How Hunting Sea Otters Killed the Sea Cow—Maybe—and Other Tales of Megafauna Extinction
New research highlight the dangers of standing by while large animals go extinct.
Browsing Tag
Ecosystems
30 posts
Bird Feeding Is for the Birds
A study suggests that setting out bread crumbs and seeds mostly attracts invasive birds, perhaps at the expense of native species.
Are Madagascar’s Efforts to Save Forests Working?
Community forest management gets put to the test, and it doesn't fare well.
Protecting Biodiversity, One Pool of Water at a Time
Researchers in Mauritania propose protections for tiny mountain ponds as a way to re-think conservation. Their study, however, will likely attract some criticism.
It’s a Gull-Eat-Whale World Out There, Thanks to People
A month ago ecologist Leah Gerber asked our readers to consider a biodiversity conundrum—in preserving a natural habitat,…
Fear Powers Zombie Bugs
Work with glued spiders and stressed grasshoppers shows how fear can transform an ecosystem even after death.
Solving Eco-challenges With Today’s Data
A new academic center at the University of Maryland promises to take undervalued research and synthesize it into answers for pressing environmental challenges.
The Making of the Ocean Health Index
In the first of a series of stories tracking their progress in real time, three scientists explain the genesis of a global effort to present the health of the world's oceans with a single number.
As Environment Degrades, Our Well-Being Grows?
The environment is faltering even as measurements show human well-being is improving. How long can that last?
Long Nights and Thin Ice: A Penguin’s Tale
A conversation with penguin expert Grant Ballard on the short-term wins and long-term losses facing one of the world's most charismatic animals.