Individuals matter: predicting koala road crossing behaviour in south-east Queensland

2018 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
pp. 67 ◽  
Author(s):  
C. E. Dexter ◽  
R. G. Appleby ◽  
J. Scott ◽  
J. P. Edgar ◽  
D. N. Jones
Keyword(s):  
Mitigation Strategies ◽  
Urban Landscapes ◽  
Phascolarctos Cinereus ◽  
The Road ◽  
Crossing Structures ◽  
Dramatic Decline ◽  
Road Mitigation ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Road Crossing

The ability to predict the frequency with which koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) cross roads is an important step in developing mitigation strategies aimed at maintaining metapopulation viability for this species. In south-east Queensland, Australia, rapid urban development, including fragmentation and vehicle-related mortality, has contributed to a dramatic decline in local koala populations. Assessment of wildlife crossing structures that mitigates the impact of roads demonstrates these to be beneficial for many species. However, building enough structures to enable animals to move freely across impacted landscapes may be prohibitive in complex urban landscapes. The focus for this study was to consider the role of differing characteristics for species at risk. We examined the frequency of road crossings by individual koalas among six subpopulations in south-east Queensland. We explored the influence of potential predictor variables including: age, sex, and distance from roads. We established that road crossings were limited to a subset of individuals, with only 18 of 51 (~35%) koalas studied ever crossing a road. We found that koalas were disproportionately more likely to cross a road if they had initially been found within a distance of 100 m of that road. Males were more likely to cross roads than females, as were koalas aged less than five years. We suggest that successful wildlife road mitigation can be improved by better understanding the road-crossing behaviour of species such as the koala.

scholarly journals Roads and macropods: interactions and implications

2014 ◽  
Vol 36 (1) ◽  
pp. 1 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amy R. F. Bond ◽  
Darryl N. Jones
Keyword(s):  
Scientific Journal ◽  
Mitigation Measures ◽  
Population Declines ◽  
Journal Articles ◽  
Spatial And Temporal Patterns ◽  
The Road ◽  
Crossing Structures ◽  
Effective Option ◽  
Road Mitigation ◽  
Road Crossing

Understanding the impacts of roads on wildlife and the natural environment is of increasing importance. Macropods (mostly kangaroos and wallabies) are a diverse and widespread taxon in Australia that has been significantly affected by the presence of roads in various ways. We reviewed the available literature on macropods and roads, assessing 60 scientific journal articles, reports and theses. Studies on road mortalities were the most prevalent (n = 29, with 12 on macropods only), revealing both spatial and temporal patterns in occurrence. Behavioural studies in relation to the road environment are limited (n = 2) yet could help our understanding of patterns of road-kill and other impacts. Some macropod populations are critically affected by the presence of roads (e.g. brush-tailed rock-wallaby, Petrogale penicillata) due to either proportionately high road mortalities and/or population fragmentation, and may face continued decline unless effective road-mitigation measures are implemented. Investigations of various types of road mitigation focussed on wildlife-exclusion fencing and road crossing structures as the most effective option, although the high cost of these measures appears to limit their implementation. Further research into several areas was identified, particularly on species where severe road impacts are likely to result in population declines.

Why didn't the lizard cross the road? Dunes sagebrush lizards exhibit road-avoidance behaviour

2017 ◽  
Vol 44 (3) ◽  
pp. 194 ◽  
Author(s):  
Toby J. Hibbitts ◽  
Lee A. Fitzgerald ◽  
Danielle K. Walkup ◽  
Wade A. Ryberg
Keyword(s):  
Avoidance Behaviour ◽  
Circular Statistics ◽  
Demographic Stochasticity ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Isolated Populations ◽  
The Road ◽  
Road Effects ◽  
Animal Populations ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Road Crossing

Context Research has shown many negative effects of roads and traffic on wildlife and other biodiversity. The direct and indirect mechanisms through which roads and traffic harm animal populations vary across taxa, making mitigation of road effects a great challenge for conservation. As such, a large toolkit of species-specific management techniques may be needed to mitigate the negative effects of roads for wildlife and other biodiversity. The dunes sagebrush lizard, Sceloporus arenicolus, is a psammophilic (sand-loving) habitat specialist endemic to the Mescalero–Monahans Sandhills ecosystem of New Mexico and Texas. Within this ecosystem, roads fragment shinnery oak sand-dune landforms occupied by the species. Aims In the present study, we conducted behaviour trials in experimental enclosures to test whether the smallest roads restrict movements of the dunes sagebrush lizard. In addition, we also conducted trials to evaluate whether a sand-filled wildlife-crossing feature could facilitate road crossing. Methods We conducted behavioural trials on 24 dunes sagebrush lizards in our control enclosure and 22 lizards in our road and sand-filled wildlife-crossing enclosure. Movements were recorded for 15min. The final locations at the end of each trial were analysed using circular statistics to determine whether movements in the road or the sand-filled wildlife-crossing enclosures were different from the control. Key results Our results supported the hypotheses that dunes sagebrush lizards avoid roads and do so according to a surface-avoidance mechanism. We also found that the wildlife crossing-feature design tested here had no effect on the movements or road-crossing frequency of dunes sagebrush lizard. Conclusions Surface-avoidance behaviour indicated that roads will persistently affect the movements of dunes sagebrush lizard, even when traffic is not present. Also, more research into an effective wildlife crossing is needed to increase connectivity of fragmented populations. Implications These findings help evaluate the impact of roads in creating isolated populations that experience increased demographic stochasticity and, in some instances, localised extirpation in this species. Our study can guide conservation plans for the dunes sagebrush lizard, and contribute to our understanding of road effects on biodiversity in general.

scholarly journals Non-Native Herbivores Promote Plant Invasions Away From Mountain Roads in the Andes

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Valeria Aschero ◽  
Agustina Barros ◽  
Lorena Bonjour ◽  
Ana Mazzolari ◽  
Martín Pérez Sosa ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Protected Areas ◽  
Native Species ◽  
Plant Invasions ◽  
Natural Vegetation ◽  
Livestock Grazing ◽  
Native Plant ◽  
The Road ◽  
The Andes ◽  
The Impact

Abstract While the role of environmental filters, usually described by elevation as proxy, and anthropogenic disturbance as drivers of non-native plant diversity and abundance in mountains have been extensively studied, the impact of herbivores are less explored. Livestock grazing can facilitate the introduction of non-native species by seed dispersal and reduce biotic resistance due to consumption and trampling of native plants, even in the highest protected areas in the Andes. We here explored the effects of elevation, livestock and distance to the road on non-native and native plant distributions. Our results confirm the largely negative relationship of non-native plant richness and cover with elevation, with a peak in richness and cover at low to intermediate elevations. Similarly, we show a strong decline in non-native richness with increasing distance to the road, especially at low elevations, accompanied by a strong negative effect of roads on native species richness. Most importantly, however, we show that the presence of non-native herbivores greatly increases the cover of non-native species away from the roadside, identifying herbivore disturbance as a potential catalyst of non-native plant invasion into natural vegetation of high-Andean protected areas. Our results confirm the often-shown role of disturbance as driver of plant invasions in mountains, yet highlight the interactive effects of disturbance by roads and herbivory: roads funnel non-native species towards higher elevations, while non-native herbivores can promote non-native plant success away from the roadside and into the natural vegetation. Hence, regulating soil and non-native herbivory disturbance is important for minimizing plant invasions at high elevation in the Arid Andes.

scholarly journals Will pedestrians cross the road before an Automated Vehicle? The Effect of Drivers' Attentiveness and Presence on Pedestrians' Road Crossing Behavior

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Juan Pablo Nunez Velasco ◽  
Yee Mun Lee ◽  
Jim Uttley ◽  
Albert Solernou ◽  
Haneen Farah ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Perceived Risk ◽  
Behavioral Control ◽  
Safety Margin ◽  
Decision Time ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Perceived Behavioral Control ◽  
The Road ◽  
Head Mounted Display ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Road Crossing

The impact of automated vehicles (AV) on pedestrians’ crossing behavior has been the topic of some recent studies, but findings are still scarce and inconclusive. The aim of this study is to determine whether the drivers’ presence and apparent attentiveness in a vehicle influences pedestrians’ crossing behavior, perceived behavioral control, and perceived risk, in a controlled environment, using a Head-mounted Display in an immersive Virtual Reality study. Twenty participants took part in a road-crossing experiment. The VR environment consisted of a single lane one-way road with car traffic approaching from the right-hand side of the participant which travelled at 30 kmph. Participants were asked to cross the road if they felt safe to do so. The effect of three driver conditions on pedestrians’ crossing behavior were studied: Attentive driver, distracted driver, and no driver present. Two vehicles were employed with a fixed time gap (3.5 s and 5.5s) between them to study the effects of time gaps on pedestrians’ crossing behavior. The manipulated vehicle yielded to the pedestrians in half of the trials, stopping completely before reaching the pedestrian’s position. The crossing decision, time to initiate the crossing, crossing duration, and safety margin were measured. The main findings show that the vehicle’s motion cues (i.e. the gap between the vehicles, and the yielding behavior of the vehicle) were the most important factors affecting pedestrians’ crossing behavior. Therefore, future research should focus more on investigating how AVs should behave while interacting with pedestrians. Distracted driver condition leads to shorter crossing initiation time but the effect was small. No driver condition leads to smaller safety margin. Findings also showed that perceived behavioral control was higher and perceived risk was significantly lower when the driver appeared attentive. Given that drivers will be allowed to do other tasks while AVs are operating in the future, whether explicit communication will be needed in this situation should be further investigated.

scholarly journals The Mechanism of a Traffic Accident Involving an Unmanned Vehicle: Statement of the Problem

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (6) ◽  
pp. 160-168
Author(s):  
A. I. Chuchaev ◽  
S. V. Malikov
Keyword(s):  
Information System ◽  
Traffic Accident ◽  
Information Support ◽  
Security Threat ◽  
Unmanned Vehicle ◽  
The Road ◽  
Special Software ◽  
Vehicle Information ◽  
The Impact

The paper attempts to make a model mechanism of a traffic accident involving an unmanned vehicle to solve a number of criminological, criminal-legal and criminalistic problems using the characteristics of the traffic crime mechanism available in theory. Its elements (vehicle, information system and situation) are highlighted, the contents are disclosed, the role of each of them in the etiology of a transport accident is shown. It is noted that the personal factor is not included in the mechanism of a traffic accident; this must be taken into account when criminalizing the corresponding act, which consists not in violating traffic rules, but in low-quality special software. It is stated that in the mechanism of a transport accident, the information system is of fundamental importance, combining the role of both the driver and the information system itself, which is necessary to ensure the safe functioning of a mechanical vehicle. Because of this, it is not necessary to study the reliability of the information system, but the impact of information support on the safety of a highly automated vehicle. Of particular importance is the problem of the so-called uncertainty characterizing the state of the information system. The authors determine the ways of further research of the mechanism under consideration based on the so-called security threat map for the operation of an unmanned vehicle in the context of possibility of interference in their work from the outside (In the software system, by affecting the road infrastructure, etc.).

scholarly journals Perception of Implicit Biases within Internal Medicine Residency Recruitment

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Janae Kathleen Heath ◽  
Todd D. Barton ◽  
Marisa A. Rogers ◽  
C. Jessica Dine
Keyword(s):  
Internal Medicine ◽  
Implicit Association Test ◽  
Mitigation Strategies ◽  
Free Text ◽  
Interview Process ◽  
Implicit Biases ◽  
Residency Recruitment ◽  
The Impact ◽  
One Way Anova

Abstract Background: Few studies have addressed biases within residency admissions. Understanding the perceptions of implicit biases (IB) within residency admissions is essential to identify targets for potential interventions. Our objectives were to assess the interviewers’ perception of IB within the internal medicine (IM) residency interview process and the impact of former Implicit Association Test (IAT) completion and/or IB training on these perceptions. Methods: We surveyed all interviewers within an IM Residency program following the 2017-2018 interview cycle, assessing the perception of global and individual IB on evaluation of candidates, the perceived role of IAT completion and IB training, and mitigation strategies employed. Responses were assessed in four-subgroups based on exposure to IAT or IB training, analyzed with one-way ANOVA testing. Thematic analysis was performed of the free-text comments. Results: Of 113 interviewers, 68 (60%) completed the survey. The majority (79%, n=54) agreed or strongly agreed that biases exist within interviews, while 59% (n=40) agreed or strongly agreed that their own biases impact interview evaluations. The belief of one’s own biases impacting evaluation differed significantly between subgroups (52% in those without any IAT/training, compared to 69% with both, p .05). Additionally, 90% (n=26) of those that had completed both IAT or IB training described using strategies to mitigate bias in the interview process, compared to 52% (n=11) that had not completed either (p < 0.001). Qualitative analysis revealed differing mitigation strategies between subgroups. Conclusions: Self-reported bias in the residency interview process exists. IB training and IAT were associated with self-reported implementation of mitigation strategies.

scholarly journals Blue-Green infrastructure determines the microclimate mitigation potential targeted for urban cooling

2021 ◽  
Vol 918 (1) ◽  
pp. 012010
Author(s):  
R Sanusi ◽  
M Jalil
Keyword(s):  
Air Temperature ◽  
Green Infrastructure ◽  
Open Space ◽  
Canopy Cover ◽  
Tree Canopy ◽  
Urban Landscapes ◽  
Community Benefits ◽  
Tree Canopy Cover ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Urban Heat Island (UHI) exacerbated by global warming can increase the thermal load in cities, which leads to more extreme climate events. One of the strategies to mitigate the impact of extreme climates and UHI is through nature-based solutions such as the Blue-Green Infrastructure as it provides environmental and community benefits However, Blue-Green Infrastructure’s role in urban cooling in the tropics still needs to be further investigated. Therefore, this study examined the role of Blue-Green Infrastructure on microclimate modifications in an urban park. Microclimate measurements were made using systematic random sampling with random start (total of 64 sampling points) at a waterbody (Blue Infrastructure) and tree and grass (Green Infrastructure) areas during solar noon time (1200-1400). Blue-Green Infrastructure showed greater microclimate benefits compared to the open space with the reduction of air temperature by up 1.6°C. However, green infrastructure had greater cooling benefits compared to Blue Infrastructure especially trees with significantly lower air temperature and solar radiation interception (0.71°C and 250.3 W/m2, respectively) as well as higher relative humidity (12.17%). Moreover, stand characteristics determine the microclimate mitigation function. This study provides a useful indication of the role of blue and green spaces in urban cooling, where it further emphasizes the importance of Blue-Green Infrastructure utilization in urban landscapes. It further recommends that urban planners, managers and policymakers should consider these strategies for urban cooling purposes : 1) Utilising Blue and Green Infrastructures especially trees 2) Tree canopy cover and DBH should be set as priority traits.

scholarly journals Wildlife Crossings at Felda Aring - Tasik Kenyir Road, Malaysia

2021 ◽  
Vol 44 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nabilah Zainol ◽  
Taherah Mohd. Taher ◽  
Siti Nurfaeiza Abd. Razak ◽  
Nur Afiqah Izzati Noh ◽  
Nurul Adyla Muhammad Nazir ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mammalian Species ◽  
Capture Rate ◽  
Common Species ◽  
Mammal Species ◽  
Large Mammal ◽  
The Road ◽  
Crossing Structures ◽  
Prionailurus Bengalensis ◽  
On The Road ◽  
Road Crossing

The Felda Aring - Tasik Kenyir Road was identified as one of the most threatening roads to wildlife in Malaysia. The present study was conducted to assess the road crossing activities involving the medium- to large-mammal species due to the problem stated. The objectives of this study were to (1) predict the suitability of the road and its surroundings as the roaming areas for the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus, n = 104) and Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus, n = 66), (2) identify the mammalian species inhabiting the forest beside the road, (3) compare the forest’s common species [photographic capture rate index (PCRI) > 10/ detection probability (P) ≥ 0.05] with the ones utilising the road crossing structures; the viaducts and the bridges, and (4) determine the most impacted species from traffic collisions. The road and its surroundings were classified as moderately suitable to the elephant and tapir (suitability values = 0.4 - 0.8). A total of 16 mammal species were recorded at the forest edges, in which the wild pig (Sus scrofa) (PCRI = 118.96, P = 0.3719 ± 0.027), barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) (PCRI = 68.89, P = 0.2219 ± 0.0232), sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) (PCRI = 11.13, P = 0.0507 ± 0.0159), tapir (PCRI = 11.13, P = 0.0469 ± 0.0118), elephant (PCRI = 10.7, P = 0.0787 ± 0.0195) and Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) (PCRI = 10.7, P = 0.103 ± 0.0252) were the common species utilising the crossing structures. In contrast, the Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) and leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) were the most frequently hit species on the road [F(7,398) = 28.53, p < 0.0005]. The present study found that large-mammal species were utilising the crossing structures at a higher frequency, whereas more medium-mammal species were involved in traffic collisions.

Targeted field testing of wildlife road-crossing structures: koalas and canopy rope-bridges

2017 ◽  
Vol 39 (1) ◽  
pp. 100 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ross L. Goldingay ◽  
Brendan D. Taylor
Keyword(s):  
Field Testing ◽  
Phascolarctos Cinereus ◽  
Monitoring Period ◽  
Crossing Structures ◽  
Frequency Of Use ◽  
Arboreal Mammal ◽  
Infrared Cameras ◽  
Road Crossing

The suitability of structures installed to enable safe passage of wildlife across a road is most frequently determined by monitoring of structures after new roads are built. Rarely are new structures field tested before installation. We installed canopy rope-bridges in an area frequented by koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) with the explicit aim of determining whether koalas might use such structures. Rope-bridges were of four different designs to maximise the likelihood that one might be used, as a precursor to further replication. Infrared cameras were installed on the rope-bridges as well as on two nearby reference trees to compare frequency of use. Over a monitoring period of 2.9 years no koalas were detected on the rope-bridges whereas koalas were recorded on the reference trees on 34 and 41 different 24-h periods. Rope-bridges may not be suited to an arboreal mammal that is inclined to travel along the ground to move between trees.

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