Vulnerability of Hawaiian Forest Birds to Climate Change - Using Models to Link Landscape, Climate, Disease, and Potential Adaptation

Michael Samuel
Posted on: 7/18/2022 - Updated on: 7/18/2022

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CakeX Site Admin

Abstract

The introduction of mosquitos and avian malaria are considered to be primary factors contributing to population declines and changes in the distribution of many native Hawaiian forest birds. Mosquito and malaria dynamics (abundance, location etc.) are strongly influenced by climate, particularly rainfall and temperature. Successful conservation of Hawaiian forest birds requires an analysis of climate change and its impact on the future disease risk of native bird populations. Key objectives of this research will be to 1) predict changes in avian malaria across space and time as a result of anticipated climate change, 2) evaluate the potential for bird species extinctions, 3) research and consider birds’ genetic adaptation to malaria, and 4) assess the costs and effectiveness of conservation strategies to mitigate impacts on bird populations. This project will provide the first quantitative assessment of the long-term impact of climate change on bird malaria distribution and on Hawai`i's unique forest birds, and provide a crucial tool to adaptively manage recovery and promote disease resistance among avian populations.

Organization(s)

The USGS is a science organization that provides impartial information on the health of our ecosystems and environment, the natural hazards that threaten us, the natural resources we rely on, the impacts of climate and land-use change, and the core science systems that help us provide timely, relevant, and useable information.

Keywords

Adaptation Phase
Type of Adaptation Action/Strategy
Habitat/Biome Type