Research aims at examining the population dynamics, migration movements and space use of large mammals, mainly elephant (Loxodonta africana), buffalo (Syncerus caffer), wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) and zebra (Equus burchelli), in the Tarangire and Manyara National Parks and the surrounding areas (Tanzania). We make use of both aerial and ground monitoring to census species, using line transects and total counts, as well as radio-tracking. Interactions of large mammals with human activities, mainly agriculture, are also considered, and serve to develop a management plan that takes into consideration both the wildlife conservation and the economic development of the local human population.
The project aims to obtain data on the status of alpine vertebrate species, particularly mammals and birds, and to define environmental factors that influence their population dynamics, distributions and behavioural ecology, with the ultimate objective to develop managment plans that allow the sustainable use of wildlife as a natural resource. We use radio-tracking to study behavioural ecology and to monitor dynamics and movements. Different census techniques are used to monitor population size and distribution of species. In a next step, a Geographical Information System, containing data on both wildlife distribution patterns and historical time series, is used to supply decisional support instruments. This database allows the development of ready-to-use Habitat Suitability Indices and Habitat Evaluation Procedures, as ultimate tools for wildlife management.
Bats play essential roles in many ecosystems and are primary predators of economically harmful insects that cause a considerable loss of yield in agriculture and forestry by damaging crops or degrading commercial timber quality. Yet, they are ranked among Europe's most endangered animals. Several key populations of declining and endangered bat species have lost their traditional roosting sites and foraging habitats.. At present, there is, however, still a poor understanding of bat species distribution and habitat preferences. Therefore, the aim of this project is to obtain an updated picture of the status of bats in Northern Italy and to define environmental factors that influence their population dynamics, distribution and behavioural ecology. As a tool for recognizing different species using bioacoustics techniques, a computer-based identification system has been developed.