Resolutions Passed to Curb Mining, Quarrying, and Other Threats Near Vulture Habitats

An Indian vulture on a cliff.

It has recently been reported that a conference organized by the Ela Foundation and the Asian Raptor Research and Conservation Network (ARRCN) has passed resolutions concerning the vulture population in India. The solutions focused on the vultures' conservation by curbing mining, quarrying, and developmental and recreational activities near breeding sites. In addition, other solutions included identifying threats to vultures and other raptors from electrocution and enforcing safety measures, inspecting the negative effects of pesticides, banning the use of manja for kite flying, and the review of the conservation status of India's raptors. The conference, which was attended by 240 delegates from twenty countries, including Japan, India, Russia, the United Kingdom, and United States, focused at promoting raptor conservation and research by exchange of scientific knowledge, training researchers, and associating of member countries. According to Satish Pande, the organizing secretary of the conference, the study of raptors is crucial because they are apex predators and indicators of habitat quality. In addition to passing raptor conservation resolutions, the conference also consisted of two field visits where delegates were presented with conservation efforts of the Ela Foundation for the critically endangered Indian and white-rumped vultures with community participation. The delegates were also shown active breeding colonies of these vultures, along with other Indian raptor species.

Manja-making process with coating of cotton thread with mixture of glass powder, colors, etc. (top) and bottles of diclofenac (bottom). Both of these have contributed to the downfall in India's vulture population, along with other birds.

It is amazing to see what India is doing by joining forces with other countries, in order to help save its native raptor populations especially vultures. These birds of prey have suffered dramatically over several years in the hands of humans from electrocution to chemical poisoning from pesticides and diclofenac. In addition, the use of manja for kite flying is another factor that has tremendously affected southern Asia's bird populations. Ironically, manja has also claimed human lives as well. This is why it is absolutely crucial to take action against these threats, which not only affect vultures and other birds but people as well. Vultures and other raptors are well-known as indicators of habitat quality and apex predators. This means they play a crucial role in keeping populations of small animals in check, and their presence in a habitat indicates whether its quality is good or not. Vultures are favored as scavengers not just in India, but also in other parts of the world, and are known to feast on carcasses that are known to be major sources of deadly diseases such as anthrax and botulism. Without vultures, India would be in great risk of these diseases and it is absolutely necessary to guarantee the survival of these raptors through joint partnership to curb the factors that have decimated and continue to decimate their numbers.

View article here  

Rhinos to be Relocated from South Africa to Botswana in Anti-poaching Campaign

A white rhinoceros in Kruger National Park

It has recently been reported that up to hundred rhinos will be transferred from South Africa to Botswana's distant wilderness in an attempt to keep them out of the reach of excessive poaching. The mass relocation comes after 1,004 rhinos were ruthlessly slaughtered last year and the failure of every measurement attempted so far to diminish the terror, which is fueled by the demand for rhino horns in Asia. This $8 million initiative was announced together by two conservation companies: Great Plains Conservation and &Beyond. The two companies stated that each rhino would be tagged and micro-chipped for research and monitoring. It is also said that a committed anti-poaching team will work with the government of Botswana to monitor the animals. &Beyond's chief executive Joss Kent assured that Botswana has an exceptional security system to protect endangered species, and will be a safe haven for relocated rhinos. The company also stated that it would announce definite fundraising drives to allow tourism shareholders, travel partners, tour operators, and guests to help save the rhino. South African National Parks (SANParks) accepted the plan, stating that the initiative would be a "good one."

I'm very proud to find what new measurements have been implemented, in order to help save the rhinos in Africa. In addition to simply patrolling areas in South Africa where poaching has been running rampant, the plan of relocating rhinos out of harm's way is an excellent strategy. Botswana, which is landlocked in southern Africa, had received six rhinos from South Africa last year and is home to the Khama Rhino Sanctuary where not a single animal had been poached since its development 24 years ago. This indicates that Botswana has a substantial security system in protecting the wildlife, and I have a good feeling that the hundred rhinos about to be relocated there will be safe. I also feel that it is crucial to keep a close watch for poachers, who will turn towards Botswana for rhinos upon hearing about this relocation effort. These individuals are very smart and are always keeping their eyes and ears open for any good opportunity to conduct their evil deeds; even if it means turning to another country besides South Africa where more than sixty percent of rhino poaching occurs.

View article here 

Prince Charles and Other World Leaders Declare Action Against the Illegal Wildlife Trade

Charles, Prince of Wales

It has recently been reported that Prince Charles of Britain made a profound plea for the world to come together to put an end to the illegal wildlife trade destroying threatened wildlife such as elephants and tigers in Africa and Asia. His appeal at the London Conference on the illegal wildlife trade demanded prominent action by global leaders to be doubled by action on the ground to halt the demand for illegal wildlife products and punish those involved in the business. The conference was the pinnacle of a week of events targeted at stimulating efforts to stop the slaughter of endangered species for their body parts, which are much in demand in parts of Asia. In an announcement agreed to at the end of the conference, world leaders vowed to intensify enforcement to protect at risk of poaching, to enforce stiffer penalties on all the individuals involved in the illegal wildlife trade, and to discuss related bribery and corruption. They also agreed to destroy stockpiles of confiscated wildlife products. In his speech, Prince Charles applauded China, France, and the United States for having recently destroyed considerable stockpiles of seized ivory.

A forest elephant in Gabon.

He was approached a little over a year ago by a group of African presidents who made an intense request for help, in which they described the poaching crisis in their countries having reached indescribable heights. The crisis has been the result of militant groups, organized gangs, and terrorist organizations slaughtering greater numbers of elephants and rhinos. New data gathered by the Wildlife Conservation Society disclosed that 65 percent of Central Africa's forest elephants were lost to poaching between 2002 and 2013. Based on the research across eighty sites in five countries, a study indicated that forest elephants are being slaughtered at "a shocking nine percent per year." As a result, the elephants reside in only about a quarter of the area where they once existed. This indicates that the forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the largest country in Africa, are greatly almost empty of elephants. According to researcher Fiona Maisels, who is also the co-author of the study, at least 200,000 elephants were killed between 2002 and 2013, "to the tune of at least sixty a day, or one every twenty minutes, day and night." Prince Charles pointed out that the forests and savannah grasslands have grown "frighteningly silent", and without elephants to help in seed germination, the continuing ecology of forests is "fatally disrupted." He further added that the illegal wildlife trade has now transformed from an environmental issue to a global criminal industry, ranking alongside arms, drug, and human trafficking. In addition to decimating the world's wildlife, the wildlife trade is also spurring corruption and insecurity, and sabotaging efforts to cut poverty and promote sustainable development, especially in Africa.

The war flag of Al-Shabaab, one of several militant groups involved in poaching.

This article is a clear wake-up call to all the world's nations to come together, in order to battle and ultimately put an end to the ongoing threat of poaching and the illegal wildlife trade. Majority of the world's endangered species are continuing to suffer in the bloodthirsty hands of poachers and other individuals involved in this illicit business. These individuals include members of various militant groups and terrorist organizations notably in Africa, who are involved in poaching of the wildlife to finance their civil wars against innocent civilians. Among the major syndicates associated with Africa's poaching epidemic include Al-Shabaab, the Janjaweed, and Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). Furthermore, the illegal wildlife trade is also a threat to humanity because it is driving corruption and insecurity, and ruining efforts to put an end to poverty and promote sustainable development. These facts covered are a proof enough to incite the world's nations to take decisive action against this global atrocity that is threatening both animal and human life simultaneously.

View article here     

Electronic Shark Deterring Devices Gain Popularity on Maui

A special device believed to prevent shark attacks through emission of electric pulses. 

The island of Maui in the state of Hawaii has experienced a rise in shark attacks over the past year, including two fatal ones, but did not prevented people from entering the warm ocean waters. It has also sparked sales of special electronic devices that are believed to keep sharks away by discharging an electric pulse. Some of these unique gadgets are the size of a bulky wristwatch, while others are as big as a wallet. They can be strapped to the users' ankles, wetsuits, or even surfboards and vary in price from $399 to $469. Some shark experts believe that these devices may help prevent attacks from sharks, but it is uncertain whether they will keep away large ones such as bull sharks, great white sharks, and tiger sharks. One of these experts who is skeptical about the gadgets is George Burgess, director of the Florida Program for Shark Research. He stated that people should remember that they are taking a risk of attacks when entering shark-infested waters, with or without the devices. He further added that the only people who are eligible to need these devices are those whose jobs involve direct contact with sharks. These include people who dive for abalone or sea sponges in places where sharks are commonly seen. In addition, shark researcher Carl Meyer of the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology stated that the devices may minimize the risk of a shark attack but not eradicate it, warning that no independent peer-reviewed studies have been carried out on their effectiveness.  

A man modeling the electric shark repellent in Honolulu.

The surge in sales of these shark repelling devices came as there had been eight shark attacks in Maui's waters last year. Statewide, there were fourteen attacks in 2013, eleven in 2012, and three in 2011. Among the fatal incidents included the death of a German tourist, who perished a week after a shark bit off her arm in August and a man fishing on his kayak in December after a shark bit his foot that was dangling in the water. The last time anybody was killed by a shark in Hawaii was in 2004. One of the examples of the gadgets' usage was demonstrated by Sterling Kaya, owner of a Honolulu fishing supply store named Hana Pa'a Fishing Company, who stated that he used this device once while spearfishing in the Marshall Islands. He explained that sharks ate the catch attached to a float without the device, but stayed away when the device was attached to the catch. Mr. Burgess added that spearfishermen may also benefit since they dive with bloody fish that can attract sharks, but there is also a question of whether the electric pulse will scare the fish they are trying to spear.

A store owner showing the shark deterrent device in Maui.

This news is a clear demonstration of how technology plays an important role in the daily lives of people when in contact with animals. A similar example was seen in one news about a special collar which helps prevent any wolf attacks on sheep. Now, there is news about similar devices which prevent shark attacks on humans. However, it has also been found in this news that these devices had not been studied by scientists and researchers in order to understand their effectiveness. In addition, it is also unclear whether these devices are effective against attacks by great white sharks and other sharks that are infamous for claiming hundreds of lives every year. I think it is extremely important that these shark repellent devices must be closely examined by scientists, in order to see whether they are effective against attacks by large sharks. This way, everyone will know whether these devices will protect them against shark attacks or not. However, that does not mean people should stop using them as of now. It is important to note that even with these devises strapped to one's ankle, surfboard, or wetsuit, people should be aware about the risks they take when entering the ocean water. Furthermore, beaches should still be patrolled for sharks and closed upon any sightings for the safety of people going swimming or surfing.

View article here        

New Species of River Dolphin Discovered in Hundred Years

Araguaian river dolphin

A recent scientific expedition in the Araguaia River Basin in central Brazil led by Tomas Hrbek of the Universidade Federal do Amazonas in Manaus has resulted in the discovery of a new species of river dolphin. This species was found to be separated from its relatives, the Amazon river dolphin and the Bolivian river dolphin, in the adjoining Amazon Basin to the west by an array of rapids and a small canal thus resulting in its given name: the Araguaian river dolphin. According to Howard Rosenbaum, director of the Wildlife Conservation Society's Ocean Giants program, the discovery is "amazing" because scientists and researchers are beginning to get inside information as to how these animals become distinct species. The team, which discovered the species, conducted their study on the dolphin and concluded that its DNA is adequately different from that of other river dolphins indicating that it is a new species. The amount of difference seen in physical and genetic levels advocates that the Araguaian river dolphin probably separated from other dolphin species more than two million years ago. In addition, the dolphin also demonstrated significant size differences in cranial features and in its number of teeth.

Range map of South America's river dolphins

This newly discovered species also marks the first new discovery of a true river dolphin since 1918, when the Yangtze river dolphin was identified in China. However, the Yangtze river dolphin was declared "functionally extinct" in 2006 after scientists could not find even one individual. With the Araguaian river dolphin discovered, scientists warn that it faces the same threats as its relatives which include dam construction and local fishermen who kill them fearing that they compete with them for fish. The recent study revealed that the Araguaia River Basin has been experiencing a great deal of human pressure since the 1960s through agricultural and ranching activities, and the development of hydroelectric dams which have negatively impacted several abiotic and biotic aspects of the river's ecosystem. Dr. Rosenbaum stated that more research needs to be conducted on exactly how these threats may affect the survival of these animals. He further added that as such threats are being addressed, these astounding discoveries are very crucial because they will lead to better protection for the river dolphins.

Skull and mandible of the Araguaian river dolphin

It is extremely amazing to know what unexpected surprises are found in continents like South America, which house some of the richest diversities of wildlife in the world. These ecosystems contain such an abundance of different species, that some had been recently discovered and others are still hidden. The Araguaian river dolphin is one of the most recent discoveries not just in South America, but in the world. While its discovery is a major highlight for researchers and scientists, it is also an indication about how these fragile ecosystems that contain such high abundance of wildlife are being tremendously affected by human encroachment. The Yangtze river dolphin has been declared as "functionally extinct" since 2006, due to the continuous impact of threats ranging from construction of dams to pollution. The Araguaian river dolphin must be fully protected by any means necessary to prevent suffering the same fate as its Chinese counterpart. These magnificent animals play a key role in helping maintain the balance of the rivers' ecosystems. Without them, South America's rivers would undergo severe ecological changes such as overpopulation of prey species.

View article here         

South Africa Employs Retired Racehorses in Battle Against Rhino Poaching

Rangers on horseback patrol South Africa's Kruger National Park.

It has been recently reported that former racehorses are being enlisted in the continuous fight against rhino poachers in South Africa. These animals are being used in riding patrols to track down poachers in the midst of an ongoing war, which has put the nation's rhino population on the brink of a disastrous decline. According to ranger Tim Parker, who oversees an anti-poaching unit on a wildlife reserve west of the famed Kruger National Park, the horses allow his team to traverse through terrain inaccessible by foot or vehicles. The horses were brought to South Africa from Zimbabwe by champion racehorse trainer Lisa Harris more than a year ago to help an organization called the Rhino Revolution in its fight to protect rhinos in the area. Since the establishment of the anti-poaching campaign and the introduction of racehorses to help in the battle against poachers, no rhino had been killed which indicated that the plan of using horses appears to be working. Mr. Parker and his team were initially concerned about how the horses would adapt in a reserve that houses some of the most dangerous species of animals including the Big Five, but indicated that poaching is difficult to stop and combating it is a versatile approach. He further added that the only answer to help cease the poaching of rhinos is by legalizing the horn trade. One key figure who agrees with the idea is Pelham Jones, chairman of the Private Rhino Owners Association (PROA). He stated that if the trade in rhino horns is legalized, the government would use the profits to help in rhino protection and preservation. However, not many people agree with this idea. For example, Mary Rice of the Environmental Investigation Agency stated that legalizing would not put an end to poaching and illegal wildlife trade, drawing on the risks of the ivory trade. She argued that increasing the availability of a product such as a rhino horn in a market triggers and bolsters the demand so that markets expand. She further added that both legal and illegal traders regularly take advantage of the system and that there is more illegal ivory than legal ivory on the market place in China.

Authorities help a white rhinoceros attacked by poachers.

It is absolutely amazing to see what new methods wildlife officials implement in the battle to protect endangered species, such as rhinos. The use of horses would most certainly help anti-poaching units to track down poachers through terrain that cannot be accessed through by foot or vehicles, and so far it appears that the plan is working. However, the biggest and most crucial steps in this ongoing war against rhino poaching are not just the methods in battling poachers in the field but the implementation of laws to make it difficult to illegally hunt rhinos and distribute their horns overseas. The idea about legalizing the rhino horn trade would allow the government of South Africa to provide income to help in protecting the animal, but others argue that implementing such a plan would result in growing demand of the product and even result in abusing the market system by both legal and illegal traders similar to how the ivory trade has been functioning. In order to put a stop to poaching and illegal trade of rhinos or other endangered species, it is highly important to treat these crimes the same way as other horrendous criminal activities such as drug and weapons trafficking, money laundering, prostitution, etc. Furthermore, the methods used in battling organized crimes should also be applied to crimes against wildlife. This way, the threat of poaching and illegal wildlife trade would probably and hopefully come to a stop.

View article and video here    

Two Lionesses Killed by Goods Train Near Gir Forest

One of the two lionesses killed by a train outside Gir Forest.

It has recently been reported that two lionesses had been hit and killed by a train carrying goods near Gir Forest National Park. The accident took place on the Surendranagar Pipavav port rail line, where a lion cub and a leopard were killed last year on separate incidents. This train which killed the two lionesses was bound for Port Pipavav between Dehra and Pasada villages in Amreli district's Rajula taluka. The site where the accident occurred is around 35 to 40 kilometers from Gir Forest. According to divisional forest officer J.K Makwana, the train's driver could not stop the train once the lionesses dashed in front of it. He further added that the forest department will look for solutions to this problem by consulting with all the people involved. This latest incident has also raised questions about the lions' safety in the state of Gujarat. Villagers who reported the accident blamed growing development in the lion corridor for the accident. One of them was Mangabhai Thapa, who was among the first to reach the site of the accident. In his own words, he stated that he had personally seen lions close to such areas where heavy vehicles are moving in. Another key individual who has noted the continuous development in the area surrounding Gir Forest is Dinesh Goswami of the Prakruti Nature Club. He warned that the area is home to close to sixty lions and the development has led to establishment of mines and ports, which will eventually result in human-lion conflict. He further added that the area is not patrolled by forest officials compared to Gir Forest, and as long as no solid methods are taken, such tragic incidents will continue to happen. Mr. Goswami also indicated that lions have moved to coastal areas, which have also undergone rampant development consisting of mining and urged to do something before any potential conflict takes place.

This is accident is an explicit example of the dangers posed by development implemented on wildlife corridors in surrounding areas of national parks where wildlife is known to spread. Gir Forest is an ideal example since its lion population has in recent times dispersed beyond the boundaries, and has been coming into conflicts with people. Majority of these cases result in both people and lions suffering as a result of such conflicts. This recent incident is the reason why wildlife corridors should remain free of human encroachment of any sort by any means necessary. In addition, forest officials are not patrolling such areas indicating that they feel wild animals living within the boundaries of national parks should deserve the most attention regarding protection. However, once these animals begin to disperse beyond the national parks' boundaries, then it seems that forest officials feel they have no responsibility whatsoever about protecting the animals from the dangers they face when coming into conflicts with people. This was exactly seen in the case of lions suffering from the impact of development outside Gir Forest and tigers killing people in some parts of India and being labeled as man-eaters. It is extremely crucial that wildlife officials in India and around the world must be fully aware about wildlife populations dispersing beyond national parks or other protected areas, and should implement actions in an effort to keep them protected. Otherwise, incidents resulting from human-wildlife conflicts will prevail and raise tensions between regular people and those committed to conservation and protecting wildlife.

View article here