Urban-adapted mammal species have more known pathogens Gregory F. Albery, Colin J. Carlson, Lily E. Cohen, Evan A. Eskew, Rory Gibb, Sadie J. Ryan, Amy R. Sweeny & Daniel J. Becker Abstract The world is rapidly urbanizing, inviting mounting concern that urban environments will experience increased zoonotic disease risk. Urban animals could have more frequent... Continue Reading →
New Lit Alert: Does melanin-based plumage coloration reflect health status of free-living birds in urban environments?
Does melanin-based plumage coloration reflect health status of free-living birds in urban environments? Hani Amir Aouissi, Mostefa Ababsa, Aissam Gaagai, Zihad Bouslama, Yassine Farhi, and Haroun Chenchouni Abstract Background: Ecological functions and processes in urban ecosystems are governed by various human activities. City-adapted and city-exploiting animal species are expected to present certain specific behavioral and physiological... Continue Reading →
Invaded Invasives: Do urban lizards have more parasites and how might this influence their ecology?
Anole invasion One of my favorite things about Florida, besides the warm weather, is that it's home to several anole lizards that have invaded from nearby. Some lizards invaders come from Cuba, like the brown anole (Anolis sagrei). Others, like the crested anole (Anolis cristatellus) come from Puerto Rico (like me!). This makes Florida a fascinating... Continue Reading →