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Demonstration of the Sequence Alignment to Predict Across Species Susceptibility Tool for Rapid Assessment of Protein Conservation
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Conservation of migratory species
Joshua J Horns1, Çağan H Şekercioğlu2
1University of Utah, Department of Biology. 257 South 1400 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
Current Biology : CB
|September 12, 2018
Summary
The passenger pigeon, once North America's most abundant bird, experienced a dramatic population collapse due to overhunting. This highlights the vulnerability of migratory species and the importance of their seasonal movements.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Ornithology
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- The passenger pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius) was once the most abundant bird in North America.
- Estimates suggest their population exceeded the total number of all bird species today.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the passenger pigeon as an example of a natural phenomenon: annual migration.
- To underscore the vulnerability of migratory species.
Main Methods:
- Historical accounts and population estimates were reviewed.
- Ecological significance of migratory species was analyzed.
Main Results:
- Passenger pigeon populations were decimated by the early 20th century due to intense hunting.
- The last known passenger pigeon died in 1914.
Conclusions:
- The passenger pigeon's extinction serves as a critical case study on the fragility of migratory populations.
- Seasonal migration is vital for numerous species and ecosystem health.
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