Ecologists study species using a variety of methods, depending on the specific questions they are trying to answer or animal group they are working on. Why field methods matter Careful monitoring pays off. A 2025 analysis found insects declining even in pristine ecosystems, a trend only visible because researchers kept collecting standardized field data year […]
Ecologists use about eight tools on most field days: a quadrat frame for plant cover, binoculars for birds and mammals, a GPS unit to fix every record in space, a camera trap for shy and night active animals, a mist net or live trap for capture work, a sweep net or pitfall trap for insects,
How to study animals in the wild? Studying animals in the wild can be a fascinating and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. Here are some steps you can take to study animals in their natural habitat: Why field methods matter Careful monitoring pays off. A 2025 analysis found insects declining even
Leopards are large, carnivorous cats that belong to the genus Panthera. They are native to sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, including India and China. Leopards are well known for their distinctive spotted fur coat, which helps them to blend into their surroundings and hunt more effectively. Conservation update Leopards are the great survivors among
Snakes are fascinating creatures, but they can also be dangerous. If you spend time in areas where snakes are common, it’s important to know how to deal with a snake bite. Snake bites can be painful and potentially life-threatening, but with the right knowledge and quick action, you can minimize the harm caused by the
Female koalas can give birth to one joey per year, but usually only breed every two years. The mating season for koalas varies depending on the location, but it typically occurs in the late spring to early summer. Conservation update Australia listed east coast koalas as Endangered after steep population declines from land clearing, disease
Moose, also known as elk in Europe, are large members of the deer family. Here’s some information about them: Research update Warming winters are hitting moose hard. In one closely studied part of Maine, winter ticks killed nearly 90 percent of tracked moose calves in a single season, a problem scientists tie directly to shorter,
Wolves are highly social animals that live in groups called packs. The social structure of a wolf pack is based on a hierarchical system, with each wolf having a specific rank and role within the group. Part of my complete guide to wolves, which covers wolf species, pack structure, communication and current populations, with sources.
Grey wolves can be dangerous to humans, especially when they feel threatened or cornered. However, it should be noted that wolves generally avoid human interactions and attacks on humans are relatively rare. In general, wolves are more afraid of humans than vice versa. Part of my complete guide to wolves, which covers wolf species, pack
Red wolves are fascinating creatures that have attracted the attention of wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike. Native to the southeastern United States, these elusive animals have a reputation for being agile hunters and powerful predators. When it comes to red wolves, the question often arises as to whether or not they can swim. Part of