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Colicodendron scabridum, commonly known as “sapote”, is one of the most common woody species in seasonally dry neotropical forests, and an important food for numerous animals. We investigated sapote’s reproductive phenology and evaluated its relationship to temperature and precipitation. To do so, we installed seven 2 m x 300 m transects, each with fifteen focal individual sapote trees, at seven sites from 257 – 353 m at Cerro Venado, Lambayeque, Peru. The duration of flowering and fruiting varied among individuals, sites, and years. On average, 85-97 % of individuals with flowers bore fruit. The average fruiting period was shorter than the average flowering period, which it followed three months later. We used a cross correlation test to evaluate the relationship between flowering, and fruiting, with the monthly average temperature and precipitation. Sapote flowering changed in opposition to monthly average temperature, with a strong inverse correlation between flowering and temperature. In contrast, the frequency of individuals with fruits was positively correlated with temperature. There was no relationship between monthly precipitation with either flowering or fruiting. Our results suggest that temperature may determine when the species reproduces, thus affecting food availability for wildlife. The phenological variations we recorded are relevant to decisions for the conservation of this species.

Conservation translocations have the potential to strengthen populations of threatened and endangered species, but facilitating integration of translocated individuals with resident populations remains a substantial challenge. Developing functional social relationships like cooperative partnerships or establishing clear dominance hierarchies may be critical to integration of released individuals. Developing such relationships has not received much attention in translocation research, especially for long-lived, socially complex animals for which establishment and navigation of social environments is often a lengthy process that requires sustained monitoring to understand. Here, we present a case study of the social associations of African savannah elephant (Loxodonta africana) calves that have been rehabilitated and released into a fenced wildlife sanctuary in northern Kenya with a resident population of elephants. We use focal follows of interactions pre-release and GPS tracking post-release to quantify social associations of calves with each other and with resident elephants at the release site. We demonstrate how this approach supports translocation monitoring by capturing temporal trends in social patterns within and between release cohorts and among released elephants and wild elephants already resident at the site during a transitional soft release period. Our results show that initial post-release social behavior of rehabilitated calves is related to histories of interaction with familiar individuals and cohort membership and that released calves increased their associations with residents over time. This information provides new behavioral insights for guiding elephant release projects, like the strength of relationships within and among release cohorts, the time to integration with the resident population, and the occurrence and increased incidence of societal fission–fusion. Further, this study provides an example of the utility of animal behavior research to achieve and assess progress towards conservation objectives, and to develop monitoring tools for conservation managers.

Supplemental food from anthropogenic sources is a source of conflict with humans for many wildlife species. Food-seeking behaviours by black bears Ursus americanus and brown bears Ursus arctos can lead to property damage, human injury and mortality of the offending bears. Such conflicts are a well-known conservation management issue wherever people live in bear habitats. In contrast, the use of anthropogenic foods by the polar bear Ursus maritimus is less common historically but is a growing conservation and management issue across the Arctic. Here we present six case studies that illustrate how negative food-related interactions between humans and polar bears can become either chronic or ephemeral and unpredictable. Our examination suggests that attractants are an increasing problem, exacerbated by climate change-driven sea-ice losses that cause increased use of terrestrial habitats by bears. Growing human populations and increased human visitation increase the likelihood of human–polar bear conflict. Efforts to reduce food conditioning in polar bears include attractant management, proactive planning and adequate resources for northern communities to reduce conflicts and improve human safety. Permanent removal of unsecured sources of nutrition, to reduce food conditioning, should begin immediately at the local level as this will help to reduce polar bear mortality.

The influence of climate change on wildlife disease dynamics is a burgeoning conservation and human health issue, but few long‐term studies empirically link climate to pathogen prevalence. Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are vulnerable to the negative impacts of sea ice loss as a result of accelerated Arctic warming. While studies have associated changes in polar bear body condition, reproductive output, survival, and abundance to reductions in sea ice, no long‐term studies have documented the impact of climate change on pathogen exposure. We examined 425 serum samples from 381 adult polar bears, collected in western Hudson Bay (WH), Canada, for antibodies to selected pathogens across three time periods: 1986–1989 (n = 157), 1995–1998 (n = 159) and 2015–2017 (n = 109). We ran serological assays for antibodies to seven pathogens: Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Trichinella spp., Francisella tularensis, Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine morbillivirus (CDV) and canine parvovirus (CPV). Seroprevalence of zoonotic parasites (T. gondii, Trichinella spp.) and bacterial pathogens (F. tularensis, B. bronchiseptica) increased significantly between 1986–1989 and 1995–1998, ranging from +6.2% to +20.8%, with T. gondii continuing to increase into 2015–2017 (+25.8% overall). Seroprevalence of viral pathogens (CDV, CPV) and N. caninum did not change with time. Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence was higher following wetter summers, while seroprevalences of Trichinella spp. and B. bronchiseptica were positively correlated with hotter summers. Seroprevalence of antibodies to F. tularensis increased following years polar bears spent more days on land, and polar bears previously captured in human settlements were more likely to be seropositive for Trichinella spp. As the Arctic has warmed due to climate change, zoonotic pathogen exposure in WH polar bears has increased, driven by numerous altered ecosystem pathways., Western Hudson Bay (WH) polar bear serum samples were analysed for antibodies to seven pathogens across three time periods: 1986–1989, 1995–1998 and 2014–2017. Antibodies to zoonotic pathogens increased between the 1980s and all other time periods, and were driven by environmental variables undergoing climate change. The increase in antibodies was greatest between 1986–1989 and 1995–1998, a period during which WH polar bears experienced declines in abundance, body condition and reproductive output.

Scientists are increasingly using volunteer efforts of citizen scientists to classify images captured by motion‐activated trail cameras. The rising popularity of citizen science reflects its potential to engage the public in conservation science and accelerate processing of the large volume of images generated by trail cameras. While image classification accuracy by citizen scientists can vary across species, the influence of other factors on accuracy is poorly understood. Inaccuracy diminishes the value of citizen science derived data and prompts the need for specific best‐practice protocols to decrease error. We compare the accuracy between three programs that use crowdsourced citizen scientists to process images online: Snapshot Serengeti, Wildwatch Kenya, and AmazonCam Tambopata. We hypothesized that habitat type and camera settings would influence accuracy. To evaluate these factors, each photograph was circulated to multiple volunteers. All volunteer classifications were aggregated to a single best answer for each photograph using a plurality algorithm. Subsequently, a subset of these images underwent expert review and were compared to the citizen scientist results. Classification errors were categorized by the nature of the error (e.g., false species or false empty), and reason for the false classification (e.g., misidentification). Our results show that Snapshot Serengeti had the highest accuracy (97.9%), followed by AmazonCam Tambopata (93.5%), then Wildwatch Kenya (83.4%). Error type was influenced by habitat, with false empty images more prevalent in open‐grassy habitat (27%) compared to woodlands (10%). For medium to large animal surveys across all habitat types, our results suggest that to significantly improve accuracy in crowdsourced projects, researchers should use a trail camera set up protocol with a burst of three consecutive photographs, a short field of view, and determine camera sensitivity settings based on in situ testing. Accuracy level comparisons such as this study can improve reliability of future citizen science projects, and subsequently encourage the increased use of such data., We show that the accuracy levels of trail‐camera image classification by citizen scientists are affected by habitat type and trail‐camera set up. By comparing the accuracy results from three camera trap citizen science projects, we found that setting trail cameras to capture 3 images per burst, testing the appropriate camera sensitivity, and a shorter field of view resulting from dense vegetation may significantly improve citizen scientist image classification accuracy when compared to classifications by experts.

Breeding and welfare problems confront many conservation breeding programs. Stereotypies—repetitive, unvarying, functionless behaviours —are common abnormal behaviours that often arise in suboptimal conditions. While the role of stereotypies in welfare assessment is well studied, few investigations address the relationship between stereotypic behaviour and reproduction. We examined the correlation between stereotypic behaviour and reproductive performance in 101 giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). High stereotyping males copulated more and produced more cubs, suggesting that highly sexually motivated males were prone to stereotypy but also had high reproductive competence. Female stereotypies were negatively associated with all reproductive measures closely tied to behavioural competence: high stereotyping females were less likely to copulate, less likely to mother-rear cubs, and—probably a result of poor maternal care—had lower cub survival. However, females that exhibited stereotypies were more likely to produce a cub, suggesting stereotypies are tied to behavioural but not physiological competence. High stereotyping female pandas also displayed strong and consistent bias toward production of female offspring while paternal relationship to sex allocation was the reverse. These results are consistent with stress-mediated sex allocation theory. Our findings raise concern about differential reproductive success among high and low stereotyping pandas, and possible genetic adaptation to captivity.

Although several mammals impregnate their fur with environmental odors, a phenomenon termed scent anointing or rubbing, the functional relevance of this behavior often is unclear. One theory is that scent anointing could be a form of scent matching with environmental odors to signal competitiveness and home range occupation. In this study we presented giant pandas with a range of odors to determine whether scent matching could provide a functional explanation for scent anointing in this species. We found that only a musk-based perfume elicited significantly more scent-anointing and scent-marking behavior than control. Males were also significantly more likely to scent-anoint and scent-mark than females. A preference for anointing, but not scent marking, when presented with peppermint (an insecticide) also was revealed. Our results suggest that giant pandas differentially scent-anoint with foreign odors to signal home range occupation, and possibly to repel ectoparasites. We also highlight how chemical signaling of resource-holding potential is likely to play an important role in determining competitive interactions between adult male giant pandas.

Among mammals, the order Primates is exceptional in having a high taxonomic richness in which the taxa are arboreal, semiterrestrial, or terrestrial. Although habitual terrestriality is pervasive among the apes and African and Asian monkeys (catarrhines), it is largely absent among monkeys of the Americas (platyrrhines), as well as galagos, lemurs, and lorises (strepsirrhines), which are mostly arboreal. Numerous ecological drivers and species-specific factors are suggested to set the conditions for an evolutionary shift from arboreality to terrestriality, and current environmental conditions may provide analogous scenarios to those transitional periods. Therefore, we investigated predominantly arboreal, diurnal primate genera from the Americas and Madagascar that lack fully terrestrial taxa, to determine whether ecological drivers (habitat canopy cover, predation risk, maximum temperature, precipitation, primate species richness, human population density, and distance to roads) or species-specific traits (body mass, group size, and degree of frugivory) associate with increased terrestriality. We collated 150,961 observation hours across 2,227 months from 47 species at 20 sites in Madagascar and 48 sites in the Americas. Multiple factors were associated with ground use in these otherwise arboreal species, including increased temperature, a decrease in canopy cover, a dietary shift away from frugivory, and larger group size. These factors mostly explain intraspecific differences in terrestriality. As humanity modifies habitats and causes climate change, our results suggest that species already inhabiting hot, sparsely canopied sites, and exhibiting more generalized diets, are more likely to shift toward greater ground use.

Pre-synchronization has been evaluated as a method to improve synchrony of ovulatory follicles before fixed-time AI (FTAI). The objective was to compare FTAI results in beef cows from two protocols that utilize pre-synchronization. Blood samples were collected on d-14 (d0=CIDR removal) to determine progesterone concentration at the start of synchronization (P4start: ≥1ng/mL=high, < 1ng/mL=low). In a subset (n=1,032), an additional blood sample was taken between d-21 and -29 to determine cyclicity. Cows (n=1,119), from 21 herds, were grouped by days postpartum and age and randomly assigned to one of two protocols. Cows assigned to the PG 6-day CIDR protocol (PG6d) received prostaglandin F2α (PG) on d-9, CIDR insertion and GnRH on d-6, and CIDR removal and PG on d0. Cows assigned to the 7&7 Synch protocol (7&7) were administered PG and CIDR insertion on d-14, GnRH on d-7, CIDR removal and PG on d0. For both protocols, FTAI occurred coincident with GnRH 66 h after second PG. Pregnancy was determined by transrectal ultrasonography 30-40 d following FTAI. The GLIMMIX procedure of SAS (9.4) was used to detect differences in estrus response and pregnancy success with herd included as a random variable. Estrus response (0 to 66 h) was influenced by treatment (P< 0.01; PG6d=60±5% and 7&7=74±4%), Body Condition Score (P< 0.01), cycling status (P=0.03), P4start (P< 0.01), and a P4start by treatment interaction (P< 0.001; PG6d-highP4=62±6%, PG6d-lowP4=58±6%, 7&7-highP4=84±3%, 7&7-lowP4=60±6%). Pregnancy success was influenced by estrus expression (P< 0.01; estrus=38±4% and no estrus=62±6%), and a treatment by P4start interaction (P=0.04; PG6d-highP4=58±5%, PG6d-lowP4=39±7%, 7&7-highP4=49±5%, 7&7-lowP4=55±8%) but was not influenced by treatment (P=0.45; PG6d=49±4% and 7&7=52±4%). In conclusion, effectiveness of pre-synchronization method depends on a cows’ physiological status at the beginning of the protocol. The 7&7 protocol increased estrus response compared to PG6d, but there was no difference in pregnancy success.

As a solutions-oriented discipline, our attention is often placed on the substance of conservation challenges. Ideally, conservation science is relevant for policy and practice, contributing relevant data to fill key knowledge gaps. Thus, the data value is not only determined by methodological rigor, but also by its usefulness. In this perspective, we contend that trust in the purpose and process of data collection is integral to evidence-based conservation and threatened by parachute science. We describe the substance, process, and relationships involved in the establishment of a community-based reporting network for evaluating conflict responses and interventions to wildlife damage. We demonstrate how reflection on the process of science can provide the foundation for meaningful collaboration. We illustrate how, as a multinational team, supporting local researchers to establish a community-based program, trust and demonstration of a long-term commitment are essential to avoid the pitfalls of parachute science.

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of recombinant bovine somatotropin (bST) administration on uterine hemodynamics and subsequent fetal programming in suckled cows during the first trimester of gestation. Crossbred beef cows (n = 152) were stratified by breed, days postpartum, parity, cyclicity status, and body condition score (BCS) before being assigned to either receive injections of bST every other week (BST; 500-mg/14 d) starting at fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI; d 0) until d 97 or to receive no bST (CTL). Blood samples were collected until d 97 for analysis of plasma concentrations of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Pregnancy was assessed via transrectal ultrasonography on d 41 and 173. A subset of pregnant cows (BST, n = 24; CTL, n = 28) were selected for assessment of uterine arterial blood flow (BF), pulsatility index, and resistance index (RI) of the uterine arteries ipsilateral and contralateral to the conceptus via color Doppler ultrasonography on d 97 and 233 of gestation. No differences (P = 0.99) were detected in body weight (BW) or BCS of dams; however, plasma concentrations of IGF-1 were greater (P < 0.001) in BST-treated cows. Color Doppler ultrasonography parameters differed whereby a treatment × day interaction (P = 0.007) was detected for RI on d 97 (P = 0.048); however, on d 233, RI did not differ (P > 0.10) but ipsilateral BF for BST-treated cows was greater (P = 0.0319) than controls. Mean heart girth diameter, crown-to-rump length, and neonate BW at 7 ± 5 d of calf age did not differ (P > 0.10). Liver tissue samples from each calf were collected for analysis of mRNA expression of target insulin-like growth factor system ligands. There was no difference in gene expression of hepatic IGF-1 between treatments (P = 0.99). A treatment × sex interaction was determined, where BST heifers had increased mRNA expression of IGFR1 compared to BST bulls (P = 0.03). Bi-weekly administration of bST until d 97 of pregnancy increased plasma concentrations of IGF-1, altered uterine hemodynamics in dams, induced sex-specific changes in liver gene expression of the offspring but failed to alter calf morphometries or calf performance until weaning.

Although signal characteristics and sensory systems are predicted to co-evolve according to environmental constraints, this hypothesis has not been tested for acoustic signalling across a wide range of species, or any mammal sensory modality. Here we use phylogenetic comparative techniques to show that mammal vocal characteristics and hearing sensitivity have co-evolved to utilise higher frequencies in forest environments – opposite to the general prediction that lower frequencies should be favoured in acoustically cluttered habitats. We also reveal an evolutionary trade-off between high frequency hearing sensitivity and the production of calls with high frequency acoustic energy that suggests forest mammals further optimise vocal communication according to their high frequency hearing sensitivity. Our results provide clear evidence of adaptive signal and sensory system coevolution. They also emphasize how constraints imposed by the signalling environment can jointly shape vocal signal structure and auditory systems, potentially driving acoustic diversity and reproductive isolation., Sensory drive theory predicts that vocal signalling coevolves with auditory sensitivity, but empirical evidence is limited. Here, Charlton et al. show that vocal characteristics and hearing have coevolved in forest mammals, due to constraints imposed by the local signalling environment.

Small features in ecological systems are often underrepresented in conservation monitoring, management and policy. Tree cavities and other forms of refuge play disproportionately large ecological roles due to their importance for shelter and rearing vulnerable offspring. Giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) cubs are highly altricial, and dependent on dens. In Fengtongzai—a reserve with cavity-containing old growth forest—we measured 19 structural and microhabitat variables in potential tree dens. We also established data loggers in rock cavities in Foping Nature Reserve (which due to logging does not contain old growth) and tree cavities in Fengtongzai to monitor temperature and humidity inside and outside dens to evaluate microclimatic buffering. Fengtongzai pandas selected tree dens that were better concealed, with large interiors and entrances but smaller entrance to interior ratios. Microclimate inside dens differed dramatically from ambient conditions outside: in cold weather dens were warmer, in hot weather dens were cooler, dens were less humid and dens had more stable microclimates. Dens used by maternal pandas were warmer, drier and less variable than tree and rock cavities that were not used. Tree dens showed better capacity to buffer against extremes of temperature and humidity than did cave dens. Our findings have important conservation implications, including the value of den sites and the need for better monitoring and management. Specifically, management practices that preserve large old trees may increase carrying capacity and any experimentation with artificial dens as a conservation intervention should reference our findings on structural and microclimatic characteristics of preferred den sites.

Mitigation of stress is critical in the livestock industry, especially in feedlot cattle where stress yields lesser productivity due to behavioral and physiological changes. In this experiment, dairy steers were allocated to one of two treatment groups that either received a single intravenous bolus of saline, control (CON; n = 4) or saline with melatonin (MEL; n = 4) at a rate of 100 µg/kg of body weight, 30 min (-0.5 h) prior to each lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. For each LPS challenge, all steers were administered LPS from E. coli O111:B4 at 0.5 µg/kg of body weight intravenously 30 min following treatment, labeled as 0 h. Blood samples were collected at -0.5, 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 24 h relative to each LPS challenge for serum cortisol analysis. Steers underwent a two-week washout period following the first LPS challenge, switched treatments, and underwent a second LPS challenge with their new treatment. Data were analyzed using a mixed model ANOVA in SAS 9.4. Main effects included treatment and hour on sickness score (SS; numerical scoring system based on outward signs of illness), rectal temperature (RT), respiration rate (RR), and cortisol concentrations (CORT), with period as a random effect. Statistical significance was set at P ≤ 0.05 and tendencies at 0.06 ≤ P ≤ 0.10. Cattle that received MEL tended to exhibit a lesser SS (P = 0.06) compared with CON cattle (1.94 vs. 2.13 ± 0.087, respectively). Treatment did not influence RT, RR, or CORT. The time effect followed the trend that -0.5 h, 0 h, and 24 h post-LPS challenge were similar, while elevated levels were observed for hours 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 6. No interactions were encountered, indicating further research is needed to determine the best dosage of melatonin in calves to decrease response to stress.

Natal dens are critical for reproduction in bears, yet we know virtually nothing of Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus) denning ecology, nor whether female Andean bears select dens or den sites with specific characteristics. We analyzed data from 2008 to 2013 on characteristics of 8 natal dens (shelter and surroundings within 5 m) and den sites (context at ≥50 m from den) used by 4–5 females, with 21 potential (suitable but unused) natal dens and 30 potential den sites in the equatorial dry forest of Cerro Venado, Lambayeque, Peru. All observed natal dens were preexisting cavities under rocks, 2 m (242.3 ± 32.97 cm) and minimum vertical height within the resting area was

While most animal behavior researchers have mastered the process of knowledge creation, generating knowledge that can readily be applied requires a different set of skills. The process and timeframe of fundamental scientific knowledge production is often not relevant to those who might apply it, such as conservation or wildlife managers. Additionally, the complex challenges that policy makers, managers and practitioners face are often not adequately communicated to and among scientists. This mutual disconnect in discourse, relationships, common terms, and practices is especially apparent when animal behavior researchers seek to have applied impact. We argue that bridging the complex implementation gap in animal behavior requires a formalized vision for change. We turn to change model theory, a tool commonly used in other fields for identifying the links between actions and outcomes necessary for enacting large-scale change. We focus on the subfield of conservation behavior with a change model that outlines specific ways to improve collaboration and coordination between animal behavior science and conservation practice. We present this targeted change model, review each strategy the model outlines, and highlight pressing actions that people from various career stages and backgrounds can take. We encourage researchers to further the alignment of science with management needs by developing the proper communication mechanisms for improved cultural exchange and plan future change model efforts directly targeting managers. Beyond the conservation behavior change model we present, we also discuss the broad applicability of change models to enhance the application of academic research to other fields. Fundamental science researchers are increasingly required to show impact of their work on society; the change model process we describe here can enable further impact.

The sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) is one of the least studied bears. Important aspects of sloth bear biology and ecology, such as reproductive physiology and behavior, are largely unknown. Increased scent-marking by anogenital rubbing during breeding season has been recorded in other bear species. We studied the genital rubbing behavior of 37 captive female sloth bears (2–18 yr of age) at the Agra Bear Rescue Facility, India, for 4 breeding seasons over a period of 3.5 years (1 Jun 2015 to 31 Dec 2018). Data on changes in vulva visibility and presence of genital rubbing behavior were collected daily during the breeding period and twice per week for rest of the year, throughout the study period. Vulva visibility was scored as 0 (not visible), 1 (slightly visible), and 2 (fully visible), and a female was considered to be in estrus if the vulva was slightly or fully visible. Presence of genital rubbing was recorded as 1 and its absence as 0. Occurrence of genital rubbing coincided with estrus, as defined by vulva visibility scores. Statistical analysis indicated that female age and the number of males with physical proximity (i.e., in the same enclosure) were significantly correlated with the occurrence of genital rubbing behavior. The number of females in physical proximity and the number of females in the vicinity without physical proximity (i.e., not in the same enclosure but sharing a fence) did not significantly affect this behavior. The results of our study suggest that the genital rubbing behavior by female sloth bears in estrus is likely a form of scent-marking, serving a communicative function, and could be influenced by male presence. This behavior may be a key factor in attracting a mate during the breeding season in the wild.

Polar bear maternal behavior and neonatal development are difficult to study because maternal dens are secluded and generally inaccessible. As a result, much of what we know comes from polar bears in zoos. Altricial polar bear cubs (litter size 1–3) have limited sensory capacity, sparse fur, and are completely dependent on the female for nourishment, warmth, and protection. Energy for the female’s metabolic requirements and milk production comes from body fat during the 12-week denning period. Because females fast and lactate while caring for neonatal cubs, they lose ~44% of their body mass during the denning period. Maternal attentiveness to cubs accounts for

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of bovine somatotropin (bST) on fetal and placental development during the first third of gestation in beef heifers. Angus heifers (n = 97) were randomly assigned to either receive a 500-mg injection of bST (BST) biweekly on days 0, 15, 29, 43, and 57 of gestation or not receive bST (CTL) throughout the experiment. Body weight (BW) was assessed on days −9, −3, 0, 15, 22, 29, 43, 50, 57, 64, and 77, while blood samples were collected on days 0, 22, 50, and 64. Pregnancy status was determined via transrectal ultrasonography on days 29 and 64. A subset of pregnant heifers (BST, n = 7; CTL, n = 5) were harvested on day 84, and complete gravid reproductive tracts and liver tissue were collected for analysis. Cytochrome P450 1A (CYP1A), 2C (CYP2C), 3A (CYP3A), and uridine 5′-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) activities were determined. Mean change in BW and average daily gain of heifers between fixed-time artificial insemination (day 0) and day 77 did not differ between treatments (P ≥ 0.05). Mean concentrations of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) were greater (P < 0.001) in BST (347 ± 27.7 ng/mL) compared with CTL (135 ± 32.8 ng/mL) heifers. Mean placental weight, fetal membrane weight, uterine weight, and ovarian and corpus luteum (CL) weights, as well as fetal morphometric data, did not differ (P ≥ 0.05) between treatments. However, BST heifers had greater (P = 0.03) quantities of combined fetal fluid compared with CTL (521.6 ± 22.9 vs. 429.6 ± 27.14 g, respectively). Tendencies were observed for BST heifers to have reproductive tracts with fewer placentomes (P = 0.08) and fetuses with greater umbilical diameters (P = 0.09) compared with CTL. The activity of CYP1A did not differ (P ≥ 0.05) within the maternal and fetal liver, caruncle, cotyledon, or CL tissue samples between treatments. Furthermore, CYP3A activity was only observed in maternal liver samples and was not different between treatments (P ≥ 0.05). Interestingly, CYP2C activity was greater (P = 0.01) in the liver of BST vs. CTL heifers, and UGT activity was greater (P = 0.02) in the CL from BST heifers compared with CTL. In conclusion, the administration of bST during the first third of gestation increased plasma concentrations of IGF-1, which resulted in an increase in fetal fluid, decrease in placentome number, and greater umbilical diameter, but failed to alter fetal development.

One way to extend the grazing season in the southeast United States is to plant cool-season forages into native pastures to provide additional forages for the winter and spring grazing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two different medicated (Monensin) supplementation types, with or without protein, on stocker calves grazing native pasture overseeded with wheat through the months of February to May. Cross-bred steers (n = 36; BW = 291.76 kg ± 29.92) and heifers (n = 29; BW = 288.17 kg ± 25.22), sired primarily by Hereford bulls, were assigned to two treatment groups at two locations blocked by sex and weight. All mineral supplementation was provided ad libitum. The first supplementation consisted of a commercial loose mineral (Advanced Mineral Performance Technology (AMPT); ADM; Quincy, Illinois), and the second was a commercial protein block (MoorMan’s, Mintrate Blonde Block RU; ADM; Quincy, IL) containing 42.0% Crude Protein. Average Daily Gain was compared using PROC MIX with the main effects: treatment, pasture, gender, and their interactions. The starting weights of the treatment groups were not different (P = 0.996). No significant interactions (P < 0.05) were detected and only the main effects will be reported. Steers gained more (P < 0.0001) than heifers (1.25 kg ± 0.025 kg vs. 0.96 kg ± 0.029 kg, respectively). ADG for the mineral was 1.14 kg ± 0.027 kg, compared to 1.06 kg ± 0.028 kg for the protein block (P < 0.05). Differences in ADG was observed between pastures (P < 0.07). At 124 days the final body weight of heifers averaged 119.56 kg and the steers averaged 154.70 kg. These results indicate that the mineral improved ADG over the block supplementation.

The objective of this study was to compare nutritional and management strategies on performance of beef calves at weaning. Forty crossbred beef calves were assigned to receive either nutritional supplementation (Drench) 3 wks prior to weaning and again at weaning or nothing (Cntrl). In addition, calves were assigned 1 of 3 weaning treatments: 1) abrupt weaning with complete separation (Abrupt); 2) 4d fence line weaning with cows allowed to interact with calves through a fence for 4 d before removal (4Fence); and 3) 7 d fence line weaning with cows allowed to interact with calves through a fence for 7 d before removal (7Fence). Calves were blocked by sex and BW. Nutritional supplementation consisted of an oral drench (5cc/100 lbs. BW; Cellarator Turbo Drench; ADM Animal Nutrition; Quincy, IL). Calves were weighed at weaning, 7 d after, and 85 d after weaning. At weaning, average age of calves was 213 ± 19 d and average weight 224 ± 30 kg. Average final weight of calves was 279 ± 33 kg. Weight differences between weaning and 7 d after weaning and weaning and 85 d after weaning were analyzed using Proc Mixed with nutritional supplementation, sex, and weaning duration as fixed variables. Calves receiving Drench gained more (P < 0.05) 1 wk after weaning (7.9 vs. 3.7 kg, respectively). Weight gains 85 d after weaning were not different (P > 0.05) 7 d after weaning. Weight gain in calves assigned to 4Fence and 7Fence treatments were not different (P < 0.05) but gained more (P < 0.05) than Abrupt calves (8.5 vs. 7.6 vs. 1.2 kg, respectively). Weight gains 85 d after weaning were not different (P > 0.05) between weaning treatments. In conclusion, nutritional supplementation and fence-line weaning improved calf performance 1 wk after weaning but not after 3 mo.

Introduction of antioxidants, such as quercetin, into the diets of livestock species have become a new and revolutionary field of study. The objective was to examine effects of dietary supplementation of quercetin in beef heifers. Assessments were evaluated based on uterine artery hemodynamics and maternal hormone concentrations during late-gestation, as well as calf morphometric parameters. Eleven pregnant, Angus x Brahman heifers were randomly assigned to receive one of two dietary treatments: 1) quercetin (250 mg/day; Liftmode.com, Synaptent LLC, Chicago, IL, USA) supplemented group (QR; n = 6) or 2) no quercetin supplemented group (CON; n = 5). Dietary treatments were applied daily from d 190 of gestation until calving in a Calan System (American Calan, Inc., Northwood, NH) with 3.63 kg of a commodity grain and approximately 8.16 kg of hay per head per day. Both groups were subject to ultrasound scanning via rectal ultrasonography of the uterine artery using Color Doppler on d 190, 220, 250, and 270 of gestation. Blood samples were also collected via coccygeal venipuncture for hormone analysis. Data were analyzed using the ANOVA method within the Proc Mixed procedure of SAS 9.4. Total blood flow was greater (P < 0.05) on d 248 and even greater (P < 0.05) on d 270 of gestation as compared to d 190 and 220. Contralateral Pulsatility Index (PI) was greater (P < 0.05) in QR treated heifers as compared to CON. Additionally, QR heifers yielded a greater serum progesterone concentration (P < 0.05) as compared to CON but no differences (P > 0.05) between treatments regarding serum estrogen concentrations. Calf birth weight was not different (P > 0.05), but calves from quercetin supplemented dams resulted in greater wither and hip height (P < 0.05). Future research with antioxidant supplementation could lead to further fetal programming implications.

Climate change is one of the most pervasive threats to biodiversity globally, yet the influence of climate relative to other drivers of species depletion and range contraction remain difficult to disentangle. Here, we examine climatic and non-climatic correlates of giant panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca ) distribution using a large-scale 30 year dataset to evaluate whether a changing climate has already influenced panda distribution. We document several climatic patterns, including increasing temperatures, and alterations to seasonal temperature and precipitation. We found that while climatic factors were the most influential predictors of panda distribution, their importance diminished over time, while landscape variables have become relatively more influential. We conclude that the panda's distribution has been influenced by changing climate, but conservation intervention to manage habitat is working to increasingly offset these negative consequences.

Scientists are increasingly using volunteer efforts of citizen scientists to classify images captured by motion-activated trail-cameras. The rising popularity of citizen science reflects its potential to engage the public in conservation science and accelerate processing of the large volume of images generated by trail-cameras. While image classification accuracy by citizen scientists can vary across species, the influence of other factors on accuracy are poorly understood. Inaccuracy diminishes the value of citizen science derived data and prompts the need for specific best practice protocols to decrease error. We compare the accuracy between three programs that use crowdsourced citizen scientists to process images online: Snapshot Serengeti, Wildwatch Kenya, and AmazonCam Tambopata. We hypothesized that habitat type and camera settings would influence accuracy. To evaluate these factors, each photo was circulated to multiple volunteers. All volunteer classifications were aggregated to a single best answer for each photo using a plurality algorithm. Subsequently, a subset of these images underwent expert review and were compared to the citizen scientist results. Classification errors were categorized by the nature of the error (e.g. false species or false empty), and reason for the false classification (e.g. misidentification). Our results show that Snapshot Serengeti had the highest accuracy (97.9%), followed by AmazonCam Tambopata (93.5%), then Wildwatch Kenya (83.4%). Error type was influenced by habitat, with false empty images more prevalent in open-grassy habitat (27%) compared to woodlands (10%). For medium to large animal surveys across all habitat types, our results suggest that to significantly improve accuracy in crowdsourced projects, researchers should use a trail-camera set up protocol with a burst of three consecutive photos, a short field of view, and consider appropriate camera sensitivity. Accuracy level comparisons such as this study can improve reliability of future citizen science projects, and subsequently encourage the increased use of such data.

A demanding lifestyle Polar bears appear to be well adapted to the extreme conditions of their Arctic habitat. Pagano et al. , however, show that the energy balance in this harsh environment is narrower than we might expect (see the Perspective by Whiteman). They monitored the behavior and metabolic rates of nine free-ranging polar bears over 2 years. They found that high energy demands required consumption of high-fat prey, such as seals, which are easy to come by on sea ice but nearly unavailable in ice-free conditions. Thus, as sea ice becomes increasingly short-lived annually, polar bears are likely to experience increasingly stressful conditions and higher mortality rates. Science , this issue p. 568 ; see also p. 514

Grain boundaries in ZrO2 may act as favourable pathways for species, such as oxygen and hydrogen, which play an important role in corrosion when compared with volume diffusion through the bulk of the crystalline material. It is known that segregation of impurity and alloying elements can lead to highly-doped grain boundaries with amorphous structure. Here, these amorphous structures are compared to crystalline materials of equivalent composition. Atomic scale modelling methods have been used to analyse diffusion in undoped systems and zirconia cells doped with 5.3 at.% and 11.0 at.% of trivalent lanthanide species. Diffusion coefficients, pre-exponential factors and activation energies are reported. Oxygen diffusivity was markedly increased in amorphous doped and undoped ZrO2 systems compared to equivalent undoped crystalline systems. Similar diffusivities are reported between amorphous and crystalline doped systems at the concentrations considered.

EDITORIAL

Conservation breeding programs require active management and thus selection among various management alternatives is a common practice. As in the practice of adaptive management used in ecology, it is important to reduce uncertainty about the outcomes of various management actions. Ideally this evaluation will be done using a priori hypothesis testing, but retrospective analyses can provide important insights as to which methods work better than others. The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) conservation breeding program has a long history of active management and therefore is rich in potential lessons learned for panda and other endangered species breeding programs. Now self-sustaining and experiencing exponential growth, the panda population also provides sample sizes large enough to support rigorous statistical evaluation. A fundamental decision for any breeding program is whether to invest in development and application of assisted reproduction techniques or to promote natural mating. Here we analyze 21 years (1996–2016) of giant panda reproductive data from 304 insemination events to determine relative success rates of insemination methods and evaluate management strategies. The birth rate after natural mating was 60.7%, 50.6% for combined natural mating and artificial insemination techniques, and 18.5% for artificial insemination (AI). Within the combined insemination technique group, 81.8% of births could be attributed to the natural mating event with only 18.2% attributed to AI. These results suggest that while techniques for improving AI should continue to be explored and will play an important role for some conservation applications, behavioral and biological management to encourage natural mating should be the most important goal for conservation breeding of this species.

Tri-axial accelerometers have been used to remotely identify the behaviors of a wide range of taxa. Assigning behaviors to accelerometer data often involves the use of captive animals or surrogate species, as their accelerometer signatures are generally assumed to be similar to those of their wild counterparts. However, this has rarely been tested. Validated accelerometer data are needed for polar bears Ursus maritimus to understand how habitat conditions may influence behavior and energy demands. We used accelerometer and water conductivity data to remotely distinguish 10 polar bear behaviors. We calibrated accelerometer and conductivity data collected from collars with behaviors observed from video-recorded captive polar bears and brown bears U. arctos, and with video from camera collars deployed on free-ranging polar bears on sea ice and on land. We used random forest models to predict behaviors and found strong ability to discriminate the most common wild polar bear behaviors using a combination of accelerometer and conductivity sensor data from captive or wild polar bears. In contrast, models using data from captive brown bears failed to reliably distinguish most active behaviors in wild polar bears. Our ability to discriminate behavior was greatest when species- and habitat-specific data from wild individuals were used to train models. Data from captive individuals may be suitable for calibrating accelerometers, but may provide reduced ability to discriminate some behaviors. The accelerometer calibrations developed here provide a method to quantify polar bear behaviors to evaluate the impacts of declines in Arctic sea ice.

The dramatic growth of the captive giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) population exemplifies how the application of scientific findings to animal care and reproductive management can improve conservation breeding outcomes. Detailed behavioral studies of giant panda estrus, pregnancy and cub rearing have demonstrated the importance of husbandry management that supports natural reproductive behavior to enhance breeding success. Natural breeding has been valuably augmented by the development of assisted reproductive techniques founded through detailed studies of the reproductive physiology of the giant panda and outlining fundamental information about reproductive seasonality, male fertility and characterization of the estrous cycle. The resultant holistic understanding of giant panda reproduction has improved reproductive success in the captive population to such an extent that it is now self-sustaining and provides surplus animals for reintroduction. Despite these significant advances, there are knowledge gaps and remaining challenges to be addressed. Pregnancy detection remains the single biggest challenge when determining if natural mating or assisted breeding have been successful. Because pregnancy can only be determined in the few weeks prior to parturition, there are gaps in understanding and detecting delayed implantation and early embryonic loss. Additionally, dynamic management practices and standard of care for reproductive assistance needs to be developed. Only large breeding centers in China have the ability to promote normal reproductive behaviors and allow mate choice for the giant panda. These challenges need to be addressed in the near future in order to maintain a self-sustaining, genetically diverse and behaviorally competent captive population. This chapter documents the development of successful giant panda managed breeding programs by focusing on three key areas, (1) the development of science-driven reproductive techniques to improve fecundity in a species where the mating system was poorly understood, (2) how targeted research and adaptive management of social settings surrounding estrus and breeding improved reproductive success, and (3) insights and solutions to challenges faced across the program's history with future directions for research.