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Martinique: a three-week mission to study freshwater turtles
Continue readingFreshwater turtles may seem harmless, but some species are nonetheless invasive and potentially dangerous for local biodiversity. This is the case for two species in the West Indies: the Antillean slider (Trachemys stejnegeri), native to Puerto Rico, and the Yellow-bellied slider turtle (Trachemys scripta), native to the United States. To better understand the demographic parameters and ecological habits of…
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Environmental diplomacy: a training provided to young Caribbean diplomats
Continue readingThe insular Caribbean is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots on the planet, home to a variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic. This biodiversity is exposed to many threats, such as climate change, deforestation, or the anthropization of natural environments. The preservation of this natural heritage is linked to global geopolitical issues. To assert…
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In Cuba, anoles living in suburban habitats differ from those from natural forests
Urbanization is a growing phenomenon, with many consequences on animal species. In Cuba, the lizard Anolis homolechis, endemic to the island, is found in both natural and suburban environments. A comparison between these two habitats, however, shows variations in the lizard populations. Continue reading
Camera-traps to spy on columbid birds
Continue readingPigeons and doves play a crucial role in the dynamics and diversity of many ecosystems, thanks to their ability to disperse seeds. Their decline could therefore affect other species, including both animals and plants. In the insular Caribbean, data on columbid species are still scarce. In a recent study, camera-traps were used to learn more about three avian species.…
A soundscape approach to learn more about a critically endangered Cuban frog
Continue readingThe Cuban archipelago hosts more than 70 species of frogs and toads, the high majority of them being endemic. This biodiversity is at risk, with an estimated 80% of amphibians being threatened in the island. Among them, the Cuban frog Eleutherodactylus bartonsmithi, which is considered as critically endangered, is only found in an extremely restricted distribution range, limited to…
Looking for anole lizards: A mission in Dominica
A new mission has just ended in Dominica. Although conducted for scientific purposes, the mission was also a great human adventure in this island that is referred “The Nature Island of the Caribbean” in reference to its exceptional conservation. Here is the story of a week dedicated to anoles. Continue reading
Blood or saliva: In birds, the DNA sampling method matters
Continue readingIn the study of many species, DNA samples provide valuable data. In birds, DNA is often extracted from blood samples, a method that requires a potentially stressful handling for the animal. DNA extracted from saliva could offer a good compromise under certain conditions, as shown by a comparison of the two methods in the White-crowned pigeon.
MERCI project: On the way to the next field missions in Dominica and Martinique
Continue readingThe MERCI project, which aims to study invasive exotic reptiles in the insular Caribbean to anticipate the risks of invasion and adapt management measures, continues in the various territories concerned. (more…)
The importance of wetlands for waterbirds in Haiti
Continue readingIn the heart of the insular Caribbean, a world major biodiversity hotspot, the territory of Haiti also possesses an abundant fauna, as evidenced by the 270 species of birds that can be observed, including 155 waterbird species. A recent inventory provides valuable information on these birds. (more…)
Students of Caribaea Campus discover the world of ornithology
Continue readingIf education in the study of wildlife relies on a strong theoretical background taught at the University, there is nothing as effective as a trip to the field to discover the techniques used in situ. At the end of February, the students members of Caribaea Campus Gwadloup benefited from a half-day of practical training in ornithology, supervised by three…
Anolis equestris potior © Aslam Castellón Maure