alone method or to complement other population management options. These topics were reflected in the presentations given at the 9th International Conference on Wildlife Fertility Control, held in Colorado Springs (USA) in 2022. Here, we introduce a special issue featuring selected presentations from the 2022 conference. These studies showcase the wide spectrum of topics that covered novel contraceptives tested on several species, ranging from mice to elephants. They also illustrate new methods to deliver contraceptives, models on the impact of fertility control on populations, feasibility, cost of practical applications of fertility control, discussions on animal welfare and human dimension of these approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Efficient monitoring of herpetofauna can prove challenging to agencies and NGOs responsible for their management. Wildlife cameras have been proposed as a method to monitor herpetofauna; however, estimates of detection rates and factors affecting detection by cameras are generally lacking and therefore limiting their application. Aims. We determined the effect of body size and temperature differential on the detection of snakes and frogs by passive infrared (PIR) wildlife cameras. We hypothesised that detection would differ among models and be positively correlated with body size and surface-temperature differential between the animal and substrate. We then conducted a field study to compare the detection of herpetofauna by a traditional method with PIR cameras. Methods. We tested 10 cameras of seven models on five snakes and one camera on six frogs. Photographs were downloaded to determine the detection rate of each species by each camera. We then chose a camera model to compare two herpetofauna survey methods, namely, drift fences equipped with cameras and visualencounter surveys. Surveys were conducted monthly over 12 months in Irwin County, GA, USA. Key results. The highest mean detection rates of snakes were 0.65 (s.e. = 0.33), 0.50 (s.e. = 0.34), and 0.49 (s.e. = 0.34) for the Browning Dark Ops, Reconyx Hyperfire 2, and Mossy Oak Covert Scouting Camera respectively. The detectability of larger snakes was greater than that of smaller snakes and increased as the absolute temperature differences between the snake and the substrate increased. The detectability of frogs was influenced by absolute temperature differential alone. PIR cameras generated five times more observations, documented more herpetofauna species, and were seven times more efficient than traditional surveys. Conclusions. The effectiveness of PIR cameras to detect herpetofauna varies among models and depends on the likelihood that the animal will have a body temperature significantly different from the temperature of the substrate. PIR cameras generated observations far more efficiently than traditional sampling methods. Implications. PIR wildlife cameras may be most effective at detecting larger, diurnal herpetofauna and least effective at detecting smaller, nocturnal species. Wildlife cameras have the potential to efficiently monitor some herpetofauna, providing a means to better evaluate management objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fences have been widely used to exclude, manage, or monitor both native and invasive amphibian populations. Given that fences are artificial barriers that impact animal movements within the landscape, it is critical they do not allow for unwanted movement or lead to unintended animal welfare risks. We have carried out a literature review to identify features that have been used for amphibian fences, as well as aspects of fence design, installation, and maintenance that have limited their effectiveness. We also describe our own application of adaptive management to amphibian exclusion fences, in which we detected flaws and improved features, and monitored the effectiveness of these changes. Based on an exploration of the literature and our experiences, we found several key attributes to fences that must be considered when created for amphibians, including height, lip barriers, underground barriers, support frameworks, gates, seams, clearance zones, and moisture refuges. We found that studies commonly do not detail all of these aspects of their fences, and that few openly describe flaws in the design, installation, and subsequent maintenance of their fences. This is potentially concerning because it may limit chances to make improvements to fence designs that are specific for amphibians. We subsequently provide considerations and recommendations for each key fence attribute, along with maintenance and monitoring advice. These take into account intended fence purpose, desired fence permeability, and project constraints for a variety of amphibian types, life histories, and developmental stages. They are intended to be used by managers to assist in designing an effective fence for their target species. Some of our recommendations to reduce animal welfare risks are to minimise the use of: (1) fence materials that could cause abrasion injuries, (2) dry substrates that could lead to desiccation, (3) geofabrics that could lead to entanglement, and (4) fence aprons that animals could easily become trapped under. This is likely to be a valuable guide for practitioners who are required to install amphibian fences and for policy makers who prescribe fences for mitigation. This guide is applicable for projects managing threatened native species, as well as invasive species, such as the cane toad (Rhinella marina). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Invasive non-native species are on the rise worldwide, exacerbating already significant environmental and economic impacts. Concurrently, public attitudes towards methods of controlling these species are changing, with greater demand for non-lethal solutions. This has fostered research into developing new, effective technologies and strategies for wildlife management. Aims. On the basis of a case study focusing on the eastern grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) in the UK, this study aimed to understand the potential for population management, using either live trapping or oral contraception. First, assuming completely coordinated landscapescale control, and then, coordinated control only on parts of the landscape, accounting for the potential that landowners’ attitudes towards alternative methods may differ and reflect those of the wider public. Methods. We used an existing spatially explicit individual-based modelling approach applying various parameterisations to define management. We varied the density of traps or hoppers delivering contraceptives, the duration of deployment, contraceptive efficacy, initial population size, and the probability of landowner participation. The latter was based on a previous public survey, suggesting that 40% of the respondents were open to management using trapping and 64% to using contraception. Key results. With complete coordinated control, trapping was generally faster and more cost-effective than was contraception. However, when differences in social acceptance were considered, reducing participation and, consequently, the spatial coverage of management, contraception wasfound to maintain greater population reductions than was trapping with similar effort, assuming a contraceptive efficacy of 75% or higher. Conclusions. This study added another layer of complexity to managing invasive non-native species, namely the potential effect that landowners’ attitudes to different methods of population management might have on the level of coordinated control at landscape scale. In a situation such as the one modelled by this study, where management is not a legal requirement, this human dimension must be considered alongside cost-effectiveness, to develop successful control in line with management goals. Implications. Further work isrequired to establish the actual attitudes of landowners, and in different contexts (e.g. urban, rural areas), how this may change as new approaches become available, and then how spatial variation (clustering) in the resulting wildlife population control may affect outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. The common pigeon (Columba livia var. domestica) is a synurbic species widely distributed around the world. High local densities of pigeons have negative impacts on animal and public health. Urban pigeon fouling also damages buildings and infrastructures, resulting in increased maintenance costs. Although the reduction of food and shelter would be the most effective control method, it does not apply in most cases where the amount ofshelter and food can be unlimited and control very difficult achieve. However, a reduction and control of the population by fertility control using nicarbazin (NCZ, Ovistop®) could be achieved without the need to capture and remove any specimens. Aim and methods. The aims of this study were (1) to describe the experience of up to 8 years of use of fertility control by NCZ on pigeon numbers in 24 towns and cities in Catalonia (Spain), (2) to assess the potential for non-target species to be affected by NCZ, and (3) to quantify the costs of implementing local population control of urban pigeons via NCZ. Local number of pigeons was estimated via population censuses. Key results. From the beginning of the treatment, a significant steady decreasing trend (average of −12% per year) in the pigeon abundance was registered. In very few instances, non-target birds species were observed to feed on NCZ. Conclusions and implications. NZC was an effective and selective method of animal welfare to reduce the total number of pigeons in the municipalities included in this study, while not affecting other non-target species. The estimated cost of the annual treatment was €33.6 per pigeon; in 68% of the municipalities, the total annual cost was halved after 3 years of treatment. The findings of this study are in agreement with previous experiences controlling pigeon colonies by using NCZin other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predictive models can improve the efficiency of wildlife management by guiding actions at the local, landscape and regional scales. In recent decades, a vast range of modelling techniques have been developed to predict species distributions and patterns of population spread. However, data limitations often constrain the precision and biological realism of models, which make them less useful for supporting decision‐making. Complex models can also be challenging to evaluate, and the results are often difficult to interpret for wildlife management practitioners. There is therefore a need to develop techniques that are appropriately robust, but also accessible to a range of end users. We developed a hybrid species distribution model that utilises commonly available presence‐only distribution data and minimal demographic information to predict the spread of roe deer (Capreolus caprelous) in Great Britain. We take a novel approach to representing the environment in the model by constraining the size of habitat patches to the home‐range area of an individual. Population dynamics are then simplified to a set of generic rules describing patch occupancy. The model is constructed and evaluated using data from a populated region (England and Scotland) and applied to predict regional‐scale patterns of spread in a novel region (Wales). It is used to forecast the relative timing of colonisation events and identify important areas for targeted surveillance and management. The study demonstrates the utility of presence‐only data for predicting the spread of animal species and describes a method of reducing model complexity while retaining important environmental detail and biological realism. Our modelling approach provides a much‐needed opportunity for users without specialist expertise in computer coding to leverage limited data and make robust, easily interpretable predictions of spread to inform proactive population management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Unowned 'stray' domestic cats threaten wildlife, as well as create a community nuisance and contribute to high rates of euthanasia in animal shelters. These cats can experience poor welfare, contribute to the pet cat population and compromise attempts to control feral cats. However, many unowned domestic cats are cared for by semi-owners who do not consider they own these cats; therefore, semi-owners are a potentially important target population for human behaviour change interventions. The present study aimed to describe the characteristics of cat semi-owners and compare these with the general population of cat owners and non-cat owners to inform future cat management interventions. Methods: An online questionnaire open to all residents of New South Wales, Australia was developed and advertised. Respondents were asked 'do you care for other free-roaming or stray cats (not including the cats you own)?', whether they owned cats, about characteristics of their home and their agreement with 15 capability, social opportunity and motivation (COM) items relating to cat containment. Results: Questionnaire responses were received from 8708 people, including 588 semi-owners (7%). Semi-owners were significantly more likely to be female, live in urban areas, live in lower socioeconomic areas and rent their home. Most semi-owners also owned their own cats and owned more cats than non-semi-owners. Conclusions and relevance: Semi-owners of unowned 'stray' cats are a valuable potential target audience for human behaviour change interventions. Understanding that these semi-owners often have their own cats, might already be overwhelmed with cat-caring responsibilities and are disproportionately from lower socioeconomic backgrounds should guide intervention design. A nuanced approach is needed that prioritises the wellbeing of cats and semi-owners for semi-owners to 'buy in'. Any intervention should also recognise that semi-owners often face multiple, complex barriers to neutering or claiming ownership of the cats they care for, especially cost, and trust in the authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Rusa deer (Cervus timorensis), originally introduced in the 1860s, are still spreading in eastern Australia. The expanding peri-urban rusa deer population in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Australia is having undesirable impacts on human and ecological communities, but the spatial structure of this population has not been investigated. Genetic information on invasive species is potentially useful in identifying management units to mitigate undesirable impacts. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate population structure, characterise dispersal, and determine if natural and human-made landscape features affected gene flow in rusa deer invading the Illawarra region of New South Wales. Methods: We used reduced representation sequencing (DArT-Seq) to analyse single nucleotide polymorphisms distributed throughout the genomic DNA of rusa deer culled during a management program. We used admixture and Principal Component Analyses to investigate population structure with respect to natural and human-made landscape features, and we investigated whether our genetic data supported the presence of sex-biased dispersal. Key results: Genetic diversity was highest in the north, near the original introduction site. A railway line demarcated restricted gene flow. Surprisingly, the Illawarra escarpment, a prominent landscape feature, did not restrict gene flow. There was no evidence of sex-biased dispersal and seven individuals were identified as genetic outliers. Conclusions: The genetic structure of the Illawarra rusa deer population is consistent with individuals spreading south from their introduction site in Royal National Park. The population is not panmictic, and a landscape feature associated with urbanisation was associated with increased spatial genetic structure. Outliers could indicate hybridisation or secondary incursion events. Implications: Rusa deer can be expected to continue invading southwards in the Illawarra region, but landscape features associated with urbanisation might reduce dispersal across the landscape. The genetic structuring of the population identified three potential management units on which to prioritise ground shooting operations. Understanding spatial structure is important for the management of invasive deer populations. We sequenced DNA from invasive rusa deer culled during a management program in the Illawarra region, New South Wales, Australia. Genetic diversity decreased from north (the original introduction site) to south, and we identified three spatially distinct units for managing rusa deer in the Illawarra region. Photograph by Scarlett Li-Williams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study adopts an ethnographic approach to examine how digital technology used at home ‐ mobile platforms and smart devices ‐ shaped the intimacy of ageing adults (aged 55 to 65) in Beijing. China's fast-ageing population and its ambition to be a high‐tech superpower are some of the conditions that have necessitated the mobilisation of governmental ideas that link population management to technology development. This study built on Ara Wilson's (2016) essay "The Infrastructure of Intimacy" by including critical infrastructure studies to examine how practices of intimacy are translated and operationalised through daily technology use at home. Data analysis was conducted using three frameworks: (1) making intimate: familiarising and reconnecting; (2) materialising intimacy: gifts, bonding, and avoidance; and (3) self‐intimacy (re)structured: choices, self‐love, and empowerment. The ethnographic data unveils the pivotal role of intimacy in the use of technologies and platforms by the ageing informants in managing their relationships between the self and their family and social relations. With its profound functionality in broadening the practices of intimacy, such as strengthening self-worth and self‐realisation, the daily use of digital technology at home also made it easier for the ageing informants in this study to deter, replace, and lessen their need for physical interactions. The findings suggest that normalising older adults' active use of technology at home will further advance the technologisation of Chinese society while enhancing intimacy in the ageing population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat degradation can have significant effects on native species inhabiting natural ecosystems. Within oak barrens and oak–pine barrens ecosystems, there is a complex interspecies interaction between the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis) and its obligate host plant, wild lupine (Lupinus perennis L.). Recruitment of wild lupine is critical for maintaining butterfly populations; however, this recruitment can be impeded by habitat fragmentation. Reduced recruitment can result in low genetic diversity in isolated populations, limiting its adaptive potential to respond to environmental change. This study was aimed at understanding the genetic diversity and population structure of wild lupine populations throughout central and west Michigan. We identified significant population structure across most of the populations sampled, with only two sites not significantly different from each other. No sites within our study area displayed statistically significant levels of inbreeding. There are also at least two genetic clusters of wild lupine present within our study region, although there is significant overlap among these groups, indicating that genetic differentiation among clusters may be limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]