Lazar et al. identified a brand-new Punaré, a rodent species. Through an integrative
approach—combining genetics, chromosomes, and morphology —they
demonstrated that this population is distinct from all previously
known.

3/3 influencing vegetation and providing food for predators. Despite its ecological importance, the European water vole is considered vulnerable in some areas due to habitat loss and predation by invasive species.

2/3 Recognizable by its robust, rounded body, short legs, and semi-aquatic lifestyle, the water vole is an excellent swimmer and builder of elaborate burrow systems along riverbanks. It primarily feeds on aquatic plants, grasses, and roots, and plays a significant role in its habitat by

5/5 The study also found that the impact of ALAN on crossing behavior disappeared after the removal of the light source, indicating potential resilience in these species.

4/5 but had no significant effect on martens. Additionally, European badgers reduced their crossing speed under artificial light during all seasons.

3/5 Camera traps recorded the movements of species such as European badger, red fox, and martens over a three-year period. Key findings revealed that ALAN significantly decreased the probability of underpass crossings for European badgers in autumn and spring, and for red foxes in spring,

2/5 The study investigated the effects of artificial light at night (ALAN) on the movement behavior of medium-sized wild mammals using five underpasses in the 'Causses du Quercy' regional natural park, France.

They roost in tree cavities and are known for their strong site fidelity. The species is considered near threatened due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
All photos from iNaturalist
© ltfarquet
© bergsepp

2/2 It was brought to the Mediterranean region as a semi-domestic animal about 1,000 to 1,500 years ago. It spread from the Iberian Peninsula to the Balearic Islands and southern France.

4/4 The study underscores the need to understand temporal dynamics in scavenger behavior and competition, particularly as apex predators recolonize areas near urban environments.

3/4 They found that wild boars progressively became the primary scavengers, significantly increasing their carcass use over time, while red foxes reduced their scavenging activity. Wolves consumed only minor portions of the prey, leaving most of the carcass for other scavengers.

2/4 This study investigated the scavenging dynamics of mammalian species in a Mediterranean coastal area following the return of wolves. Using camera traps, researchers monitored the scavenging activity on fallow deer carcasses over five years.

Pygmy shrews are insectivorous, feeding on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates which they can immobilize by their toxic saliva. They are active throughout the year and have a high metabolic rate (up to 922 heart beats per minute!), requiring frequent feeding.

2/2 small mammals, birds, amphibians, and insects. They are solitary and nocturnal, with a strong musky odor used for marking territory. The species is relatively
common but faces threats from habitat loss and hybridization with feral ferrets.